Asus Crosshair IV Extreme User Manual
Motherboard Crosshair IV Formula
ii E5443 First Edition March 2010 Copyright © 2010 ASUST eK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUST eK COMPUTER INC. (âASUSâ). Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modiîed or altered, unless such repair , modiîcation of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing. ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL âAS ISâ WITHOUT W ARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANT ABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A P ARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT , SPECIAL, INCIDENT AL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DA T A, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE), EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT . SPECIFICA TIONS AND INFORMA TION CONT AINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR INFORMA TIONAL USE ONL Y , AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE A T ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THA T MA Y APPEAR IN THIS MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT . Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identiîcation or explanation and to the ownersâ beneît, without intent to infringe. Offer to Provide Source Code of Certain Software This product may contain copyrighted software that is licensed under the General Public License (âGPLâ) and under the Lesser General Public License V ersion (âLGPLâ). The GPL and LGPL licensed code in this product is distributed without any warranty . Copies of these licenses are included in this product. Y ou may obtain the complete corresponding source code (as deîned in the GPL) for the GPL Software, and/or the complete corresponding source code of the LGPL Software (with the complete machine- readable âwork that uses the Libraryâ) for a period of three years after our last shipment of the product including the GPL Software and/or LGPL Software, which will be no earlier than December 1, 201 1, either (1) for free by downloading it from http://support.asus.com/download ; or (2) for the cost of reproduction and shipment, which is dependent on the preferred carrier and the location where you want to have it shipped to, by sending a request to: ASUST eK Computer Inc. Legal Compliance Dept. 15 Li T e Rd., Beitou, T aipei 1 12 T aiwan In your request please provide the name, model number and version, as stated in the About Box of the product for which you wish to obtain the corresponding source code and your contact details so that we can coordinate the terms and cost of shipment with you. The source code will be distributed WITHOUT ANY W ARRANTY and licensed under the same license as the corresponding binary/object code. This offer is valid to anyone in receipt of this information. ASUST eK is eager to duly provide complete source code as required under various Free Op en Source Software licenses. If however you encounter any problems in obtaining the full corresponding source code we would be much obliged if you give us a notiîcation to the email address gpl@asus.com , stating the product and describing the problem (please do NOT send large attachments such as source code archives etc to this email address).
iii Contents Notices ....................................................................................................... viii Safety information ...................................................................................... ix About this guide .......................................................................................... x Crosshair IV Formula speciîcations summary ...................................... xii Chapter 1: Product introduction 1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1 1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1 1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-2 1.3.1 Product highlights ........................................................... 1-2 1.3.2 ROG Intelligent Performance & Overclocking features ... 1-3 1.3.3 ROG unique features ...................................................... 1-5 1.3.4 ASUS special features .................................................... 1-6 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1 2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-6 2.2.1 Motherboard layout ......................................................... 2-6 2.2.2 Layout contents ............................................................... 2-7 2.2.3 Placement direction ........................................................ 2-8 2.2.4 Screw holes .................................................................... 2-8 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-9 2.3.1 Installing the CPU ........................................................... 2-9 2.3.2 Installing the heatsink and fan .......................................2-1 1 2.4 System memory ......................................................................... 2-14 2.4.1 Overview ....................................................................... 2-14 2.4.2 Memory conîgurations .................................................. 2-15 2.4.3 Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 2-22 2.4.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 2-22 2.5 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 2-23 2.5.1 Installing an expansion card ......................................... 2-23 2.5.2 Conîguring an expansion card ..................................... 2-23 2.5.3 Interrupt assignments ................................................... 2-24 2.5.4 PCI slot ......................................................................... 2-25 2.5.5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots ............................................. 2-25 2.6 Jumper ........................................................................................ 2-26
iv Contents 2.7 I/O shield Installation ................................................................. 2-27 2.8 Connectors ................................................................................. 2-28 2.8.1 Rear panel connectors .................................................. 2-28 2.8.2 Audio I/O connections ................................................... 2-29 2.8.3 Internal connectors ....................................................... 2-32 2.8.4 ASUS Q-Connector (system panel) .............................. 2-40 2.8.5 Onboard switches ......................................................... 2-41 2.8.6 ProbeIt .......................................................................... 2-45 2.9 Starting up for the îrst time ...................................................... 2-46 2.10 T urning off the computer ........................................................... 2-47 2.10.1 Using the OS shut down function .................................. 2-47 2.10.2 Using the dual function power switch ............................ 2-47 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 3-1 3.1.1 ASUS Update utility ........................................................ 3-1 3.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ................................................... 3-4 3.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ...................................... 3-5 3.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 3-6 3.2.1 BIOS menu screen .......................................................... 3-7 3.2.2 Menu bar ......................................................................... 3-7 3.2.3 Navigation keys ............................................................... 3-7 3.2.4 Menu items ..................................................................... 3-8 3.2.5 Submenu items ............................................................... 3-8 3.2.6 Conîguration îelds ......................................................... 3-8 3.2.7 Pop-up window ............................................................... 3-8 3.2.8 Scroll bar ......................................................................... 3-8 3.2.9 General help ................................................................... 3-8 3.3 Extreme T weaker menu ............................................................... 3-9 3.3.1 CPU Level Up ................................................................ 3-9 3.3.2 OC T uner Utility ............................................................. 3-10 3.3.3 Ai Overclock T uner ....................................................... 3-10 3.3.4 CPU Ratio .....................................................................3-1 1 3.3.5 DRAM Frequency ......................................................... 3-1 1 3.3.6 CPU/NB Frequency ...................................................... 3-1 1
v 3.3.7 HT Link Speed ..............................................................3-1 1 3.3.8 DRAM T iming Conîguration ..........................................3-1 1 3.3.9 DRAM Driving Conîguration ......................................... 3-13 3.3.10 CPU & NB V oltage Mode .............................................. 3-13 3.3.1 1 CPU VDDA V oltage ...................................................... 3-14 3.3.12 DRAM V oltage ............................................................. 3-14 3.3.13 HT V oltage ................................................................... 3-14 3.3.14 NB V oltage ................................................................... 3-14 3.3.15 NB 1.8V V oltage ........................................................... 3-14 3.3.16 SB V oltage ................................................................... 3-14 3.3.17 VDDR V oltage .............................................................. 3-14 3.3.18 VDDPCIE V oltage ........................................................ 3-15 3.3.19 DRAM CTRL REF V oltage ........................................... 3-15 3.3.20 DRAM DA T A REF V oltage ........................................... 3-15 3.3.21 CPU Load-Line Calibration .......................................... 3-15 3.3.22 CPU/NB Load-Line Calibration .................................... 3-15 3.3.23 CPU Spread Spectrum ................................................ 3-15 3.3.24 PCIE Spread Spectrum ................................................ 3-15 3.4 Main menu .................................................................................. 3-16 3.4.1 System T ime ................................................................. 3-16 3.4.2 System Date ................................................................. 3-16 3.4.3 Language ...................................................................... 3-16 3.4.4 SA T A 1â6 ...................................................................... 3-17 3.4.5 Storage Conîguration ................................................... 3-19 3.4.6 System Information ....................................................... 3-20 3.5 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 3-21 3.5.1 CPU Conîguration ........................................................ 3-21 3.5.2 Chipset .......................................................................... 3-22 3.5.3 Onboard Device Conîguration ...................................... 3-25 3.5.4 USB Conîguration ........................................................ 3-26 3.5.5 PCIPnP ......................................................................... 3-27 3.5.6 LED Control .................................................................. 3-27 3.5.7 iROG Conîguration ....................................................... 3-28 3.5.8 EC Conîguration ........................................................... 3-28 3.5.9 ROG Connect ............................................................... 3-29
vi 3.6 Power menu ................................................................................ 3-30 3.6.1 Suspend Mode ............................................................. 3-30 3.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume ........................................ 3-30 3.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support .......................................................... 3-30 3.6.4 ACPI APIC Support ....................................................... 3-31 3.6.5 APM Conîguration ........................................................ 3-31 3.6.6 Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 3-32 3.7 Boot menu .................................................................................. 3-36 3.7.1 Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 3-36 3.7.2 Boot Settings Conîguration .......................................... 3-36 3.7.3 Security ......................................................................... 3-38 3.8 T ools menu ................................................................................. 3-40 3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 .......................................................... 3-40 3.8.2 ASUS O.C. Proîle ......................................................... 3-41 3.8.3 Go Button File ............................................................... 3-42 3.8.4 AI NET 2........................................................................ 3-43 3.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 3-44 Chapter 4: Software support 4.1 Installing an operating system ................................................... 4-1 4.2 Support DVD information ............................................................ 4-1 4.2.1 Running the support DVD ............................................... 4-1 4.2.2 Drivers menu ................................................................... 4-2 4.2.3 Utilities menu .................................................................. 4-3 4.2.4 Make disk menu .............................................................. 4-4 4.2.5 Manual menu .................................................................. 4-4 4.2.6 ASUS Contact information .............................................. 4-5 4.2.7 Other information ............................................................ 4-5 4.3 Software information ................................................................... 4-7 4.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3⢠........................................................... 4-7 4.3.2 Sound Blaster X-Fi audio utility ....................................... 4-9 4.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II ......................................................... 4-13 4.3.4 ASUS AI Suite ............................................................... 4-19 4.3.5 ASUS Fan Xpert ........................................................... 4-20 4.3.6 CPU Level Up ............................................................... 4-21 4.3.7 ASUS EPU .................................................................... 4-22
vii 4.3.8 ASUS Unique Overclocking UtilityâT urboV EVO ........ 4-23 4.3.9 ROG Connect ............................................................... 4-26 4.4 RAID conîgurations .................................................................. 4-28 4.4.1 RAID deînitions ............................................................ 4-28 4.4.2 Installing Serial A T A hard disks ..................................... 4-29 4.4.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS ...................................... 4-29 4.4.4 AMD ® Option ROM Utility .............................................. 4-30 4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk ....................................................... 4-33 4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS .... 4-33 4.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows ® ...................... 4-33 4.5.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows ® OS installation .............................................. 4-34 4.5.4 Using a USB îoppy disk drive ....................................... 4-34 Chapter 5: A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology support 5.1 A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology .................................................... 5-1 5.1.1 Requirements .................................................................. 5-1 5.1.2 Before you begin ............................................................. 5-1 5.1.3 Installing CrossFireX graphics cards .............................. 5-2 5.1.4 Installing the device drivers ............................................. 5-3 5.1.5 Enabling the A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology ................... 5-3 Appendix: Debug code table
viii 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 âs 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 dif ferent from that to which the receiver is connected. ⢠Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. 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. The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modiîcations to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user âs authority to operate this equipment. REACH Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at ASUS website at http://green.asus.com/english/ REACH.htm.
ix Safety information Electrical safety ⢠T o 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 îx it by yourself. Contact a qualiîed 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 . ⢠T o avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry . ⢠A void 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 qualiîed service technician or your retailer . 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.
x Where to înd 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 Y our product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty îyers, that may have been added by your dealer . These documents are not part of the standard package. About this guide This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conîguring 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: A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology support This chapter describes how to install and conîgure multiple A TI ® CrossFireX⢠graphics cards. ⢠Appendix: Debug code table The Appendix lists the debug code table for the LCD Poster .
xi DANGER/W ARNING: 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. NOTE: T ips and additional information to help you complete a task. IMPORT ANT : Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task. Conventions used in this guide T o ensure that you perform certain tasks properly , take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. T ypography Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select. Italics Used to emphasize a word or a phrase. <Key> Key s encl osed i n the less- than a nd gre ater-t han s ign mea ns tha t you must p ress the enclo sed ke y. 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>
xii Crosshair IV Formula speciî¿cations summary CPU AMD ® Socket AM3; Phenom⢠II / Athlon⢠II / Sempron⢠100 Series Processors AMD ® 140W CPU Support AMD ® Cool ânâ Quiet⢠T echnology Supports 45nm CPU Chipset AMD ® 890FX / SB850 System Bus Up to 5200 MT/s HyperT ransport⢠3.0 Memory 4 x DIMM, max. 16GB, DDR3 1866(O.C.) / 1800(O.C.) / 1600(O.C.) / 1333 / 1066 MHz,ECC and non-ECC, un-buffered memory Dual channel memory architecture * When you install a total memory of 4 GB capacity or more, Windows ® 32-bit operating system may only recognize less than 3 GB. We recommend using a maximum of 3 GB system memory if you are using a Windows ® 32-bit OS. ** Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the Memory QVL (Qualiîed Vendors Lists) Expansion Slots 3 x PCIe 2.0 x16 slots (dual at x16 or triple at x16 / x8 / x8 mode) 1 x PCIe 2.0 x4 slot 2 x PCI 2.2 slots Multi-GPU T echnology Support A TI CrossFireâ¢X T echnology graphics cards Storage AMD ® SB850 chipset - 6 x SA T A 6Gb/s ports with RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 support JMicron ® JMB363 controller - 1 x SA T A 3Gb/s port (black) - 1 x eSA T A 3Gb/s port (SA T A-On-the-Go) * Due to the Windows OS limitation, the 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 . LAN Marvell ® 8059 Gigabit LAN controller GameFirst High Deînition Audio SupremeFX X-Fi built-in - 8-channel High Deînition Audio CODEC - EAX ® Advanced⢠HD 4.0 - X-Fi CMSS ® -3D - X-Fi Crystalizer⢠- Creative ALchemy - Supports Blu-ray audio layer content protection - Supports 1 x S/PDIF out header - Supports 1 x Optical S/PDIF out port at back I/O - Supports Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel Jack-retasking (continued on the next page)
xiii IEEE 1394 2 x 1394a ports (1 port at back I/O, 1 port onboard) USB NEC USB 3.0 controller: - 2 x USB 3.0 ports (blue at back panel) SB850 chipset: - 12 x USB 2.0 ports (5 ports at midboard; 7 ports at back I/O, 1 port at back I/O is also for ROG connect) ROG Exclusive Overclocking Features ROG Connect GameFirst Extreme T weaker Power Design - 8 2 phase CPU power design CPU Level Up MemOK! iROG Loadline Calibration Intelligent overclocking tools - ASUS T urboV EVO - O.C Proîle Overclocking Protection - COP EX (Component Overheat Protection - EX) - V oltiminder LED - ASUS C.P .R.(CPU Parameter Recall) Other Special Features T urbo Key II Core Unlocker ASUS Q-Connector ASUS Q-Shield ASUS Q-Fan 2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 ASUS MyLogo 3 AMD ® OverDrive Support* ASUS T urboV EVO Back Panel I/O Ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard port(purple) 1 x External SA T A port 1 x LAN (RJ45) port 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports 7 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (1 port is also for ROG Connect) 1 x IEEE1394a port 1 x S/PDIF Out (Optical) 8-channel Audio I/O 1 x ROG Connect On/Off switch 1 x Clr CMOS switch (continued on the next page) Crosshair IV Formula speciî¿cations summary
xiv Internal I/O Connectors 3 x USB 2.0 connectors supports additional 5 USB 2.0 ports 6 x SA T A 6Gb/s connectors (red) 1 x SA T A 3Gb/s connector (black) 8 x Fan connectors: 1 x CPU / 1 x PWR / 3 x Chassis / 3 x Optional 7 x ProbeIt Measurement Points 3 x thermal sensor connectors 1 x IEEE1394a connector 1 x SPDIF_Out Connector 1 x 24-pin A TX Power connector 1 x 8-pin A TX 12V Power connector 1 x En/Dis-able Clr CMOS switch 1 x Core unlocker switch 1 x T urbo key II switch 1 x Power on switch 1 x Reset switch 1 x OC Station Header 1 x Go Button 1 x System panel connector BIOS Features 16Mb AMI BIOS, PnP , DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 2.4, ACPI2.0a Multi-Language BIOS Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE Software Support DVD: - Drivers and applications * ASUS PC Probe II * ASUS Update * ASUS AI Suite * AMD OverDrive Utility (AOD) * Sound Blaster X-Fi Utility * Kaspersky ® Anti-Virus (1-year license) Form Factor A TX Form Factor , 12âx 9.6â (30.5cm x 24.5cm) *Speciîcations are subject to change without notice. Crosshair IV Formula speciî¿cations summary
1 Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula Chapter summary 1 1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1 1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1 1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-2
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 1-1 1.1 Welcome! Thank you for buying an ROG Crosshair IV Formula 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. ROG Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard 1 x Multi-functional module (2-port USB 2.0 and 1-port eSA T A) 1 x ROG Connect cable 1 x CrossFire Cable 1 x 2-in-1 SA T A 6.0Gb/s signal cables 2 x 2-in-1 SA T A 3Gb/s signal cables 1 x ASUS Q-Shield (I/O shield) 1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector Kit User Manual 1 x ROG theme label 1 x ROG SA T A cable labels (12-in-1) Cable ties User Guide ROG Support DVD ⢠If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer . ⢠The item illustrations in above table are for reference only . Actual product speciîcations may vary with different models.
1-2 Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1.3 Special features 1.3.1 Product highlights Republic of Gamers The Republic of Gamers consists only the best of the best. We of fer the best hardware engineering, the fastest performance, the most innovating ideas, and we welcome the best gamers to join in. In the Republic of Gamers, mercy rules are only for the weak, and bragging rights means everything. We believe in making statements and we excel in competitions. If your character matches our trait, then join the elite club, make your presence felt, in the Republic of Gamers. Green ASUS This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Unionâs Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packaging to safeguard consumersâ health while minimizing the impact on the environment. AMD socket AM3 Phenom⢠II / Athlon⢠II / Sempron⢠100 Series processors support This motherboard supports AMD ® Socket AM3 multi-core processors with unique L3 cache and delivers better overclocking capabilities with less power consumption. It features dual-channel DDR3 1333 memory support and accelerates data transfer rate up to 5200MT/s via HyperT ransport⢠3.0 based system bus. This motherboard also supports AMD ® CPUs in the new 45nm manufacturing process. AMD ® 890FX Chipset AMD ® 890FX Chipset is designed to support up to 5200MT/s HyperT ransport⢠3.0 (HT 3.0) interface speed and PCI Express⢠2.0 x16 graphics. It is optimized with AMD ® âs latest AM3 and multi-core CPUs to provide excellent system performance and overclocking capabilities. A TI CrossFireX⢠T echnology A TIâs CrossFireX⢠boosts image quality along with rendering speed, eliminating the need to scale down screen resolution to get high quality images. CrossFireX⢠allows higher antialiasing, anisotropic îltering, shading, and texture settings. Adjust your display conîgurations, experiment with the advanced 3D settings, and check the effects with a real-time 3D-rendered previews within A TI Catalyst⢠Control Center .
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 1-3 DDR3 2000 (O.C.) support This motherboard supports DDR3 2000(O.C.) that provides faster data transfer rate and more bandwidth to increase memory computing efîciency , enhancing system performance in 3D graphics and other memory demanding applications PCIe 2.0 Double Speed; Double Bandwidth This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 device for double speed and bandwidth which enhances system performance. 100% high-quality Japan-made conductive polymer capacitors (VRM 5000hrs lifespan at 105ºC, 500,000hrs at 65ºC) This motherboard uses all high-quality conductive polymer capacitors for durability , improved lifespan, and enhanced thermal capacity . USB 3.0 support 10X Faster Data Rates! Experience ultra-fast data transfers at 4.8Gbps with USB 3.0âthe latest connectivity standard. Built to connect easily with next generation components and peripherals, USB 3.0 transfers data 10X faster and is also backward compatible with USB 2.0 components. SA T A 6Gb/s support Experience the future of storage! Supporting next-generation Serial A T A (SA T A) storage interface, this motherboard delivers up to 6Gb/s data transfer rates. Additionally , get enhanced scalability , faster data retrieval, double the bandwidth of current bus systems. 1.3.2 ROG Intelligent Performance & Overclocking features MemOK! Any memory is A-OK! Memory compatibility is among the top concerns when it comes to computer upgrades. Worry no more, MemOK! is the fastest memory booting solution today . This remarkable memory rescue tool requires nothing but a push of a button to patch memory issues and get you system up and running in no time. The technology is able to determine failsafe settings that can dramatically improve system booting success.
1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction CPU Level Up A simple click for instant upgrade! Ever wish that you could have a more expansive CPU? Upgrade your CPU at no additional cost with ROGâs CPU Level Up! Simply pick the processor you want to OC to, and the motherboard will do the rest for you. See the new CPU speed and enjoy the performance instantly! Overclocking is never as easy as this. ROG Connect Plug and OverclockâT weak it the hardcore way! Monitor the status of your desktop PC and tweak its parameters in real-time via a notebookâjust like a race car engineerâwith ROG Connect. ROG Connect links your main system to a notebook through a USB cable, allowing you to view real- time POST code and hardware status readouts on your notebook, as well as make on-the-îy parameter adjustments at a purely hardware level. GameFirst The speed you need to pwn Low Internet latency allows you to frag more, and get fragged less. That's why ROG has introduced GameFirst, a feature that manages the îow of trafîc according to your needs so that you can still listen to online music, download and upload îles, and engage in Internet chats without sacriîcing the low ping times you need to pwn your opponents. iROG Intelligent multiple control at hand iROG is a special IC which enables several ROG highlighted functions that give you full disposal of the motherboard at any stage! This design allows advanced user control and management to be processed at a hardware level. iROG greatly increases fun during overclocking for PC enthusiasts and it provides system maintenance and management with more control and efîciency . ProbeIt Get all hands-on with hardware-based overclocking ProbeIt takes the guesswork out of locating the motherboardâs measurement points, identifying them clearly in the form of 7 sets of detection points so youâll know exactly where to get quick yet accurate readings using a multitester .
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 1-5 Extreme T weaker One stop performance tuning shop Extreme T weaker is the one stop shop to îne-tune your system to optimal performance. No matter if you are looking for frequency adjustment, over-voltage options, or memory timing settings, they are all here! V oltiminder LED Friendly reminder on V oltage Settings In the pursuit of extreme performance, overvoltage adjustment is critical but risky . Acting as the âred zoneâ of a tachometer , the V oltiminder LED displays the voltage status for CPU, NB, SB, and Memory in a intuitive color-coded fashion. The V oltiminder LED allows quick voltage monitoring for overclockers. Component Overheat Protection-EX (COP EX) Maximum OC with conîdence with burn proof protection to chipsets and GPU! The COP EX allows overclockers to increase chipset voltages without the worries of overheating. It can also be used to monitor and save an overheating GPU. The COP EX allows more freedom and less constraint for maximum performance achievement. Loadline Calibration Optimal power boost for extreme CPU overclocking! Maintaining ample voltage support for the CPU is critical during overclocking. The Loadline calibration ensures stable and optimal CPU voltage under heavy loading. It helps overclockers enjoy the motherboardâs ultimate OC capabilities and benchmark scores. 1.3.3 ROG unique features SupremeFX X-Fi features Listen with absolute HD Play in extreme îdelity! SupremeFX X-FI delivers an excellent high deînition audio experience to the gamers of ROG. SupremeFX X-Fi features unique audio innovations for gamers to spot enemies in 3D environment during game play . SupremeFX X-Fi combines the technological quality design of SupremeFX and sound effect technology from Creative Labs® to offer games exceptional game sound with absolute quality .
1-6 Chapter 1: Product Introduction Noise Filter Eliminate background noise while recording This feature detects repetitive and stationary noises like computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates it in the incoming audio stream while recording. Onboard Switches No more shorting pins or moving jumpers With an easy press during overclocking, this exclusive onboard switch allows gamers to effortlessly îne-tune the performance without having to short the pins or moving jumpers. Kaspersky ® Anti-Virus The best protection from viruses and spyware Kaspersky ® Anti-Virus Personal of fers premium antivirus protection for individual users and home ofîces. It is based on advanced antivirus technologies. The product incorporates the Kaspersky ® Anti-Virus engine, which is renowned for malicious program detection rates that are among the industryâs highest. 1.3.4 ASUS special features ASUS T urbo Key II Switch on the Potential, T urn up the Performance Enjoy superb performance by auto-tuning your processor to an extreme yet stable state. Simply activate a dedicated switch on the motherboard to unleash extra processing capabilities. ASUS Core Unlocker Intelligently Unlocks T rue Core Performance ASUS Core Unlocker simpliîes the activation of a latent AMD CPUâwith just a press of a button. enjoy an instant performance boost by simply unlocking the extra cores, without performing complicating BIOS changes. ASUS T urboV EVO The ultimate O.C. Processor The ultimate O.C. processor satisîes every level of overclockersâfrom die-hard enthusiasts to beginners. Auto tuning intelligently pushes the system to the fatest clock speeds while maintaining stability . T urbo Key boosts performance with just one touch; while T urboV offers more options to advanced overclockers to achieve world O.C. record.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 1-7 ASUS EZ DIY ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings. ASUS Q-Shield The specially designed ASUS Q-Shield does without the usual âîngersââ making it convenient and easy to install. With better electric conductivity , it ideally protects your motherboard against static electricity and shields it against Electronic Magnetic Interference (EMI). ASUS Q-Connector The ASUS Q-Connector allows you to connect or disconnect chassis front panel cables in one easy step with one complete module. This unique adapter eliminates the trouble of plugging in one cable at a time, making connection quick and accurate. 8 O.C. Proîle Freely share and distribute favorite overclocking settings. The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Proîle that allows users to conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be stored in the CMOS or a separate île, giving users freedom to share and distribute their favorite overclocking settings. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 allows users to restore corrupted BIOS data from a USB îash disk containing the BIOS île. ASUS EZ Flash 2 EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility . Simply launch this tool and update BIOS using a USB îash disk without entering the OS. Y ou can update your BIOS in a few clicks without preparing an additional îoppy diskette or using an OS-based îash utility .
1-8 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
2 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 jumpers and connectors on the motherboard.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula Chapter summary 2 2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1 2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-6 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-9 2.4 System memory ......................................................................... 2-14 2.5 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 2-23 2.6 Jumper ........................................................................................ 2-26 2.7 I/O shield Installation ................................................................. 2-27 2.8 Connectors ................................................................................. 2-28 2.9 Starting up for the îrst time ...................................................... 2-46 2.10 T urning off the computer ........................................................... 2-47
2.1 Before you proceed T ake 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. ⢠Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling components 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 A TX 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, and/or components. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-1
2. Northbridge/Southbridge LEDs The northbridge and southbridge LEDs each have two different voltage displays. The northbridge LED displays either the NB V oltage or the NB 1.8 V oltage. The southbridge LED shows either the SB V oltage, SB 1.2V V oltage, or the HT . Y ou can select the voltage to display in BIOS. Refer to the illustration on the next page for the location of the northbridge/southbridge LEDs and the table below for LED deînition. Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red) NB 1.1 V oltage 0.80000â1.58750 1.60000â1.83750 1.85000â2.00000 NB 1.8 V oltage 1.80200â1.89475 1.90800â1.94775 1.96100â3.00775 VDDPCIE 1.1V 1.1 1300â1.59000 1.60325â1.84175 1.85500â2.00075 SB 1.1 V oltage 1.1 1300â1.44250 1.45750â1.69600 1.70925â1.80200 SB HT 1.2 V oltage 0.80000â1.38750 1.40000â1.65000 1.66250â2.00000 Onboard LEDs The motherboard comes with LEDs that indicate the voltage conditions of CPU, memory , northbridge, and southbridge. Y ou may adjust the voltages in BIOS. There are also an LED for hard disk drive activity and an onboard switch for power status. For more information about voltage adjustment, refer to 3.3 Extreme T weaker menu. Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red) CPU V oltage (default) By CPUâ1.3625 1.3750â1.4875 1.5000âBy CPU VDD NB By CPUâ1.3625 1.3750â1.4875 1.5000âBy CPU VDDA 2.5 V oltage 2.20000â2.76250 2.77500â3.00000 3.01250â3.18750 1. CPU LED The CPU LED has three voltage displays: CPU V oltage, VDDNB, and VDDA V oltage; you can select the voltage to display in BIOS. Refer to the illustration on the next page for the location of the CPU LED and the table below for LED deînition. 3. Memory LED Refer to the illustration on the next page for the location of the memory LED and the table below for LED deînition. Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red) DRAM Bus V oltage 1.20000â1.72500 1.73750â2.32500 2.33750â2.90000 VDDR 1.2 V oltage 1.20575â1.39125 1.40450â1.65625 1.66950â1.80200 2-2 Chapter 2: Hardware information
4. Hard Disk LED The hard disk LED is designed to indicate the hard disk activity . It blinks when data is being written into or read from the hard disk drive. The LED does not light up when there is no hard disk drive connected to the motherboard or when the hard disk drive does not function. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-3
5. Power LED The motherboard comes with a power-on switch that lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard power-on switch. When you turn on the A TX power supply , the Power LED îashes three times to indicate that the system is ready to boot. W ait till the îash stops before you press the power-on switch. 6. GO LED Blinking : Indicates that MemOK! is enabled before POST . Lighting : Indicates that the system loads the preset proîle for temporary overclocking when in OS. 2-4 Chapter 2: Hardware information
7. POST State LEDs POST State LEDs check key components (CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and HDD) in sequence during motherboard booting process. If an error is found, the LED next to the error device will continue lighting until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitive way to locate the root problem within seconds. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-5
2.2 Motherboard overview 2.2.1 Motherboard layout 2-6 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.2 Layout contents Connectors/Jumpers/Switches/Slots Page 1. A TX power connectors (24-pin EA TXPWR, 8-pin EA TX12V) 2-38 2. AMD ® AM3 Socket 2-9 3. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_F AN; 4-pin PWR_F AN; 4-pin CHA_F AN1â3; 4-pin OPT_F AN1â3) 2-35 4. DDR3 DIMM slots 2-14 5. Go Button 2-42 6. AMD ® SB850 Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SA T A1â6) [red] 2-32 7. JMicron ® JMB363 Serial A T A connectors (7-pin SA T A_E1) [black] 2-33 8. Thermal sensor cable connectors (2-pin OPT_TEMP1â3) 2-36 9. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLR TC_SW) 2-26 10. System panel connector (20-8 pin P ANEL) 2-39 1 1. USB connectors (10-3 pin USB7; 10-1 pin USB89; USB101 1) 2-33 12. OC Station connector (8-pin OC_ST A TION) 2-37 13. Reset switch 2-41 14. Power-on switch 2-41 15. Core Unlocker switch 2-44 16. T urbo Key II switch 2-43 17. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) 2-34 18. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 2-37 19. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 2-34 Refer to 2.8 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-7
Place this side towards the rear of the chassis 2.2.3 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, ensure that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis as indicated in the image below . 2.2.4 Screw holes Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis. DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard. 2-8 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.1 Installing the CPU T o install a CPU: 1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard. 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with an AMD ® AM3 Socket for AMD socket AM3 Phenom⢠II / Athlon⢠II / Sempron⢠100 Series processors. The AM3 socket has a different pinout from the AM2 /AM2 socket. Ensure you use a CPU designed for the AM3 socket. The CPU îts in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU! Ensure that the socket lever is lifted up to a 90Ë angle. Otherwise, the CPU will not ît in completely . 2. Press the lever sideways to unlock the socket, then lift it up to a 90Ë angle. Socket lever ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-9
3. Position the CPU above the socket such that the CPU corner with the gold triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle. 4. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it îts in place. 5. When the CPU is in place, push down the socket lever to secure the CPU. The lever clicks on the side tab to indicate that it is locked. Gold triangle Small triangle 6. Apply several drops of thermal interface material to the exposed area of the CPU that the heatsink will be in contact with, ensuring that it is spread in an even thin layer . Some heatsinks come with pre-applied thermal interface material. If so, skip this step. The thermal interface material is toxic and inedible. DO NOT eat it. If it gets into your eyes or touches your skin, wash it off immediately , and seek professional medical help. T o prevent contaminating the thermal interface material, DO NOT spread the thermal interface material with your înger . 2-10 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.2 Installing the heatsink and fan The AMD socket AM3 Phenom⢠II / Athlon⢠II / Sempron⢠100 Series processors requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance. T o install the CPU heatsink and fan: 1. Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, ensuring that the heatsink îts properly on the retention module base. Y our boxed CPU heatsink and fan assembly should come with installation instructions for the CPU, heatsink, and the retention mechanism. If the instructions in this section do not match the CPU documentation, follow the latter . ⢠The retention module base is already installed on the motherboard upon purchase. ⢠Y ou do not have to remove the retention module base when installing the CPU or installing other motherboard components. ⢠If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly , ensure that a Thermal Interface Material is properly applied to the CPU heatsink or CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly . Ensure that you use only AMD-certiîed heatsink and fan assembly . Retention module base CPU heatsink CPU fan Retention bracket lock Retention bracket ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-1 1
2. Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. 3. Align the other end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. A clicking sound denotes that the retention bracket is in place. 4. Push down the retention bracket lock on the retention mechanism to secure the heatsink and fan to the module base. Ensure that the fan and heatsink assembly perfectly îts the retention mechanism module base, otherwise you cannot snap the retention bracket in place. 2-12 Chapter 2: Hardware information
5. When the fan and heatsink assembly is in place, connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_F AN. ⢠DO NOT forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector . ⢠This connector is backward compatible with old 3-pin CPU fan. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-13
2.4 System memory 2.4.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR2 DIMM but is notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR2 DIMM socket. DDR3 modules are developed for better performance with less power consumption. The îgure illustrates the location of the DDR3 DIMM sockets: Recommended memory conîgurations One DIMM: Install one memory module in any slot as a single-channel operation. T wo DIMMs (dual-channel operation): Four DIMMs (dual-channel operation): 2-14 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.4.2 Memory conîgurations Y ou may install 512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB and 4 GB unbuffered ECC and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. ⢠Y ou may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel conîguration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation. ⢠We recommend that you install the memory modules from the red slots for better overclocking capability . ⢠Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency . For optimum compatibility , we recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor . ⢠AMD AM3 100 and 200 series CPU support up to DDR3 1066MHz. ⢠Due to different CPU margins, not all of AMD CPU can support up to DDR3 1600 and higher frequency DIMMs. ⢠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 SPD. Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. T o operate at the vendor- marked or at a higher frequency , see section 3.5 Advanced menu for manual memory frequency adjustment. ⢠For system stability , use a more efîcient memory cooling system to support a full memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-15
Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1866MHz capability V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM CORSA IR TR3X6G1866C9DV er4.1(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-15000CL9D-4GBRH (XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-15000CL9D-4GBTD(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P1866L V4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 ⢠Patriot PVS32G1866LLK(XMP) 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.9 ⢠T eam BoxP/N: TXD34096M1866HC7DC-L (TXD32048M1866HC7-L)(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-21 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1800MHz capability V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM KINGSTON KHX1800C9D3T1K3/ 6GX(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Patriot PVS32G1800LLKN(EPP) 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-20 1.9 ⢠Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1600MHz capability V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM A-DA TA AD31600G001GMU 1GB SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 ⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600GB1G9-AG 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 ⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600PB1G8-2P 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AD31600E001GMU 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600GB1G9-3G 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 ⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600PB1G8-3P 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600GB2G9-AG(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600XB2G7-EF(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.75-1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AD31600F002GMU(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.75-1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600GB2G9-3G(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600GB2G9-3G(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600GB2G9-3G 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600XB2G7-FF(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.75-1.85 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR TR3X3G1600C8DVer2.1(XMP) 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 ⢠CORSAIR TR3X3G1600C9Ver1.1(XMP) 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠CORSAIR CMG4GX3M2A1600C6 4GB( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 6-6-6-18 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR CMD4GX3M2A1600C8(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR CMG4GX3M2A1600C7(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65 ⢠⢠CORSAIR CMX4GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C8D 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C8DVer2.1(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C9Ver2.1(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠2-16 Chapter 2: Hardware information
V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM CORSAIR CMD8GX3M4A1600C8(XMP) 8GB(4 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 ⢠⢠CORSAIR CMX8GX3M4A1600C9(XMP) 8GB(4 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠Crucial BL12864BA1608.8SFB(XMP) 1GB SS - - - 1.8 ⢠⢠⢠Crucial BL25664BN1608.16FF(XMP) 2GB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-2GBNQ 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - - 1.6 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-4GBRL 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - - 1.6 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D- 4GBECO(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-8-7-24 - ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D-4GBRH(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL8D-4GBRM(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.6 ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D- 4GBECO(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.35 ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL8T -6GBPI(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-21 1.6~1.65 ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL9T -6GBNQ 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5-1.6 ⢠⢠⢠KINGMAX FLGD45F-B8MF7(XMP) 1GB SS - - - ⢠⢠⢠KINGMAX FLGE85F-B8MF7(XMP) 2GB DS - - - ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP) 12GB(3 x 4GB) DS - - - 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP) 12GB(3 x 4GB) DS - - 9 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KHX1600C8D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KHX1600C8D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KHX1600C8D3T1K2/ 4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K2/4G 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.7~1.9 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P1600EB1G 1GB SS - - 7-6-6-24 - ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3G1600L V3GK 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P1600L V3GK 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 7-7-7 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3BE1600C8L V4GK 4GB( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P16004GK(XMP) 4GB( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 7-7-7 1.9 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3OB1600L V4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P1600EB4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-6 1.8 ⢠OCZ OCZ3P1600L V4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7 1.65 ⢠OCZ OCZ3X16004GK(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7 1.9 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3X1600L V4GK(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3FXE1600C7L V6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3G1600L V6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3G1600L V6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠OCZ OCZ3X1600L V6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3X1600L V6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Super T alent WP160UX4G8(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8 - ⢠⢠Super T alent WP160UX4G9(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9 - ⢠⢠⢠Super T alent WB160UX6G8(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - - - ⢠⢠⢠Super T alent WB160UX6G8(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8 - ⢠⢠⢠EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I16(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9 - ⢠⢠⢠Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1600MHz capability (continued) ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-17
V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HA9N-DG(XMP) 2GB DS - - - - ⢠⢠Mushkin 996657 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 - ⢠⢠⢠Mushkin 998659(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5-1.6 ⢠⢠Patriot PVT33G1600ELK 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠P ATRIOT PGS34G1600LLKA 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.7 ⢠⢠⢠Patriot PVS34G1600ELK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.8 ⢠⢠⢠Patriot PVS34G1600LLK(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.9 ⢠⢠Patriot PVS34G1600LLKN 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 2.0 ⢠Patriot PVT36G1600ELK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Patriot PVT36G1600ELK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Patriot PVT36G1600LLK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 ⢠T eam BoxP/N: TXD34096M1600HC6DC-L (TXD32048M1600HC6- L)(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 6-7-6-18 1.65 ⢠Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1600MHz capability (continued) Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1333MHz capability V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM A-DA TA AD3133301GOU 1GB SS A-DA TA AD30908C8D-15IG - - ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AD31333002GOU 2GB DS A-DA TA AD30908C8D-15IG - - ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AD3U1333B2G9-2 2GB DS A-DAT A AD30908C8D-15IG - - ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1333PB2G7-2P 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65- 1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AD3U1333C4G9-B 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83AFRH9C 1333-9-9- 9-24 - ⢠⢠A-DA TA AD31333E002G0U 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65- 1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1333PB2G7-3P 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65- 1.85 ⢠⢠⢠Apacer 78.A1GC6.9L1 2GB DS Apacer AM5D58 08DEWS BG 9 - ⢠⢠CORSAIR TR3X3G1333C9 (Ver2.1) 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR CM3X1024-1333C9DHX 1GB DS - - - 1.1 ⢠⢠CORSAIR BoxP/N:TWIN3X2048-1333C9 (CM3X1024-1333C9)V er1.1 2GB(2 x 1GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.70 ⢠⢠CORSAIR CM3X2G1333C9 2GB DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR BoxP/N:TW3X4G1333C9DHX (CM3X2048-1333C9DHX)V er3.2 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.70 ⢠CORSAIR TR3X6G1333C9 (Ver2.1) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR CMX8GX3M4A1333C9 8GB(4 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT12864BA1339.8FF 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT 9 - ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT12864BA1339.8SFD 1GB SS MICRON MT8JF12864A Y - 1G4D1 - - ⢠⢠Crucial CT12872BA1339.9FF 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 9 - ⢠⢠Crucial BL25664BN1337.16FF(XMP) 2GB DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT25664BA1339.16FF 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT 9 - ⢠⢠Crucial CT25664BA1339.16SFD 2GB DS MICRON D9JNM - - ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT25672BA1339.18FF 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 9 - ⢠⢠Crucial BL25664BA1336.16SFB1 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS NA - 6-6-6-20 1.8 ⢠⢠⢠ELPIDA EBJ10UE8BDF0-DJ-F 1GB SS ELPIDA J1 108BDSE-DJ-F - - ⢠⢠ELPIDA EBJ10UE8EDF0-DJ-F 1GB SS ELPIDA J1 108EDSE-DJ-F - - ⢠⢠ELPIDA EBJ21UE8BAW0-DJ-E 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BABG-DJ-E 9 - ⢠ELPIDA EBJ21UE8BDF0-DJ-F 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BDSE-DJ-F - - ⢠⢠2-18 Chapter 2: Hardware information
V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM ELPIDA EBJ21UE8EDF0-DJ-F 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F - - ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10600CL8D-2GBHK 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - - 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10666CL7T-6GBPK(XMP) 2GB DS - - 7-7-7-18 1.5-1.6 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10666CL7D-4GBPI(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-21 1.5 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10666CL7D-4GBRH(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-21 1.5 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D-4GBECO(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.35 ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D-4GBHK(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-21 1.5-1.6 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D-4GBRM(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-21 1.5-1.6 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10666CL9T-6GBNQ 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠GEIL GG34GB1333C9DC 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS GEIL GL1L128M88BA12N 9-9-9-24 1.3 ⢠⢠GEIL GV34GB1333C7DC 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.5 ⢠⢠Hynix HMT1 12U6BFR8C-H9 1GB SS Hynix H5TQ1G83BFR 9 - ⢠⢠⢠Hynix HMT125U6BFR8C-H9 2GB DS Hynix H5TQ1G83BFR 9 - ⢠⢠⢠Hynix HMT125U6BFR8C-H9 2GB DS Hynix H5TQ1G83BFRH9C 9 - ⢠⢠⢠KINGMAX FLFD45F-B8KG9 1GB SS KingMax KFB8FNGBF- ANX-15A - ⢠⢠⢠KINGMAX FLFE85F-B8KG9 2GB DS KingMax KFB8FNGBF- ANX-15A - ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/2G 2GB DS Qimonda IDSH1G-03A1F1C- 13H 9 1.5 ⢠⢠KINGSTON KVR1333D3E9S/4G 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846B-HCH9 - 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/4G 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846B-HCH9 9 1.5 ⢠⢠MICRON MT8JTF12864AZ-1G4F1 1GB SS MICRON 9FF22 D9KPT 9 - ⢠⢠MICRON MT8JTF12864AZ-1G4F1 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT 9 - ⢠⢠⢠MICRON MT9JSF12872AZ-1G4F1 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 9 - ⢠⢠MICRON MT16JF25664AZ-1G4F1 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT 9 - ⢠⢠MICRON MT16JTF25664AZ-1G4F1 2GB DS MICRON 9FF22 D9KPT 9 - ⢠⢠MICRON MT18JSF25672AZ-1G4F1 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 9 - ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3RPX1333EB2GK 1GB SS - - - - ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3RPX1333EB2GK 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS NANYA - 6-5-5 1.85 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3G1333LV3GK 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P1333LV3GK 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 7-7-7 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3G1333ULV4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P13334GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7 1.8 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P1333LV4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3G1333LV6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P1333LV6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZX1333LV6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS NA - 8-8-8 1.6 ⢠⢠⢠PSC AL7F8G73D-DG1 1GB SS PSC A3P1GF3DGF - - ⢠⢠⢠PSC AL8F8G73D-DG1 2GB DS PSC A3P1GF3DGF - - ⢠⢠⢠SAMSUNG M378B2873DZ1-CH9 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846D 9 - ⢠⢠SAMSUNG M378B2873EH1-CH9 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846E - - ⢠⢠SAMSUNG M391B2873DZ1-CH9 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846D(ECC) 9 - ⢠⢠SAMSUNG M378B5673DZ1-CH9 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846D 9 - ⢠⢠SAMSUNG M378B5673EH1-CH9 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846E - - ⢠⢠⢠SAMSUNG M391B5673DZ1-CH9 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846D(ECC) 9 - ⢠⢠⢠SAMSUNG M378B5273BH1-CH9 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846B-HCH9 9 - ⢠⢠⢠Super T alent W1333UX2G8(XMP) 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 8 1.8 ⢠⢠⢠Asint SL Y3128M8-EDJE 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108BASE-DJ-E - - ⢠⢠ASUS N/A 1GB DS - - - - ⢠⢠A TP AQ28M64A8BJH9S 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846E - - ⢠⢠A TP AQ28M72D8BJH9S 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846D(ECC) - - ⢠⢠⢠A TP AQ56M64B8BJH9S 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846D - - ⢠⢠⢠A TP AQ56M72E8BJH9S 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846D(ECC) - - ⢠⢠⢠BUFF ALO FSX1333D3G-1G 1GB SS - - - - ⢠⢠Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1333MHz capability (continued) ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-19
Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1333MHz capability (continued) Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1066MHz capability V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Vo ltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM Crucial CT12864BA1067.8FF 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT 7 - ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT12864BA1067.8SFD 1GB SS MICRON D9JNL 7 - ⢠⢠Crucial CT12872BA1067.9FF 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 7 - ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT25664BA1067.16FF 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT 7 - ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT25664BA1067.16SFD 2GB DS MICRON D9JNL 7 - ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT25672BA1067.18FF 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 7 - ⢠⢠⢠ELPIDA EBJ10UE8BAW0-AE-E 1GB SS ELPIDA J1 108BABG-DJ-E 7 - ⢠⢠ELPIDA EBJ10UE8EDF0-AE-F 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F - - ⢠⢠ELPIDA EBJ21UE8BAW0-AE-E 2GB DS ELPIDA J1 108BABG-DJ-E 7 - ⢠⢠⢠ELPIDA EBJ21UE8EDF0-AE-F 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F - - ⢠⢠⢠Hynix HMT1 12U6AFP8C-G7N0 1GB SS HYNIX H5TQ1G83AFPG7C 7 - ⢠⢠⢠Hynix HYMT1 12U64ZNF8-G7 1GB SS HYNIX HY5TQ1G831ZNFP-G7 7 - ⢠⢠Hynix HMT125U6AFP8C-G7N0 2GB DS HYNIX H5TQ1G83AFPG7C 7 - ⢠⢠Hynix HYMT125U64ZNF8-G7 2GB DS HYNIX HY5TQ1G831ZNFP-G7 7 - ⢠⢠KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/1G 1GB SS KINGSTON D1288JEKAPA7U 7 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/2G 2GB DS KINGSTON D1288JEKAPGA7U 7 1.5 ⢠⢠KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/2G 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BABG-DJ-E - 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/4G 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846B-HCF8 - 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠MICRON MT8JTF12864A Y -1G1D1 1GB SS MICRON 7VD22 7 - ⢠⢠⢠MICRON MT8JTF12864AZ-1G1F1 1GB SS MICRON 8ZF22 D9KPV 7 - ⢠⢠⢠MICRON MT8JTF12864AZ-1G1F1 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT 7 - ⢠⢠⢠MICRON MT9JSF12872AZ-1G1F1 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 7 - ⢠⢠⢠MICRON MT16JTF25664A Y -1G1D1 2GB DS MICRON 7VD22 7 - ⢠⢠MICRON MT16JTF25664AZ-1G1F1 2GB DS MICRON 8ZF22 D9KPV 7 - ⢠⢠MICRON MT16JTF25664AZ-1G1F1 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT 7 - ⢠⢠⢠MICRON MT18JSF25672AZ-1G1F1 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 7 - ⢠⢠⢠SAMSUNG M378B5273BH1-CF8 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846B-HCF8 8 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠Asint SL Y3128M8-EAE 1GB SS Asint DDRIII1208-AE - - ⢠⢠V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM BUFF ALO FSH1333D3G-T3G(XMP) 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 7-7-7-20 - ⢠⢠BUFF ALO FSX1333D3G-2G 2GB DS - - - - ⢠⢠EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I13 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9 - ⢠⢠Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HA9N-CG 2GB DS - - - - ⢠⢠Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HC9N-CG 2GB DS - - - - ⢠⢠Patriot PDC32G1333LLK 1GB SS PA TRIOT - 7 1.7 ⢠⢠⢠Patriot PVT33G1333ELK 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Patriot PVS34G1333ELK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 ⢠⢠Patriot PVS34G1333LLK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.7 ⢠⢠Patriot PVT36G1333ELK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Silicon Power SP001GBL TU1333S01 1GB SS NANY A NT5CB128M8AN- CG - - ⢠⢠Silicon Power SP002GBL TU133S02 2GB DS S-POWER I0YT3E0 9 - ⢠⢠UMAX E41302GP0-73BDB 2GB DS UMAX U2S24D30TP-13 - ⢠⢠2-20 Chapter 2: Hardware information
Side(s): SS - Single-sided DS - Double-sided DIMM support: ⢠1 DIMM: Supports one (1) module inserted into any slot as Single-channel memory conîguration. ⢠2 DIMMs: Supports two (2) modules inserted into either the blue slots or the black slots as one pair of Dual-channel memory conîguration. ⢠4 DIMMs: Supports four (4) modules inserted into both the blue and the black slots as two pairs of Dual-channel memory conîguration. Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL. Due to different CPU margins, not all of AMD CPU can support up to DDR3 1600 and higher frequency DIMMs. V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM Asint SLZ3128M8-EAE 2GB DS Asint DDRIII1208-AE - - ⢠⢠Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HA9N-BE 2GB DS - - - - ⢠⢠Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HC5N-BE 2GB DS Elixir N2CB1G80CN-BE - - ⢠⢠Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HC9N-BE 2GB DS - - - - ⢠⢠⢠WINTEC 3DU3191A-10 1GB DS Qimonda IDSH51-03A1F1C-10F 7 - ⢠⢠Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1066MHz capability (continued) ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-21
2.4.4 Removing a DIMM 1. Press the retaining clip outward to unlock the DIMM. 2. Remove the DIMM from the socket. 2.4.3 Installing a DIMM 3. Hold the DIMM by both of its ends, then insert the DIMM vertically into the socket. Apply force to both ends of the DIMM simultaneously until the retaining clip snaps back into place, and the DIMM cannot be pushed in any further to ensure proper sitting of the DIMM. 1. Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clip outward. 2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the DIMM slot key on the socket. A DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it îts in only one direction. DO NOT force a DIMM into a socket in the wrong direction to avoid damaging the DIMM. Ensure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components. Locked Retaining Clip 3 1 2 Always insert the DIMM into the socket VERTICALL Y to prevent DIMM notch damage. Unlocked retaining clip DIMM notch 2 1 DIMM slot key 2-22 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.5 Expansion slots In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support. 2.5.1 Installing an expansion card T o install an expansion card: 1. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card. 2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a chassis). 3. Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later use. 4. Align the card connector with the slot and press îrmly until the card is completely seated on the slot. 5. Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier . 6. Replace the system cover . 2.5.2 Conîguring an expansion card After installing the expansion card, conîgure it by adjusting the software settings. 1. T urn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any . See Chapter 3 for information on BIOS setup. 2. Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the next page. 3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card. 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. When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support âShare IRQâ or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conîicts will arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable. Refer to the table on the next page for details. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-23
2.5.3 Interrupt assignments Standard interrupt assignments * These IRQs are usually available for PCI devices. IRQ Priority Standard function 0 1 System T imer 1 2 Keyboard Controller 2 â Redirect to IRQ#9 4 12 Communications Port (COM1)* 5 13 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* 6 14 Reserved 7 15 Reserved 8 3 System CMOS/Real T ime Clock 9 4 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* 10 5 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* 1 1 6 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* 12 7 Reserved 13 8 Numeric Data Processor 14 9 Primary IDE Channel IRQ assignments for this motherboard A B C D E F G H PCIE_X16_1 shared â â â â â â â PCI_1 â â â â shared â â â PCIE_X8 / X1_2 â â â â shared (X8) â â shared (X1) PCI_2 â â â â â shared â â PCIE_X16 / X8_3 shared (X16/X8) â â â â â â â PCIE_X4_4 shared â â â â â â â USB1 OHCI Controller â â shared â â â â â USB1 EHCI Controller â shared â â â â â â USB2 OHCI Controller â â shared â â â â â USB2 EHCI Controller â shared â â â â â â USB3 OHCI Controller â â shared â â â â â USB3 EHCI Controller â shared â â â â â â SB SA T A/AHCI Controller â â â shared â â â â LAN â â â shared â â â â 1394 â â â â â â shared â Audio shared â â â â â â â JMicron SA T A Controller â â â â shared â â â USB 3.0 â â â shared â â â â 2-24 Chapter 2: Hardware information
IRQ assignments for this motherboard A B C D E F G H PCIE_X16_1 shared â â â â â â â PCI_1 â â â â shared â â â PCIE_X8 / X1_2 â â â â shared (X8) â â shared (X1) PCI_2 â â â â â shared â â PCIE_X16 / X8_3 shared (X16/X8) â â â â â â â PCIE_X4_4 shared â â â â â â â USB1 OHCI Controller â â shared â â â â â USB1 EHCI Controller â shared â â â â â â USB2 OHCI Controller â â shared â â â â â USB2 EHCI Controller â shared â â â â â â USB3 OHCI Controller â â shared â â â â â USB3 EHCI Controller â shared â â â â â â SB SA T A/AHCI Controller â â â shared â â â â LAN â â â shared â â â â 1394 â â â â â â shared â Audio shared â â â â â â â JMicron SA T A Controller â â â â shared â â â USB 3.0 â â â shared â â â â 2.5.4 PCI slot The PCI slot supports cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI speciîcations. Refer to the îgure below for the location of the slot. 2.5.5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots This motherboard has four PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots that support PCI Express x16 2.0 graphic cards complying with the PCI Express speciîcations. Refer to the îgure below for the location of the slots. PCI Express x16_1 slot PCI slot 2 PCI Express x16_4 slot PCI Express x16_3 slot PCI Express x16_2 slot PCI slot 1 ⢠In single VGA card mode, use îrst the PCIe 2.0 x16_1 slot for a PCI Express x16 graphics card to get better performance. ⢠In CrossFireX⢠mode, use the PCIe 2.0 x16_1 (red) and PCIe 2.0 x16_3 (red) slots for PCI Express x16 graphics cards to get better performance. ⢠We recommend that you provide sufîcient power when running CrossFireX⢠mode. See page 2-38 for details. ⢠Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_F AN1/2/3 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-25
2.6 Jumper Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC_SW) This jumper allows you to enable the clr CMOS switch on the back I/O. Y ou can clear the CMOS memory and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The clr CMOS switch on the back I/O helps you easily clear the system setup information such as system passwords. T o erase the RTC RAM: 1. Press down the clr CMOS switch on the back I/O. 2. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter data. ⢠The clr CMOS switch will not function if the CLRTC_SW jumper is moved to the Disable position. ⢠Ensure to re-enter your previous BIOS settings after you clear the CMOS. ⢠Y ou do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to CPU overclocking. With the C.P .R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature, shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset CPU parameter settings to default values. 2-26 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.7 I/O shield Installation 1. Install the I/O shield to the chassis by snapping it in place from inside. 2. Orient the motherboard and install it to the chassis. Make sure that the motherboard external ports ît the I/O openings. Be cautious when installing the motherboard. The I/O shield edge springs may damage the I/O ports. The the photos above are for reference only , the actual I/O shield may differ by models. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-27
2.8 Connectors 2.8.1 Rear panel connectors Rear panel connectors 1. PS/2 mouse port (green) 8. IEEE 1394a port 2. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2 9. External SA T A port 3. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4 10. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2 4. LAN (RJ-45) port* 1 1. ROG Connect switch 5. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6 12. ROG Connect port 6. Clear CMOS switch 13. Audio Ports** 7. Optical S/PDIF Out port *and **: Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port and audio port deînitions. ⢠Press the Clear CMOS switch to clear BIOS setup information only when the system hangs due to overclocking. ⢠DO NOT insert a dif ferent connector to the external SA T A port. 2-28 Chapter 2: Hardware information
* LAN port LED indications Activity/Link Speed LED Description OFF OFF Soft-off Mode Y ellow Blinking OFF During Power ON/OFF Y ellow Blinking ORANGE 100 Mbps connection Y ellow Blinking GREEN 1 Gbps connection Speed LED Activity/ Link LED LAN port **Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conîguration Port Headset 2-channel 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Line In Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Pink Mic In Mic In Mic In Mic In Orange â â Center/Subwoofer Center/Subwoofer Black â Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Ou Rear Speaker Out Gray â â â Side Speaker Out 2.8.2 Audio I/O connections Audio I/O ports Connect to Headphone and Mic ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-29
Connect to Stereo Speakers Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers 2-30 Chapter 2: Hardware information
Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-31
2.8.3 Internal connectors 1. AMD ® SB850 Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SA T A 1-6) These connectors are for the Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s signal cables for Serial A T A hard disk drives and optical disc drives. If you installed Serial A T A hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, or RAID 10 conîguration through the onboard AMD ® SB850 controller . These connectors are set to [IDE] by default. If you intend to create a Serial A T A RAID set using these connectors, set the Onchip SA T A Type item in the BIOS to [RAID]. ⢠These connectors are set to IDE mode by default. In IDE mode, you can connect Serial A T A boot/data hard disk drives to these connectors. If you intend to create a Serial A T A RAID set using these connectors, set the OnChip SA T A T ype item in the BIOS to [RAID]. ⢠Y ou must install Windows ® XP Service Pack 2 or later version before using Serial A T A hard disk drives. The Serial A T A RAID feature is available only if you are using Windows ® XP SP2 or later version. ⢠When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the OnChip SA T A T ype in the BIOS to [AHCI]. 2-32 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2. JMicron ® JMB363 Serial A T A connectors (7-pin SA T A_E1 [black]) This connectors is for the Serial A T A signal cables for Serial A T A optical disk drives. 3. USB connectors (10-3 pin USB7; 10-1 pin USB89; USB101 1) 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 speciîcation that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed. Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! Y ou can connect the USB cable to ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) îrst, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-33
4. IEE E 1394 a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) This connector is for an IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module cable to this connector , then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector . Doing so will damage the motherboard! 5. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector is for a chassi s-moun ted f ront panel aud io I/ O mod ule t hat 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-deînition front panel audio module to this connector to avail of the motherboardâs high-deînition audio capability . ⢠If you want to connect a high-deînition front panel audio module to this connector , set the Front Panel T ype 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]. The IEEE 1394 cable is purchased separately . 2-34 Chapter 2: Hardware information
6. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4 -pi n C PU_ F AN, 4- pin PW R_ F AN , 4-p in CH A_ F AN 1â3 , 4 -pi n OP T_F AN1 â3) The fan c onnect ors su pport co oling fans o f 350 mAâ2000 mA (24 W max.) or a total of 1 Aâ7 A (84 W max.) at 12V . 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. Insufîcient air îow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on the fan connectors! If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the chassis fan cable to the motherboard connector labeled OPT_F AN1/2/3 for better thermal environment. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-35
7. Thermal sensor cable connectors (2-pin OPT_TEMP1/2/3) These connectors are for temperature monitoring. Connect the thermal sensor cables to these connectors and place the other ends to the devices which you want to monitor temperature. The optional fan1/2/3 can work with the temperature sensors for a better cooling effect. Enable OPT F AN1/2/3 overheat protection in BIOS if you connect thermal sensor cables to these connectors. The thermal sensor cable is purchased separately . 2-36 Chapter 2: Hardware information
9. OC Station connector (8-pin OC_ST A TION) This connector is for ASUS OC Station connection only . Connect one end of the supplied data cable to the GP connector on the OC Station and the other end to this connector and USB13 on the motherboard to enjoy easier overclocking. 8. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s). Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector , then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. The S/PDIF module is purchased separately . ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-37
10. A TX power connectors (24-pin EA TXPWR, 8-pin EA TX12V) These connectors are for A TX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to ît these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down îrmly until the connectors completely ît. ⢠Ensure to remove the cap on the EA TX12V connector before connecting an 8-pin EPS 12V power plug. ⢠Use only an 8-pin EPS 12V power plug for the EA TX12V connector. ⢠For a fully conîgured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with A TX 12 V Speciîcation 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 600 W . ⢠Do not forget to connect the 8-pin EA TX12 V power plug; otherwise, the system will not boot. ⢠Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when conîguring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate. ⢠If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system, refer to the Recommended Power Supply W attage Calculator at http://support.asus.com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator . aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details. 2-38 Chapter 2: Hardware information
⢠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 îashes 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. ⢠A TX 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 . 1 1. System panel connector (20-8 pin P ANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-39
2.8.4 ASUS Q-Connector (system panel) Use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect the chassis front panel cables. T o install the ASUS Q-Connector: 1. Connect the front panel cables to the ASUS Q-Connector . Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector to know the detailed pin deînitions, and then match them to their respective front panel cable labels. The labels on the front panel cables may vary depending on the chassis model. 2. Install the ASUS Q-Connector to the system panel connector , ensuring the orientation matches the labels on the motherboard. 3. The front panel functions are now enabled. The îgure shows the Q- Connector is properly installed on the motherboard. IDE_LED POWER SW RESET SW IDE_LED- IDE_LED PWR Reset Ground Ground 2-40 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.8.5 Onboard switches Onboard switches allow you to îne-tune performance when working on a bare or open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. 1. Power-on switch Press the power-on switch to wake/power up the system. 2. Reset switch Press the reset switch to reboot the system. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-41
3. GO button Press the GO button before POST to enable MemOK! or press it to quickly load the preset proîle for temporary overclocking when in OS. 2-42 Chapter 2: Hardware information
4. T urbo Key II switch This switch allows you to auto-tune your CPU to enhance the system performance. ⢠If you clear the CMOS or load the BIOS setup defaults, the related overclocking items in the BIOS menu follow the current setting of the T urbo Key II switch. ⢠If you change the switch setting to Enable under the OS environment, the T urbo Key II function will be activated after the next system bootup. ⢠Y ou may use the T urboV Auto Tuning, overclock in the BIOS setup program, and enable the T urbo Key II function at the same time. However , the system will use the last setting you have made. For ensuring the system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when the system is powered off. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-43
5. Core Unlocker switch This switch allows you to unlock the extra cores of your CPU. ⢠Y ou may also press <4> during the Power-On-Self-T est (POST) or enable the ASUS Core Unlocker item in the BIOS menu to activate the Core Unlocker function. ⢠The system will use the last setting you have made. ⢠If you clear the CMOS or load the BIOS setup defaults, the ASUS Core Unlocker item in the BIOS menu follows the current setting of the Core Unlocker switch. For ensuring the system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when the system is powered off. 2-44 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.8.6 ProbeIt The ROG ProbeIt feature provides a nice touch for your convenient and accurate OC settings. No time wasted fumbling around on the complicated motherboard layout, the clearly marked area gives you easier access to the measure points when a multitester is employed for more accurate measurements during your busy overclocking work. Refer to the following illustration for ProbeIt location. Using ProbeIt Y ou may connect the multitester to the motherboard as shown The photos above are for reference only , the actual motherboard layout and measure points location may differ by models. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-45
2.9 Starting up for the î¿rst time 1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover . 2. Be sure that all switches are off. 3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. 4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector . 5. T urn 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 A TX power supplies, the system LED lights up when you press the A TX power button. If your monitor complies with âgreenâ standards or if it has a âpower standbyâ feature, the monitor LED may light up or switch between orange and 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 (see BIOS beep codes table below) or additional messages appear on the screen. If you do not see anything within 30 seconds from the time you turned on the power , the system may have failed a power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call your retailer for assistance. BIOS Beep Description One short beep VGA detected Quick boot set to disabled No keyboard detected One continuous beep followed by two short beeps then a pause (repeated) No memory detected One continuous beep followed by three short beeps No VGA detected One continuous beep followed by four short beeps Hardware component failure 7. At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the instructions in Chapter 3. 2-46 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.10 Turning off the computer 2.10.1 Using the OS shut down function If you are using Windows ® Vista⢠/ Windows ® 7â¢: 1. Click the Start button then select Shut Down. 2. The power supply should turn off after Windows ® shuts down. If you are using Windows ® XP: 1. Click the Start button then select T urn Off Computer . 2. Click the T urn Off button to shut down the computer . 3. The power supply should turn off after Windows ® shuts down. 2.10.2 Using the dual function power switch While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts the system to sleep mode or to soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. Refer to section 3.6 Power Menu in Chapter 3 for details. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-47
2-48 Chapter 2: Hardware information
3 BIOS setup This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
Chapter summary 3 ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 3-1 3.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 3-6 3.3 Extreme T weaker menu ............................................................... 3-9 3.4 Main menu .................................................................................. 3-16 3.5 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 3-21 3.6 Power menu ................................................................................ 3-30 3.7 Boot menu .................................................................................. 3-36 3.8 T ools menu ................................................................................. 3-40 3.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 3-44
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-1 3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. 1. ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows ® environment.) 2. ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a îoppy disk or USB îash disk.) 3. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility: Restores the BIOS using the motherboard support DVD or a USB îash drive when the BIOS île fails or gets corrupted. Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities. Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS île to a USB îash drive in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update utility . Installing ASUS Update T o install ASUS Update: 1. Place the support DVD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears. 2. Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update VX.XX.XX. 3. The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system. 3.1.1 ASUS Update utility Th e AS US Upd ate is a uti li ty th at all ow s y ou to man age , s ave , an d u pda te t he mo the rbo ard B IO S i n W in do ws ® e nvi ron men t. The ASU S U pda te uti lit y al low s y ou to : ⢠Save the current BIOS île ⢠Download the latest BIOS île from the Internet ⢠Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS île ⢠Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and ⢠View the BIOS version information. Thi s util ity is avail able in the su pport DVD t hat co mes wi th the moth erb oar d pack age. ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
3-2 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Quit all Windows ® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility . 3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network trafîc, or click Auto Select. Click Next. Updating the BIOS through the Internet T o update the BIOS through the Internet: 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows ® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate . The ASUS Update main window appears. 2. Select Update BIOS from the Internet option from the drop-down menu, then click Next.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-3 Updating the BIOS through a BIOS île T o update the BIOS through a BIOS île: 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows ® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears. 2. Select Update BIOS from a île option from the drop-down menu, then click Next. 4. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download. Click Next. 5. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process. The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update the utility to avail all its features. 3. Locate the BIOS île from the Open window , then click Open. 4. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process. C4F C4F .ROM
3-4 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to use a DOS-based utility . The EZ Flash 2 utility is built in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing <Alt> <F2> during the Power-On Self T ests (POST). Before you start using this utility , download the latest BIOS from the ASUS website at www .asus.com. T o update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2 1. Insert the USB îash disk that contains the latest BIOS île to the USB port, and then launch EZ Flash 2 in any of these two ways: ⢠Press <Alt> <F2> during POST to display the following. ⢠Enter the BIOS setup program. Go to the T ools menu to select EZ Flash 2 and press <Enter> to enable it. ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V4.14 Current ROM Update ROM A: Note [Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info [Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [Esc] Exit PATH: A:\ BOARD: Crosshair IV Formula VER: 0215 DATE: 02/23/2010 BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown 2. Press <T ab> to switch between drives until the correct BIOS île is found. When found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update process and automatically reboots the system when done. ⢠This function can support devices such as a USB îash disk with F A T 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 Setup Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 3.9 Exit Menu for details.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-5 3.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS île when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. Y ou can restore a corrupted BIOS île using the motherboard support DVD or a USB îash drive that contains the BIOS île. The BIOS île in the motherboard support DVD may be older than the BIOS île published on the ASUS ofîcial website. If you want to use the newer BIOS île, download the île at support.asus.com and save it to a USB îash drive. Recovering the BIOS T o recover the BIOS 1. T urn on the system. 2. Insert the motherboard support DVD to the optical drive, or the USB îash drive containing the BIOS île to the USB port. 3. The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS île. When found, the utility reads the BIOS île and starts îashing the corrupted BIOS île. 4. T urn off the system after the utility completes the updating process and power on again. 5. The system requires you to enter BIOS Setup to recover BIOS setting. T o ensure system compatibility and stability , we recommend that you press <F2> to load default BIOS values. DO NOT shut down or reset the system while recovering the BIOS! Doing so can cause system boot failure!
3-6 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.2 BIOS setup program This motherboard supports two programmable îrmware chips that you can update using the provided utility described in section 3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS . Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconîguring your system, or prompted to âRun Setup.â This section explains how to conîgure your system using this utility . Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the conîguration of your computer in the future. For example, you can enable the security password feature or change the power management settings. This requires you to reconîgure your system using the BIOS Setup program so that the computer can recognize these changes and record them in the CMOS RAM of the îrmware chip. The îrmware chip on the motherboard stores the Setup utility . When you start up the computer , the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press <Del> during the Power-On Self-T est (POST) to enter the Setup utility; otherwise, POST continues with its test routines. If you wish to enter Setup after POST , restart the system by pressing <Ctrl Alt Delete>, or by pressing the reset button on the system chassis. Y ou can also restart by turning the system off and then back on. Do this last option only if the îrst two failed. The 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 sub-menus and make your selections from the available options using the navigation keys. ⢠The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply for most conditions to ensure optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS settings, load the default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability . Select the Load Setup Defaults item under the Exit Menu. See section 3.9 Exit Menu. ⢠The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only , and may not exactly match what you see on your screen. ⢠Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS île for this motherboard.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-7 3.2.2 Menu bar The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items: Extreme T weaker For changing the overclocking settings Main For changing the basic system conîguration Advanced For changing the advanced system settings Power For changing the advanced power management (APM) conîguration Boot For changing the system boot conîguration T ools For Conîguring options for special functions Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default settings T o select an item on the menu bar , press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard until the desired item is highlighted. 3.2.3 Navigation keys At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings. 3.2.1 BIOS menu screen Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another . v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a î¿eld. Use [ ] or [-] to conî¿gure system Date. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item - Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit System Time [11:10:25] System Date [Tue 03/02/2010] Language [English] SATA1 [HDT722516DLA380] SATA2 [Not Detected] SATA3 [ATAPI DVD D DH1] SATA4 [Not Detected] SATA5 [Not Detected] SATA6 [Not Detected] Storage Conî¿guration System Information Navigation keys General help Menu bar Sub-menu items Conîguration îelds Menu items
3-8 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.2.4 Menu items The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the speciîc items for that menu. For example, selecting Main shows the Main menu items. The other items (Advanced, Power , Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items. 3.2.5 Submenu items A solid triangle before each item on any menu screen means that the iteam has a submenu. T o display the submenu, select the item and press <Enter>. 3.2.6 Conîguration îelds These îelds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user-conîgurable, you can change the value of the îeld opposite the item. Y ou cannot select an item that is not user-conîgurable. A conîgurable îeld is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. T o change the value of a îeld, select it then press <Enter> to display a list of options. Refer to 3.2.7 Pop-up window . 3.2.7 Pop-up window Select a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the conîguration options for that item. 3.2.8 Scroll bar A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not ît on the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> / <Page Down> keys to display the other items on the screen. 3.2.9 General help At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Suspend Mode [Auto] ACPI Version Features [Disabled] ACPI APIC support [Enabled] APM Conî¿guration Hardware Monitor ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item - Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a î¿eld. Use [ ] or [-] to conî¿gure system Time. Scroll bar Disabled Pop-up window
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-9 3.3 Extreme Tweaker menu The Extreme T weaker menu items allow you to conîgure overclocking-related items. T ake caution when changing the settings of the Extreme T weaker menu items. Incorrect îeld values can cause the system to malfunction. The default values of the following items vary depending on the CPU and memory modules you install on the motherboard. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit OC tuner automatically overclocks CPU and DRAM frequency and voltage. Press ENTER to start tuning. (takes about 5 mins) ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit Conî¿gure System Performance Settings Target CPU Frequency: 3100MHZ Target DRAM Frequency: 1067MHZ CPU Level Up [Auto] ------------------------------------------------- OC Tuner Utility AI Overclock Tuner [Auto] CPU Ratio [Auto] DRAM Frequency [Auto] CPU/NB Frequency [Auto] HT Link Speed [Auto] DRAM Timing Conî¿guration DRAM Driving Conî¿guration ******** Please key in numbers directly! ******** CPU & NB Voltage Mode [Offset] CPU Offset Voltage 1.303 [Auto] CPU/NB Offset Voltage 1.164 [Auto] [Auto] CPU VDDA Voltage 2.474 [Auto] Scroll down to display the following items: v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. DRAM Voltage 1.488 [Auto] HT Voltage 1.191 [Auto] NB Voltage 1.098 [Auto] NB 1.8V Voltage 1.802 [Auto] SB Voltage 1.111 [Auto] VDDR Voltage 1.205 [Auto] VDDPCIE Voltage 1.113 [Auto] DRAM CTRL REF Voltage 0.500 [Auto] DRAM DATA REF Voltage 0.500 [Auto] *********************************************** CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto] CPU/NB Load-Line Calibration [Auto] CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto] PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto] 3.3.1 CPU Level Up [Auto] Allows you to select a CPU level, and the related parameters will be automatically adjusted according to the selected CPU level. ⢠The conîguration options vary depending on the CPU model you install on the motherboard. ⢠The CPU Level UP function support depends on CPU types.
3-10 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.3.2 OC T uner Utility OC T uner utility automatically overclocks the frequency and voltage of the CPU and DRAM. Press <Enter> to start auto tuning. It takes around îve minutes, and the system will reboot for several times until auto tuning is completed. 3.3.3 Ai Overclock T uner [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal frequency . Select any of these preset overclocking conîguration options: Manual Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters. Auto Loads the optimal settings for the system. D.O.C.P Allows you to select a DRAM O.C. proîle, and the related parameters will be adjusted automatically . CPU Level UP Allows you to select a CPU level, and the related parameters will be adjusted automatically . The conîguration options for the following sub-items vary depending on the CPU/DIMMs you install on the motherboard. OC From CPU Level UP [Auto] This item appears only when you set the Ai Overclock Tuner item to [Manual] and allows you to select a CPU level. The related parameters will be automatically adjusted according to the selected CPU level. CPU Bus Frequency [XXX] This item appears only when you set the Ai Overclock T uner item to [Manual] and displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and PCI displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and PCI bus. Use the < > and <-> keys to adjust the CPU Bus frequency . Y ou can also key in the desired frequency using the numeric keypad. The values range from 100 to 600. PCIE Frequency [XXX] This item appears only when you set the Ai Overclock T uner item to [Manual] and allows you to set the PCI Express frequency . Use the < > and <-> keys to allows you to set the PCI Express frequency . Use the < > and <-> keys to adjust the PCIE frequency . Y ou can also key in the desired value using the numeric keypad. The values range from 100 to 150. DRAM O.C. Proîle [DDR3-1600MHz] This item appears only when you set the Ai Overclock T uner item to [D.O.C.P .] and allows you to select a DRAM O.C. proîle, which applies different settings to DRAM frequency , DRAM timing and DRAM voltage. Conîguration options: [DDR3- 1600MHz] [DDR3-1800MHz] [DDR3-1866MHz] [DDR3-2000MHz]
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-1 1 Proîle Info : xxxxMHzâx-x-x-xx This item appears only when you set the Ai Overclock T uner item to [D.O.C.P .] and displays the current DRAM proîle information. The proîle information varies according to the DRAM O.C. Proîle youâve selected. 3.3.4 CPU Ratio [Auto] Allows you to set the ratio between the CPU Core Clock and the FSB Frequency . Use the < > and <-> keys to adjust the ratio. The valid value ranges vary according to your CPU model. 3.3.5 DRAM Frequency [Auto] Allows you to set the DDR3 operating frequency . The conîguration options vary with the CPU Bus Frequency item settings. Selecting a very high DRAM frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this happens, revert to the default setting. 3.3.6 CPU/NB Frequency [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU/NB frequency . Conîguration options: [Auto] [1200MHz] [1400MHz] [1600MHz] [1800MHz] [2000MHz] 3.3.7 HT Link Speed [Auto] Allows you to select the HyperT ransport link speed. Conîguration options: [Auto] [200MHz] [400MHz] [600MHz] [800MHz] [1000MHz] [1200MHz] [1400MHz] [1600MHz] [1800MHz] [2000MHz] 3.3.8 DRAM Timing Conîguration The conîguration options for some of the following items vary depending on the DIMMs you install on the motherboard. DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] â [12 CLK] DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] â [12 CLK] [5 CLK] â [12 CLK] DRAM RAS# PRE Time [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] â [12 CLK] [5 CLK] â [12 CLK]
3-12 Chapter 3: BIOS setup DRAM RAS# ACT Time [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [15 CLK] â [30 CLK] [15 CLK] â [30 CLK] DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] DRAM Row Cycle Time [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [1 1 CLK] â [41 CLK] DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [8 CLK] [10 CLK] [12 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [8 CLK] [10 CLK] [12 CLK] DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] DRAM READ to WRITE Delay [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] â [17 CLK] [3 CLK] â [17 CLK] DRAM WRITE to READ Delay(DD) [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] â [10 CLK] [2 CLK] â [10 CLK] DRAM WRITE to READ Delay(SD) [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] DRAM WRITE to WRITE Timing [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] â [10 CLK] DRAM READ to READ Timing [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] â [10 CLK] DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [90ns] [1 10ns] [160ns] [300ns] [350ns] 1 10ns] [160ns] [300ns] [350ns] ] [160ns] [300ns] [350ns] [160ns] [300ns] [350ns] DRAM Refresh Rate [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Every 7.8ms] [Every 3.9ms] DRAM Command Rate [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [1T] [2T]
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-13 3.3.9 DRAM Driving Conîguration The conîguration options for some of the following items vary depending on the DIMMs you install on the motherboard. CKE drive strength [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] [2x] CS/ODT drive strength [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] [2x] ADDR/CMD drive strength [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] [2x] MEMCLK drive strength [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [0.75x] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] Data drive strength [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [0.75x] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] DQS drive strength [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [0.75x] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] Processor ODT [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [240 ohms /- 20%] [120 ohms /- 20%] [60 ohms /- 20%] Some of the following items are adjusted by typing the desired values using the numeric keypad and press the <Enter> key . Y ou can also use the < > and <-> keys to adjust the value. T o restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press the <Enter> key . 3.3.10 CPU & NB V oltage Mode [Offset] Allows you to set the CPU & CPU/NB V oltage Mode. Different sub-items appear according to the CPU & NB V oltage Mode item setting. Conîguration options: [Offset] [Manual] CPU Offset V oltage [Auto] This item appears only when you set the CPU & NB V oltage Mode item to [Offset] and allows you to set the CPU Offset voltage. The values range from 0.006250V to 0.700000V with a 0.006250V interval.
3-14 Chapter 3: BIOS setup CPU/NB Offset V oltage [Auto] This item appears only when you set the CPU & NB V oltage Mode item to [Offset] and allows you to set the CPU/NB Of fset voltage. The values range from 0.006250V to 0.700000V with a 0.006250V interval. CPU V oltage [Auto] This item appears only when you set the CPU & NB V oltage Mode item to [Manual] and allows you to set a îxed CPU voltage. CPU/NB V oltage [Auto] This item appears only when you set the CPU & NB V oltage Mode item to [Manual] and allows you to set a îxed CPU/NB voltage. 3.3.1 1 CPU VDDA V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the CPU VDDA voltage. The values range from 2.20000V to 3.18750V with a 0.01250V interval. 3.3.12 DRAM V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.20000V to 2.90000V with a 0.01250V interval. 3.3.13 HT V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the HyperT ransport voltage. The values range from 0.80000V to 2.00000V with a 0.01250V interval. 3.3.14 NB V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the Northbridge voltage. The values range from 0.80000V to 2.00000V with a 0.01250V interval. 3.3.15 NB 1.8V V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the Northbridge 1.8V voltage. The values range from 1.802000V to 3.007750V with a 0.013250V interval. 3.3.16 SB V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the Southbridge voltage. The values range from 1.1 13000V to 1.802000V with a 0.013250V interval. 3.3.17 VDDR V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the VDDR voltage. The values range from 1.205750V to 1.802000V with a 0.013250V interval.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-15 3.3.18 VDDPCIE V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the VDDPCIE voltage. The values range from 1.1 13000V to 2.000750V with a 0.013250V interval. The system may need better cooling system to work stably under high voltage settings. 3.3.19 DRAM CTRL REF V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the DRAM Control Reference V oltage The values range from The values range from 0.395x to 0.630x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM Different ratio might enhance DRAM overclocking ability . 3.3.20 DRAM DA T A REF V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the DRAM DA T A Reference Voltage The values range from The values range from 0.395x to 0.630x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM Different ratio might enhance DRAM overclocking ability . 3.3.21 CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU Load-Line mode. Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] 3.3.22 CPU/NB Load-Line Calibration [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU/NB Load-Line mode. Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] 3.3.23 CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto] [Auto] Automatic conîguration. [Disabled] Enhances the CPU overclocking ability . [Enabled] Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control. 3.3.24 PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto] [Auto] Automatic conîguration. [Disabled] Enhances the PCIE overclocking ability . [Enabled] Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.
3-16 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.4 Main menu When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an overview of the basic system information. 3.4.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx] Allows you to set the system time. 3.4.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx] Allows you to set the system date. 3.4.3 Language [English] Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options. Conîguration options: [ ç¹é«ä¸æ ] [ç°¡ä½ä¸æ ] [ æ¥æ¬èª ] [Français] [Deutsch] [English] Refer to section 3.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a î¿eld. Use [ ] or [-] to conî¿gure system Time. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item - Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit System Time [11:10:25] System Date [Tue 03/02/2010] Language [English] SATA1 [HDT722516DLA380] SATA2 [Not Detected] SATA3 [ATAPI DVD D DH1] SATA4 [Not Detected] SATA5 [Not Detected] SATA6 [Not Detected] Storage Conî¿guration System Information
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-17 3.4.4 S A T A 1 â 6 While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of Serial A T A devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SA T A device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to display the SA T A device information. The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device, V endor , Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and SMART monitoring). These values are not user-conîgurable. These items show [Auto] if no IDE device is installed in the system. T ype [Auto] Allows you to select the type of device installed. [Not Installed] Select this option if no device is installed. [Auto] Allows automatic selection of the appropriate device type. [CDROM] Select this option if you are speciîcally conîguring a CD-ROM drive. [ARMD] Select [ARMD] (A T API Removable Media Device) if your device is either a ZIP , LS-120, or MO drive. This item appears in SA T A 5/SA T A 6 only . LBA/Large Mode [Auto] Enables or disables the LBA (Logical Block Addressing) mode. [Auto] Select [Auto] to enable the LBA mode (Logical Block Addressing mode) if the device supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA mode disabled. [Disabled] Disable this function. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Main Select the type of device connected to the system. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item - Change Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit SATA 1 Device :Hard Disk Vendor :HDT722516DLA380 Size :164.7GB LBA Mode :Supported Block Mode:16Sectors PIO Mode :4 Async DMA :MultiWord DMA-2 Ultra DMA :Ultra DMA-5 SMART Monitoring:Supported Type [Auto] LBA/Large Mode [Auto] Block(Multi-Sector Transfer)M [Auto] PIO Mode [Auto] DMA Mode [Auto] SMART Monitoring [Auto] 32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]
3-18 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Block (Multi-Sector T ransfer) M [Auto] Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. [Auto] When set to [Auto], the data transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device supports multi-sector transfer feature. [Disabled] When set to [Disabled], the data transfer from and to the device occurs one sector at a time. PIO Mode [Auto] [Auto] Allows automatic selection of the PIO (Programmed input/o utput) modes, which correspond to different data transfer rates. [0] [1] â [4] Set the PIO mode to Mode 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4. DMA Mode [Auto] DMA (Direct Memory Access) allows your computer to transfer data to and from the hardware devices installed with much less CPU overhead. The DMA mode consists of SDMA (single-word DMA), MDMA (multi-word DMA), and UDMA (Ultra DMA). Setting to [Auto] allows automatic selection of the DMA mode, or you can select from the following options: [SWDMA1] [SWDMA2] [MWDMA0] [MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2] [UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5] SMART Monitoring [Auto] [Auto] Allows automatic selection of the S.M.A.R.T (Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting T echnology). [Enabled] Enable the S.M.A.R.T feature. [Disabled] Disable the S.M.A.R.T feature. 32Bit Data T ransfer [Enabled] [Enabled] Sets the IDE controller to combine two 16-bit reads from the hard disk into a single 32-bit double word transfer to the processor . This makes more efîcient use of the PCI bus as fewer transactions are needed for the transfer of a particular amount of data. [Disabled] Disable this function.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-19 OnChip SA T A Channel [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the onboard channel SA T A port. [Disabled] Disables the onboard channel SA T A port. The following two items appear only when you set the OnChip SA T A Channel item to [Enabled]. SA T A Port1âPort4 [IDE] Allows you to set the SA T A conîguration. [IDE] Set to [IDE] when you want to use the Serial A T A hard disk drives as Parallel A T A physical storage devices. [RAID] Set to [RAID] when you want to create a RAID conîguration from the SA T A hard disk drives. [AHCI] Set to [AHCI] when you want the SA T A hard disk drives to use the AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface). The AHCI allows the onboard storage driver to enable advanced Serial A T A features that increases storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to internally optimize the order of commands. SA T A Port5âPort6 [IDE] Setting this item to [IDE] instead of [RAID] or [AHCI] allows the system to recognize the optical drives connected to the SA T A connectors 5 or 6 whe n installing OS. ⢠When the SA T A Port1âPort 4 and the SA T A Port5âPort 6 items are set to [AHCI], the information of the SA T A connectors 1â6 can be seen only under the OS environment or during POST . ⢠For Windows ® XP OS, you have to install the AHCI driver, so that you could use the SA T A connectors 1â6 in AHCI mode under the OS environment. If you use a SA T A optical drive to run the OS installation disk, we strongly recommend that you install the optical drive to the SA T A connectors 5/6 and set them to [IDE] mode. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Main Storage Conî¿guration OnChip SATA Channel [Enabled] SATA Port1 - Port4 [IDE] SATA Port5 - Port6 [IDE] Options Disabled Enabled 3.4.5 Storage Conîguration The items in this menu allow you to set or change the conîgurations for the SA T A devices installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you want to conîgure the item.
3-20 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.4.6 System Information This menu gives you an overview of the general system speciîcations. The BIOS automatically detects the items in this menu. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Main ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit BIOS Information Version : 0215 Build Date: 02/23/10 Processor Type : AMD Athlon(tm) II X3 445 Processor Speed : 3100MHz System Memory Usable Size : 1023MB
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-21 3.5 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. 3.5.1 CPU Conîguration 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. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Conî¿gure CPU. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit CPU Conî¿guration Chipset Onboard Devices Conî¿guration USB Conî¿guration PCIPnP LED Control iROG Conî¿guration EC Conî¿guration ROG Connect v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit CPU Conî¿guration AGESA Version: 3.5.4.0 AMD Athlon(tm) II X3 445 Processor Revision: C3 Cache L1: 384 KB Cache L2: 1536 KB Cache L3: N/A Speed : 3100MHz uCode Patch Level : 0x1000B6 Microcode Updation [Enabled] Secure Virtual Machine Mode [Enabled] CoolânâQuiet [Enabled] ASUS Core Unlocker [Disabled] C1E Support [Disabled] Options Disabled Enabled
3-22 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Microcode Updation [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the microcode updation. [Disabled] Disables this function. Secure Virtual Machine [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the AMD Secure Virtual Machine. [Disabled] Disables this function. CoolânâQuiet [Enabled [Enabled] Enables the AMD CoolânâQuiet function. [Disabled] Disables this function. ASUS Core Unlocker [Disabled] [Enabled] Enables the ASUS Core Unlocker to get the full computing power of the processor . [Disabled] Disables this function. C1E Support [Disabled] [Enabled] Enables the C1E support function. This item should be enabled in order to enable the Enhanced Halt Sate. [Disabled] Disables this function. 3.5.2 Chipset The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced NorthBridge Chipset Conî¿guration DRAM Controller conî¿guration ECC Conî¿guration Primary Display Adapter [PCI-E] DRAM Controller Conîguration Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced DRAM Controller Conî¿guration Channel Interleaving [XOR of Address bit] MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled] Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled] DCT Unganged Mode [Always] Power Down Enable [Disabled]
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-23 ECC Conîguration Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced ECC Conî¿guration ECC Mode [Disabled] DRAM ECC Enable [Disabled] DRAM SCRUB REDIRECT [Disabled] 4-Bit ECC Mode [Disabled] DRAM BG Scrub [Disabled] Data Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] L2 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] L3 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] Set the level of ECC protection. Note: The âSuperâ ECC mode dynamically sets the DRAM scrub rate so all of memory is scrubbed in 8 hours. ECC Mode [Disabled] Disables or sets the DRAM ECC mode that allows the hardware to report and correct memory errors. [Disabled] Disables the DRAM ECC mode. [Basic] Set to [Basic] to adjust ECC mode automatically . [Good] Set to [Good] to adjust ECC mode automatically . [Super] Set to [Super] to adjust the DRAM BG Scrub sub-item manually . [Max] Set to [Max] to adjust ECC mode automatically . [User] Set to [User] to adjust all the subitems manually . Channel Interleaving [XOR of Address bit] Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Address bits 6] [Address bits 12] [XOR of Address bits [20:16, 6]] [XOR of Address bits [20:16, 9]] MemClk T ristate C3/A TL VID [Disabled] Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled] Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] DCT Unganged Mode [Always] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Always] Power Down Enable [Disabled] Enables or disables the DDR power down mode. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Power Down Mode [Channel] This item appears only when you enable the previous item and allows you to set the DDR power down mode. Conîguration options: [Channel] [Chip Select]
3-24 Chapter 3: BIOS setup The following items become user-conîgurable when you set ECC Mode to [User] DRAM ECC Enable [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the DRAM ECC that allows the hardware to report and correct memory errors automatically . [Disabled] Disables this function. DRAM SCRUB REDIRECT [Disabled] [Enabled] Allows the system to correct the DRAM ECC errors immediately when they occur . [Disabled] Disables this function. 4-Bit ECC Mode [Disabled] [Enabled] Enables ECC chip kill feature. [Disabled] Disables this function. DRAM BG SCRUB [Disabled] Disables or sets the DRAM BG Scrub. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [40ns] [80ns] [160ns] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us] [20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us] [1.31ms] [2.62ms] [5.24ms] [10.49ms] [20.97ms] [42.00ms] [84.00ms] Data Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] Disables or sets the Data Cache BG Scrub. This item allows the data cache BG Scrub RAM to be corrected when idle. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [40ns] [80ns] [160ns] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us] [20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us] [1.31ms] [2.62ms] [5.24ms] [10.49ms] [20.97ms] [42.00ms] [84.00ms] L2 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] Disables or sets the L2 Cache BG Scrub. This item allows the cache RAM to be corrected when idle. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [40ns] [80ns] [160ns] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us] [20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us] [1.31ms] [2.62ms] [5.24ms] [10.49ms] [20.97ms] [42.00ms] [84.00ms] L3 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] Disables or sets the L3 Cache BG Scrub. This item allows the cache RAM to be corrected when idle. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [40ns] [80ns] [160ns] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us] [20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us] [1.31ms] [2.62ms] [5.24ms] [10.49ms] [20.97ms] [42.00ms] [84.00ms] Primary Display Adapter [PCI-E] Allows you to select the graphics controller to use as the primary boot device. Conîguration options: [PCI-E] [PCI]
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-25 3.5.3 Onboard Device Conîguration Onboard Devices [Standard] [Standard] Enables standard onboard devices. [Disabled] Disables all onboard devices except the LAN controller . HD Audio Azalia Device [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the High Deînition Audio Controller . [Disabled] Disables the controller . Front Panel T ype [HD] [HD] Set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high- deînition audio. [AC97] Set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy ACâ97 SPDIF OUT T ype [SPDIF] [SPDIF] Sets to [SPDIF Output] for SPDIF audio output. [HDMI] Sets to [HDMI Output] for HDMI audio output. Onboard Lan [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the LAN controller . Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Onboard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] This item appears only when you enable the previous item. [Enabled] Enables the onboard LAN Boot ROM. [Disabled] Disables the onboard LAN Boot ROM. Onboard 1394 Controller [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the onboard 1394 Controller . [Disabled] Disables the controller . Onboard A T A Controller [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the onboard A T A controller. [Disabled] Disables the controller . Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced Onboard Devices Conî¿guration Onboard Device [Standard] HD Audio Azalia Device [Enabled] Front Panel Type [HD] SPDIF OUT Type [SPDIF] Onboard LAN [Enabled] Onboard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] Onboard 1394 Controller [Enabled] Onboard ATA Controller [Enabled] Onboard ATA Controller ROM [Enabled] Onboard USB 3.0 Controller [Enabled] Get your best overclocking record! âOnboard Deviceâ is to disable all the unnecessary devices when you want to reach your best overclocking record. But it will keep 1 lan port alive to submit your score.
3-26 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Onboard A T A Controller ROM [Enabled] This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled]. [Enabled] Enables the onboard A T A controller ROM. [Disabled] Disables the onboard A T A controller ROM. Onboard USB 3.0 Controller [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the USB 3.0 controller . [Disabled] Disables the controller . 3.5.4 USB Conîguration The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conîguration options. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced USB Conî¿guration Module Version - 2.24.5-13.4 USB Devices Enabled: 1 Keyboard USB Support [Enabled] Legacy USB Support [Auto] USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed] BIOS EHCI Hand-off [Enabled] Enable support for all USB ports. The USB Devices Enabled item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None. USB Support [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the USB Host Controllers. [Disabled] Disables the controllers. The following items appear only when you set USB Functions to [Enabled]. Legacy USB Support [Auto] [Disabled] Disables the function. [Enabled] Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS). [Auto] Allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-27 USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed] [FullSpeed] Set the USB 2.0 controller mode to FullSpeed (12 Mbps). [HiSpeed] Set the USB 2.0 controller mode to HiSpeed (480 Mbps). The USB 2.0 Controller Mode item appears only when you enable the USB 2.0 Controller . BIOS EHCI Hand-off [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand-off feature. [Disabled] Disables the function. 3.5.5 PCIPnP The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices. Plug And Play O/S [No] [Y es] When set to [Y es] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system conîgures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot. [No] When set to [No], BIOS conîgures all the devices in the system. Advanced PCI/PnP Settings WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction. Plug And Play O/S [No] Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced 3.5.6 LED Control Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced LED Control All LED Control [Enabled] POST State LEDs [Enabled] Voltiminder LED [Enabled] CPU LED Selection [CPU] NB LED Selection [NB] SB LED Selection [SB] DDR LED Selection [DRAM] All LED Control [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the onboard LEDs control. Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] The following items appear only when you set All LED Control to [Enabled].
3-28 Chapter 3: BIOS setup POST State LEDs [Enabled] [Enabled] T urn on onboard device LEDs in the order of the device POST sequence. [Disabled] Disables this function. V oltiminder LED [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the onboard V oltiminder LED. Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] CPU LED Selection [CPU] Allows you to switch the onboard CPU LED display between CPU voltage [CPU], CPU/NB voltage [CPU/NB] and CPU VDDA voltage [CPU VDDA]. Conîguration options: [CPU] [CPU/NB] [CPU VDDA] NB LED Selection [NB] Allows you to switch the onboard northbridge LED display . Conîguration options: [NB] [NB 1.8V] [VDDPCIE] SB LED Selection [SB] Allows you to switch the onboard southbridge LED display . Conîguration options: [SB] [HT] DDR LED Selection [DRAM] Allows you to switch the onboard DDR LED display . Conîguration options: [DRAM] [VDDR] 3.5.7 iROG Conîguration iROG Timer Keeper [Last State] Allows you to set the iROG T ime Keeper operation mode. Conîguration options: [Last State] [Disabled] [Enabled] Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced iROG Timer Keeper System will record using time every 1 minute iROG Conî¿guration iROG ID_Number Information iROG_1 ID_Number: 21 iROG_2 ID_Number: 2 iROG Timer Keeper [Last State] Current Operation time: Total Operation time: 3.5.8 EC Conîguration Shows EC BIOS information. This item is not user-conîgurable.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-29 3.5.9 ROG Connect ROG Connect [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the ROG Connect function. Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] RC Poster Mode [String] Allows you to select the RC Poster mode. Conîguration options: [String] [Code] Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced ROG Connect [Enabled] RC Poster Mode [String] Options Enabled Disabled
3-30 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.6 Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conîguration options. 3.6.1 Suspend Mode [Auto] Allows you to select the Advanced Conîguration and Power Interface (ACPI) state to be used for system suspend. [S1 (POS) only] Sets the ACPI suspend mode to S1/POS (Power On Suspend). [S3 only] Sets the ACPI suspend mode to S3/STR (Suspend T o RAM). [Auto] The system automatically conîgures the ACPI suspend mode. 3.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume [No] Determines whether to invoke VGA BIOS POST on S3/STR resume. [No] The system will not invoke VGA BIOS POST on S3/STR resume. [Y es] The system invokes VGA BIOS POST on S3/STR resume. 3.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled] [Disabled] When set to [Disabled], the system will not add additional tables as per ACPI 2.0 speciîcations. [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the system adds additional tables as per ACPI 2.0 speciîcations. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit Suspend Mode [Auto] Repost Video on S3 Resume [No] ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled] ACPI APIC Support [Enabled] APM Conî¿guration Hardware Monitor
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-31 3.6.5 APM Conîguration EuP Ready [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables the Energy Using Products (EuP) Ready function. [Enabled] Allows BIOS to switch off some power at S5 state to get system ready for the EuP requirement. When set to [Enabled], power for WOL, WO_USB, audio and onboard LEDs will be switched off at S5 state. Restore On AC Power Loss [Power Off] [Power Off] The system goes into off state after an AC power loss. [Power On] The system goes into on state after an AC power loss. [Last State] The system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was before the AC power loss. Power On By PCI/PCIE Device [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables the PME to wake up from S5 by PCI/PCIE devices. [Enabled] Allows you to turn on the system through a PCI/PCIE LAN or modem card. This feature requires an A TX power supply that provides at least 1A on the 5VSB lead. Power On By PS/2 Devoces [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables the Power On by a PS/2 devices. [Enabled] Enables the Power On by a PS/2 devices. This feature requires an A TX power supply that provides at least 1A on the 5VSB lead. 3.6.4 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Conîguration and Power Interface (ACPI) support in the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). [Disabled] When set to [Disabled], the system disable the Advanced Conîguration and Power Interface (ACPI) support in the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list. APM Conî¿guration EuP Ready [Disabled] Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off] Power On By PCI/PCIE Device [Disabled] Power On By PS/2 Devices [Disabled] PS/2 Devices [Disabled] Power On By Ring [Disabled] Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled] Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Power
3-32 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Power On By Ring [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables to power up the computer when the external modem receives a call while the computer is in Soft-off mode. [Enabled] The computer could be powered up when the external modem receives a call while the computer is in Soft-off mode. The computer cannot receive or transmit data until the computer and applications are fully running. Thus, connection cannot be made on the îrst try . T urning an external modem off and then back on while the computer is of f causes an initialization string that turns the system power on. Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables R TC to generate a wake event. [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the items RTC Alarm Date (Days) and RTC Alarm Time (HH:MM:SS) will become user-conîgurable with set values. 3.6.6 Hardware Monitor Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced Hardware Monitor Voltage Monitor Temperature Monitor Fan Speed Monitor Fan Speed Control Voltage Monitor V oltage Monitor CPU V oltage; CPU/NB V oltage; CPU VDDA V oltage; DRAM V oltage; HT V oltage; NB V oltage; SB V oltage; 3.3V V oltage; 5V V oltage; 12V V oltage The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard voltage regulators. T emperature Monitor CPU T emperature; MB T emperature; NB T emperature; SB T emperature; OPT TEMP 1/2/3 T emperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU, motherboard, northbridge, southbridge, and the assigned devices temperatures. Select [Ignored] if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures. MB overheat Protection [90ºC] SB overheat Protection; NB overheat protection [100ºC] The system automatically shuts down when the motherboard, northbridge or southbridge chipset is heated over the set temperature to protect it from damage. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [70ºC] [80ºC] [90ºC] [100ºC]
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-33 CPU Q-Fan Function [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the CPU fan controller . [Disabled] Disables the CPU Q-fan controller . [Enabled] Enables the CPU Q-fan controller . The following items appear only when you set CPU Q-Fan Function to [Enabled]. CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [200 RPM] A warning message will appear to remind you that the CPU fan speed is lower than the selected value. Conîguration options: [500RPM] [400RPM] [300RPM] [200RPM] [100RPM] [Ignored] Select Fan T ype: [PWM Fan] [PWM Fan] Sets to [PWM Fan] when using a 4-pin CPU fan. [DC Fan] Sets to [DC Fan] when using a 3-pin CPU fan. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Power Fan Speed Control CPU Q-Fan Function [Disabled] Chassis Q-Fan Function [Disabled] Power Fan Control [Disabled] OPT Fan 1 Control [Disabled] [Disabled] OPT Fan 2 Control [Disabled] OPT Fan 3 Control [Disabled] Disable/Enable Q-Fan functions of CPU fan OPT TEMP 1/2/3 Overheat Protection [90ºC] Allows you to set the temperature over which the system automatically shuts down when any of the thermal sensor cables connected to the motherboard detects device overheat to protect the device from damage. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [70ºC] [80ºC] [90ºC] [100ºC] Fan Speed Monitor CPU Fan; Power Fan; Chassis Fan 1/2/3; OPT Fan 1/2/3 Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU fan, chassis fan, power fan, and optional fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If any of the fans is not connected to the motherboard, the îeld shows [N/A]. These items are not user-conîgurable. Fan Speed Control
3-34 Chapter 3: BIOS setup CPU Q-Fan Mode [Silent] [Performance] Sets to [Performance] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed. [Optimal] Sets to [Optimal] to make the CPU fan automatically adjust depending on the CPU temperature. [Silent] Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.] [Manual] Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters. Chassis Q-Fan Function [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the Chassis fan controller . [Disabled] Disables the Chassis Q-fan controller . [Enabled] Enables the Chassis Q-fan controller . The following items appear only when you set Chassis Q-Fan Function to [Enabled]. Chassis Fan Speed Low Limit [200 RPM] A warning message will appear to remind you that the CPU fan speed is lower than the selected value. Conîguration options: [500RPM] [400RPM] [300RPM] [200RPM] [100RPM] [Ignored] Chassis Q-Fan Mode [Silent] [Performance] Sets to [Performance] to achieve maximum Chassis fan speed. [Optimal] Sets to [Optimal] to make the Chassis fan automatically adjust depending on the Chassis temperature. [Silent] Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet Chassis fan operation.] [Manual] Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters. Power Fan Control [Disabled] Allows you to select the power fan control mode. Whe n t his it em is set to [Du ty Mod e], yo u can conîg ure the P ower F an Dut y ite m. Power Fan Duty [50%] Allows you to set the fan duty cycle. Conîguration options: [40%] [50%] [60%] [70%] [80%] [90%] OPT Fan 1/2/3 Control [Disabled] All ows yo u to s elect the o ptiona l fan contro l mod e. When t his it em is se t t o [Du ty Mod e], yo u can conîg ure the O PT Fan 1/2/3 Duty item. If yo u set th is ite m to [ User M ode], you a re allowe d to c onîgu re the OPT F an 1/2 /3 Low Spe ed T emp an d OPT Fan 1/ 2/3 F ull Sp eed T emp i tem. Con îgurat ion op tions: [Dis abled] [Duty Mode] [Use r M ode]
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-35 Y ou need to connect the thermal sensor cables to the OPT_TEMP1/2/3 connectors to enable this function. OPT Fan 1/2/3 Duty [50%] Allows you to set the fan duty cycle. This item appears when the OPT Fan 1/2/3 Control item is set to [Duty Mode]. Conîguration options: [40%] [50%] [60%] [70%] [80%] [90%] OPT Fan 1/2/3 Low Speed T emp [25ËC] Allows you to set the temperature at which the power fan rotates at low speed. This item appears when the OPT Fan 1/2/3 Control item is set to [User Mode]. Conîguration options: [25ËC] [30ËC] [35ËC] [40ËC] OPT Fan 1/2/3 Full Speed T emp [60ËC] Allows you to set the temperature at which the power fan rotates at full speed. This item appears when the OPT Fan 1/2/3 Control item is set to [User Mode]. Conîguration options: [60ËC] [70ËC] [80ËC] [90ËC]
3-36 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.7 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. 1stâxxth Boot Device [xxx Drive] 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. Conîguration options: [xxx Drive] [Disabled] v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Speciî¿es the Boot Device Priority sequence. A virtual îoppy disk drive (Floppy Drive B: ) may appear when you set the CD-ROM drive as the î¿rst boot device. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit Boot Settings Boot Device Priority Boot Settings Conî¿guration Security 3.7.1 Boot Device Priority Boot Device Priority 1st Boot Device [Removable Dev.] 2nd Boot Device [Hard Drive] 3rd Boot Device [ATAPI CD-ROM] Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Boot 3.7.2 Boot Settings Conîguration Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Boot Boot Settings Conî¿guration Quick Boot [Enabled] Full Screen Logo [Enabled] AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS] Bootup Num-Lock [On] Wait for âF1â if Error [Enabled] Hit âDELâ Message Display [Enabled] Allows BIOS to skip certain tests while booting. This will decrease the time needed to boot the system.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-37 Quick Boot [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the Quick Boot function. [Disabled] When set to [Disabled], BIOS performs all the POST items. [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], BIOS skips some power on self tests (POST) while booting to decrease the time needed to boot the system. Full Screen Logo [Enabled] This allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature. [Enabled] Enables the full screen logo display feature. [Disabled] Disables the full screen logo display feature. Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo3⢠feature. AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS] Sets the display mode for option ROM. [Force BIOS] [Keep Current] . Bootup Num-Lock [On] Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock. [On] Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [On]. [Off] Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [Off]. W ait for âF1â If Error [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the system waits for the <F1> key to be pressed when error occurs. Hit âDEL â Message Display [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the system displays the message âPress DEL to run Setupâ during POST .
3-38 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Change Supervisor Password Select this item to set or change the supervisor password. The Supervisor Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed . After you set a password, this item shows Installed. T o set a Supervisor Password: 1. Select the Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>. 2. From the password box, key in a password composed of at least six letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>. 3. Conîrm the password when prompted. The message Password Installed appears after you successfully set your password. T o change the supervisor password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password. T o clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then press <Enter>. The message Password Uninstalled appears. If you have forgotten your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real T ime Clock (RTC) RAM. See section 2.6 Jumper for information on how to erase the RTC RAM. After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change other security settings. 3.7.3 Security The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conîguration options. Security Settings Supervisor Password : Not Installed User Password : Not Installed Change Supervisor Password Change User Passward Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Boot <Enter> to change password. <Enter> again to disable password.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-39 User Access Level [Full Access] This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items. [No Access] Prevents user access to the Setup utility . [View Only] Allows access but does not allow change to any îeld. [Limited] Allows changes only to selected îelds, such as Date and T ime. [Full Access] Allows viewing and changing all the îelds in the Setup utility . Change User Password Select this item to set or change the user password. The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed. T o set a User Password: 1. Select the Change User Password item and press <Enter>. 2. On the password box that appears, type a password composed of at least six letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>. 3. Conîrm the password when prompted. The message Password Installed appears after you set your password successfully . T o change the user password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password. Clear User Password Select this item to clear the user password. Password Check [Setup] [Setup] BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup utility . [Always] BIOS checks for user password both when accessing Setup and booting the system. After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change other security settings. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Boot Security Settings Supervisor Password :Installed User Password :Installed Change Supervisor Password User Access Level [Full Access] Change User Password Password Check [Setup] <Enter> to change password. <Enter> again to disabled password.
3-40 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a conîrmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Y es] or [No], then press <Enter> to conîrm your choice. For more details, refer to section 3.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility . ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V4.14 Current ROM Update ROM A: Note [Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info [Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [Esc] Exit PATH: A:\ BOARD: Crosshair-IV-Formula VER: 0215 DATE: 02/23/2010 BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown 3.8 Tools menu The T ools menu items allow you to conîgure options for special functions. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Press ENTER to run the utility to select and update BIOS. This utility supports 1.FAT 12/16/32 (r/w) 2.NTFS (read only) 3.CD-DISC (read only) ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS O.C. Proî¿le Go Button File AI NET 2
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-41 3.8.2 ASUS O.C. Proîle This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. Add Y our CMOS Proîle Allows you to save the current BIOS île to the BIOS Flash. In the Name sub-item, type your proîle name and press <Enter>, and then choose a proîle number to save your CMOS settings in the Save to sub-item. Load CMOS Proîles Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Press <Enter>, and choose a proîle to load. Start O.C. Proîle All ows yo u to r un the util ity to sa ve and load CM OS. Press <Ente r> to ru n t he uti lity . ASUSTeK O.C. Proî¿le Utility V2.14 Restore CMOS A: Note [Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info [Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [Esc] Exit PATH: A:\ BOARD: Crosshair-IV-Formula VER: 0215 DATE: 02/23/2010 BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown Current CMOS v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Tools Typing your proî¿le name, [0-9][a-z][A-Z] are acceptable. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit O.C. PROFILE Conî¿guration O.C. Proî¿le 1 Status : Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 2 Status : Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 3 Status : Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 4 Status : Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 5 Status : Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 6 Status : Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 7 Status : Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 8 Status : Not Installed Add Your CMOS Proî¿le. Name: [Default-Proî¿le] Save To: [Uninstalled] Load CMOS Proî¿les. Load From: [Blank] Start O.C. Proî¿le
3-42 Chapter 3: BIOS setup ⢠This function supports devices such as a USB îash disk (F A T 32/16 format) or a îoppy disk with single partition only . ⢠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 île only coming from the same memory/CPU conîguration and BIOS version. ⢠Only the CMO île can be loaded. 3.8.3 Go Button File This menu allows you to set and save system parameters, which will be loaded when pressing the Go Button. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Tools Save TweakIt Batch File ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit Go Button File Current Settings BCLK Speed: 200MHz PCIE Speed: 100MHz CPU Voltage: 1.303V CPU/NB Voltaeg: 1.158V CPU VDDA Voltage: 2.474V DRAM Voltage: 1.488V HT Voltage: 1.191V NB Voltage: 1.098V NB 1.8V Voltage: 1.802V SB Voltage: 1.111V VDDR Voltage: 1.205V VDDPCIE Voltage: 1.113V Frequency Controller [Disabled] CPU Ratio [Auto] CPU Voltage [Auto] CPU/NB Voltage [Auto] Scroll down to display the following items: v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. CPU VDDA Voltage [Auto] DRAM Voltage [Auto] HT Voltage [Auto] NB Voltage [Auto] NB 1.8V Voltage [Auto] SB Voltage [Auto] VDDR Voltage [Auto] VDDPCIE Voltage [Auto] Save Above Settings Load Default Settings
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-43 Frequency Controller; CPU Ratio; CPU V oltage; CPU/NB V oltage; CPU VDDA V oltage; DRAM V oltage; HT V oltage; NB V oltage; NB 1.8V V oltage; SB V oltage; VDDR V oltage; VDDPCIE V oltage Allows you to use the < > and <-> keys to adjust the values for each item. Refer to 3.3 Extreme T weaker Menu for details. Save Above Settings Allows you to save the adjusted values for speciîc items as a Go Button batch île. Load Default Settings Allows you to load the default system settings. 3.8.4 AI NET 2 Check Marvell LAN cable [Disabled] Enables or disables checking of the LAN cable during the Power-On Self-T est (POST). Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Tools Ai Net 2 Pair Status Length Check Marvell LAN cable [Disabled] Check Marvell LAN cable during POST.
3-44 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.9 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options from this menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit. Exit & Save Changes Once you are înished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard backup battery sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turned off. When you select this option, a conîrmation window appears. Select YES to save changes and exit. If you attempt to exit the Setup program without saving your changes, the program prompts you with a message asking if you want to save your changes before exiting. Press <Enter> to save the changes while exiting. Exit & Discard Changes Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to the Setup program. If you made changes to îelds other than System Date, System T ime, and Password, the BIOS asks for a conîrmation before exiting. Discard Changes This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the previously saved values. After selecting this option, a conîrmation appears. Select YES to discard any changes and load the previously saved values. Load Setup 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 conîrmation window appears. Select YES to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes or make other changes before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Exit system setup after saving the changes. F10 key can be used for this operation. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit Exit Options Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes Load Setup Defaults
4 Software support This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package and the software.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula Chapter summary 4 4.1 Installing an operating system ................................................... 4-1 4.2 Support DVD information ............................................................ 4-1 4.3 Software information ................................................................... 4-7 4.4 RAID conîgurations .................................................................. 4-28 4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk ....................................................... 4-33
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-1 If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer , browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the île ASSETUP .EXE from the BIN folder . Double-click the ASSETUP .EXE to run the DVD. 4.1 Installing an operating system This motherboard supports Windows ® XP/ 64-bit XP/ Vista / 64-bit V ista / 7 / 64-bit 7 operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware. 4.2 Support DVD information Th e s upp ort D VD th at ca me wi th the m ot her boa rd p ack age co nt ai ns the dr iv ers , so ftw are ap pl ic ati ons , an d u til iti es t hat yo u ca n i nst all t o ava il all m oth erb oar d f eat ure s. 4.2.1 Running the support DVD Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer . ⢠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 Windows ® XP Service Pack 2 or later versions before installing the drivers for better compatibility and system stability . 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. The Drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to use the devices. The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. 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. Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. Click an icon to display DVD/ motherboard information Click an item to install Click to obtain the corresponding software manuals
4-2 Chapter 4: Software support 4.2.2 Drivers menu The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices. AMD Chipset Driver Installs the AMD ® chipset drivers. VIA Audio Driver Installs the VIA Audio driver . Sound Blaster X-Fi Installs the Sound Blaster X-Fi driver . JMicron JMB36X Controller Driver Installs the JMicron ® controller driver . Marvell Y ukon Gigabit Ethernet Driver Installs the Marvell ® Y ukon Gigabit Ethernet driver . USB 3.0 Driver Installs USB 3.0 driver . ASUS EPU Installs the ASUS EPU driver and utility . ASUS T urboV EVO Installs ASUS T urboV , the advanced overclocking tool for extreme O.C. re cord. Browser Conîguration Utility Installs the Browser Conîguration utility .
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-3 4.2.3 Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. AMD OverDrive Utility (AOD) Installs AMD OverDrive utility . ASUS Update The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in Windows ® environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP). ASUS AI Suite Installs the ASUS AI Suite. Adobe Reader 9 Installs the Adobe ® Reader that allows you to open, view , and print documents in Portable Document Format (PDF). ASUS PC Probe II This smart utility monitors the fan speed, CPU temperature, and system voltage, and alerts you of any detected problems. This utility helps you keep your computer in healthy operating condition. ASUS ROG Connect Y ou can use this software to control the performance of machine remotely , and to monitor its variation of each item immediately . ASUS ROG GameFirst Y ou can use this software to adjust network îow speed between different applications.
4-4 Chapter 4: Software support 4.2.4 Make disk menu The Make disk menu contains items to create the AMD RAID driver disk. AMD AHCI/RAID 32/64bit WinXP Driver Allows you to create an AMD AHCI/RAID 32/64 bit WinXP Driver disk. 4.2.5 Manual menu The Manuals menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to open the folder of the user manual. Most user manual îles are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe ® Acrobat ® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening a user manual île.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-5 4.2.6 ASUS Contact information Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. Y ou can also înd this information on the inside front cover of this user guide. 4.2.7 Other information The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on the motherboard and the contents of the support DVD. Click an icon to display the speciîed information. Motherboard Info Displays the general speciîcations of the motherboard.
4-6 Chapter 4: Software support Browse this DVD Displays the support DVD contents in graphical format. Filelist Di spl ays th e co nte nts o f the su ppo rt D VD and a b rie f d esc ri pt ion of ea ch in te xt for mat .
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-7 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 île that came with the software application for more information. 4.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3⢠The ASUS MyLogo3⢠utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the image that appears on screen during the Power-On Self-T ests (POST). The ASUS MyLogo3⢠is automatically installed when you install the ASUS Update utility from the support DVD. See section 4.2.3 Utilities menu for details. T o launch the ASUS MyLogo3â¢: â¢: : 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility . Refer to section 3.1.1 ASUS Update utility for details. 2. Select Options from the drop down menu, then click Next. 3. Check the option Launch MyLogo to replace system boot logo before îashing BIOS, then click Next . 4. Select Update BIOS from a île from the drop down menu, then click Next. 5. When prompted, locate the new BIOS île, then click Next . The ASUS MyLogo window appears. 6. From the left window pane, select the folder that contains the image you intend to use as your boot logo. ⢠Before using the ASUS MyLogo3 ⢠, use the ASUS Update utility to make a copy of your original BIOS île, or obtain the latest BIOS version from the ASUS website. See section 3.1.1 ASUS Update utility . ⢠Ensure that the BIOS item Full Screen Logo is set to [Enabled] if you wish to use ASUS MyLogo3â¢. See section 3.7.2 Boot Settings Conîguration. ⢠Y ou can create your own boot logo image in GIF île formats.
4-8 Chapter 4: Software support 9. When the screen returns to the ASUS Update utility , îash the original BIOS to load the new boot logo. 10. After îashing the BIOS, restart the computer to display the new boot logo during POST . 8. Adjust the boot image to your desired size by selecting a value on the Ratio box. 7. When the logo images appear on the right window pane, select an image to enlarge by clicking on it.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-9 4.3.2 Sound Blaster X-Fi audio utility With the SupremeFX X-Fi technology supported, you will be able to enjoy excellent audio quality and experience realistic sound effects through the audio codec and Sound Blaster X-Fi interface. Activating X-Fiâs CMSS3D, Crystalizer , and EAX will deliver accurate virtual surround sound and enhanced audio dynamics, which amount to ultimate gaming experience. T o install Sound Blaster X-Fi: 1. Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature. 2. Click the Drivers tab and click VIA Audio Driver . 3. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. 4. Click the support DVD Drivers tab and click Sound Blaster X-Fi. 5. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. Y ou need to install VIA Audio Driver to use Sound Blaster X-Fi audio utility . Double-click the V olume Panel icon to launch the Mixer control panel. Click Main Display to go to the Main Panel. If the Sound Blaster X-Fi audio utility is successfully installed, you will înd the V olume Panel icon on the notiîcation area. Click the V olume Panel icon to display a list of Creative ® media utilities that help you manage and play your media îles. Click Help in each utility control panel to know more about them.
4-10 Chapter 4: Software support Main Panel The Main Panel displays all the features and functions the SupremeFX X-Fi supports. Click each icon to conîgure the following settings (from left to right): Speakers and Headphone, EAX Effects, X-Fi CMSS-3D, X-Fi Crystalizer , Smart V olume Management, Graphic Equalizer , and Mixer . Minimize Exit Help Click to restore default settings Click to mute volume Drag to adjust volume Click each icon to conîgure further settings Speakers and Headphone Panel This panel allows you to conîgure speakers/headphone settings including bass management and speaker volume. Y ou can also test each speaker channel. Click to test speaker sound in turn Click to test speaker noise in turn Click to select a speaker type Click to adjust bass Click to adjust volume of each speaker
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-1 1 EAX Effects Panel This panel contains environment effects that you can select to obtain a sense of realism during interactive 3D games. Click to enable EAX Effects X-Fi CMSS-3D Panel This panel allows you to conîgure 3D virtual surround effects. Click to select an environment Drag to adjust effects amount Click to enable X-Fi 3D Virtual effects Drag to adjust effects Click to select an upmix mode (appears when using 4/4.1/5.1/7.1 Speakers) X-Fi Crystalizer Panel Enable X-Fi Crystalizer to obtain more audio dynamics. Click to enable X-Fi Crystalizer Drag to adjust effects
4-12 Chapter 4: Software support Smart V olume Management Panel Enable Smart V olume Management (SVM) to avoid large volume îuctuations. Click to switch on/off SVM Graphic Equalizer Panel This panel allows you to customize equalizer settings or select an EQ presets. Click to select an EQ preset Click to save settings Click to enable EQ Drag to customize effects Mixer Panel This panel allows you to select a recording device and adjust recording/playback devices volume. Click to adjust volume Click to mute volume Drag to adjust volume Click to select a recording device
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-13 4.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II PC Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer âs vital components, and detects and alerts you of any problem with these components. PC Probe II senses fan rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others. Because PC Probe II is software-based, you can start monitoring your computer the moment you turn it on. With this utility , you are assured that your computer is always at a healthy operating condition. Installing PC Probe II T o install PC Probe II on your computer: 1. Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature. If Autorun is not enabled in your computer , browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the setup.exe île from the ASUS PC Probe II folder . Double-click the setup.exe île to start installation. 2. Click the Utilities tab, then click ASUS PC Probe II. 3. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. Launching PC Probe II Y ou can launch the PC Probe II right after installation or anytime from the Windows ® desktop. T o launch the PC Probe II from the Windows ® desktop, click Start > All Programs > ASUS > PC Probe II > PC Probe II v1.xx.xx . The PC Probe II main window appears. After launching the application, the PC Probe II icon appears in the Windows ® taskbar . Click this icon to close or restore the application. Using PC Probe II Main window The PC Probe II main window allows you to view the current status of your system and change the utility conîguration. By default, the main window displays the Preference section. Y ou can close or restore the Preference section by clicking on the triangle on the main window right handle. Click to close the Preference panel
4-14 Chapter 4: Software support Button Function Opens the Conîguration window Opens the Report window Opens the Desktop Management Interface window Opens the Peripheral Component Interconnect window Opens the Windows Management Instrumentation window Opens the hard disk drive, memory , CPU usage window Shows/Hides the Preference section Minimizes the application Closes the application Sensor alert When a system sensor detects a problem, the main window right handle turns red, as the illustrations below show . When displayed, the monitor panel for that sensor also turns red. Refer to the Monitor panels section for details. Preferences Y ou can customize the application using the Preference section in the main window . Click the box before each preference to activate or deactivate.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-15 Changing the monitor panels position T o change the position of the monitor panels in the desktop, click the arrow down button of the Scheme options, then select another position from the list box. Click OK when înished. Moving the monitor panels All monitor panels move together using a magnetic effect. If you want to detach a monitor panel from the group, click the horseshoe magnet icon. Y ou can now move or reposition the panel independently . Hardware monitor panels The hardware monitor panels display the current value of a system sensor such as fan rotation, CPU temperature, and voltages. The hardware monitor panels come in two display modes: hexagonal (large) and rectangular (small). When you check the Enable Monitoring Panel option from the Preference section, the monitor panels appear on your computer âs desktop. Large display Small display Click to increase value Click to decrease value Adjusting the sensor threshold value Y ou can adjust the sensor threshold value in the monitor panel by clicking the or buttons. Y ou can also adjust the threshold values using the Conîg window . Y ou cannot adjust the sensor threshold values in a small monitoring panel.
4-16 Chapter 4: Software support Monitoring sensor alert The monitor panel turns red when a component value exceeds or is lower than the threshold value. Refer to the illustrations below . Large display Small display WMI browser Click to display the WMI (Windows Management Instrumentation) browser . This browser displays various Windows® management information. Click an item from the left panel to display on the right panel. Click the plus sign ( ) before WMI Information to display the available information. Y ou can enlarge or reduce the browser size by dragging the bottom right corner of the browser . DMI browser Click to display the DMI (Desktop Management Interface) browser . This browser displays various desktop and system information. Click the plus sign ( ) before DMI Information to display the available information.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-17 PCI browser Click to display the PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) browser . This browser provides information on the PCI devices installed on your system. Click the plus sign ( ) before the PCI Information item to display available information. Usage The Usage browser displays real-time information on the CPU, hard disk drive space, and memory usage. Click to display the Usage browser . CPU usage The CPU tab displays real- time CPU usage in line graph representation. If the CPU has an enabled Hyper-Threading, two separate line graphs display the operation of the two logical processors. Hard disk drive space usage The Hard Disk tab displays the used and available hard disk drive space. The left panel of the tab lists all logical drives. Click a hard disk drive to display the information on the right panel. The pie chart at the bottom of the window represents the used (blue) and the available HDD space.
4-18 Chapter 4: Software support Memory usage The Memory tab shows both used and available physical memory . The pie chart at the bottom of the window represents the used (blue) and the available physical memory . Conîguring PC Probe II Click to view and adjust the sensor threshold values. The Conîg window has two tabs: Sensor/Threshold and Preference. The Sensor/ Threshold tab enables you to activate the sensors or to adjust the sensor threshold values. The Preference tab allows you to customize sensor alerts, or change the temperature scale. Loads the default threshold values for each sensor Applies your changes Cancels or ignores your changes Lo ad s y ou r s av ed co nî gur at ion Saves your conîguration
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-19 4.3.4 ASUS AI Suite ASUS AI Suite allows you to launch several ASUS utilities easily . Launching AI Suite 1. Install AI Suite from the motherboard support DVD. 2. Launch AI Suite by clicking Start > All Programs > ASUS > AI Suite > AI Suite v1.xx.xx . The AI Suite main window appears. 3. The AI Suite icon appears in the Windows ® notiîcation area. If you minimize the application main window , click this icon to restore the window . Using AI Suite Click each utility button to launch the utility , or click the Normal button to restore system default settings. Click to launch each utility Click to restore default settings Click to open the monitor window that displays system information such as CPU temperature, CPU voltage, fan speed, and CPU/FSB frequency ⢠The screenshots in this section are for reference only . The actual utility buttons vary by models. ⢠Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www .asus.com for detailed software conîguration.
4-20 Chapter 4: Software support 4.3.5 ASUS Fan Xpert Asus Fan Xpert allows you to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan speeds according to different ambient temperatures and your PCâ s system loading. The various fan proîles offer îexible controls of fan speeds to achieve a quiet and cool system environment. Launching Fan Xpert After installing AI Suite from the motherboard support DVD, launch Fan Xpert by double-clicking the AI Suite tray icon and then clicking the Fan Xpert button on the AI Suite main window . Using Fan Xpert Fan proîles ⢠Disable: Select this mode to disable the Fan Xpert function. ⢠Performance: This mode boosts the fan to achieve maximal fan speed for the best cooling effect ⢠Optimal: This mode adjusts the CPU fan speed with the ambient temperature. ⢠Silent: This mode minimizes fan speed for quiet fan operation. ⢠Manual: This mode allows you to change the CPU fan proîle under certain limitation. Displays the current CPU/MB temperature and the fan speeds Click to cancel the settings and exit the Fan Xpert utility Click to select a fan type Click to select a fan proîle Click to apply the settings
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-21 4.3.6 CPU Level Up The CPU Level Up allows you to overclock immediately with OC proîle presets in WIndows ® environment without the hassle of entering BIOS. After installing AI Suite from the bundled Support DVD, launch the utility by double- clicking the AI Suite icon in th e W ind ows in th e W ind ows ® no tiî cat ion ar ea and click the CPU and click the CPU Level Up button on the AI Suite main window . Click to select a CPU level Click to apply the selected CPU level Click to exit the utlity
4-22 Chapter 4: Software support 4.3.7 ASUS EPU ASUS EPU is an energy-efîcient tool that provides you with a total system power-saving solution. It detects the current computer loading and intelligently adjusts the power in real-time. With auto phase switching for components, the EPU automatically provides the most appropriate power usage via intelligent acceleration and overclocking. ASUS EPU provides you with these modes to choose from: ⢠Auto Mode ⢠High Performance Mode When you select Auto Mode , the system shifts modes automatically according to the current system status. Y ou can also conîgure advanced settings for each mode. Launching EPU After installing EPU from the motherboard support DVD, double-click the EPU tray icon to launch the program. EPU main menu ⢠Max. Power Saving Mode Displays the following message if no VGA power saving engine is detected. Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www .asus.com for detailed software conîguration.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-23 4.3.8 ASUS Unique Overclocking UtilityâT urboV EVO ASUS T urboV EVO introduces T urboV and T urbo Key âtwo powerful tools that allow you to overclock your system effectively . Install ASUS T urboV EVO from the support DVD that came with the motherboard package. If the T urboV EVO is correctly installed, you will înd the T urboV EVO icon on the Windows notiîcation area. Click on the icon to display the T urboV EVO control panel. Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www .asus.com for detailed software conîguration. Using ASUS T urboV ASUS T urboV allow 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 ASUS T urboV (except for Auto T uning ) will not be saved to BIOS settings and will not be kept on the next system boot. Use the Save Proîle function to save your customized overclocking settings and manually load the proîle after Windows starts. For advanced overclock ability , adjust îrst the BIOS items, and then proceed more detailed adjustments using T urboV . Save the current settings as a new proîle Click to show / hide more settings Applies all changes immediately Undoes all changes without applying V oltage Adjustment bars Advanced CPU, chipset and DRAM voltage settings Click to restore all start-up settings Start-up values T arget values Load proîle Manual Mode Easy Mode Auto T uning Mode
4-24 Chapter 4: Software support Using ASUS T urboV Auto T uning Mode The Auto T uning Mode allows smart auto-overclocking. Follow the instructions below to let T urboV EVO detect and overclock your system. ⢠After pressing Start, the system starts performance tuning and may reboot 2 to 3 times. Please do not operate or manually restart the computer during the tuning process. ⢠After restarting OS, a message appears indicating the current overclocking result. Y ou can click Stop to save the current overclocking setting, or wait for T urboV EVO to continue system tuning for higher system performance. ⢠The auto-tuned system performance varies on the installed device (ex., CPU and DRAM). ⢠The auto-tuning function overclocks your system settings. Installation of advanced cooling systems is recommended. ⢠The auto-tuned settings will be stored in system BIOS and will be applied in the next boot. 1. Click the Auto T uning tab and then click Start. Y ou can also click More Setting îrst to conîgure more overclocking parameters before starting auto-overclocking. 2. Read through the warning messages and click Y es to start auto- overclocking. 3. An animation appears indicating the overclocking process. Click Stop if you want to cancel the current Overclocking process.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-25 Using ASUS T urbo Key ASUS T urbo Key allows the user to set a group of hot-keys into physical overclocking buttons. After the easy setup, T urbo Key can boost performances without interrupting ongoing work or gamesâwith just one touch! If the T urboV EVO is correctly installed, you will înd the T urboV EVO icon on the Windows notiîcation area. Click on the icon to display the T urboV EVO control panel. Click the T urbo Key tab to switch to the T urbo Key interface. Conîguring ASUS T urbo Key 1 3 2 4 1. Sel ect yo ur des ired h otkey co mbinat ion. 2. Y ou can decide the performance boost level by selecting T urbo Key Proîle . Y ou can also load personal proîles saved in the ASUS T urboV utility . 3. Choose whether to show T urbo Key OSD and status. 4. Click Apply to save T urbo Key settings. Y ou have to press the assigned hotkeys to use the T urbo Key function.
4-26 Chapter 4: Software support 4.3.9 ROG Connect ROG Connect allows you to monitor and adjust your system through your another PC or laptop. RC T weakIt T o use RC T weaakIt: 1. Connect the provided ROG Connect cable to your system and your another PC or laptop. 2. Double-click the RC T weakIt shortcut on the desktop to activate the function.\ 3. Use the sliders and buttons to monitor or adjust your system. 4. Click Function to display more options.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-27 RC Poster RC Poster shows status during the POST . Y ou can switch the display mode between String and Code . RC Remote RC Remote allows you to operate your system through the ROG Connect cable. RC Diagram RC Diagram allows you to monitor and record your system status.
4-28 Chapter 4: Software support 4.4 RAID conî¿gurations The motherboard comes with the AMD SB850 chipset that allows you to conîgure Serial A T A hard disk drives as RAID volumes. The motherboard supports the following RAID conîgurations: RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10. ⢠Y ou must install Windows ® XP Service Pack 2 or later versions before using Serial A T A hard disk drives. The Serial A T A RAID feature is available only if you are using Windows ® XP SP2 or later versions. ⢠Due to Windows ® XP / V ista 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 deînitions RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in parallel, interleaved stacks. T wo 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 conîguration 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 conîguration include better HDD performance, fault tolerance, and higher storage capacity . The RAID 5 conîguration 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 0 1 conîguration you get all the beneîts of both RAID 0 and RAID 1 conîgurations. Use four new hard disk drives or use an existing drive and three new drives for this setup.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-29 4.4.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS Y ou must enable the RAID function in the BIOS Setup before creating RAID volume(s) using SA T A HDDs. T o do this: 1. Enter the BIOS Setup during POST . 2. Go to the Main menu > Storage Conîguration, and then press <Enter>. 3. Set the OnChip SA T A Channel item to [RAID]. 4. Save your changes, and then exit the BIOS Setup. Refer to Chapter 3 for details on entering and navigating through the BIOS Setup. When setting the OnChip SA T A Channel item to [RAID], all SA T A ports run at RAID mode. However , you can set the SA T A ports 5 and 6 to [IDE] mode. See section 3.4.5 Storage Conîguration for details. 4.4.2 Installing Serial A T A hard disks The motherboard supports Serial A T A hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array . T o install the SA T A hard disks for a RAID conîguration: 1. Install the SA T A hard disks into the drive bays. 2. Connect the SA T A signal cables. 3. Connect a SA T A power cable to the power connector on each drive .
4-30 Chapter 4: Software support Option ROM Utility (c) 2009 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. View Drive Assignments ....... [ 1 ] LD View / LD Deî¿ne Menu ...... [ 2 ] Delete LD Menu ............... [ 3 ] Controller Conî¿guration ...... [ 4 ] [ Main Menu ] Press 1..4 to Select Option [ESC] Exit [ Keys Available ] 4.4.4 AMD ® Option ROM Utility T o enter the AMD AMD ® Option ROM utility: Option ROM utility: 1. Boot up your computer . 2. During POST , press <Ctrl> <F> to display the utility main menu. The Main Menu allows you to select an operation to perform. The Main Menu options include: ⢠View Drive Assignments: shows the status of the hard disk drives. ⢠LD View / LD Deîne Menu: Deîne Menu: : displays the existing RAID set information / creates a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5 or RAID 10 conîguration. ⢠Delete LD Menu: deletes a selected RAID set and partition. ⢠Controller Conîguration: shows the system resources conîguration. Press <1>, <2>, <3>, or <4> to enter the option you need; press <ESC> to exit the utility . The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only , and may not exactly match the items on your screen. T o create a RAID volume using more than four hard disk drives, ensure that the SA T A connectors 5/6 are set to [RAID] mode.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-31 Creating a RAID volume T o create a RAID volume: 1. In the Main Menu, press <2> to enter the LD View / LD Deîne Menu function. 2. Press <Ctrl> <C>, and the following screen appears. 3. Move to the RAID Mode item and press <Space> to select a RAID mode to create. 4. Move to the Assignment item by using the down arrow key and set Y to select the hard disk drives you want to include in the RAID set. 5. Press <Ctrl> <Y> to save the setting. 6. The utility prompts the following message. Press <Ctrl> <Y> to input the LD name. Option ROM Utility (c) 2009 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. [ â] Up [ â] Down [PaUp/PaDn] Switch page [Space] Change Option [Ctrl-Y] Save [ESC] Exit [ Keys Available ] [ LD Deî¿ne Menu ] [ Drives Assignments ] Port:ID Drive Model Capabilities Capacity(GB) Assignment 01:00 xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxx Y 02:00 xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxx Y 03:00 xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxx N 04:00 xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxx N LD No LD Name RAID Mode Drv LD 1 Logical Drive 1 RAID 0 2 Strip Block 64 KB Fast Init ON Gigabyte Boundary ON Cache Mode WriteThru Please press Ctrl-Y key to input the LD Name or press any key to exit. If you do not input any LD name, the default LD name will be used. 7. Eenter an LD name, and then press any key to continue. enter an LD name, and then press any key to continue. Enter the LD name here: Fast Initialization Option has been selected It will erase the MBR data of the disks. <Press Ctrl-Y Key if you are sure to erase it> <Press any other key to ignore this option> 8. Press <Ctrl> <Y> to erase the MBR, or you may press any key to abort the Press <Ctrl> <Y> to erase the MBR, or you may press any key to abort the settings. 9. Press <Ctrl> <Y> to enter the screen to modify the array capacity , or press any key to use the maximum capacity .
4-32 Chapter 4: Software support Deleting a RAID conîguration T ake caution when deleting a RAID volume. Y ou will lose all data on the hard disk drives when you delete a RAID volume. T o delete a RAID volume: 1. In the Main Menu, press <3> to enter the Delete LD function. 2. Select the RAID item you want to delete and press <Del> or <Alt> <D>. Option ROM Utility (c) 2009 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. [ â] Up [ â] Down [PaUp/PaDn] Switch page [Del/Alt D] Delete LD [ Keys Available ] [ Delete LD Menu ] LD No RAID Mode Drv Capacity(GB) Status LD 1 RAID 0 2 xxxxxx Functional Dispalying a RAID set information T o display a RAID set information: 1. In the Main Menu, press <2> to enter the âLD View / LD Deîne Menuâ function. 2. Select a RAID item and press <Enter> to display its information. Option ROM Utility (c) 2009 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. Any Key To Continue....... [ View LD Deî¿nation Menu ] [ Drives Assignments ] Port:ID Drive Model Capabilities Capacity(GB) 01:00 xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxx 02:00 xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxx LD No LD Name RAID Mode Drv Capacity(GB) LD 1 xxxxx RAID 0 2 157.99 Strip Block 64 KB Cache Mode WriteThru 3. The utility prompts the following messages: Press <Ctrl> <Y> to delete the RAID volume. Press Ctrl-Y to delte the data in the disk! or press any other key to abort...
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-33 4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk A îoppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows ® XP operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. For Windows ® Vista or later operating systems, use either a USB îash drive with the RAID driver or the support DVD. ⢠The motherboard does not provide a îoppy drive connector . Y ou have to use a USB îoppy disk drive when creating a SA T A RAID driver disk. ⢠Windows ® XP may not recognize the USB îoppy disk drive due to Windows ® XP limitation. T o work around this OS limitation, refer to section 4.5.4 Using a USB îoppy disk drive . 4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS T o create a RAID driver disk without entering the OS 1. Boot your computer . 2. Press <Del> during POST to enter the BIOS setup utility . 3. Set the optical drive as the primary boot device. 4. Insert the support DVD into the optical drive. 5. Save changes and exit BIOS. 6. When the Make Disk menu appears, press <1> to create a RAID driver disk. 7. Insert a formatted îoppy disk into the USB îoppy disk drive, then press <Enter>. 8. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the process. 4.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows ® T o create a RAID driver disk in Windows ® : 1. Start Windows ® . 2. Plug the USB îoppy disk drive and insert a îoppy disk. 3. Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive. 4. Go to the Make Disk menu, and then click AMD AHCI/RAID 32/64bit xxxx Driver to create a RAID driver disk. 5. Select USB îoppy disk drive as the destination disk. 6. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the process. Write-protect the îoppy disk to avoid a computer virus infection.
4-34 Chapter 4: Software support 4.5.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows ® OS installation If you use a SA T A optical drive to run the OS installation disk, we strongly recommend that you install the optical dirve to the SA T A connectors 5/6 and set them to [IDE] mode. T o install the RAID driver for 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 îoppy disk with RAID driver into the USB îoppy 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. T o install the RAID driver for Windows ® Vista or later OS 1. During the OS installation, click Load Driver to allow you to select the installation media containing the RAID driver . 2. Insert the USB îash drive with RAID driver into the USB port or the support DVD into the optical drive, and then click Browse. 3. Click the name of the device youâve inserted, go to Drivers > RAID, and then select the RAID driver for the corresponding OS version. Click OK. 4. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation. Before loading the RAID driver from a USB îash drive, you have to use another computer to copy the RAID driver from the support DVD to the USB îash drive. 4.5.4 Using a USB îoppy disk drive Due to OS limitation, Windows ® XP may not recognize the USB îoppy disk drive when you install the RAID driver from a îoppy disk during the OS installation. T o solve this issue, add the USB îoppy disk driveâs V endor ID (VID) and Product ID (PID) to the îoppy disk containing the RAID driver . Refer to the steps below: 1. Using another computer , plug the USB îoppy disk drive, and insert the îoppy 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
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-35 4. Click Details tab. The V endor ID (VID) and Product ID (PID) are displayed. 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 îoppy disk drive varies with different vendors. 5. Browse the contents of the RAID driver disk to locate the île txtsetup.oem . 6. Double-click the île. A window appears, allowing you to select the program for opening the oem île. 7. Use Notepad to open the île.
4-36 Chapter 4: Software support 8. Find the [HardwareIds.SCSI.Napa_i386_ahci8086] and [HardwareIds.SCSI.Napa_amd64_ahci] sections in the txtsetup.oem île. 9. T ype the following line to the bottom of the two sections: id = âUSB\VID_xxxx&PID_xxxxâ, âusbstorâ 10. Save and exit the île. [HardwareIds.SCSI.Napa_i386_ahci8086] id= âPCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4392&CC_0104â,âahcix86â id= âPCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4391&CC_0106â,âahcix86â id= âPCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4393&CC_0104â,âahcix86â id= âUSB\VID_03EE&PID_6901â, âusbstorâ [HardwareIds.SCSI.Napa_amd64_ahci] id= âPCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4392&CC_0104â,âahcix64â id= âPCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4391&CC_0106â,âahcix64â id= âPCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4393&CC_0104â,âahcix64â id= âUSB\VID_03EE&PID_6901â, âusbstorâ Add the same line to both sections. The VID and PID vary with different vendors.
5 ATI ® CrossFireX⢠technology support This chapter describes how to install and conîgure A TI ® CrossFireX⢠graphics cards.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula Chapter summary 5 5.1 A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology .................................................... 5-1
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 5-1 5.1 ATI ® CrossFireX⢠technology The motherboard supports the A TI ® 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 ⢠Y ou should have two identical CrossFireX-ready graphics cards or one CrossFireX-ready dual-GPU graphics card that are A TI ® certiîed. ⢠En sur e that your graphi cs ca rd dri ver su pports the A TI C rossF ireX t echnol ogy . Dow nload the la test d river fr om the AMD w ebsite at w ww .amd .co m. ⢠Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power required by your system. See page 2-38 for details. 5.1.2 Before you begin For A TI CrossFireX to work properly , you have to uninstall all existing grap hics card drivers before installing A TI CrossFireX graphics cards to your system. T o uninstall existing graphics card drivers 1. Close all current applications. 2. For Windows XP , go to Control Panel > Add/Remove Programs . For Windows Vista, go to Control Panel > Programs and Features. 3. Select your current graphics card driver/s. 4. For Windows XP , select Add/Remove. For Windows Vista, select Uninstall. 5. T urn off your computer . ⢠We recommend that you install additional chassis fans for better thermal environment. ⢠Visit the A TI Game website at http://game.amd.com for the latest certiîed graphics card and the supported 3D application list.
5-2 Chapter 5: A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology support 5. Connect two independent auxiliary power sources from the power supply to the two graphics cards separately . 6. Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the graphics card. 4. Align and îrmly insert the CrossFireX bridge connector to the goldîngers on each graphics card. Ensure that the connector is îrmly in place. 5.1.3 Installing CrossFireX graphics cards The following pictures are for reference only . The graphics cards and the motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same. 1. Prepare two CrossFireX-ready graphics cards. 2. Insert the two graphics card into the PCIEX16 slots. 3. Ensure that the cards are properly seated on the slots. Goldîngers CrossFireX bridge
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 5-3 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 A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology . Download the latest driver from the AMD website (www .amd.com). 5.1.5 Enabling the A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology Aft er ins tallin g your grap hic s card s and the d evi ce driver s, ena ble t he Cro ssFire X⢠fea ture t hrough the A TI C atalys t⢠Co ntrol Center in Wi ndows envir onment . Launching the A TI Catalyst Control Center T o launch the A TI Catalyst Control Center 1. Right-click on the Windows ® desktop and select Catalyst(TM) Control Center. Y ou can also right-click the A TI icon in the Windows notiîcation area and select Cayalist Control Center . 2. The Catalyst Control Center Setup Assistant appears when the system detects the existance of multi- graphics cards. Click Go to continue to the Catalyst Control Center Advanced View window .
5-4 Chapter 5: A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology support Enabling CrossFireX settings 1. In the Catalyst Control Center window , click Graphics Settings > CrossFireX > Conîgure . 2. From the Graphics Adapter list, select the graphics card to act as the display GPU. 3. Select Enable CrossFireX. 4. Click Apply, and then click OK to exit the window . 1 2 3 4
A Appendix: Debug code table The Appendix lists the debug code table for the LCD Poster .
ROG Crosshair IV Formula Chapter summary A Debug code table ...................................................................................... A-1
ROG Crosshair IV Formula A-1 Code Description CPU INIT CPU Initiation DET CPU T est CMOS R/W functionality . CHIPINIT Early chipset initialization: -Disable shadow RAM -Disable L2 cache -Program basic chipset registers DET DRAM Detect memory -Auto-detection of DRAM size, type and ECC. -Auto-detection of L2 cache DC FCODE Expand compressed BIOS code to DRAM EFSHADOW Call chipset hook to copy BIOS back to E000 & F000 shadow RAM. INIT IO Initialize IO devices. INIT HWM Initialize Hardware Monitor . CLR SCRN 1. Blank out screen 2. Clear CMOS error îag INIT8042 1. Clear 8042 interface 2. Initialize 8042 self-test ENABLEKB 1. T est special keyboard controller for Super I/O chips. 2. Enable keyboard interface. DIS MS 1. Disable PS/2 mouse interface (optional). 2. Auto detect ports for keyboard & mouse followed by a port & interface swap (optional). 3. Reset keyboard for Super I/O chips. R/W FSEG T est F000h segment shadow to see whether it is R/W-able or not. If test fails, keep beeping the speaker . DET FLASH Auto detect îash type to load appropriate îash R/W codes into the run time area in F000 for ESCD & DMI support. TESTCMOS Use walking 1âs algorithm to check out interface in CMOS circuitry . Also set real-time clock power status, and then check for override. PRG CHIP Program chipset default values into chipset. INIT CLK Initialize clock generator . CHECKCPU Detect CPU information including brand, type and CPU level (586 or 686). INTRINIT Initial interrupts vector table. INITINT9 Initialize INT 09 buf fer CPUSPEED 1. Program CPU internal MTRR (Pentium class CPU) for 0-640K memory address. 2. Initialize the APIC for Pentium class CPU. 3. Program early chipset according to CMOS setup. Example: onboard IDE controller . 4. Measure CPU speed. 5. Invoke video BIOS. VGA BIOS Initialize VGA BIOS TESTVRAM 1. Initialize multi-language 2. Put information on screen display , including BIOS logo, CPU type, CPU speed . RESET KB Reset keyboard. Debug code table
A-2 Appendix: Debug code table Code Description 8254TEST T est 8254 8259MSK1 T est 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 1. 8259MSK2 T est 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 2. 8259TEST T est 8259 functionality . COUNTMEM Calculate total memory by testing the last double word of each 64K page. MP INIT 1. Program MTRR of M1 CPU 2. Initialize L2 cache for P6 class CPU & program CPU with proper cacheable range. 3. Initialize the APIC for P6 class CPU. 4. On MP platform, adjust the cacheable range to smaller one in case the cacheable ranges between each CPU are not identical. USB INIT Initialize USB TEST MEM T est all memory (clear all extended memory to 0) SHOW MP Display number of processors (multi-processor platform) PNP LOGO Display PnP logo ONBD IO Initialize Onboard IO devices. EN SETUP Okay to enter Setup utility . MSINST AL Initialize PS/2 Mouse CHK ACPI Prepare memory size information for function call: INT 15h ax=E820h EN CACHE T urn on L2 cache SET CHIP Program chipset registers according to items described in Setup & Auto- conîguration table. AUTO CFG Assign resources to devices. INIT FDC 1. Initialize îoppy controller 2. Set up îoppy related îelds in 40:hardware. DET IDE Detect & install all IDE devices: HDD, LS120, ZIP , CDROM. COM/LPT Detect serial ports & parallel ports. DET FPU Detect & install co-processor CPU CHG New CPU installed EZ FLASH Execute EZ Flash CPR F AIL CPR error F AN F AIL Fan error UCODEERR UCODE error FLOPYERR Floppy error KB ERROR Keyboard error HD ERR HDD error CMOS ERR CMOS error MS ERROR Mouse error SMARTERR HDD smart function error HM ERROR Hard monitor error AINETERR AI NET error CASEOPEN Case open Debug code table
ROG Crosshair IV Formula A-3 Code Description P ASSWORD Clear EP A or customization logo. 1. Call chipset power management hook. 2. Recover the text fond used by EP A logo (not for full screen logo) 3. If password is set, ask for password. USB FINAL Initialize PnP boot devices 1. USB înal Initialization 2. NET PC: Build SYSID structure 3. Switch screen back to text mode 4. Set up ACPI table at top of memory . 5. Invoke ISA adapter ROMs 6. Assign IRQs to PCI devices 7. Initialize APM 8. Clear noise of IRQs. INIT ROM Initialize device option ROMs. NUM LOCK 1. Program daylight saving 2. Update keyboard LED & typematic rate UPDT DMI 1. Build MP table 2. Build & update ESCD 3. Set CMOS century to 20h or 19h 4. Load CMOS time into DOS timer tick 5. Build MSIRQ routing table. INT 19H Boot attempt (INT 19h) Debug code table Manufacturer ASUST ek COMPUTER INC. Address, City No. 150, LI-TE RD., PEITOU, T AIPEI 1 12, T AIWAN R.O.C Country T AIWAN Authorized Representative in Europe ASUS COMPUTER GmbH Address, City HARKORT STR. 21-23, 40880 RA TINGEN Country GERMANY
A-4 Appendix: Debug code table
ASUS contact information ASUST eK COMPUTER INC. Address 15 Li-T e Road, Peitou, T aipei, T aiwan 1 1259 T elephone 886-2-2894-3447 Fax 886-2-2890-7798 E-mail info@asus.com.tw Web site www .asus.com.tw T echnical Support T elephone 86-21-3842991 1 Online support support.asus.com ASUS COMPUTER INTERNA TIONAL (America) Address 800 Corporate Way , Fremont, CA 94539, USA T elephone 1-812-282-3777 Fax 1-510-608-4555 Web site usa.asus.com T echnical Support T elephone 1-812-282-2787 Support fax 1-812-284-0883 Online support support.asus.com ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria) Address Harkort Str . 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany Fax 49-2102-95991 1 Web site www .asus.de Online contact www .asus.de/sales T echnical Support T elephone (Component) 49-1805-010923* T elephone (System/Note/Eee/LCD) 49-1805-010920* Support Fax 49-2102-9599-1 1 Online support support.asus.com * EUR 0.14/minute from a German îxed landline; EUR 0.42/minute from a mobile phone.
EC Declaration of Conformity We, the undersigned, Manufacturer: ASUSTek COMPUTER INC. Address, City: No. 150, LI-TE RD., PEITOU, TAIPEI 112, TAIWAN R.O.C . Country: TAIWAN Authorized representative in Europe: ASUS COMPUTER GmbH Address, City: HARKORT STR. 21-23, 40880 RATINGEN Country: GERMANY declare the following apparatus: Product name : Motherboard Model name : CROSSHAIR IV FORMULA conform with the essential requirements of the following directives: 2004/108/EC-EMC Directive EN 55022:2 006 A1:2007 EN 61000-3 -2:2006 EN 55013:2 001 A1:2003 A2:2006 EN 55024:1 998 A1:2001 A2:2003 EN 61000 -3-3:1995 A1:2001 A2:2005 EN 55020:2 007 1999/5/EC-R &TTE Directive EN 300 328 V1.7.1(2006-05) EN 300 440-1 V1.4.1(2008-05) EN 300 440-2 V1.2.1(2008-03) EN 301 511 V9.0.2(2003-03) EN 301 908-1 V3.2.1(2007-05) EN 301 908-2 V3.2.1(2007-05) EN 301 893 V1.4.1(2005-03) EN 50360:2 001 EN 50371:2 002 EN 301 489-1 V1.8.1(2008-04) EN 301 489-3 V1.4.1(2002-08) EN 301 489-4 V1.3.1(2002-08) EN 301 489-7 V1.3.1(2005-11) EN 301 489-9 V1.4.1(2007-11) EN 301 489-17 V1.3.2(2008-04) EN 301 489-24 V1.4.1(2007-09) EN 302 326-2 V1.2.2(2007-06) EN 302 326-3 V1.3.1(2007-09) 2006/95/EC-L VD Directive EN 60950 -1:2001 A1 1:2004 EN 60950-1:2006 EN6006 5:2002 A1:2006 2009/125/EC-ErP Directive Regulation (EC) No. 1275/2008 EN 62301:2 005 Regulation (EC) No. 642/2009 EN 62301:2 005 Regulation (EC) No. 278/2009 EN 62301:2 005 CE marking Declaration Date: Mar . 09, 2010 Y ear to begin affixing CE marking:2010 Position : CEO Name : Jerr y Shen Signature : __________ ( E C co nf o rmit y m a rkin g) DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Per FCC Part 2 Section 2. 1077(a) Responsible Party Name: Asus Computer International Address: 800 Corporate Way, Fremont , CA 94539. Phone/Fax No: (510)739-3777/(510)608-4555 hereby declares that the product Product Name : Motherboard Model Number : CROSSHAIR IV FORMULA Conforms to the following specifications: FC C Pa rt 15, Sub part B, Unintentional Radiators FC C Pa rt 15, Sub part C, Intentional Radiators FC C Pa rt 15, Sub part E, Intentional Radiators Supplementary Information: Thi s device compl ies with part 15 of the FCC Rul es. Operat ion is subj ect to the follo wing two co nditio ns: (1 ) Thi s devi ce may not ca use harm ful int erfe rence, and (2) this device must accep t any inte rferen ce recei ved, inc ludi ng int erfere nce th at may cause undes ired o perati on. Represen tative Personâs Name : Steve Chang / President Signature : Date: Mar. 09, 2010
ii E5443 First Edition March 2010 Copyright © 2010 ASUST eK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUST eK COMPUTER INC. (âASUSâ). Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modiîed or altered, unless such repair , modiîcation of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing. ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL âAS ISâ WITHOUT W ARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANT ABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A P ARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT , SPECIAL, INCIDENT AL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DA T A, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE), EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT . SPECIFICA TIONS AND INFORMA TION CONT AINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR INFORMA TIONAL USE ONL Y , AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE A T ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THA T MA Y APPEAR IN THIS MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT . Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identiîcation or explanation and to the ownersâ beneît, without intent to infringe. Offer to Provide Source Code of Certain Software This product may contain copyrighted software that is licensed under the General Public License (âGPLâ) and under the Lesser General Public License V ersion (âLGPLâ). The GPL and LGPL licensed code in this product is distributed without any warranty . Copies of these licenses are included in this product. Y ou may obtain the complete corresponding source code (as deîned in the GPL) for the GPL Software, and/or the complete corresponding source code of the LGPL Software (with the complete machine- readable âwork that uses the Libraryâ) for a period of three years after our last shipment of the product including the GPL Software and/or LGPL Software, which will be no earlier than December 1, 201 1, either (1) for free by downloading it from http://support.asus.com/download ; or (2) for the cost of reproduction and shipment, which is dependent on the preferred carrier and the location where you want to have it shipped to, by sending a request to: ASUST eK Computer Inc. Legal Compliance Dept. 15 Li T e Rd., Beitou, T aipei 1 12 T aiwan In your request please provide the name, model number and version, as stated in the About Box of the product for which you wish to obtain the corresponding source code and your contact details so that we can coordinate the terms and cost of shipment with you. The source code will be distributed WITHOUT ANY W ARRANTY and licensed under the same license as the corresponding binary/object code. This offer is valid to anyone in receipt of this information. ASUST eK is eager to duly provide complete source code as required under various Free Op en Source Software licenses. If however you encounter any problems in obtaining the full corresponding source code we would be much obliged if you give us a notiîcation to the email address gpl@asus.com , stating the product and describing the problem (please do NOT send large attachments such as source code archives etc to this email address).
iii Contents Notices ....................................................................................................... viii Safety information ...................................................................................... ix About this guide .......................................................................................... x Crosshair IV Formula speciîcations summary ...................................... xii Chapter 1: Product introduction 1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1 1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1 1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-2 1.3.1 Product highlights ........................................................... 1-2 1.3.2 ROG Intelligent Performance & Overclocking features ... 1-3 1.3.3 ROG unique features ...................................................... 1-5 1.3.4 ASUS special features .................................................... 1-6 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1 2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-6 2.2.1 Motherboard layout ......................................................... 2-6 2.2.2 Layout contents ............................................................... 2-7 2.2.3 Placement direction ........................................................ 2-8 2.2.4 Screw holes .................................................................... 2-8 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-9 2.3.1 Installing the CPU ........................................................... 2-9 2.3.2 Installing the heatsink and fan .......................................2-1 1 2.4 System memory ......................................................................... 2-14 2.4.1 Overview ....................................................................... 2-14 2.4.2 Memory conîgurations .................................................. 2-15 2.4.3 Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 2-22 2.4.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 2-22 2.5 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 2-23 2.5.1 Installing an expansion card ......................................... 2-23 2.5.2 Conîguring an expansion card ..................................... 2-23 2.5.3 Interrupt assignments ................................................... 2-24 2.5.4 PCI slot ......................................................................... 2-25 2.5.5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots ............................................. 2-25 2.6 Jumper ........................................................................................ 2-26
iv Contents 2.7 I/O shield Installation ................................................................. 2-27 2.8 Connectors ................................................................................. 2-28 2.8.1 Rear panel connectors .................................................. 2-28 2.8.2 Audio I/O connections ................................................... 2-29 2.8.3 Internal connectors ....................................................... 2-32 2.8.4 ASUS Q-Connector (system panel) .............................. 2-40 2.8.5 Onboard switches ......................................................... 2-41 2.8.6 ProbeIt .......................................................................... 2-45 2.9 Starting up for the îrst time ...................................................... 2-46 2.10 T urning off the computer ........................................................... 2-47 2.10.1 Using the OS shut down function .................................. 2-47 2.10.2 Using the dual function power switch ............................ 2-47 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 3-1 3.1.1 ASUS Update utility ........................................................ 3-1 3.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ................................................... 3-4 3.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ...................................... 3-5 3.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 3-6 3.2.1 BIOS menu screen .......................................................... 3-7 3.2.2 Menu bar ......................................................................... 3-7 3.2.3 Navigation keys ............................................................... 3-7 3.2.4 Menu items ..................................................................... 3-8 3.2.5 Submenu items ............................................................... 3-8 3.2.6 Conîguration îelds ......................................................... 3-8 3.2.7 Pop-up window ............................................................... 3-8 3.2.8 Scroll bar ......................................................................... 3-8 3.2.9 General help ................................................................... 3-8 3.3 Extreme T weaker menu ............................................................... 3-9 3.3.1 CPU Level Up ................................................................ 3-9 3.3.2 OC T uner Utility ............................................................. 3-10 3.3.3 Ai Overclock T uner ....................................................... 3-10 3.3.4 CPU Ratio .....................................................................3-1 1 3.3.5 DRAM Frequency ......................................................... 3-1 1 3.3.6 CPU/NB Frequency ...................................................... 3-1 1
v 3.3.7 HT Link Speed ..............................................................3-1 1 3.3.8 DRAM T iming Conîguration ..........................................3-1 1 3.3.9 DRAM Driving Conîguration ......................................... 3-13 3.3.10 CPU & NB V oltage Mode .............................................. 3-13 3.3.1 1 CPU VDDA V oltage ...................................................... 3-14 3.3.12 DRAM V oltage ............................................................. 3-14 3.3.13 HT V oltage ................................................................... 3-14 3.3.14 NB V oltage ................................................................... 3-14 3.3.15 NB 1.8V V oltage ........................................................... 3-14 3.3.16 SB V oltage ................................................................... 3-14 3.3.17 VDDR V oltage .............................................................. 3-14 3.3.18 VDDPCIE V oltage ........................................................ 3-15 3.3.19 DRAM CTRL REF V oltage ........................................... 3-15 3.3.20 DRAM DA T A REF V oltage ........................................... 3-15 3.3.21 CPU Load-Line Calibration .......................................... 3-15 3.3.22 CPU/NB Load-Line Calibration .................................... 3-15 3.3.23 CPU Spread Spectrum ................................................ 3-15 3.3.24 PCIE Spread Spectrum ................................................ 3-15 3.4 Main menu .................................................................................. 3-16 3.4.1 System T ime ................................................................. 3-16 3.4.2 System Date ................................................................. 3-16 3.4.3 Language ...................................................................... 3-16 3.4.4 SA T A 1â6 ...................................................................... 3-17 3.4.5 Storage Conîguration ................................................... 3-19 3.4.6 System Information ....................................................... 3-20 3.5 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 3-21 3.5.1 CPU Conîguration ........................................................ 3-21 3.5.2 Chipset .......................................................................... 3-22 3.5.3 Onboard Device Conîguration ...................................... 3-25 3.5.4 USB Conîguration ........................................................ 3-26 3.5.5 PCIPnP ......................................................................... 3-27 3.5.6 LED Control .................................................................. 3-27 3.5.7 iROG Conîguration ....................................................... 3-28 3.5.8 EC Conîguration ........................................................... 3-28 3.5.9 ROG Connect ............................................................... 3-29
vi 3.6 Power menu ................................................................................ 3-30 3.6.1 Suspend Mode ............................................................. 3-30 3.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume ........................................ 3-30 3.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support .......................................................... 3-30 3.6.4 ACPI APIC Support ....................................................... 3-31 3.6.5 APM Conîguration ........................................................ 3-31 3.6.6 Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 3-32 3.7 Boot menu .................................................................................. 3-36 3.7.1 Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 3-36 3.7.2 Boot Settings Conîguration .......................................... 3-36 3.7.3 Security ......................................................................... 3-38 3.8 T ools menu ................................................................................. 3-40 3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 .......................................................... 3-40 3.8.2 ASUS O.C. Proîle ......................................................... 3-41 3.8.3 Go Button File ............................................................... 3-42 3.8.4 AI NET 2........................................................................ 3-43 3.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 3-44 Chapter 4: Software support 4.1 Installing an operating system ................................................... 4-1 4.2 Support DVD information ............................................................ 4-1 4.2.1 Running the support DVD ............................................... 4-1 4.2.2 Drivers menu ................................................................... 4-2 4.2.3 Utilities menu .................................................................. 4-3 4.2.4 Make disk menu .............................................................. 4-4 4.2.5 Manual menu .................................................................. 4-4 4.2.6 ASUS Contact information .............................................. 4-5 4.2.7 Other information ............................................................ 4-5 4.3 Software information ................................................................... 4-7 4.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3⢠........................................................... 4-7 4.3.2 Sound Blaster X-Fi audio utility ....................................... 4-9 4.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II ......................................................... 4-13 4.3.4 ASUS AI Suite ............................................................... 4-19 4.3.5 ASUS Fan Xpert ........................................................... 4-20 4.3.6 CPU Level Up ............................................................... 4-21 4.3.7 ASUS EPU .................................................................... 4-22
vii 4.3.8 ASUS Unique Overclocking UtilityâT urboV EVO ........ 4-23 4.3.9 ROG Connect ............................................................... 4-26 4.4 RAID conîgurations .................................................................. 4-28 4.4.1 RAID deînitions ............................................................ 4-28 4.4.2 Installing Serial A T A hard disks ..................................... 4-29 4.4.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS ...................................... 4-29 4.4.4 AMD ® Option ROM Utility .............................................. 4-30 4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk ....................................................... 4-33 4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS .... 4-33 4.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows ® ...................... 4-33 4.5.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows ® OS installation .............................................. 4-34 4.5.4 Using a USB îoppy disk drive ....................................... 4-34 Chapter 5: A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology support 5.1 A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology .................................................... 5-1 5.1.1 Requirements .................................................................. 5-1 5.1.2 Before you begin ............................................................. 5-1 5.1.3 Installing CrossFireX graphics cards .............................. 5-2 5.1.4 Installing the device drivers ............................................. 5-3 5.1.5 Enabling the A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology ................... 5-3 Appendix: Debug code table
viii 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 âs 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 dif ferent from that to which the receiver is connected. ⢠Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. 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. The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modiîcations to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user âs authority to operate this equipment. REACH Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at ASUS website at http://green.asus.com/english/ REACH.htm.
ix Safety information Electrical safety ⢠T o 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 îx it by yourself. Contact a qualiîed 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 . ⢠T o avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry . ⢠A void 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 qualiîed service technician or your retailer . 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.
x Where to înd 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 Y our product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty îyers, that may have been added by your dealer . These documents are not part of the standard package. About this guide This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conîguring 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: A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology support This chapter describes how to install and conîgure multiple A TI ® CrossFireX⢠graphics cards. ⢠Appendix: Debug code table The Appendix lists the debug code table for the LCD Poster .
xi DANGER/W ARNING: 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. NOTE: T ips and additional information to help you complete a task. IMPORT ANT : Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task. Conventions used in this guide T o ensure that you perform certain tasks properly , take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. T ypography Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select. Italics Used to emphasize a word or a phrase. <Key> Key s encl osed i n the less- than a nd gre ater-t han s ign mea ns tha t you must p ress the enclo sed ke y. 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>
xii Crosshair IV Formula speciî¿cations summary CPU AMD ® Socket AM3; Phenom⢠II / Athlon⢠II / Sempron⢠100 Series Processors AMD ® 140W CPU Support AMD ® Cool ânâ Quiet⢠T echnology Supports 45nm CPU Chipset AMD ® 890FX / SB850 System Bus Up to 5200 MT/s HyperT ransport⢠3.0 Memory 4 x DIMM, max. 16GB, DDR3 1866(O.C.) / 1800(O.C.) / 1600(O.C.) / 1333 / 1066 MHz,ECC and non-ECC, un-buffered memory Dual channel memory architecture * When you install a total memory of 4 GB capacity or more, Windows ® 32-bit operating system may only recognize less than 3 GB. We recommend using a maximum of 3 GB system memory if you are using a Windows ® 32-bit OS. ** Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the Memory QVL (Qualiîed Vendors Lists) Expansion Slots 3 x PCIe 2.0 x16 slots (dual at x16 or triple at x16 / x8 / x8 mode) 1 x PCIe 2.0 x4 slot 2 x PCI 2.2 slots Multi-GPU T echnology Support A TI CrossFireâ¢X T echnology graphics cards Storage AMD ® SB850 chipset - 6 x SA T A 6Gb/s ports with RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 support JMicron ® JMB363 controller - 1 x SA T A 3Gb/s port (black) - 1 x eSA T A 3Gb/s port (SA T A-On-the-Go) * Due to the Windows OS limitation, the 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 . LAN Marvell ® 8059 Gigabit LAN controller GameFirst High Deînition Audio SupremeFX X-Fi built-in - 8-channel High Deînition Audio CODEC - EAX ® Advanced⢠HD 4.0 - X-Fi CMSS ® -3D - X-Fi Crystalizer⢠- Creative ALchemy - Supports Blu-ray audio layer content protection - Supports 1 x S/PDIF out header - Supports 1 x Optical S/PDIF out port at back I/O - Supports Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel Jack-retasking (continued on the next page)
xiii IEEE 1394 2 x 1394a ports (1 port at back I/O, 1 port onboard) USB NEC USB 3.0 controller: - 2 x USB 3.0 ports (blue at back panel) SB850 chipset: - 12 x USB 2.0 ports (5 ports at midboard; 7 ports at back I/O, 1 port at back I/O is also for ROG connect) ROG Exclusive Overclocking Features ROG Connect GameFirst Extreme T weaker Power Design - 8 2 phase CPU power design CPU Level Up MemOK! iROG Loadline Calibration Intelligent overclocking tools - ASUS T urboV EVO - O.C Proîle Overclocking Protection - COP EX (Component Overheat Protection - EX) - V oltiminder LED - ASUS C.P .R.(CPU Parameter Recall) Other Special Features T urbo Key II Core Unlocker ASUS Q-Connector ASUS Q-Shield ASUS Q-Fan 2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 ASUS MyLogo 3 AMD ® OverDrive Support* ASUS T urboV EVO Back Panel I/O Ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard port(purple) 1 x External SA T A port 1 x LAN (RJ45) port 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports 7 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (1 port is also for ROG Connect) 1 x IEEE1394a port 1 x S/PDIF Out (Optical) 8-channel Audio I/O 1 x ROG Connect On/Off switch 1 x Clr CMOS switch (continued on the next page) Crosshair IV Formula speciî¿cations summary
xiv Internal I/O Connectors 3 x USB 2.0 connectors supports additional 5 USB 2.0 ports 6 x SA T A 6Gb/s connectors (red) 1 x SA T A 3Gb/s connector (black) 8 x Fan connectors: 1 x CPU / 1 x PWR / 3 x Chassis / 3 x Optional 7 x ProbeIt Measurement Points 3 x thermal sensor connectors 1 x IEEE1394a connector 1 x SPDIF_Out Connector 1 x 24-pin A TX Power connector 1 x 8-pin A TX 12V Power connector 1 x En/Dis-able Clr CMOS switch 1 x Core unlocker switch 1 x T urbo key II switch 1 x Power on switch 1 x Reset switch 1 x OC Station Header 1 x Go Button 1 x System panel connector BIOS Features 16Mb AMI BIOS, PnP , DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 2.4, ACPI2.0a Multi-Language BIOS Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE Software Support DVD: - Drivers and applications * ASUS PC Probe II * ASUS Update * ASUS AI Suite * AMD OverDrive Utility (AOD) * Sound Blaster X-Fi Utility * Kaspersky ® Anti-Virus (1-year license) Form Factor A TX Form Factor , 12âx 9.6â (30.5cm x 24.5cm) *Speciîcations are subject to change without notice. Crosshair IV Formula speciî¿cations summary
1 Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula Chapter summary 1 1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1 1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1 1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-2
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 1-1 1.1 Welcome! Thank you for buying an ROG Crosshair IV Formula 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. ROG Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard 1 x Multi-functional module (2-port USB 2.0 and 1-port eSA T A) 1 x ROG Connect cable 1 x CrossFire Cable 1 x 2-in-1 SA T A 6.0Gb/s signal cables 2 x 2-in-1 SA T A 3Gb/s signal cables 1 x ASUS Q-Shield (I/O shield) 1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector Kit User Manual 1 x ROG theme label 1 x ROG SA T A cable labels (12-in-1) Cable ties User Guide ROG Support DVD ⢠If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer . ⢠The item illustrations in above table are for reference only . Actual product speciîcations may vary with different models.
1-2 Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1.3 Special features 1.3.1 Product highlights Republic of Gamers The Republic of Gamers consists only the best of the best. We of fer the best hardware engineering, the fastest performance, the most innovating ideas, and we welcome the best gamers to join in. In the Republic of Gamers, mercy rules are only for the weak, and bragging rights means everything. We believe in making statements and we excel in competitions. If your character matches our trait, then join the elite club, make your presence felt, in the Republic of Gamers. Green ASUS This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Unionâs Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packaging to safeguard consumersâ health while minimizing the impact on the environment. AMD socket AM3 Phenom⢠II / Athlon⢠II / Sempron⢠100 Series processors support This motherboard supports AMD ® Socket AM3 multi-core processors with unique L3 cache and delivers better overclocking capabilities with less power consumption. It features dual-channel DDR3 1333 memory support and accelerates data transfer rate up to 5200MT/s via HyperT ransport⢠3.0 based system bus. This motherboard also supports AMD ® CPUs in the new 45nm manufacturing process. AMD ® 890FX Chipset AMD ® 890FX Chipset is designed to support up to 5200MT/s HyperT ransport⢠3.0 (HT 3.0) interface speed and PCI Express⢠2.0 x16 graphics. It is optimized with AMD ® âs latest AM3 and multi-core CPUs to provide excellent system performance and overclocking capabilities. A TI CrossFireX⢠T echnology A TIâs CrossFireX⢠boosts image quality along with rendering speed, eliminating the need to scale down screen resolution to get high quality images. CrossFireX⢠allows higher antialiasing, anisotropic îltering, shading, and texture settings. Adjust your display conîgurations, experiment with the advanced 3D settings, and check the effects with a real-time 3D-rendered previews within A TI Catalyst⢠Control Center .
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 1-3 DDR3 2000 (O.C.) support This motherboard supports DDR3 2000(O.C.) that provides faster data transfer rate and more bandwidth to increase memory computing efîciency , enhancing system performance in 3D graphics and other memory demanding applications PCIe 2.0 Double Speed; Double Bandwidth This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 device for double speed and bandwidth which enhances system performance. 100% high-quality Japan-made conductive polymer capacitors (VRM 5000hrs lifespan at 105ºC, 500,000hrs at 65ºC) This motherboard uses all high-quality conductive polymer capacitors for durability , improved lifespan, and enhanced thermal capacity . USB 3.0 support 10X Faster Data Rates! Experience ultra-fast data transfers at 4.8Gbps with USB 3.0âthe latest connectivity standard. Built to connect easily with next generation components and peripherals, USB 3.0 transfers data 10X faster and is also backward compatible with USB 2.0 components. SA T A 6Gb/s support Experience the future of storage! Supporting next-generation Serial A T A (SA T A) storage interface, this motherboard delivers up to 6Gb/s data transfer rates. Additionally , get enhanced scalability , faster data retrieval, double the bandwidth of current bus systems. 1.3.2 ROG Intelligent Performance & Overclocking features MemOK! Any memory is A-OK! Memory compatibility is among the top concerns when it comes to computer upgrades. Worry no more, MemOK! is the fastest memory booting solution today . This remarkable memory rescue tool requires nothing but a push of a button to patch memory issues and get you system up and running in no time. The technology is able to determine failsafe settings that can dramatically improve system booting success.
1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction CPU Level Up A simple click for instant upgrade! Ever wish that you could have a more expansive CPU? Upgrade your CPU at no additional cost with ROGâs CPU Level Up! Simply pick the processor you want to OC to, and the motherboard will do the rest for you. See the new CPU speed and enjoy the performance instantly! Overclocking is never as easy as this. ROG Connect Plug and OverclockâT weak it the hardcore way! Monitor the status of your desktop PC and tweak its parameters in real-time via a notebookâjust like a race car engineerâwith ROG Connect. ROG Connect links your main system to a notebook through a USB cable, allowing you to view real- time POST code and hardware status readouts on your notebook, as well as make on-the-îy parameter adjustments at a purely hardware level. GameFirst The speed you need to pwn Low Internet latency allows you to frag more, and get fragged less. That's why ROG has introduced GameFirst, a feature that manages the îow of trafîc according to your needs so that you can still listen to online music, download and upload îles, and engage in Internet chats without sacriîcing the low ping times you need to pwn your opponents. iROG Intelligent multiple control at hand iROG is a special IC which enables several ROG highlighted functions that give you full disposal of the motherboard at any stage! This design allows advanced user control and management to be processed at a hardware level. iROG greatly increases fun during overclocking for PC enthusiasts and it provides system maintenance and management with more control and efîciency . ProbeIt Get all hands-on with hardware-based overclocking ProbeIt takes the guesswork out of locating the motherboardâs measurement points, identifying them clearly in the form of 7 sets of detection points so youâll know exactly where to get quick yet accurate readings using a multitester .
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 1-5 Extreme T weaker One stop performance tuning shop Extreme T weaker is the one stop shop to îne-tune your system to optimal performance. No matter if you are looking for frequency adjustment, over-voltage options, or memory timing settings, they are all here! V oltiminder LED Friendly reminder on V oltage Settings In the pursuit of extreme performance, overvoltage adjustment is critical but risky . Acting as the âred zoneâ of a tachometer , the V oltiminder LED displays the voltage status for CPU, NB, SB, and Memory in a intuitive color-coded fashion. The V oltiminder LED allows quick voltage monitoring for overclockers. Component Overheat Protection-EX (COP EX) Maximum OC with conîdence with burn proof protection to chipsets and GPU! The COP EX allows overclockers to increase chipset voltages without the worries of overheating. It can also be used to monitor and save an overheating GPU. The COP EX allows more freedom and less constraint for maximum performance achievement. Loadline Calibration Optimal power boost for extreme CPU overclocking! Maintaining ample voltage support for the CPU is critical during overclocking. The Loadline calibration ensures stable and optimal CPU voltage under heavy loading. It helps overclockers enjoy the motherboardâs ultimate OC capabilities and benchmark scores. 1.3.3 ROG unique features SupremeFX X-Fi features Listen with absolute HD Play in extreme îdelity! SupremeFX X-FI delivers an excellent high deînition audio experience to the gamers of ROG. SupremeFX X-Fi features unique audio innovations for gamers to spot enemies in 3D environment during game play . SupremeFX X-Fi combines the technological quality design of SupremeFX and sound effect technology from Creative Labs® to offer games exceptional game sound with absolute quality .
1-6 Chapter 1: Product Introduction Noise Filter Eliminate background noise while recording This feature detects repetitive and stationary noises like computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates it in the incoming audio stream while recording. Onboard Switches No more shorting pins or moving jumpers With an easy press during overclocking, this exclusive onboard switch allows gamers to effortlessly îne-tune the performance without having to short the pins or moving jumpers. Kaspersky ® Anti-Virus The best protection from viruses and spyware Kaspersky ® Anti-Virus Personal of fers premium antivirus protection for individual users and home ofîces. It is based on advanced antivirus technologies. The product incorporates the Kaspersky ® Anti-Virus engine, which is renowned for malicious program detection rates that are among the industryâs highest. 1.3.4 ASUS special features ASUS T urbo Key II Switch on the Potential, T urn up the Performance Enjoy superb performance by auto-tuning your processor to an extreme yet stable state. Simply activate a dedicated switch on the motherboard to unleash extra processing capabilities. ASUS Core Unlocker Intelligently Unlocks T rue Core Performance ASUS Core Unlocker simpliîes the activation of a latent AMD CPUâwith just a press of a button. enjoy an instant performance boost by simply unlocking the extra cores, without performing complicating BIOS changes. ASUS T urboV EVO The ultimate O.C. Processor The ultimate O.C. processor satisîes every level of overclockersâfrom die-hard enthusiasts to beginners. Auto tuning intelligently pushes the system to the fatest clock speeds while maintaining stability . T urbo Key boosts performance with just one touch; while T urboV offers more options to advanced overclockers to achieve world O.C. record.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 1-7 ASUS EZ DIY ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings. ASUS Q-Shield The specially designed ASUS Q-Shield does without the usual âîngersââ making it convenient and easy to install. With better electric conductivity , it ideally protects your motherboard against static electricity and shields it against Electronic Magnetic Interference (EMI). ASUS Q-Connector The ASUS Q-Connector allows you to connect or disconnect chassis front panel cables in one easy step with one complete module. This unique adapter eliminates the trouble of plugging in one cable at a time, making connection quick and accurate. 8 O.C. Proîle Freely share and distribute favorite overclocking settings. The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Proîle that allows users to conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be stored in the CMOS or a separate île, giving users freedom to share and distribute their favorite overclocking settings. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 allows users to restore corrupted BIOS data from a USB îash disk containing the BIOS île. ASUS EZ Flash 2 EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility . Simply launch this tool and update BIOS using a USB îash disk without entering the OS. Y ou can update your BIOS in a few clicks without preparing an additional îoppy diskette or using an OS-based îash utility .
1-8 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
2 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 jumpers and connectors on the motherboard.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula Chapter summary 2 2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1 2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-6 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-9 2.4 System memory ......................................................................... 2-14 2.5 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 2-23 2.6 Jumper ........................................................................................ 2-26 2.7 I/O shield Installation ................................................................. 2-27 2.8 Connectors ................................................................................. 2-28 2.9 Starting up for the îrst time ...................................................... 2-46 2.10 T urning off the computer ........................................................... 2-47
2.1 Before you proceed T ake 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. ⢠Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling components 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 A TX 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, and/or components. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-1
2. Northbridge/Southbridge LEDs The northbridge and southbridge LEDs each have two different voltage displays. The northbridge LED displays either the NB V oltage or the NB 1.8 V oltage. The southbridge LED shows either the SB V oltage, SB 1.2V V oltage, or the HT . Y ou can select the voltage to display in BIOS. Refer to the illustration on the next page for the location of the northbridge/southbridge LEDs and the table below for LED deînition. Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red) NB 1.1 V oltage 0.80000â1.58750 1.60000â1.83750 1.85000â2.00000 NB 1.8 V oltage 1.80200â1.89475 1.90800â1.94775 1.96100â3.00775 VDDPCIE 1.1V 1.1 1300â1.59000 1.60325â1.84175 1.85500â2.00075 SB 1.1 V oltage 1.1 1300â1.44250 1.45750â1.69600 1.70925â1.80200 SB HT 1.2 V oltage 0.80000â1.38750 1.40000â1.65000 1.66250â2.00000 Onboard LEDs The motherboard comes with LEDs that indicate the voltage conditions of CPU, memory , northbridge, and southbridge. Y ou may adjust the voltages in BIOS. There are also an LED for hard disk drive activity and an onboard switch for power status. For more information about voltage adjustment, refer to 3.3 Extreme T weaker menu. Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red) CPU V oltage (default) By CPUâ1.3625 1.3750â1.4875 1.5000âBy CPU VDD NB By CPUâ1.3625 1.3750â1.4875 1.5000âBy CPU VDDA 2.5 V oltage 2.20000â2.76250 2.77500â3.00000 3.01250â3.18750 1. CPU LED The CPU LED has three voltage displays: CPU V oltage, VDDNB, and VDDA V oltage; you can select the voltage to display in BIOS. Refer to the illustration on the next page for the location of the CPU LED and the table below for LED deînition. 3. Memory LED Refer to the illustration on the next page for the location of the memory LED and the table below for LED deînition. Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red) DRAM Bus V oltage 1.20000â1.72500 1.73750â2.32500 2.33750â2.90000 VDDR 1.2 V oltage 1.20575â1.39125 1.40450â1.65625 1.66950â1.80200 2-2 Chapter 2: Hardware information
4. Hard Disk LED The hard disk LED is designed to indicate the hard disk activity . It blinks when data is being written into or read from the hard disk drive. The LED does not light up when there is no hard disk drive connected to the motherboard or when the hard disk drive does not function. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-3
5. Power LED The motherboard comes with a power-on switch that lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard power-on switch. When you turn on the A TX power supply , the Power LED îashes three times to indicate that the system is ready to boot. W ait till the îash stops before you press the power-on switch. 6. GO LED Blinking : Indicates that MemOK! is enabled before POST . Lighting : Indicates that the system loads the preset proîle for temporary overclocking when in OS. 2-4 Chapter 2: Hardware information
7. POST State LEDs POST State LEDs check key components (CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and HDD) in sequence during motherboard booting process. If an error is found, the LED next to the error device will continue lighting until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitive way to locate the root problem within seconds. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-5
2.2 Motherboard overview 2.2.1 Motherboard layout 2-6 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.2 Layout contents Connectors/Jumpers/Switches/Slots Page 1. A TX power connectors (24-pin EA TXPWR, 8-pin EA TX12V) 2-38 2. AMD ® AM3 Socket 2-9 3. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_F AN; 4-pin PWR_F AN; 4-pin CHA_F AN1â3; 4-pin OPT_F AN1â3) 2-35 4. DDR3 DIMM slots 2-14 5. Go Button 2-42 6. AMD ® SB850 Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SA T A1â6) [red] 2-32 7. JMicron ® JMB363 Serial A T A connectors (7-pin SA T A_E1) [black] 2-33 8. Thermal sensor cable connectors (2-pin OPT_TEMP1â3) 2-36 9. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLR TC_SW) 2-26 10. System panel connector (20-8 pin P ANEL) 2-39 1 1. USB connectors (10-3 pin USB7; 10-1 pin USB89; USB101 1) 2-33 12. OC Station connector (8-pin OC_ST A TION) 2-37 13. Reset switch 2-41 14. Power-on switch 2-41 15. Core Unlocker switch 2-44 16. T urbo Key II switch 2-43 17. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) 2-34 18. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 2-37 19. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 2-34 Refer to 2.8 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-7
Place this side towards the rear of the chassis 2.2.3 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, ensure that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis as indicated in the image below . 2.2.4 Screw holes Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis. DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard. 2-8 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.1 Installing the CPU T o install a CPU: 1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard. 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with an AMD ® AM3 Socket for AMD socket AM3 Phenom⢠II / Athlon⢠II / Sempron⢠100 Series processors. The AM3 socket has a different pinout from the AM2 /AM2 socket. Ensure you use a CPU designed for the AM3 socket. The CPU îts in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU! Ensure that the socket lever is lifted up to a 90Ë angle. Otherwise, the CPU will not ît in completely . 2. Press the lever sideways to unlock the socket, then lift it up to a 90Ë angle. Socket lever ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-9
3. Position the CPU above the socket such that the CPU corner with the gold triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle. 4. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it îts in place. 5. When the CPU is in place, push down the socket lever to secure the CPU. The lever clicks on the side tab to indicate that it is locked. Gold triangle Small triangle 6. Apply several drops of thermal interface material to the exposed area of the CPU that the heatsink will be in contact with, ensuring that it is spread in an even thin layer . Some heatsinks come with pre-applied thermal interface material. If so, skip this step. The thermal interface material is toxic and inedible. DO NOT eat it. If it gets into your eyes or touches your skin, wash it off immediately , and seek professional medical help. T o prevent contaminating the thermal interface material, DO NOT spread the thermal interface material with your înger . 2-10 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.2 Installing the heatsink and fan The AMD socket AM3 Phenom⢠II / Athlon⢠II / Sempron⢠100 Series processors requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance. T o install the CPU heatsink and fan: 1. Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, ensuring that the heatsink îts properly on the retention module base. Y our boxed CPU heatsink and fan assembly should come with installation instructions for the CPU, heatsink, and the retention mechanism. If the instructions in this section do not match the CPU documentation, follow the latter . ⢠The retention module base is already installed on the motherboard upon purchase. ⢠Y ou do not have to remove the retention module base when installing the CPU or installing other motherboard components. ⢠If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly , ensure that a Thermal Interface Material is properly applied to the CPU heatsink or CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly . Ensure that you use only AMD-certiîed heatsink and fan assembly . Retention module base CPU heatsink CPU fan Retention bracket lock Retention bracket ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-1 1
2. Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. 3. Align the other end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. A clicking sound denotes that the retention bracket is in place. 4. Push down the retention bracket lock on the retention mechanism to secure the heatsink and fan to the module base. Ensure that the fan and heatsink assembly perfectly îts the retention mechanism module base, otherwise you cannot snap the retention bracket in place. 2-12 Chapter 2: Hardware information
5. When the fan and heatsink assembly is in place, connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_F AN. ⢠DO NOT forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector . ⢠This connector is backward compatible with old 3-pin CPU fan. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-13
2.4 System memory 2.4.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR2 DIMM but is notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR2 DIMM socket. DDR3 modules are developed for better performance with less power consumption. The îgure illustrates the location of the DDR3 DIMM sockets: Recommended memory conîgurations One DIMM: Install one memory module in any slot as a single-channel operation. T wo DIMMs (dual-channel operation): Four DIMMs (dual-channel operation): 2-14 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.4.2 Memory conîgurations Y ou may install 512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB and 4 GB unbuffered ECC and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. ⢠Y ou may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel conîguration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation. ⢠We recommend that you install the memory modules from the red slots for better overclocking capability . ⢠Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency . For optimum compatibility , we recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor . ⢠AMD AM3 100 and 200 series CPU support up to DDR3 1066MHz. ⢠Due to different CPU margins, not all of AMD CPU can support up to DDR3 1600 and higher frequency DIMMs. ⢠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 SPD. Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. T o operate at the vendor- marked or at a higher frequency , see section 3.5 Advanced menu for manual memory frequency adjustment. ⢠For system stability , use a more efîcient memory cooling system to support a full memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-15
Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1866MHz capability V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM CORSA IR TR3X6G1866C9DV er4.1(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-15000CL9D-4GBRH (XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-15000CL9D-4GBTD(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P1866L V4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 ⢠Patriot PVS32G1866LLK(XMP) 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.9 ⢠T eam BoxP/N: TXD34096M1866HC7DC-L (TXD32048M1866HC7-L)(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-21 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1800MHz capability V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM KINGSTON KHX1800C9D3T1K3/ 6GX(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Patriot PVS32G1800LLKN(EPP) 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-20 1.9 ⢠Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1600MHz capability V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM A-DA TA AD31600G001GMU 1GB SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 ⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600GB1G9-AG 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 ⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600PB1G8-2P 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AD31600E001GMU 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600GB1G9-3G 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 ⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600PB1G8-3P 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600GB2G9-AG(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600XB2G7-EF(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.75-1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AD31600F002GMU(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.75-1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600GB2G9-3G(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600GB2G9-3G(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600GB2G9-3G 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1600XB2G7-FF(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.75-1.85 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR TR3X3G1600C8DVer2.1(XMP) 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 ⢠CORSAIR TR3X3G1600C9Ver1.1(XMP) 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠CORSAIR CMG4GX3M2A1600C6 4GB( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 6-6-6-18 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR CMD4GX3M2A1600C8(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR CMG4GX3M2A1600C7(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65 ⢠⢠CORSAIR CMX4GX3M2A1600C9(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C8D 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C8DVer2.1(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR TR3X6G1600C9Ver2.1(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠2-16 Chapter 2: Hardware information
V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM CORSAIR CMD8GX3M4A1600C8(XMP) 8GB(4 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 ⢠⢠CORSAIR CMX8GX3M4A1600C9(XMP) 8GB(4 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠Crucial BL12864BA1608.8SFB(XMP) 1GB SS - - - 1.8 ⢠⢠⢠Crucial BL25664BN1608.16FF(XMP) 2GB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-2GBNQ 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - - 1.6 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D-4GBRL 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - - 1.6 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D- 4GBECO(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-8-7-24 - ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL7D-4GBRH(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL8D-4GBRM(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.6 ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D- 4GBECO(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.35 ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL8T -6GBPI(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-21 1.6~1.65 ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-12800CL9T -6GBNQ 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5-1.6 ⢠⢠⢠KINGMAX FLGD45F-B8MF7(XMP) 1GB SS - - - ⢠⢠⢠KINGMAX FLGE85F-B8MF7(XMP) 2GB DS - - - ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP) 12GB(3 x 4GB) DS - - - 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP) 12GB(3 x 4GB) DS - - 9 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KHX1600C8D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KHX1600C8D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KHX1600C8D3T1K2/ 4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K2/4G 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - - 1.7~1.9 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/6GX(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P1600EB1G 1GB SS - - 7-6-6-24 - ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3G1600L V3GK 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P1600L V3GK 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 7-7-7 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3BE1600C8L V4GK 4GB( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P16004GK(XMP) 4GB( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 7-7-7 1.9 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3OB1600L V4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P1600EB4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-6 1.8 ⢠OCZ OCZ3P1600L V4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7 1.65 ⢠OCZ OCZ3X16004GK(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7 1.9 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3X1600L V4GK(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3FXE1600C7L V6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3G1600L V6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3G1600L V6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠OCZ OCZ3X1600L V6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3X1600L V6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Super T alent WP160UX4G8(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8 - ⢠⢠Super T alent WP160UX4G9(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9 - ⢠⢠⢠Super T alent WB160UX6G8(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - - - ⢠⢠⢠Super T alent WB160UX6G8(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8 - ⢠⢠⢠EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I16(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9 - ⢠⢠⢠Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1600MHz capability (continued) ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-17
V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HA9N-DG(XMP) 2GB DS - - - - ⢠⢠Mushkin 996657 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 - ⢠⢠⢠Mushkin 998659(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5-1.6 ⢠⢠Patriot PVT33G1600ELK 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠P ATRIOT PGS34G1600LLKA 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.7 ⢠⢠⢠Patriot PVS34G1600ELK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.8 ⢠⢠⢠Patriot PVS34G1600LLK(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.9 ⢠⢠Patriot PVS34G1600LLKN 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 2.0 ⢠Patriot PVT36G1600ELK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Patriot PVT36G1600ELK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Patriot PVT36G1600LLK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65 ⢠T eam BoxP/N: TXD34096M1600HC6DC-L (TXD32048M1600HC6- L)(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 6-7-6-18 1.65 ⢠Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1600MHz capability (continued) Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1333MHz capability V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM A-DA TA AD3133301GOU 1GB SS A-DA TA AD30908C8D-15IG - - ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AD31333002GOU 2GB DS A-DA TA AD30908C8D-15IG - - ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AD3U1333B2G9-2 2GB DS A-DAT A AD30908C8D-15IG - - ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1333PB2G7-2P 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65- 1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AD3U1333C4G9-B 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83AFRH9C 1333-9-9- 9-24 - ⢠⢠A-DA TA AD31333E002G0U 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65- 1.85 ⢠⢠⢠A-DA TA AX3U1333PB2G7-3P 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65- 1.85 ⢠⢠⢠Apacer 78.A1GC6.9L1 2GB DS Apacer AM5D58 08DEWS BG 9 - ⢠⢠CORSAIR TR3X3G1333C9 (Ver2.1) 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR CM3X1024-1333C9DHX 1GB DS - - - 1.1 ⢠⢠CORSAIR BoxP/N:TWIN3X2048-1333C9 (CM3X1024-1333C9)V er1.1 2GB(2 x 1GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.70 ⢠⢠CORSAIR CM3X2G1333C9 2GB DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR BoxP/N:TW3X4G1333C9DHX (CM3X2048-1333C9DHX)V er3.2 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.70 ⢠CORSAIR TR3X6G1333C9 (Ver2.1) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠CORSAIR CMX8GX3M4A1333C9 8GB(4 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT12864BA1339.8FF 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT 9 - ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT12864BA1339.8SFD 1GB SS MICRON MT8JF12864A Y - 1G4D1 - - ⢠⢠Crucial CT12872BA1339.9FF 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 9 - ⢠⢠Crucial BL25664BN1337.16FF(XMP) 2GB DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT25664BA1339.16FF 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT 9 - ⢠⢠Crucial CT25664BA1339.16SFD 2GB DS MICRON D9JNM - - ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT25672BA1339.18FF 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 9 - ⢠⢠Crucial BL25664BA1336.16SFB1 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS NA - 6-6-6-20 1.8 ⢠⢠⢠ELPIDA EBJ10UE8BDF0-DJ-F 1GB SS ELPIDA J1 108BDSE-DJ-F - - ⢠⢠ELPIDA EBJ10UE8EDF0-DJ-F 1GB SS ELPIDA J1 108EDSE-DJ-F - - ⢠⢠ELPIDA EBJ21UE8BAW0-DJ-E 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BABG-DJ-E 9 - ⢠ELPIDA EBJ21UE8BDF0-DJ-F 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BDSE-DJ-F - - ⢠⢠2-18 Chapter 2: Hardware information
V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM ELPIDA EBJ21UE8EDF0-DJ-F 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F - - ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10600CL8D-2GBHK 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - - 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10666CL7T-6GBPK(XMP) 2GB DS - - 7-7-7-18 1.5-1.6 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10666CL7D-4GBPI(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-21 1.5 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10666CL7D-4GBRH(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-21 1.5 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D-4GBECO(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.35 ⢠⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D-4GBHK(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-21 1.5-1.6 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D-4GBRM(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-21 1.5-1.6 ⢠⢠G.SKILL F3-10666CL9T-6GBNQ 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠GEIL GG34GB1333C9DC 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS GEIL GL1L128M88BA12N 9-9-9-24 1.3 ⢠⢠GEIL GV34GB1333C7DC 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.5 ⢠⢠Hynix HMT1 12U6BFR8C-H9 1GB SS Hynix H5TQ1G83BFR 9 - ⢠⢠⢠Hynix HMT125U6BFR8C-H9 2GB DS Hynix H5TQ1G83BFR 9 - ⢠⢠⢠Hynix HMT125U6BFR8C-H9 2GB DS Hynix H5TQ1G83BFRH9C 9 - ⢠⢠⢠KINGMAX FLFD45F-B8KG9 1GB SS KingMax KFB8FNGBF- ANX-15A - ⢠⢠⢠KINGMAX FLFE85F-B8KG9 2GB DS KingMax KFB8FNGBF- ANX-15A - ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/2G 2GB DS Qimonda IDSH1G-03A1F1C- 13H 9 1.5 ⢠⢠KINGSTON KVR1333D3E9S/4G 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846B-HCH9 - 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/4G 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846B-HCH9 9 1.5 ⢠⢠MICRON MT8JTF12864AZ-1G4F1 1GB SS MICRON 9FF22 D9KPT 9 - ⢠⢠MICRON MT8JTF12864AZ-1G4F1 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT 9 - ⢠⢠⢠MICRON MT9JSF12872AZ-1G4F1 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 9 - ⢠⢠MICRON MT16JF25664AZ-1G4F1 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT 9 - ⢠⢠MICRON MT16JTF25664AZ-1G4F1 2GB DS MICRON 9FF22 D9KPT 9 - ⢠⢠MICRON MT18JSF25672AZ-1G4F1 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 9 - ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3RPX1333EB2GK 1GB SS - - - - ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3RPX1333EB2GK 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS NANYA - 6-5-5 1.85 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3G1333LV3GK 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P1333LV3GK 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 7-7-7 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3G1333ULV4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P13334GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7 1.8 ⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P1333LV4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3G1333LV6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZ3P1333LV6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠OCZ OCZX1333LV6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS NA - 8-8-8 1.6 ⢠⢠⢠PSC AL7F8G73D-DG1 1GB SS PSC A3P1GF3DGF - - ⢠⢠⢠PSC AL8F8G73D-DG1 2GB DS PSC A3P1GF3DGF - - ⢠⢠⢠SAMSUNG M378B2873DZ1-CH9 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846D 9 - ⢠⢠SAMSUNG M378B2873EH1-CH9 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846E - - ⢠⢠SAMSUNG M391B2873DZ1-CH9 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846D(ECC) 9 - ⢠⢠SAMSUNG M378B5673DZ1-CH9 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846D 9 - ⢠⢠SAMSUNG M378B5673EH1-CH9 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846E - - ⢠⢠⢠SAMSUNG M391B5673DZ1-CH9 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846D(ECC) 9 - ⢠⢠⢠SAMSUNG M378B5273BH1-CH9 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846B-HCH9 9 - ⢠⢠⢠Super T alent W1333UX2G8(XMP) 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 8 1.8 ⢠⢠⢠Asint SL Y3128M8-EDJE 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108BASE-DJ-E - - ⢠⢠ASUS N/A 1GB DS - - - - ⢠⢠A TP AQ28M64A8BJH9S 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846E - - ⢠⢠A TP AQ28M72D8BJH9S 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846D(ECC) - - ⢠⢠⢠A TP AQ56M64B8BJH9S 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846D - - ⢠⢠⢠A TP AQ56M72E8BJH9S 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846D(ECC) - - ⢠⢠⢠BUFF ALO FSX1333D3G-1G 1GB SS - - - - ⢠⢠Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1333MHz capability (continued) ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-19
Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1333MHz capability (continued) Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1066MHz capability V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Vo ltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM Crucial CT12864BA1067.8FF 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT 7 - ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT12864BA1067.8SFD 1GB SS MICRON D9JNL 7 - ⢠⢠Crucial CT12872BA1067.9FF 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 7 - ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT25664BA1067.16FF 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT 7 - ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT25664BA1067.16SFD 2GB DS MICRON D9JNL 7 - ⢠⢠⢠Crucial CT25672BA1067.18FF 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 7 - ⢠⢠⢠ELPIDA EBJ10UE8BAW0-AE-E 1GB SS ELPIDA J1 108BABG-DJ-E 7 - ⢠⢠ELPIDA EBJ10UE8EDF0-AE-F 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F - - ⢠⢠ELPIDA EBJ21UE8BAW0-AE-E 2GB DS ELPIDA J1 108BABG-DJ-E 7 - ⢠⢠⢠ELPIDA EBJ21UE8EDF0-AE-F 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F - - ⢠⢠⢠Hynix HMT1 12U6AFP8C-G7N0 1GB SS HYNIX H5TQ1G83AFPG7C 7 - ⢠⢠⢠Hynix HYMT1 12U64ZNF8-G7 1GB SS HYNIX HY5TQ1G831ZNFP-G7 7 - ⢠⢠Hynix HMT125U6AFP8C-G7N0 2GB DS HYNIX H5TQ1G83AFPG7C 7 - ⢠⢠Hynix HYMT125U64ZNF8-G7 2GB DS HYNIX HY5TQ1G831ZNFP-G7 7 - ⢠⢠KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/1G 1GB SS KINGSTON D1288JEKAPA7U 7 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/2G 2GB DS KINGSTON D1288JEKAPGA7U 7 1.5 ⢠⢠KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/2G 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BABG-DJ-E - 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/4G 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846B-HCF8 - 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠MICRON MT8JTF12864A Y -1G1D1 1GB SS MICRON 7VD22 7 - ⢠⢠⢠MICRON MT8JTF12864AZ-1G1F1 1GB SS MICRON 8ZF22 D9KPV 7 - ⢠⢠⢠MICRON MT8JTF12864AZ-1G1F1 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT 7 - ⢠⢠⢠MICRON MT9JSF12872AZ-1G1F1 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 7 - ⢠⢠⢠MICRON MT16JTF25664A Y -1G1D1 2GB DS MICRON 7VD22 7 - ⢠⢠MICRON MT16JTF25664AZ-1G1F1 2GB DS MICRON 8ZF22 D9KPV 7 - ⢠⢠MICRON MT16JTF25664AZ-1G1F1 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT 7 - ⢠⢠⢠MICRON MT18JSF25672AZ-1G1F1 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 7 - ⢠⢠⢠SAMSUNG M378B5273BH1-CF8 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846B-HCF8 8 1.5 ⢠⢠⢠Asint SL Y3128M8-EAE 1GB SS Asint DDRIII1208-AE - - ⢠⢠V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM BUFF ALO FSH1333D3G-T3G(XMP) 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 7-7-7-20 - ⢠⢠BUFF ALO FSX1333D3G-2G 2GB DS - - - - ⢠⢠EK Memory EKM324L28BP8-I13 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9 - ⢠⢠Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HA9N-CG 2GB DS - - - - ⢠⢠Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HC9N-CG 2GB DS - - - - ⢠⢠Patriot PDC32G1333LLK 1GB SS PA TRIOT - 7 1.7 ⢠⢠⢠Patriot PVT33G1333ELK 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Patriot PVS34G1333ELK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 ⢠⢠Patriot PVS34G1333LLK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.7 ⢠⢠Patriot PVT36G1333ELK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 ⢠⢠⢠Silicon Power SP001GBL TU1333S01 1GB SS NANY A NT5CB128M8AN- CG - - ⢠⢠Silicon Power SP002GBL TU133S02 2GB DS S-POWER I0YT3E0 9 - ⢠⢠UMAX E41302GP0-73BDB 2GB DS UMAX U2S24D30TP-13 - ⢠⢠2-20 Chapter 2: Hardware information
Side(s): SS - Single-sided DS - Double-sided DIMM support: ⢠1 DIMM: Supports one (1) module inserted into any slot as Single-channel memory conîguration. ⢠2 DIMMs: Supports two (2) modules inserted into either the blue slots or the black slots as one pair of Dual-channel memory conîguration. ⢠4 DIMMs: Supports four (4) modules inserted into both the blue and the black slots as two pairs of Dual-channel memory conîguration. Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL. Due to different CPU margins, not all of AMD CPU can support up to DDR3 1600 and higher frequency DIMMs. V endor Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM Asint SLZ3128M8-EAE 2GB DS Asint DDRIII1208-AE - - ⢠⢠Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HA9N-BE 2GB DS - - - - ⢠⢠Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HC5N-BE 2GB DS Elixir N2CB1G80CN-BE - - ⢠⢠Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HC9N-BE 2GB DS - - - - ⢠⢠⢠WINTEC 3DU3191A-10 1GB DS Qimonda IDSH51-03A1F1C-10F 7 - ⢠⢠Crosshair IV Formula Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1066MHz capability (continued) ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-21
2.4.4 Removing a DIMM 1. Press the retaining clip outward to unlock the DIMM. 2. Remove the DIMM from the socket. 2.4.3 Installing a DIMM 3. Hold the DIMM by both of its ends, then insert the DIMM vertically into the socket. Apply force to both ends of the DIMM simultaneously until the retaining clip snaps back into place, and the DIMM cannot be pushed in any further to ensure proper sitting of the DIMM. 1. Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clip outward. 2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the DIMM slot key on the socket. A DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it îts in only one direction. DO NOT force a DIMM into a socket in the wrong direction to avoid damaging the DIMM. Ensure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components. Locked Retaining Clip 3 1 2 Always insert the DIMM into the socket VERTICALL Y to prevent DIMM notch damage. Unlocked retaining clip DIMM notch 2 1 DIMM slot key 2-22 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.5 Expansion slots In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support. 2.5.1 Installing an expansion card T o install an expansion card: 1. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card. 2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a chassis). 3. Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later use. 4. Align the card connector with the slot and press îrmly until the card is completely seated on the slot. 5. Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier . 6. Replace the system cover . 2.5.2 Conîguring an expansion card After installing the expansion card, conîgure it by adjusting the software settings. 1. T urn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any . See Chapter 3 for information on BIOS setup. 2. Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the next page. 3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card. 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. When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support âShare IRQâ or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conîicts will arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable. Refer to the table on the next page for details. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-23
2.5.3 Interrupt assignments Standard interrupt assignments * These IRQs are usually available for PCI devices. IRQ Priority Standard function 0 1 System T imer 1 2 Keyboard Controller 2 â Redirect to IRQ#9 4 12 Communications Port (COM1)* 5 13 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* 6 14 Reserved 7 15 Reserved 8 3 System CMOS/Real T ime Clock 9 4 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* 10 5 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* 1 1 6 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* 12 7 Reserved 13 8 Numeric Data Processor 14 9 Primary IDE Channel IRQ assignments for this motherboard A B C D E F G H PCIE_X16_1 shared â â â â â â â PCI_1 â â â â shared â â â PCIE_X8 / X1_2 â â â â shared (X8) â â shared (X1) PCI_2 â â â â â shared â â PCIE_X16 / X8_3 shared (X16/X8) â â â â â â â PCIE_X4_4 shared â â â â â â â USB1 OHCI Controller â â shared â â â â â USB1 EHCI Controller â shared â â â â â â USB2 OHCI Controller â â shared â â â â â USB2 EHCI Controller â shared â â â â â â USB3 OHCI Controller â â shared â â â â â USB3 EHCI Controller â shared â â â â â â SB SA T A/AHCI Controller â â â shared â â â â LAN â â â shared â â â â 1394 â â â â â â shared â Audio shared â â â â â â â JMicron SA T A Controller â â â â shared â â â USB 3.0 â â â shared â â â â 2-24 Chapter 2: Hardware information
IRQ assignments for this motherboard A B C D E F G H PCIE_X16_1 shared â â â â â â â PCI_1 â â â â shared â â â PCIE_X8 / X1_2 â â â â shared (X8) â â shared (X1) PCI_2 â â â â â shared â â PCIE_X16 / X8_3 shared (X16/X8) â â â â â â â PCIE_X4_4 shared â â â â â â â USB1 OHCI Controller â â shared â â â â â USB1 EHCI Controller â shared â â â â â â USB2 OHCI Controller â â shared â â â â â USB2 EHCI Controller â shared â â â â â â USB3 OHCI Controller â â shared â â â â â USB3 EHCI Controller â shared â â â â â â SB SA T A/AHCI Controller â â â shared â â â â LAN â â â shared â â â â 1394 â â â â â â shared â Audio shared â â â â â â â JMicron SA T A Controller â â â â shared â â â USB 3.0 â â â shared â â â â 2.5.4 PCI slot The PCI slot supports cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI speciîcations. Refer to the îgure below for the location of the slot. 2.5.5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots This motherboard has four PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots that support PCI Express x16 2.0 graphic cards complying with the PCI Express speciîcations. Refer to the îgure below for the location of the slots. PCI Express x16_1 slot PCI slot 2 PCI Express x16_4 slot PCI Express x16_3 slot PCI Express x16_2 slot PCI slot 1 ⢠In single VGA card mode, use îrst the PCIe 2.0 x16_1 slot for a PCI Express x16 graphics card to get better performance. ⢠In CrossFireX⢠mode, use the PCIe 2.0 x16_1 (red) and PCIe 2.0 x16_3 (red) slots for PCI Express x16 graphics cards to get better performance. ⢠We recommend that you provide sufîcient power when running CrossFireX⢠mode. See page 2-38 for details. ⢠Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_F AN1/2/3 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-25
2.6 Jumper Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC_SW) This jumper allows you to enable the clr CMOS switch on the back I/O. Y ou can clear the CMOS memory and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The clr CMOS switch on the back I/O helps you easily clear the system setup information such as system passwords. T o erase the RTC RAM: 1. Press down the clr CMOS switch on the back I/O. 2. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter data. ⢠The clr CMOS switch will not function if the CLRTC_SW jumper is moved to the Disable position. ⢠Ensure to re-enter your previous BIOS settings after you clear the CMOS. ⢠Y ou do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to CPU overclocking. With the C.P .R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature, shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset CPU parameter settings to default values. 2-26 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.7 I/O shield Installation 1. Install the I/O shield to the chassis by snapping it in place from inside. 2. Orient the motherboard and install it to the chassis. Make sure that the motherboard external ports ît the I/O openings. Be cautious when installing the motherboard. The I/O shield edge springs may damage the I/O ports. The the photos above are for reference only , the actual I/O shield may differ by models. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-27
2.8 Connectors 2.8.1 Rear panel connectors Rear panel connectors 1. PS/2 mouse port (green) 8. IEEE 1394a port 2. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2 9. External SA T A port 3. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4 10. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2 4. LAN (RJ-45) port* 1 1. ROG Connect switch 5. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6 12. ROG Connect port 6. Clear CMOS switch 13. Audio Ports** 7. Optical S/PDIF Out port *and **: Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port and audio port deînitions. ⢠Press the Clear CMOS switch to clear BIOS setup information only when the system hangs due to overclocking. ⢠DO NOT insert a dif ferent connector to the external SA T A port. 2-28 Chapter 2: Hardware information
* LAN port LED indications Activity/Link Speed LED Description OFF OFF Soft-off Mode Y ellow Blinking OFF During Power ON/OFF Y ellow Blinking ORANGE 100 Mbps connection Y ellow Blinking GREEN 1 Gbps connection Speed LED Activity/ Link LED LAN port **Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conîguration Port Headset 2-channel 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Line In Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Pink Mic In Mic In Mic In Mic In Orange â â Center/Subwoofer Center/Subwoofer Black â Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Ou Rear Speaker Out Gray â â â Side Speaker Out 2.8.2 Audio I/O connections Audio I/O ports Connect to Headphone and Mic ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-29
Connect to Stereo Speakers Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers 2-30 Chapter 2: Hardware information
Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-31
2.8.3 Internal connectors 1. AMD ® SB850 Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SA T A 1-6) These connectors are for the Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s signal cables for Serial A T A hard disk drives and optical disc drives. If you installed Serial A T A hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, or RAID 10 conîguration through the onboard AMD ® SB850 controller . These connectors are set to [IDE] by default. If you intend to create a Serial A T A RAID set using these connectors, set the Onchip SA T A Type item in the BIOS to [RAID]. ⢠These connectors are set to IDE mode by default. In IDE mode, you can connect Serial A T A boot/data hard disk drives to these connectors. If you intend to create a Serial A T A RAID set using these connectors, set the OnChip SA T A T ype item in the BIOS to [RAID]. ⢠Y ou must install Windows ® XP Service Pack 2 or later version before using Serial A T A hard disk drives. The Serial A T A RAID feature is available only if you are using Windows ® XP SP2 or later version. ⢠When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the OnChip SA T A T ype in the BIOS to [AHCI]. 2-32 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2. JMicron ® JMB363 Serial A T A connectors (7-pin SA T A_E1 [black]) This connectors is for the Serial A T A signal cables for Serial A T A optical disk drives. 3. USB connectors (10-3 pin USB7; 10-1 pin USB89; USB101 1) 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 speciîcation that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed. Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! Y ou can connect the USB cable to ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) îrst, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-33
4. IEE E 1394 a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) This connector is for an IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module cable to this connector , then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector . Doing so will damage the motherboard! 5. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector is for a chassi s-moun ted f ront panel aud io I/ O mod ule t hat 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-deînition front panel audio module to this connector to avail of the motherboardâs high-deînition audio capability . ⢠If you want to connect a high-deînition front panel audio module to this connector , set the Front Panel T ype 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]. The IEEE 1394 cable is purchased separately . 2-34 Chapter 2: Hardware information
6. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4 -pi n C PU_ F AN, 4- pin PW R_ F AN , 4-p in CH A_ F AN 1â3 , 4 -pi n OP T_F AN1 â3) The fan c onnect ors su pport co oling fans o f 350 mAâ2000 mA (24 W max.) or a total of 1 Aâ7 A (84 W max.) at 12V . 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. Insufîcient air îow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on the fan connectors! If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the chassis fan cable to the motherboard connector labeled OPT_F AN1/2/3 for better thermal environment. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-35
7. Thermal sensor cable connectors (2-pin OPT_TEMP1/2/3) These connectors are for temperature monitoring. Connect the thermal sensor cables to these connectors and place the other ends to the devices which you want to monitor temperature. The optional fan1/2/3 can work with the temperature sensors for a better cooling effect. Enable OPT F AN1/2/3 overheat protection in BIOS if you connect thermal sensor cables to these connectors. The thermal sensor cable is purchased separately . 2-36 Chapter 2: Hardware information
9. OC Station connector (8-pin OC_ST A TION) This connector is for ASUS OC Station connection only . Connect one end of the supplied data cable to the GP connector on the OC Station and the other end to this connector and USB13 on the motherboard to enjoy easier overclocking. 8. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s). Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector , then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. The S/PDIF module is purchased separately . ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-37
10. A TX power connectors (24-pin EA TXPWR, 8-pin EA TX12V) These connectors are for A TX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to ît these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down îrmly until the connectors completely ît. ⢠Ensure to remove the cap on the EA TX12V connector before connecting an 8-pin EPS 12V power plug. ⢠Use only an 8-pin EPS 12V power plug for the EA TX12V connector. ⢠For a fully conîgured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with A TX 12 V Speciîcation 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 600 W . ⢠Do not forget to connect the 8-pin EA TX12 V power plug; otherwise, the system will not boot. ⢠Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when conîguring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate. ⢠If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system, refer to the Recommended Power Supply W attage Calculator at http://support.asus.com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator . aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details. 2-38 Chapter 2: Hardware information
⢠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 îashes 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. ⢠A TX 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 . 1 1. System panel connector (20-8 pin P ANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-39
2.8.4 ASUS Q-Connector (system panel) Use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect the chassis front panel cables. T o install the ASUS Q-Connector: 1. Connect the front panel cables to the ASUS Q-Connector . Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector to know the detailed pin deînitions, and then match them to their respective front panel cable labels. The labels on the front panel cables may vary depending on the chassis model. 2. Install the ASUS Q-Connector to the system panel connector , ensuring the orientation matches the labels on the motherboard. 3. The front panel functions are now enabled. The îgure shows the Q- Connector is properly installed on the motherboard. IDE_LED POWER SW RESET SW IDE_LED- IDE_LED PWR Reset Ground Ground 2-40 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.8.5 Onboard switches Onboard switches allow you to îne-tune performance when working on a bare or open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. 1. Power-on switch Press the power-on switch to wake/power up the system. 2. Reset switch Press the reset switch to reboot the system. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-41
3. GO button Press the GO button before POST to enable MemOK! or press it to quickly load the preset proîle for temporary overclocking when in OS. 2-42 Chapter 2: Hardware information
4. T urbo Key II switch This switch allows you to auto-tune your CPU to enhance the system performance. ⢠If you clear the CMOS or load the BIOS setup defaults, the related overclocking items in the BIOS menu follow the current setting of the T urbo Key II switch. ⢠If you change the switch setting to Enable under the OS environment, the T urbo Key II function will be activated after the next system bootup. ⢠Y ou may use the T urboV Auto Tuning, overclock in the BIOS setup program, and enable the T urbo Key II function at the same time. However , the system will use the last setting you have made. For ensuring the system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when the system is powered off. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-43
5. Core Unlocker switch This switch allows you to unlock the extra cores of your CPU. ⢠Y ou may also press <4> during the Power-On-Self-T est (POST) or enable the ASUS Core Unlocker item in the BIOS menu to activate the Core Unlocker function. ⢠The system will use the last setting you have made. ⢠If you clear the CMOS or load the BIOS setup defaults, the ASUS Core Unlocker item in the BIOS menu follows the current setting of the Core Unlocker switch. For ensuring the system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when the system is powered off. 2-44 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.8.6 ProbeIt The ROG ProbeIt feature provides a nice touch for your convenient and accurate OC settings. No time wasted fumbling around on the complicated motherboard layout, the clearly marked area gives you easier access to the measure points when a multitester is employed for more accurate measurements during your busy overclocking work. Refer to the following illustration for ProbeIt location. Using ProbeIt Y ou may connect the multitester to the motherboard as shown The photos above are for reference only , the actual motherboard layout and measure points location may differ by models. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-45
2.9 Starting up for the î¿rst time 1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover . 2. Be sure that all switches are off. 3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. 4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector . 5. T urn 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 A TX power supplies, the system LED lights up when you press the A TX power button. If your monitor complies with âgreenâ standards or if it has a âpower standbyâ feature, the monitor LED may light up or switch between orange and 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 (see BIOS beep codes table below) or additional messages appear on the screen. If you do not see anything within 30 seconds from the time you turned on the power , the system may have failed a power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call your retailer for assistance. BIOS Beep Description One short beep VGA detected Quick boot set to disabled No keyboard detected One continuous beep followed by two short beeps then a pause (repeated) No memory detected One continuous beep followed by three short beeps No VGA detected One continuous beep followed by four short beeps Hardware component failure 7. At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the instructions in Chapter 3. 2-46 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.10 Turning off the computer 2.10.1 Using the OS shut down function If you are using Windows ® Vista⢠/ Windows ® 7â¢: 1. Click the Start button then select Shut Down. 2. The power supply should turn off after Windows ® shuts down. If you are using Windows ® XP: 1. Click the Start button then select T urn Off Computer . 2. Click the T urn Off button to shut down the computer . 3. The power supply should turn off after Windows ® shuts down. 2.10.2 Using the dual function power switch While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts the system to sleep mode or to soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. Refer to section 3.6 Power Menu in Chapter 3 for details. ROG Crosshair IV Formula 2-47
2-48 Chapter 2: Hardware information
3 BIOS setup This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
Chapter summary 3 ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 3-1 3.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 3-6 3.3 Extreme T weaker menu ............................................................... 3-9 3.4 Main menu .................................................................................. 3-16 3.5 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 3-21 3.6 Power menu ................................................................................ 3-30 3.7 Boot menu .................................................................................. 3-36 3.8 T ools menu ................................................................................. 3-40 3.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 3-44
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-1 3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. 1. ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows ® environment.) 2. ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a îoppy disk or USB îash disk.) 3. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility: Restores the BIOS using the motherboard support DVD or a USB îash drive when the BIOS île fails or gets corrupted. Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities. Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS île to a USB îash drive in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update utility . Installing ASUS Update T o install ASUS Update: 1. Place the support DVD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears. 2. Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update VX.XX.XX. 3. The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system. 3.1.1 ASUS Update utility Th e AS US Upd ate is a uti li ty th at all ow s y ou to man age , s ave , an d u pda te t he mo the rbo ard B IO S i n W in do ws ® e nvi ron men t. The ASU S U pda te uti lit y al low s y ou to : ⢠Save the current BIOS île ⢠Download the latest BIOS île from the Internet ⢠Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS île ⢠Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and ⢠View the BIOS version information. Thi s util ity is avail able in the su pport DVD t hat co mes wi th the moth erb oar d pack age. ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
3-2 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Quit all Windows ® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility . 3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network trafîc, or click Auto Select. Click Next. Updating the BIOS through the Internet T o update the BIOS through the Internet: 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows ® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate . The ASUS Update main window appears. 2. Select Update BIOS from the Internet option from the drop-down menu, then click Next.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-3 Updating the BIOS through a BIOS île T o update the BIOS through a BIOS île: 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows ® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears. 2. Select Update BIOS from a île option from the drop-down menu, then click Next. 4. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download. Click Next. 5. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process. The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update the utility to avail all its features. 3. Locate the BIOS île from the Open window , then click Open. 4. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process. C4F C4F .ROM
3-4 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to use a DOS-based utility . The EZ Flash 2 utility is built in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing <Alt> <F2> during the Power-On Self T ests (POST). Before you start using this utility , download the latest BIOS from the ASUS website at www .asus.com. T o update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2 1. Insert the USB îash disk that contains the latest BIOS île to the USB port, and then launch EZ Flash 2 in any of these two ways: ⢠Press <Alt> <F2> during POST to display the following. ⢠Enter the BIOS setup program. Go to the T ools menu to select EZ Flash 2 and press <Enter> to enable it. ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V4.14 Current ROM Update ROM A: Note [Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info [Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [Esc] Exit PATH: A:\ BOARD: Crosshair IV Formula VER: 0215 DATE: 02/23/2010 BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown 2. Press <T ab> to switch between drives until the correct BIOS île is found. When found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update process and automatically reboots the system when done. ⢠This function can support devices such as a USB îash disk with F A T 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 Setup Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 3.9 Exit Menu for details.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-5 3.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS île when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. Y ou can restore a corrupted BIOS île using the motherboard support DVD or a USB îash drive that contains the BIOS île. The BIOS île in the motherboard support DVD may be older than the BIOS île published on the ASUS ofîcial website. If you want to use the newer BIOS île, download the île at support.asus.com and save it to a USB îash drive. Recovering the BIOS T o recover the BIOS 1. T urn on the system. 2. Insert the motherboard support DVD to the optical drive, or the USB îash drive containing the BIOS île to the USB port. 3. The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS île. When found, the utility reads the BIOS île and starts îashing the corrupted BIOS île. 4. T urn off the system after the utility completes the updating process and power on again. 5. The system requires you to enter BIOS Setup to recover BIOS setting. T o ensure system compatibility and stability , we recommend that you press <F2> to load default BIOS values. DO NOT shut down or reset the system while recovering the BIOS! Doing so can cause system boot failure!
3-6 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.2 BIOS setup program This motherboard supports two programmable îrmware chips that you can update using the provided utility described in section 3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS . Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconîguring your system, or prompted to âRun Setup.â This section explains how to conîgure your system using this utility . Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the conîguration of your computer in the future. For example, you can enable the security password feature or change the power management settings. This requires you to reconîgure your system using the BIOS Setup program so that the computer can recognize these changes and record them in the CMOS RAM of the îrmware chip. The îrmware chip on the motherboard stores the Setup utility . When you start up the computer , the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press <Del> during the Power-On Self-T est (POST) to enter the Setup utility; otherwise, POST continues with its test routines. If you wish to enter Setup after POST , restart the system by pressing <Ctrl Alt Delete>, or by pressing the reset button on the system chassis. Y ou can also restart by turning the system off and then back on. Do this last option only if the îrst two failed. The 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 sub-menus and make your selections from the available options using the navigation keys. ⢠The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply for most conditions to ensure optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS settings, load the default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability . Select the Load Setup Defaults item under the Exit Menu. See section 3.9 Exit Menu. ⢠The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only , and may not exactly match what you see on your screen. ⢠Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS île for this motherboard.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-7 3.2.2 Menu bar The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items: Extreme T weaker For changing the overclocking settings Main For changing the basic system conîguration Advanced For changing the advanced system settings Power For changing the advanced power management (APM) conîguration Boot For changing the system boot conîguration T ools For Conîguring options for special functions Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default settings T o select an item on the menu bar , press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard until the desired item is highlighted. 3.2.3 Navigation keys At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings. 3.2.1 BIOS menu screen Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another . v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a î¿eld. Use [ ] or [-] to conî¿gure system Date. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item - Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit System Time [11:10:25] System Date [Tue 03/02/2010] Language [English] SATA1 [HDT722516DLA380] SATA2 [Not Detected] SATA3 [ATAPI DVD D DH1] SATA4 [Not Detected] SATA5 [Not Detected] SATA6 [Not Detected] Storage Conî¿guration System Information Navigation keys General help Menu bar Sub-menu items Conîguration îelds Menu items
3-8 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.2.4 Menu items The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the speciîc items for that menu. For example, selecting Main shows the Main menu items. The other items (Advanced, Power , Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items. 3.2.5 Submenu items A solid triangle before each item on any menu screen means that the iteam has a submenu. T o display the submenu, select the item and press <Enter>. 3.2.6 Conîguration îelds These îelds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user-conîgurable, you can change the value of the îeld opposite the item. Y ou cannot select an item that is not user-conîgurable. A conîgurable îeld is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. T o change the value of a îeld, select it then press <Enter> to display a list of options. Refer to 3.2.7 Pop-up window . 3.2.7 Pop-up window Select a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the conîguration options for that item. 3.2.8 Scroll bar A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not ît on the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> / <Page Down> keys to display the other items on the screen. 3.2.9 General help At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Suspend Mode [Auto] ACPI Version Features [Disabled] ACPI APIC support [Enabled] APM Conî¿guration Hardware Monitor ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item - Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a î¿eld. Use [ ] or [-] to conî¿gure system Time. Scroll bar Disabled Pop-up window
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-9 3.3 Extreme Tweaker menu The Extreme T weaker menu items allow you to conîgure overclocking-related items. T ake caution when changing the settings of the Extreme T weaker menu items. Incorrect îeld values can cause the system to malfunction. The default values of the following items vary depending on the CPU and memory modules you install on the motherboard. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit OC tuner automatically overclocks CPU and DRAM frequency and voltage. Press ENTER to start tuning. (takes about 5 mins) ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit Conî¿gure System Performance Settings Target CPU Frequency: 3100MHZ Target DRAM Frequency: 1067MHZ CPU Level Up [Auto] ------------------------------------------------- OC Tuner Utility AI Overclock Tuner [Auto] CPU Ratio [Auto] DRAM Frequency [Auto] CPU/NB Frequency [Auto] HT Link Speed [Auto] DRAM Timing Conî¿guration DRAM Driving Conî¿guration ******** Please key in numbers directly! ******** CPU & NB Voltage Mode [Offset] CPU Offset Voltage 1.303 [Auto] CPU/NB Offset Voltage 1.164 [Auto] [Auto] CPU VDDA Voltage 2.474 [Auto] Scroll down to display the following items: v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. DRAM Voltage 1.488 [Auto] HT Voltage 1.191 [Auto] NB Voltage 1.098 [Auto] NB 1.8V Voltage 1.802 [Auto] SB Voltage 1.111 [Auto] VDDR Voltage 1.205 [Auto] VDDPCIE Voltage 1.113 [Auto] DRAM CTRL REF Voltage 0.500 [Auto] DRAM DATA REF Voltage 0.500 [Auto] *********************************************** CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto] CPU/NB Load-Line Calibration [Auto] CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto] PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto] 3.3.1 CPU Level Up [Auto] Allows you to select a CPU level, and the related parameters will be automatically adjusted according to the selected CPU level. ⢠The conîguration options vary depending on the CPU model you install on the motherboard. ⢠The CPU Level UP function support depends on CPU types.
3-10 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.3.2 OC T uner Utility OC T uner utility automatically overclocks the frequency and voltage of the CPU and DRAM. Press <Enter> to start auto tuning. It takes around îve minutes, and the system will reboot for several times until auto tuning is completed. 3.3.3 Ai Overclock T uner [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal frequency . Select any of these preset overclocking conîguration options: Manual Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters. Auto Loads the optimal settings for the system. D.O.C.P Allows you to select a DRAM O.C. proîle, and the related parameters will be adjusted automatically . CPU Level UP Allows you to select a CPU level, and the related parameters will be adjusted automatically . The conîguration options for the following sub-items vary depending on the CPU/DIMMs you install on the motherboard. OC From CPU Level UP [Auto] This item appears only when you set the Ai Overclock Tuner item to [Manual] and allows you to select a CPU level. The related parameters will be automatically adjusted according to the selected CPU level. CPU Bus Frequency [XXX] This item appears only when you set the Ai Overclock T uner item to [Manual] and displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and PCI displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and PCI bus. Use the < > and <-> keys to adjust the CPU Bus frequency . Y ou can also key in the desired frequency using the numeric keypad. The values range from 100 to 600. PCIE Frequency [XXX] This item appears only when you set the Ai Overclock T uner item to [Manual] and allows you to set the PCI Express frequency . Use the < > and <-> keys to allows you to set the PCI Express frequency . Use the < > and <-> keys to adjust the PCIE frequency . Y ou can also key in the desired value using the numeric keypad. The values range from 100 to 150. DRAM O.C. Proîle [DDR3-1600MHz] This item appears only when you set the Ai Overclock T uner item to [D.O.C.P .] and allows you to select a DRAM O.C. proîle, which applies different settings to DRAM frequency , DRAM timing and DRAM voltage. Conîguration options: [DDR3- 1600MHz] [DDR3-1800MHz] [DDR3-1866MHz] [DDR3-2000MHz]
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-1 1 Proîle Info : xxxxMHzâx-x-x-xx This item appears only when you set the Ai Overclock T uner item to [D.O.C.P .] and displays the current DRAM proîle information. The proîle information varies according to the DRAM O.C. Proîle youâve selected. 3.3.4 CPU Ratio [Auto] Allows you to set the ratio between the CPU Core Clock and the FSB Frequency . Use the < > and <-> keys to adjust the ratio. The valid value ranges vary according to your CPU model. 3.3.5 DRAM Frequency [Auto] Allows you to set the DDR3 operating frequency . The conîguration options vary with the CPU Bus Frequency item settings. Selecting a very high DRAM frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this happens, revert to the default setting. 3.3.6 CPU/NB Frequency [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU/NB frequency . Conîguration options: [Auto] [1200MHz] [1400MHz] [1600MHz] [1800MHz] [2000MHz] 3.3.7 HT Link Speed [Auto] Allows you to select the HyperT ransport link speed. Conîguration options: [Auto] [200MHz] [400MHz] [600MHz] [800MHz] [1000MHz] [1200MHz] [1400MHz] [1600MHz] [1800MHz] [2000MHz] 3.3.8 DRAM Timing Conîguration The conîguration options for some of the following items vary depending on the DIMMs you install on the motherboard. DRAM CAS# Latency [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] â [12 CLK] DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] â [12 CLK] [5 CLK] â [12 CLK] DRAM RAS# PRE Time [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] â [12 CLK] [5 CLK] â [12 CLK]
3-12 Chapter 3: BIOS setup DRAM RAS# ACT Time [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [15 CLK] â [30 CLK] [15 CLK] â [30 CLK] DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] DRAM Row Cycle Time [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [1 1 CLK] â [41 CLK] DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [8 CLK] [10 CLK] [12 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [8 CLK] [10 CLK] [12 CLK] DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] DRAM READ to WRITE Delay [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] â [17 CLK] [3 CLK] â [17 CLK] DRAM WRITE to READ Delay(DD) [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] â [10 CLK] [2 CLK] â [10 CLK] DRAM WRITE to READ Delay(SD) [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] DRAM WRITE to WRITE Timing [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] â [10 CLK] DRAM READ to READ Timing [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] â [10 CLK] DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [90ns] [1 10ns] [160ns] [300ns] [350ns] 1 10ns] [160ns] [300ns] [350ns] ] [160ns] [300ns] [350ns] [160ns] [300ns] [350ns] DRAM Refresh Rate [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Every 7.8ms] [Every 3.9ms] DRAM Command Rate [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [1T] [2T]
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-13 3.3.9 DRAM Driving Conîguration The conîguration options for some of the following items vary depending on the DIMMs you install on the motherboard. CKE drive strength [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] [2x] CS/ODT drive strength [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] [2x] ADDR/CMD drive strength [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] [2x] MEMCLK drive strength [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [0.75x] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] Data drive strength [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [0.75x] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] DQS drive strength [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [0.75x] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] Processor ODT [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [240 ohms /- 20%] [120 ohms /- 20%] [60 ohms /- 20%] Some of the following items are adjusted by typing the desired values using the numeric keypad and press the <Enter> key . Y ou can also use the < > and <-> keys to adjust the value. T o restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press the <Enter> key . 3.3.10 CPU & NB V oltage Mode [Offset] Allows you to set the CPU & CPU/NB V oltage Mode. Different sub-items appear according to the CPU & NB V oltage Mode item setting. Conîguration options: [Offset] [Manual] CPU Offset V oltage [Auto] This item appears only when you set the CPU & NB V oltage Mode item to [Offset] and allows you to set the CPU Offset voltage. The values range from 0.006250V to 0.700000V with a 0.006250V interval.
3-14 Chapter 3: BIOS setup CPU/NB Offset V oltage [Auto] This item appears only when you set the CPU & NB V oltage Mode item to [Offset] and allows you to set the CPU/NB Of fset voltage. The values range from 0.006250V to 0.700000V with a 0.006250V interval. CPU V oltage [Auto] This item appears only when you set the CPU & NB V oltage Mode item to [Manual] and allows you to set a îxed CPU voltage. CPU/NB V oltage [Auto] This item appears only when you set the CPU & NB V oltage Mode item to [Manual] and allows you to set a îxed CPU/NB voltage. 3.3.1 1 CPU VDDA V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the CPU VDDA voltage. The values range from 2.20000V to 3.18750V with a 0.01250V interval. 3.3.12 DRAM V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.20000V to 2.90000V with a 0.01250V interval. 3.3.13 HT V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the HyperT ransport voltage. The values range from 0.80000V to 2.00000V with a 0.01250V interval. 3.3.14 NB V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the Northbridge voltage. The values range from 0.80000V to 2.00000V with a 0.01250V interval. 3.3.15 NB 1.8V V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the Northbridge 1.8V voltage. The values range from 1.802000V to 3.007750V with a 0.013250V interval. 3.3.16 SB V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the Southbridge voltage. The values range from 1.1 13000V to 1.802000V with a 0.013250V interval. 3.3.17 VDDR V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the VDDR voltage. The values range from 1.205750V to 1.802000V with a 0.013250V interval.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-15 3.3.18 VDDPCIE V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the VDDPCIE voltage. The values range from 1.1 13000V to 2.000750V with a 0.013250V interval. The system may need better cooling system to work stably under high voltage settings. 3.3.19 DRAM CTRL REF V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the DRAM Control Reference V oltage The values range from The values range from 0.395x to 0.630x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM Different ratio might enhance DRAM overclocking ability . 3.3.20 DRAM DA T A REF V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the DRAM DA T A Reference Voltage The values range from The values range from 0.395x to 0.630x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM Different ratio might enhance DRAM overclocking ability . 3.3.21 CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU Load-Line mode. Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] 3.3.22 CPU/NB Load-Line Calibration [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU/NB Load-Line mode. Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] 3.3.23 CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto] [Auto] Automatic conîguration. [Disabled] Enhances the CPU overclocking ability . [Enabled] Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control. 3.3.24 PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto] [Auto] Automatic conîguration. [Disabled] Enhances the PCIE overclocking ability . [Enabled] Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.
3-16 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.4 Main menu When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an overview of the basic system information. 3.4.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx] Allows you to set the system time. 3.4.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx] Allows you to set the system date. 3.4.3 Language [English] Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options. Conîguration options: [ ç¹é«ä¸æ ] [ç°¡ä½ä¸æ ] [ æ¥æ¬èª ] [Français] [Deutsch] [English] Refer to section 3.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a î¿eld. Use [ ] or [-] to conî¿gure system Time. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item - Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit System Time [11:10:25] System Date [Tue 03/02/2010] Language [English] SATA1 [HDT722516DLA380] SATA2 [Not Detected] SATA3 [ATAPI DVD D DH1] SATA4 [Not Detected] SATA5 [Not Detected] SATA6 [Not Detected] Storage Conî¿guration System Information
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-17 3.4.4 S A T A 1 â 6 While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of Serial A T A devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SA T A device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to display the SA T A device information. The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device, V endor , Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and SMART monitoring). These values are not user-conîgurable. These items show [Auto] if no IDE device is installed in the system. T ype [Auto] Allows you to select the type of device installed. [Not Installed] Select this option if no device is installed. [Auto] Allows automatic selection of the appropriate device type. [CDROM] Select this option if you are speciîcally conîguring a CD-ROM drive. [ARMD] Select [ARMD] (A T API Removable Media Device) if your device is either a ZIP , LS-120, or MO drive. This item appears in SA T A 5/SA T A 6 only . LBA/Large Mode [Auto] Enables or disables the LBA (Logical Block Addressing) mode. [Auto] Select [Auto] to enable the LBA mode (Logical Block Addressing mode) if the device supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA mode disabled. [Disabled] Disable this function. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Main Select the type of device connected to the system. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item - Change Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit SATA 1 Device :Hard Disk Vendor :HDT722516DLA380 Size :164.7GB LBA Mode :Supported Block Mode:16Sectors PIO Mode :4 Async DMA :MultiWord DMA-2 Ultra DMA :Ultra DMA-5 SMART Monitoring:Supported Type [Auto] LBA/Large Mode [Auto] Block(Multi-Sector Transfer)M [Auto] PIO Mode [Auto] DMA Mode [Auto] SMART Monitoring [Auto] 32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]
3-18 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Block (Multi-Sector T ransfer) M [Auto] Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. [Auto] When set to [Auto], the data transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device supports multi-sector transfer feature. [Disabled] When set to [Disabled], the data transfer from and to the device occurs one sector at a time. PIO Mode [Auto] [Auto] Allows automatic selection of the PIO (Programmed input/o utput) modes, which correspond to different data transfer rates. [0] [1] â [4] Set the PIO mode to Mode 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4. DMA Mode [Auto] DMA (Direct Memory Access) allows your computer to transfer data to and from the hardware devices installed with much less CPU overhead. The DMA mode consists of SDMA (single-word DMA), MDMA (multi-word DMA), and UDMA (Ultra DMA). Setting to [Auto] allows automatic selection of the DMA mode, or you can select from the following options: [SWDMA1] [SWDMA2] [MWDMA0] [MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2] [UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5] SMART Monitoring [Auto] [Auto] Allows automatic selection of the S.M.A.R.T (Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting T echnology). [Enabled] Enable the S.M.A.R.T feature. [Disabled] Disable the S.M.A.R.T feature. 32Bit Data T ransfer [Enabled] [Enabled] Sets the IDE controller to combine two 16-bit reads from the hard disk into a single 32-bit double word transfer to the processor . This makes more efîcient use of the PCI bus as fewer transactions are needed for the transfer of a particular amount of data. [Disabled] Disable this function.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-19 OnChip SA T A Channel [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the onboard channel SA T A port. [Disabled] Disables the onboard channel SA T A port. The following two items appear only when you set the OnChip SA T A Channel item to [Enabled]. SA T A Port1âPort4 [IDE] Allows you to set the SA T A conîguration. [IDE] Set to [IDE] when you want to use the Serial A T A hard disk drives as Parallel A T A physical storage devices. [RAID] Set to [RAID] when you want to create a RAID conîguration from the SA T A hard disk drives. [AHCI] Set to [AHCI] when you want the SA T A hard disk drives to use the AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface). The AHCI allows the onboard storage driver to enable advanced Serial A T A features that increases storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to internally optimize the order of commands. SA T A Port5âPort6 [IDE] Setting this item to [IDE] instead of [RAID] or [AHCI] allows the system to recognize the optical drives connected to the SA T A connectors 5 or 6 whe n installing OS. ⢠When the SA T A Port1âPort 4 and the SA T A Port5âPort 6 items are set to [AHCI], the information of the SA T A connectors 1â6 can be seen only under the OS environment or during POST . ⢠For Windows ® XP OS, you have to install the AHCI driver, so that you could use the SA T A connectors 1â6 in AHCI mode under the OS environment. If you use a SA T A optical drive to run the OS installation disk, we strongly recommend that you install the optical drive to the SA T A connectors 5/6 and set them to [IDE] mode. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Main Storage Conî¿guration OnChip SATA Channel [Enabled] SATA Port1 - Port4 [IDE] SATA Port5 - Port6 [IDE] Options Disabled Enabled 3.4.5 Storage Conîguration The items in this menu allow you to set or change the conîgurations for the SA T A devices installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you want to conîgure the item.
3-20 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.4.6 System Information This menu gives you an overview of the general system speciîcations. The BIOS automatically detects the items in this menu. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Main ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit BIOS Information Version : 0215 Build Date: 02/23/10 Processor Type : AMD Athlon(tm) II X3 445 Processor Speed : 3100MHz System Memory Usable Size : 1023MB
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-21 3.5 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. 3.5.1 CPU Conîguration 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. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Conî¿gure CPU. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit CPU Conî¿guration Chipset Onboard Devices Conî¿guration USB Conî¿guration PCIPnP LED Control iROG Conî¿guration EC Conî¿guration ROG Connect v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit CPU Conî¿guration AGESA Version: 3.5.4.0 AMD Athlon(tm) II X3 445 Processor Revision: C3 Cache L1: 384 KB Cache L2: 1536 KB Cache L3: N/A Speed : 3100MHz uCode Patch Level : 0x1000B6 Microcode Updation [Enabled] Secure Virtual Machine Mode [Enabled] CoolânâQuiet [Enabled] ASUS Core Unlocker [Disabled] C1E Support [Disabled] Options Disabled Enabled
3-22 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Microcode Updation [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the microcode updation. [Disabled] Disables this function. Secure Virtual Machine [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the AMD Secure Virtual Machine. [Disabled] Disables this function. CoolânâQuiet [Enabled [Enabled] Enables the AMD CoolânâQuiet function. [Disabled] Disables this function. ASUS Core Unlocker [Disabled] [Enabled] Enables the ASUS Core Unlocker to get the full computing power of the processor . [Disabled] Disables this function. C1E Support [Disabled] [Enabled] Enables the C1E support function. This item should be enabled in order to enable the Enhanced Halt Sate. [Disabled] Disables this function. 3.5.2 Chipset The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced NorthBridge Chipset Conî¿guration DRAM Controller conî¿guration ECC Conî¿guration Primary Display Adapter [PCI-E] DRAM Controller Conîguration Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced DRAM Controller Conî¿guration Channel Interleaving [XOR of Address bit] MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled] Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled] DCT Unganged Mode [Always] Power Down Enable [Disabled]
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-23 ECC Conîguration Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced ECC Conî¿guration ECC Mode [Disabled] DRAM ECC Enable [Disabled] DRAM SCRUB REDIRECT [Disabled] 4-Bit ECC Mode [Disabled] DRAM BG Scrub [Disabled] Data Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] L2 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] L3 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] Set the level of ECC protection. Note: The âSuperâ ECC mode dynamically sets the DRAM scrub rate so all of memory is scrubbed in 8 hours. ECC Mode [Disabled] Disables or sets the DRAM ECC mode that allows the hardware to report and correct memory errors. [Disabled] Disables the DRAM ECC mode. [Basic] Set to [Basic] to adjust ECC mode automatically . [Good] Set to [Good] to adjust ECC mode automatically . [Super] Set to [Super] to adjust the DRAM BG Scrub sub-item manually . [Max] Set to [Max] to adjust ECC mode automatically . [User] Set to [User] to adjust all the subitems manually . Channel Interleaving [XOR of Address bit] Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Address bits 6] [Address bits 12] [XOR of Address bits [20:16, 6]] [XOR of Address bits [20:16, 9]] MemClk T ristate C3/A TL VID [Disabled] Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled] Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] DCT Unganged Mode [Always] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Always] Power Down Enable [Disabled] Enables or disables the DDR power down mode. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Power Down Mode [Channel] This item appears only when you enable the previous item and allows you to set the DDR power down mode. Conîguration options: [Channel] [Chip Select]
3-24 Chapter 3: BIOS setup The following items become user-conîgurable when you set ECC Mode to [User] DRAM ECC Enable [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the DRAM ECC that allows the hardware to report and correct memory errors automatically . [Disabled] Disables this function. DRAM SCRUB REDIRECT [Disabled] [Enabled] Allows the system to correct the DRAM ECC errors immediately when they occur . [Disabled] Disables this function. 4-Bit ECC Mode [Disabled] [Enabled] Enables ECC chip kill feature. [Disabled] Disables this function. DRAM BG SCRUB [Disabled] Disables or sets the DRAM BG Scrub. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [40ns] [80ns] [160ns] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us] [20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us] [1.31ms] [2.62ms] [5.24ms] [10.49ms] [20.97ms] [42.00ms] [84.00ms] Data Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] Disables or sets the Data Cache BG Scrub. This item allows the data cache BG Scrub RAM to be corrected when idle. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [40ns] [80ns] [160ns] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us] [20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us] [1.31ms] [2.62ms] [5.24ms] [10.49ms] [20.97ms] [42.00ms] [84.00ms] L2 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] Disables or sets the L2 Cache BG Scrub. This item allows the cache RAM to be corrected when idle. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [40ns] [80ns] [160ns] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us] [20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us] [1.31ms] [2.62ms] [5.24ms] [10.49ms] [20.97ms] [42.00ms] [84.00ms] L3 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] Disables or sets the L3 Cache BG Scrub. This item allows the cache RAM to be corrected when idle. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [40ns] [80ns] [160ns] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us] [20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us] [1.31ms] [2.62ms] [5.24ms] [10.49ms] [20.97ms] [42.00ms] [84.00ms] Primary Display Adapter [PCI-E] Allows you to select the graphics controller to use as the primary boot device. Conîguration options: [PCI-E] [PCI]
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-25 3.5.3 Onboard Device Conîguration Onboard Devices [Standard] [Standard] Enables standard onboard devices. [Disabled] Disables all onboard devices except the LAN controller . HD Audio Azalia Device [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the High Deînition Audio Controller . [Disabled] Disables the controller . Front Panel T ype [HD] [HD] Set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high- deînition audio. [AC97] Set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy ACâ97 SPDIF OUT T ype [SPDIF] [SPDIF] Sets to [SPDIF Output] for SPDIF audio output. [HDMI] Sets to [HDMI Output] for HDMI audio output. Onboard Lan [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the LAN controller . Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Onboard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] This item appears only when you enable the previous item. [Enabled] Enables the onboard LAN Boot ROM. [Disabled] Disables the onboard LAN Boot ROM. Onboard 1394 Controller [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the onboard 1394 Controller . [Disabled] Disables the controller . Onboard A T A Controller [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the onboard A T A controller. [Disabled] Disables the controller . Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced Onboard Devices Conî¿guration Onboard Device [Standard] HD Audio Azalia Device [Enabled] Front Panel Type [HD] SPDIF OUT Type [SPDIF] Onboard LAN [Enabled] Onboard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] Onboard 1394 Controller [Enabled] Onboard ATA Controller [Enabled] Onboard ATA Controller ROM [Enabled] Onboard USB 3.0 Controller [Enabled] Get your best overclocking record! âOnboard Deviceâ is to disable all the unnecessary devices when you want to reach your best overclocking record. But it will keep 1 lan port alive to submit your score.
3-26 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Onboard A T A Controller ROM [Enabled] This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled]. [Enabled] Enables the onboard A T A controller ROM. [Disabled] Disables the onboard A T A controller ROM. Onboard USB 3.0 Controller [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the USB 3.0 controller . [Disabled] Disables the controller . 3.5.4 USB Conîguration The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conîguration options. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced USB Conî¿guration Module Version - 2.24.5-13.4 USB Devices Enabled: 1 Keyboard USB Support [Enabled] Legacy USB Support [Auto] USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed] BIOS EHCI Hand-off [Enabled] Enable support for all USB ports. The USB Devices Enabled item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None. USB Support [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the USB Host Controllers. [Disabled] Disables the controllers. The following items appear only when you set USB Functions to [Enabled]. Legacy USB Support [Auto] [Disabled] Disables the function. [Enabled] Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS). [Auto] Allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-27 USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed] [FullSpeed] Set the USB 2.0 controller mode to FullSpeed (12 Mbps). [HiSpeed] Set the USB 2.0 controller mode to HiSpeed (480 Mbps). The USB 2.0 Controller Mode item appears only when you enable the USB 2.0 Controller . BIOS EHCI Hand-off [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand-off feature. [Disabled] Disables the function. 3.5.5 PCIPnP The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices. Plug And Play O/S [No] [Y es] When set to [Y es] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system conîgures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot. [No] When set to [No], BIOS conîgures all the devices in the system. Advanced PCI/PnP Settings WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction. Plug And Play O/S [No] Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced 3.5.6 LED Control Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced LED Control All LED Control [Enabled] POST State LEDs [Enabled] Voltiminder LED [Enabled] CPU LED Selection [CPU] NB LED Selection [NB] SB LED Selection [SB] DDR LED Selection [DRAM] All LED Control [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the onboard LEDs control. Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] The following items appear only when you set All LED Control to [Enabled].
3-28 Chapter 3: BIOS setup POST State LEDs [Enabled] [Enabled] T urn on onboard device LEDs in the order of the device POST sequence. [Disabled] Disables this function. V oltiminder LED [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the onboard V oltiminder LED. Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] CPU LED Selection [CPU] Allows you to switch the onboard CPU LED display between CPU voltage [CPU], CPU/NB voltage [CPU/NB] and CPU VDDA voltage [CPU VDDA]. Conîguration options: [CPU] [CPU/NB] [CPU VDDA] NB LED Selection [NB] Allows you to switch the onboard northbridge LED display . Conîguration options: [NB] [NB 1.8V] [VDDPCIE] SB LED Selection [SB] Allows you to switch the onboard southbridge LED display . Conîguration options: [SB] [HT] DDR LED Selection [DRAM] Allows you to switch the onboard DDR LED display . Conîguration options: [DRAM] [VDDR] 3.5.7 iROG Conîguration iROG Timer Keeper [Last State] Allows you to set the iROG T ime Keeper operation mode. Conîguration options: [Last State] [Disabled] [Enabled] Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced iROG Timer Keeper System will record using time every 1 minute iROG Conî¿guration iROG ID_Number Information iROG_1 ID_Number: 21 iROG_2 ID_Number: 2 iROG Timer Keeper [Last State] Current Operation time: Total Operation time: 3.5.8 EC Conîguration Shows EC BIOS information. This item is not user-conîgurable.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-29 3.5.9 ROG Connect ROG Connect [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the ROG Connect function. Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] RC Poster Mode [String] Allows you to select the RC Poster mode. Conîguration options: [String] [Code] Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced ROG Connect [Enabled] RC Poster Mode [String] Options Enabled Disabled
3-30 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.6 Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conîguration options. 3.6.1 Suspend Mode [Auto] Allows you to select the Advanced Conîguration and Power Interface (ACPI) state to be used for system suspend. [S1 (POS) only] Sets the ACPI suspend mode to S1/POS (Power On Suspend). [S3 only] Sets the ACPI suspend mode to S3/STR (Suspend T o RAM). [Auto] The system automatically conîgures the ACPI suspend mode. 3.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume [No] Determines whether to invoke VGA BIOS POST on S3/STR resume. [No] The system will not invoke VGA BIOS POST on S3/STR resume. [Y es] The system invokes VGA BIOS POST on S3/STR resume. 3.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled] [Disabled] When set to [Disabled], the system will not add additional tables as per ACPI 2.0 speciîcations. [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the system adds additional tables as per ACPI 2.0 speciîcations. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit Suspend Mode [Auto] Repost Video on S3 Resume [No] ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled] ACPI APIC Support [Enabled] APM Conî¿guration Hardware Monitor
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-31 3.6.5 APM Conîguration EuP Ready [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables the Energy Using Products (EuP) Ready function. [Enabled] Allows BIOS to switch off some power at S5 state to get system ready for the EuP requirement. When set to [Enabled], power for WOL, WO_USB, audio and onboard LEDs will be switched off at S5 state. Restore On AC Power Loss [Power Off] [Power Off] The system goes into off state after an AC power loss. [Power On] The system goes into on state after an AC power loss. [Last State] The system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was before the AC power loss. Power On By PCI/PCIE Device [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables the PME to wake up from S5 by PCI/PCIE devices. [Enabled] Allows you to turn on the system through a PCI/PCIE LAN or modem card. This feature requires an A TX power supply that provides at least 1A on the 5VSB lead. Power On By PS/2 Devoces [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables the Power On by a PS/2 devices. [Enabled] Enables the Power On by a PS/2 devices. This feature requires an A TX power supply that provides at least 1A on the 5VSB lead. 3.6.4 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Conîguration and Power Interface (ACPI) support in the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). [Disabled] When set to [Disabled], the system disable the Advanced Conîguration and Power Interface (ACPI) support in the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list. APM Conî¿guration EuP Ready [Disabled] Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off] Power On By PCI/PCIE Device [Disabled] Power On By PS/2 Devices [Disabled] PS/2 Devices [Disabled] Power On By Ring [Disabled] Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled] Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Power
3-32 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Power On By Ring [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables to power up the computer when the external modem receives a call while the computer is in Soft-off mode. [Enabled] The computer could be powered up when the external modem receives a call while the computer is in Soft-off mode. The computer cannot receive or transmit data until the computer and applications are fully running. Thus, connection cannot be made on the îrst try . T urning an external modem off and then back on while the computer is of f causes an initialization string that turns the system power on. Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables R TC to generate a wake event. [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the items RTC Alarm Date (Days) and RTC Alarm Time (HH:MM:SS) will become user-conîgurable with set values. 3.6.6 Hardware Monitor Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Advanced Hardware Monitor Voltage Monitor Temperature Monitor Fan Speed Monitor Fan Speed Control Voltage Monitor V oltage Monitor CPU V oltage; CPU/NB V oltage; CPU VDDA V oltage; DRAM V oltage; HT V oltage; NB V oltage; SB V oltage; 3.3V V oltage; 5V V oltage; 12V V oltage The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard voltage regulators. T emperature Monitor CPU T emperature; MB T emperature; NB T emperature; SB T emperature; OPT TEMP 1/2/3 T emperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU, motherboard, northbridge, southbridge, and the assigned devices temperatures. Select [Ignored] if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures. MB overheat Protection [90ºC] SB overheat Protection; NB overheat protection [100ºC] The system automatically shuts down when the motherboard, northbridge or southbridge chipset is heated over the set temperature to protect it from damage. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [70ºC] [80ºC] [90ºC] [100ºC]
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-33 CPU Q-Fan Function [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the CPU fan controller . [Disabled] Disables the CPU Q-fan controller . [Enabled] Enables the CPU Q-fan controller . The following items appear only when you set CPU Q-Fan Function to [Enabled]. CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [200 RPM] A warning message will appear to remind you that the CPU fan speed is lower than the selected value. Conîguration options: [500RPM] [400RPM] [300RPM] [200RPM] [100RPM] [Ignored] Select Fan T ype: [PWM Fan] [PWM Fan] Sets to [PWM Fan] when using a 4-pin CPU fan. [DC Fan] Sets to [DC Fan] when using a 3-pin CPU fan. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Power Fan Speed Control CPU Q-Fan Function [Disabled] Chassis Q-Fan Function [Disabled] Power Fan Control [Disabled] OPT Fan 1 Control [Disabled] [Disabled] OPT Fan 2 Control [Disabled] OPT Fan 3 Control [Disabled] Disable/Enable Q-Fan functions of CPU fan OPT TEMP 1/2/3 Overheat Protection [90ºC] Allows you to set the temperature over which the system automatically shuts down when any of the thermal sensor cables connected to the motherboard detects device overheat to protect the device from damage. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [70ºC] [80ºC] [90ºC] [100ºC] Fan Speed Monitor CPU Fan; Power Fan; Chassis Fan 1/2/3; OPT Fan 1/2/3 Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU fan, chassis fan, power fan, and optional fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If any of the fans is not connected to the motherboard, the îeld shows [N/A]. These items are not user-conîgurable. Fan Speed Control
3-34 Chapter 3: BIOS setup CPU Q-Fan Mode [Silent] [Performance] Sets to [Performance] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed. [Optimal] Sets to [Optimal] to make the CPU fan automatically adjust depending on the CPU temperature. [Silent] Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.] [Manual] Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters. Chassis Q-Fan Function [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the Chassis fan controller . [Disabled] Disables the Chassis Q-fan controller . [Enabled] Enables the Chassis Q-fan controller . The following items appear only when you set Chassis Q-Fan Function to [Enabled]. Chassis Fan Speed Low Limit [200 RPM] A warning message will appear to remind you that the CPU fan speed is lower than the selected value. Conîguration options: [500RPM] [400RPM] [300RPM] [200RPM] [100RPM] [Ignored] Chassis Q-Fan Mode [Silent] [Performance] Sets to [Performance] to achieve maximum Chassis fan speed. [Optimal] Sets to [Optimal] to make the Chassis fan automatically adjust depending on the Chassis temperature. [Silent] Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet Chassis fan operation.] [Manual] Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters. Power Fan Control [Disabled] Allows you to select the power fan control mode. Whe n t his it em is set to [Du ty Mod e], yo u can conîg ure the P ower F an Dut y ite m. Power Fan Duty [50%] Allows you to set the fan duty cycle. Conîguration options: [40%] [50%] [60%] [70%] [80%] [90%] OPT Fan 1/2/3 Control [Disabled] All ows yo u to s elect the o ptiona l fan contro l mod e. When t his it em is se t t o [Du ty Mod e], yo u can conîg ure the O PT Fan 1/2/3 Duty item. If yo u set th is ite m to [ User M ode], you a re allowe d to c onîgu re the OPT F an 1/2 /3 Low Spe ed T emp an d OPT Fan 1/ 2/3 F ull Sp eed T emp i tem. Con îgurat ion op tions: [Dis abled] [Duty Mode] [Use r M ode]
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-35 Y ou need to connect the thermal sensor cables to the OPT_TEMP1/2/3 connectors to enable this function. OPT Fan 1/2/3 Duty [50%] Allows you to set the fan duty cycle. This item appears when the OPT Fan 1/2/3 Control item is set to [Duty Mode]. Conîguration options: [40%] [50%] [60%] [70%] [80%] [90%] OPT Fan 1/2/3 Low Speed T emp [25ËC] Allows you to set the temperature at which the power fan rotates at low speed. This item appears when the OPT Fan 1/2/3 Control item is set to [User Mode]. Conîguration options: [25ËC] [30ËC] [35ËC] [40ËC] OPT Fan 1/2/3 Full Speed T emp [60ËC] Allows you to set the temperature at which the power fan rotates at full speed. This item appears when the OPT Fan 1/2/3 Control item is set to [User Mode]. Conîguration options: [60ËC] [70ËC] [80ËC] [90ËC]
3-36 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.7 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. 1stâxxth Boot Device [xxx Drive] 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. Conîguration options: [xxx Drive] [Disabled] v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Speciî¿es the Boot Device Priority sequence. A virtual îoppy disk drive (Floppy Drive B: ) may appear when you set the CD-ROM drive as the î¿rst boot device. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit Boot Settings Boot Device Priority Boot Settings Conî¿guration Security 3.7.1 Boot Device Priority Boot Device Priority 1st Boot Device [Removable Dev.] 2nd Boot Device [Hard Drive] 3rd Boot Device [ATAPI CD-ROM] Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Boot 3.7.2 Boot Settings Conîguration Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Boot Boot Settings Conî¿guration Quick Boot [Enabled] Full Screen Logo [Enabled] AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS] Bootup Num-Lock [On] Wait for âF1â if Error [Enabled] Hit âDELâ Message Display [Enabled] Allows BIOS to skip certain tests while booting. This will decrease the time needed to boot the system.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-37 Quick Boot [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the Quick Boot function. [Disabled] When set to [Disabled], BIOS performs all the POST items. [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], BIOS skips some power on self tests (POST) while booting to decrease the time needed to boot the system. Full Screen Logo [Enabled] This allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature. [Enabled] Enables the full screen logo display feature. [Disabled] Disables the full screen logo display feature. Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo3⢠feature. AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS] Sets the display mode for option ROM. [Force BIOS] [Keep Current] . Bootup Num-Lock [On] Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock. [On] Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [On]. [Off] Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [Off]. W ait for âF1â If Error [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the system waits for the <F1> key to be pressed when error occurs. Hit âDEL â Message Display [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the system displays the message âPress DEL to run Setupâ during POST .
3-38 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Change Supervisor Password Select this item to set or change the supervisor password. The Supervisor Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed . After you set a password, this item shows Installed. T o set a Supervisor Password: 1. Select the Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>. 2. From the password box, key in a password composed of at least six letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>. 3. Conîrm the password when prompted. The message Password Installed appears after you successfully set your password. T o change the supervisor password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password. T o clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then press <Enter>. The message Password Uninstalled appears. If you have forgotten your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real T ime Clock (RTC) RAM. See section 2.6 Jumper for information on how to erase the RTC RAM. After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change other security settings. 3.7.3 Security The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conîguration options. Security Settings Supervisor Password : Not Installed User Password : Not Installed Change Supervisor Password Change User Passward Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Boot <Enter> to change password. <Enter> again to disable password.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-39 User Access Level [Full Access] This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items. [No Access] Prevents user access to the Setup utility . [View Only] Allows access but does not allow change to any îeld. [Limited] Allows changes only to selected îelds, such as Date and T ime. [Full Access] Allows viewing and changing all the îelds in the Setup utility . Change User Password Select this item to set or change the user password. The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed. T o set a User Password: 1. Select the Change User Password item and press <Enter>. 2. On the password box that appears, type a password composed of at least six letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>. 3. Conîrm the password when prompted. The message Password Installed appears after you set your password successfully . T o change the user password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password. Clear User Password Select this item to clear the user password. Password Check [Setup] [Setup] BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup utility . [Always] BIOS checks for user password both when accessing Setup and booting the system. After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change other security settings. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Boot Security Settings Supervisor Password :Installed User Password :Installed Change Supervisor Password User Access Level [Full Access] Change User Password Password Check [Setup] <Enter> to change password. <Enter> again to disabled password.
3-40 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a conîrmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Y es] or [No], then press <Enter> to conîrm your choice. For more details, refer to section 3.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility . ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V4.14 Current ROM Update ROM A: Note [Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info [Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [Esc] Exit PATH: A:\ BOARD: Crosshair-IV-Formula VER: 0215 DATE: 02/23/2010 BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown 3.8 Tools menu The T ools menu items allow you to conîgure options for special functions. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Press ENTER to run the utility to select and update BIOS. This utility supports 1.FAT 12/16/32 (r/w) 2.NTFS (read only) 3.CD-DISC (read only) ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS O.C. Proî¿le Go Button File AI NET 2
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-41 3.8.2 ASUS O.C. Proîle This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. Add Y our CMOS Proîle Allows you to save the current BIOS île to the BIOS Flash. In the Name sub-item, type your proîle name and press <Enter>, and then choose a proîle number to save your CMOS settings in the Save to sub-item. Load CMOS Proîles Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Press <Enter>, and choose a proîle to load. Start O.C. Proîle All ows yo u to r un the util ity to sa ve and load CM OS. Press <Ente r> to ru n t he uti lity . ASUSTeK O.C. Proî¿le Utility V2.14 Restore CMOS A: Note [Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info [Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [Esc] Exit PATH: A:\ BOARD: Crosshair-IV-Formula VER: 0215 DATE: 02/23/2010 BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown Current CMOS v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Tools Typing your proî¿le name, [0-9][a-z][A-Z] are acceptable. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit O.C. PROFILE Conî¿guration O.C. Proî¿le 1 Status : Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 2 Status : Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 3 Status : Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 4 Status : Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 5 Status : Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 6 Status : Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 7 Status : Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 8 Status : Not Installed Add Your CMOS Proî¿le. Name: [Default-Proî¿le] Save To: [Uninstalled] Load CMOS Proî¿les. Load From: [Blank] Start O.C. Proî¿le
3-42 Chapter 3: BIOS setup ⢠This function supports devices such as a USB îash disk (F A T 32/16 format) or a îoppy disk with single partition only . ⢠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 île only coming from the same memory/CPU conîguration and BIOS version. ⢠Only the CMO île can be loaded. 3.8.3 Go Button File This menu allows you to set and save system parameters, which will be loaded when pressing the Go Button. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Tools Save TweakIt Batch File ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit Go Button File Current Settings BCLK Speed: 200MHz PCIE Speed: 100MHz CPU Voltage: 1.303V CPU/NB Voltaeg: 1.158V CPU VDDA Voltage: 2.474V DRAM Voltage: 1.488V HT Voltage: 1.191V NB Voltage: 1.098V NB 1.8V Voltage: 1.802V SB Voltage: 1.111V VDDR Voltage: 1.205V VDDPCIE Voltage: 1.113V Frequency Controller [Disabled] CPU Ratio [Auto] CPU Voltage [Auto] CPU/NB Voltage [Auto] Scroll down to display the following items: v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. CPU VDDA Voltage [Auto] DRAM Voltage [Auto] HT Voltage [Auto] NB Voltage [Auto] NB 1.8V Voltage [Auto] SB Voltage [Auto] VDDR Voltage [Auto] VDDPCIE Voltage [Auto] Save Above Settings Load Default Settings
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 3-43 Frequency Controller; CPU Ratio; CPU V oltage; CPU/NB V oltage; CPU VDDA V oltage; DRAM V oltage; HT V oltage; NB V oltage; NB 1.8V V oltage; SB V oltage; VDDR V oltage; VDDPCIE V oltage Allows you to use the < > and <-> keys to adjust the values for each item. Refer to 3.3 Extreme T weaker Menu for details. Save Above Settings Allows you to save the adjusted values for speciîc items as a Go Button batch île. Load Default Settings Allows you to load the default system settings. 3.8.4 AI NET 2 Check Marvell LAN cable [Disabled] Enables or disables checking of the LAN cable during the Power-On Self-T est (POST). Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Tools Ai Net 2 Pair Status Length Check Marvell LAN cable [Disabled] Check Marvell LAN cable during POST.
3-44 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.9 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options from this menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit. Exit & Save Changes Once you are înished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard backup battery sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turned off. When you select this option, a conîrmation window appears. Select YES to save changes and exit. If you attempt to exit the Setup program without saving your changes, the program prompts you with a message asking if you want to save your changes before exiting. Press <Enter> to save the changes while exiting. Exit & Discard Changes Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to the Setup program. If you made changes to îelds other than System Date, System T ime, and Password, the BIOS asks for a conîrmation before exiting. Discard Changes This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the previously saved values. After selecting this option, a conîrmation appears. Select YES to discard any changes and load the previously saved values. Load Setup 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 conîrmation window appears. Select YES to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes or make other changes before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM. v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Crosshair IV Formula BIOS Setup Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Exit system setup after saving the changes. F10 key can be used for this operation. ââ Select Screen ââ Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit Exit Options Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes Load Setup Defaults
4 Software support This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package and the software.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula Chapter summary 4 4.1 Installing an operating system ................................................... 4-1 4.2 Support DVD information ............................................................ 4-1 4.3 Software information ................................................................... 4-7 4.4 RAID conîgurations .................................................................. 4-28 4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk ....................................................... 4-33
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-1 If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer , browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the île ASSETUP .EXE from the BIN folder . Double-click the ASSETUP .EXE to run the DVD. 4.1 Installing an operating system This motherboard supports Windows ® XP/ 64-bit XP/ Vista / 64-bit V ista / 7 / 64-bit 7 operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware. 4.2 Support DVD information Th e s upp ort D VD th at ca me wi th the m ot her boa rd p ack age co nt ai ns the dr iv ers , so ftw are ap pl ic ati ons , an d u til iti es t hat yo u ca n i nst all t o ava il all m oth erb oar d f eat ure s. 4.2.1 Running the support DVD Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer . ⢠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 Windows ® XP Service Pack 2 or later versions before installing the drivers for better compatibility and system stability . 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. The Drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to use the devices. The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. 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. Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. Click an icon to display DVD/ motherboard information Click an item to install Click to obtain the corresponding software manuals
4-2 Chapter 4: Software support 4.2.2 Drivers menu The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices. AMD Chipset Driver Installs the AMD ® chipset drivers. VIA Audio Driver Installs the VIA Audio driver . Sound Blaster X-Fi Installs the Sound Blaster X-Fi driver . JMicron JMB36X Controller Driver Installs the JMicron ® controller driver . Marvell Y ukon Gigabit Ethernet Driver Installs the Marvell ® Y ukon Gigabit Ethernet driver . USB 3.0 Driver Installs USB 3.0 driver . ASUS EPU Installs the ASUS EPU driver and utility . ASUS T urboV EVO Installs ASUS T urboV , the advanced overclocking tool for extreme O.C. re cord. Browser Conîguration Utility Installs the Browser Conîguration utility .
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-3 4.2.3 Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. AMD OverDrive Utility (AOD) Installs AMD OverDrive utility . ASUS Update The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in Windows ® environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP). ASUS AI Suite Installs the ASUS AI Suite. Adobe Reader 9 Installs the Adobe ® Reader that allows you to open, view , and print documents in Portable Document Format (PDF). ASUS PC Probe II This smart utility monitors the fan speed, CPU temperature, and system voltage, and alerts you of any detected problems. This utility helps you keep your computer in healthy operating condition. ASUS ROG Connect Y ou can use this software to control the performance of machine remotely , and to monitor its variation of each item immediately . ASUS ROG GameFirst Y ou can use this software to adjust network îow speed between different applications.
4-4 Chapter 4: Software support 4.2.4 Make disk menu The Make disk menu contains items to create the AMD RAID driver disk. AMD AHCI/RAID 32/64bit WinXP Driver Allows you to create an AMD AHCI/RAID 32/64 bit WinXP Driver disk. 4.2.5 Manual menu The Manuals menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to open the folder of the user manual. Most user manual îles are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe ® Acrobat ® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening a user manual île.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-5 4.2.6 ASUS Contact information Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. Y ou can also înd this information on the inside front cover of this user guide. 4.2.7 Other information The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on the motherboard and the contents of the support DVD. Click an icon to display the speciîed information. Motherboard Info Displays the general speciîcations of the motherboard.
4-6 Chapter 4: Software support Browse this DVD Displays the support DVD contents in graphical format. Filelist Di spl ays th e co nte nts o f the su ppo rt D VD and a b rie f d esc ri pt ion of ea ch in te xt for mat .
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-7 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 île that came with the software application for more information. 4.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3⢠The ASUS MyLogo3⢠utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the image that appears on screen during the Power-On Self-T ests (POST). The ASUS MyLogo3⢠is automatically installed when you install the ASUS Update utility from the support DVD. See section 4.2.3 Utilities menu for details. T o launch the ASUS MyLogo3â¢: â¢: : 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility . Refer to section 3.1.1 ASUS Update utility for details. 2. Select Options from the drop down menu, then click Next. 3. Check the option Launch MyLogo to replace system boot logo before îashing BIOS, then click Next . 4. Select Update BIOS from a île from the drop down menu, then click Next. 5. When prompted, locate the new BIOS île, then click Next . The ASUS MyLogo window appears. 6. From the left window pane, select the folder that contains the image you intend to use as your boot logo. ⢠Before using the ASUS MyLogo3 ⢠, use the ASUS Update utility to make a copy of your original BIOS île, or obtain the latest BIOS version from the ASUS website. See section 3.1.1 ASUS Update utility . ⢠Ensure that the BIOS item Full Screen Logo is set to [Enabled] if you wish to use ASUS MyLogo3â¢. See section 3.7.2 Boot Settings Conîguration. ⢠Y ou can create your own boot logo image in GIF île formats.
4-8 Chapter 4: Software support 9. When the screen returns to the ASUS Update utility , îash the original BIOS to load the new boot logo. 10. After îashing the BIOS, restart the computer to display the new boot logo during POST . 8. Adjust the boot image to your desired size by selecting a value on the Ratio box. 7. When the logo images appear on the right window pane, select an image to enlarge by clicking on it.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-9 4.3.2 Sound Blaster X-Fi audio utility With the SupremeFX X-Fi technology supported, you will be able to enjoy excellent audio quality and experience realistic sound effects through the audio codec and Sound Blaster X-Fi interface. Activating X-Fiâs CMSS3D, Crystalizer , and EAX will deliver accurate virtual surround sound and enhanced audio dynamics, which amount to ultimate gaming experience. T o install Sound Blaster X-Fi: 1. Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature. 2. Click the Drivers tab and click VIA Audio Driver . 3. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. 4. Click the support DVD Drivers tab and click Sound Blaster X-Fi. 5. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. Y ou need to install VIA Audio Driver to use Sound Blaster X-Fi audio utility . Double-click the V olume Panel icon to launch the Mixer control panel. Click Main Display to go to the Main Panel. If the Sound Blaster X-Fi audio utility is successfully installed, you will înd the V olume Panel icon on the notiîcation area. Click the V olume Panel icon to display a list of Creative ® media utilities that help you manage and play your media îles. Click Help in each utility control panel to know more about them.
4-10 Chapter 4: Software support Main Panel The Main Panel displays all the features and functions the SupremeFX X-Fi supports. Click each icon to conîgure the following settings (from left to right): Speakers and Headphone, EAX Effects, X-Fi CMSS-3D, X-Fi Crystalizer , Smart V olume Management, Graphic Equalizer , and Mixer . Minimize Exit Help Click to restore default settings Click to mute volume Drag to adjust volume Click each icon to conîgure further settings Speakers and Headphone Panel This panel allows you to conîgure speakers/headphone settings including bass management and speaker volume. Y ou can also test each speaker channel. Click to test speaker sound in turn Click to test speaker noise in turn Click to select a speaker type Click to adjust bass Click to adjust volume of each speaker
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-1 1 EAX Effects Panel This panel contains environment effects that you can select to obtain a sense of realism during interactive 3D games. Click to enable EAX Effects X-Fi CMSS-3D Panel This panel allows you to conîgure 3D virtual surround effects. Click to select an environment Drag to adjust effects amount Click to enable X-Fi 3D Virtual effects Drag to adjust effects Click to select an upmix mode (appears when using 4/4.1/5.1/7.1 Speakers) X-Fi Crystalizer Panel Enable X-Fi Crystalizer to obtain more audio dynamics. Click to enable X-Fi Crystalizer Drag to adjust effects
4-12 Chapter 4: Software support Smart V olume Management Panel Enable Smart V olume Management (SVM) to avoid large volume îuctuations. Click to switch on/off SVM Graphic Equalizer Panel This panel allows you to customize equalizer settings or select an EQ presets. Click to select an EQ preset Click to save settings Click to enable EQ Drag to customize effects Mixer Panel This panel allows you to select a recording device and adjust recording/playback devices volume. Click to adjust volume Click to mute volume Drag to adjust volume Click to select a recording device
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-13 4.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II PC Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer âs vital components, and detects and alerts you of any problem with these components. PC Probe II senses fan rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others. Because PC Probe II is software-based, you can start monitoring your computer the moment you turn it on. With this utility , you are assured that your computer is always at a healthy operating condition. Installing PC Probe II T o install PC Probe II on your computer: 1. Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature. If Autorun is not enabled in your computer , browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the setup.exe île from the ASUS PC Probe II folder . Double-click the setup.exe île to start installation. 2. Click the Utilities tab, then click ASUS PC Probe II. 3. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. Launching PC Probe II Y ou can launch the PC Probe II right after installation or anytime from the Windows ® desktop. T o launch the PC Probe II from the Windows ® desktop, click Start > All Programs > ASUS > PC Probe II > PC Probe II v1.xx.xx . The PC Probe II main window appears. After launching the application, the PC Probe II icon appears in the Windows ® taskbar . Click this icon to close or restore the application. Using PC Probe II Main window The PC Probe II main window allows you to view the current status of your system and change the utility conîguration. By default, the main window displays the Preference section. Y ou can close or restore the Preference section by clicking on the triangle on the main window right handle. Click to close the Preference panel
4-14 Chapter 4: Software support Button Function Opens the Conîguration window Opens the Report window Opens the Desktop Management Interface window Opens the Peripheral Component Interconnect window Opens the Windows Management Instrumentation window Opens the hard disk drive, memory , CPU usage window Shows/Hides the Preference section Minimizes the application Closes the application Sensor alert When a system sensor detects a problem, the main window right handle turns red, as the illustrations below show . When displayed, the monitor panel for that sensor also turns red. Refer to the Monitor panels section for details. Preferences Y ou can customize the application using the Preference section in the main window . Click the box before each preference to activate or deactivate.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-15 Changing the monitor panels position T o change the position of the monitor panels in the desktop, click the arrow down button of the Scheme options, then select another position from the list box. Click OK when înished. Moving the monitor panels All monitor panels move together using a magnetic effect. If you want to detach a monitor panel from the group, click the horseshoe magnet icon. Y ou can now move or reposition the panel independently . Hardware monitor panels The hardware monitor panels display the current value of a system sensor such as fan rotation, CPU temperature, and voltages. The hardware monitor panels come in two display modes: hexagonal (large) and rectangular (small). When you check the Enable Monitoring Panel option from the Preference section, the monitor panels appear on your computer âs desktop. Large display Small display Click to increase value Click to decrease value Adjusting the sensor threshold value Y ou can adjust the sensor threshold value in the monitor panel by clicking the or buttons. Y ou can also adjust the threshold values using the Conîg window . Y ou cannot adjust the sensor threshold values in a small monitoring panel.
4-16 Chapter 4: Software support Monitoring sensor alert The monitor panel turns red when a component value exceeds or is lower than the threshold value. Refer to the illustrations below . Large display Small display WMI browser Click to display the WMI (Windows Management Instrumentation) browser . This browser displays various Windows® management information. Click an item from the left panel to display on the right panel. Click the plus sign ( ) before WMI Information to display the available information. Y ou can enlarge or reduce the browser size by dragging the bottom right corner of the browser . DMI browser Click to display the DMI (Desktop Management Interface) browser . This browser displays various desktop and system information. Click the plus sign ( ) before DMI Information to display the available information.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-17 PCI browser Click to display the PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) browser . This browser provides information on the PCI devices installed on your system. Click the plus sign ( ) before the PCI Information item to display available information. Usage The Usage browser displays real-time information on the CPU, hard disk drive space, and memory usage. Click to display the Usage browser . CPU usage The CPU tab displays real- time CPU usage in line graph representation. If the CPU has an enabled Hyper-Threading, two separate line graphs display the operation of the two logical processors. Hard disk drive space usage The Hard Disk tab displays the used and available hard disk drive space. The left panel of the tab lists all logical drives. Click a hard disk drive to display the information on the right panel. The pie chart at the bottom of the window represents the used (blue) and the available HDD space.
4-18 Chapter 4: Software support Memory usage The Memory tab shows both used and available physical memory . The pie chart at the bottom of the window represents the used (blue) and the available physical memory . Conîguring PC Probe II Click to view and adjust the sensor threshold values. The Conîg window has two tabs: Sensor/Threshold and Preference. The Sensor/ Threshold tab enables you to activate the sensors or to adjust the sensor threshold values. The Preference tab allows you to customize sensor alerts, or change the temperature scale. Loads the default threshold values for each sensor Applies your changes Cancels or ignores your changes Lo ad s y ou r s av ed co nî gur at ion Saves your conîguration
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-19 4.3.4 ASUS AI Suite ASUS AI Suite allows you to launch several ASUS utilities easily . Launching AI Suite 1. Install AI Suite from the motherboard support DVD. 2. Launch AI Suite by clicking Start > All Programs > ASUS > AI Suite > AI Suite v1.xx.xx . The AI Suite main window appears. 3. The AI Suite icon appears in the Windows ® notiîcation area. If you minimize the application main window , click this icon to restore the window . Using AI Suite Click each utility button to launch the utility , or click the Normal button to restore system default settings. Click to launch each utility Click to restore default settings Click to open the monitor window that displays system information such as CPU temperature, CPU voltage, fan speed, and CPU/FSB frequency ⢠The screenshots in this section are for reference only . The actual utility buttons vary by models. ⢠Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www .asus.com for detailed software conîguration.
4-20 Chapter 4: Software support 4.3.5 ASUS Fan Xpert Asus Fan Xpert allows you to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan speeds according to different ambient temperatures and your PCâ s system loading. The various fan proîles offer îexible controls of fan speeds to achieve a quiet and cool system environment. Launching Fan Xpert After installing AI Suite from the motherboard support DVD, launch Fan Xpert by double-clicking the AI Suite tray icon and then clicking the Fan Xpert button on the AI Suite main window . Using Fan Xpert Fan proîles ⢠Disable: Select this mode to disable the Fan Xpert function. ⢠Performance: This mode boosts the fan to achieve maximal fan speed for the best cooling effect ⢠Optimal: This mode adjusts the CPU fan speed with the ambient temperature. ⢠Silent: This mode minimizes fan speed for quiet fan operation. ⢠Manual: This mode allows you to change the CPU fan proîle under certain limitation. Displays the current CPU/MB temperature and the fan speeds Click to cancel the settings and exit the Fan Xpert utility Click to select a fan type Click to select a fan proîle Click to apply the settings
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-21 4.3.6 CPU Level Up The CPU Level Up allows you to overclock immediately with OC proîle presets in WIndows ® environment without the hassle of entering BIOS. After installing AI Suite from the bundled Support DVD, launch the utility by double- clicking the AI Suite icon in th e W ind ows in th e W ind ows ® no tiî cat ion ar ea and click the CPU and click the CPU Level Up button on the AI Suite main window . Click to select a CPU level Click to apply the selected CPU level Click to exit the utlity
4-22 Chapter 4: Software support 4.3.7 ASUS EPU ASUS EPU is an energy-efîcient tool that provides you with a total system power-saving solution. It detects the current computer loading and intelligently adjusts the power in real-time. With auto phase switching for components, the EPU automatically provides the most appropriate power usage via intelligent acceleration and overclocking. ASUS EPU provides you with these modes to choose from: ⢠Auto Mode ⢠High Performance Mode When you select Auto Mode , the system shifts modes automatically according to the current system status. Y ou can also conîgure advanced settings for each mode. Launching EPU After installing EPU from the motherboard support DVD, double-click the EPU tray icon to launch the program. EPU main menu ⢠Max. Power Saving Mode Displays the following message if no VGA power saving engine is detected. Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www .asus.com for detailed software conîguration.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-23 4.3.8 ASUS Unique Overclocking UtilityâT urboV EVO ASUS T urboV EVO introduces T urboV and T urbo Key âtwo powerful tools that allow you to overclock your system effectively . Install ASUS T urboV EVO from the support DVD that came with the motherboard package. If the T urboV EVO is correctly installed, you will înd the T urboV EVO icon on the Windows notiîcation area. Click on the icon to display the T urboV EVO control panel. Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www .asus.com for detailed software conîguration. Using ASUS T urboV ASUS T urboV allow 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 ASUS T urboV (except for Auto T uning ) will not be saved to BIOS settings and will not be kept on the next system boot. Use the Save Proîle function to save your customized overclocking settings and manually load the proîle after Windows starts. For advanced overclock ability , adjust îrst the BIOS items, and then proceed more detailed adjustments using T urboV . Save the current settings as a new proîle Click to show / hide more settings Applies all changes immediately Undoes all changes without applying V oltage Adjustment bars Advanced CPU, chipset and DRAM voltage settings Click to restore all start-up settings Start-up values T arget values Load proîle Manual Mode Easy Mode Auto T uning Mode
4-24 Chapter 4: Software support Using ASUS T urboV Auto T uning Mode The Auto T uning Mode allows smart auto-overclocking. Follow the instructions below to let T urboV EVO detect and overclock your system. ⢠After pressing Start, the system starts performance tuning and may reboot 2 to 3 times. Please do not operate or manually restart the computer during the tuning process. ⢠After restarting OS, a message appears indicating the current overclocking result. Y ou can click Stop to save the current overclocking setting, or wait for T urboV EVO to continue system tuning for higher system performance. ⢠The auto-tuned system performance varies on the installed device (ex., CPU and DRAM). ⢠The auto-tuning function overclocks your system settings. Installation of advanced cooling systems is recommended. ⢠The auto-tuned settings will be stored in system BIOS and will be applied in the next boot. 1. Click the Auto T uning tab and then click Start. Y ou can also click More Setting îrst to conîgure more overclocking parameters before starting auto-overclocking. 2. Read through the warning messages and click Y es to start auto- overclocking. 3. An animation appears indicating the overclocking process. Click Stop if you want to cancel the current Overclocking process.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-25 Using ASUS T urbo Key ASUS T urbo Key allows the user to set a group of hot-keys into physical overclocking buttons. After the easy setup, T urbo Key can boost performances without interrupting ongoing work or gamesâwith just one touch! If the T urboV EVO is correctly installed, you will înd the T urboV EVO icon on the Windows notiîcation area. Click on the icon to display the T urboV EVO control panel. Click the T urbo Key tab to switch to the T urbo Key interface. Conîguring ASUS T urbo Key 1 3 2 4 1. Sel ect yo ur des ired h otkey co mbinat ion. 2. Y ou can decide the performance boost level by selecting T urbo Key Proîle . Y ou can also load personal proîles saved in the ASUS T urboV utility . 3. Choose whether to show T urbo Key OSD and status. 4. Click Apply to save T urbo Key settings. Y ou have to press the assigned hotkeys to use the T urbo Key function.
4-26 Chapter 4: Software support 4.3.9 ROG Connect ROG Connect allows you to monitor and adjust your system through your another PC or laptop. RC T weakIt T o use RC T weaakIt: 1. Connect the provided ROG Connect cable to your system and your another PC or laptop. 2. Double-click the RC T weakIt shortcut on the desktop to activate the function.\ 3. Use the sliders and buttons to monitor or adjust your system. 4. Click Function to display more options.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-27 RC Poster RC Poster shows status during the POST . Y ou can switch the display mode between String and Code . RC Remote RC Remote allows you to operate your system through the ROG Connect cable. RC Diagram RC Diagram allows you to monitor and record your system status.
4-28 Chapter 4: Software support 4.4 RAID conî¿gurations The motherboard comes with the AMD SB850 chipset that allows you to conîgure Serial A T A hard disk drives as RAID volumes. The motherboard supports the following RAID conîgurations: RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10. ⢠Y ou must install Windows ® XP Service Pack 2 or later versions before using Serial A T A hard disk drives. The Serial A T A RAID feature is available only if you are using Windows ® XP SP2 or later versions. ⢠Due to Windows ® XP / V ista 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 deînitions RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in parallel, interleaved stacks. T wo 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 conîguration 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 conîguration include better HDD performance, fault tolerance, and higher storage capacity . The RAID 5 conîguration 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 0 1 conîguration you get all the beneîts of both RAID 0 and RAID 1 conîgurations. Use four new hard disk drives or use an existing drive and three new drives for this setup.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-29 4.4.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS Y ou must enable the RAID function in the BIOS Setup before creating RAID volume(s) using SA T A HDDs. T o do this: 1. Enter the BIOS Setup during POST . 2. Go to the Main menu > Storage Conîguration, and then press <Enter>. 3. Set the OnChip SA T A Channel item to [RAID]. 4. Save your changes, and then exit the BIOS Setup. Refer to Chapter 3 for details on entering and navigating through the BIOS Setup. When setting the OnChip SA T A Channel item to [RAID], all SA T A ports run at RAID mode. However , you can set the SA T A ports 5 and 6 to [IDE] mode. See section 3.4.5 Storage Conîguration for details. 4.4.2 Installing Serial A T A hard disks The motherboard supports Serial A T A hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array . T o install the SA T A hard disks for a RAID conîguration: 1. Install the SA T A hard disks into the drive bays. 2. Connect the SA T A signal cables. 3. Connect a SA T A power cable to the power connector on each drive .
4-30 Chapter 4: Software support Option ROM Utility (c) 2009 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. View Drive Assignments ....... [ 1 ] LD View / LD Deî¿ne Menu ...... [ 2 ] Delete LD Menu ............... [ 3 ] Controller Conî¿guration ...... [ 4 ] [ Main Menu ] Press 1..4 to Select Option [ESC] Exit [ Keys Available ] 4.4.4 AMD ® Option ROM Utility T o enter the AMD AMD ® Option ROM utility: Option ROM utility: 1. Boot up your computer . 2. During POST , press <Ctrl> <F> to display the utility main menu. The Main Menu allows you to select an operation to perform. The Main Menu options include: ⢠View Drive Assignments: shows the status of the hard disk drives. ⢠LD View / LD Deîne Menu: Deîne Menu: : displays the existing RAID set information / creates a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5 or RAID 10 conîguration. ⢠Delete LD Menu: deletes a selected RAID set and partition. ⢠Controller Conîguration: shows the system resources conîguration. Press <1>, <2>, <3>, or <4> to enter the option you need; press <ESC> to exit the utility . The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only , and may not exactly match the items on your screen. T o create a RAID volume using more than four hard disk drives, ensure that the SA T A connectors 5/6 are set to [RAID] mode.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-31 Creating a RAID volume T o create a RAID volume: 1. In the Main Menu, press <2> to enter the LD View / LD Deîne Menu function. 2. Press <Ctrl> <C>, and the following screen appears. 3. Move to the RAID Mode item and press <Space> to select a RAID mode to create. 4. Move to the Assignment item by using the down arrow key and set Y to select the hard disk drives you want to include in the RAID set. 5. Press <Ctrl> <Y> to save the setting. 6. The utility prompts the following message. Press <Ctrl> <Y> to input the LD name. Option ROM Utility (c) 2009 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. [ â] Up [ â] Down [PaUp/PaDn] Switch page [Space] Change Option [Ctrl-Y] Save [ESC] Exit [ Keys Available ] [ LD Deî¿ne Menu ] [ Drives Assignments ] Port:ID Drive Model Capabilities Capacity(GB) Assignment 01:00 xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxx Y 02:00 xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxx Y 03:00 xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxx N 04:00 xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxx N LD No LD Name RAID Mode Drv LD 1 Logical Drive 1 RAID 0 2 Strip Block 64 KB Fast Init ON Gigabyte Boundary ON Cache Mode WriteThru Please press Ctrl-Y key to input the LD Name or press any key to exit. If you do not input any LD name, the default LD name will be used. 7. Eenter an LD name, and then press any key to continue. enter an LD name, and then press any key to continue. Enter the LD name here: Fast Initialization Option has been selected It will erase the MBR data of the disks. <Press Ctrl-Y Key if you are sure to erase it> <Press any other key to ignore this option> 8. Press <Ctrl> <Y> to erase the MBR, or you may press any key to abort the Press <Ctrl> <Y> to erase the MBR, or you may press any key to abort the settings. 9. Press <Ctrl> <Y> to enter the screen to modify the array capacity , or press any key to use the maximum capacity .
4-32 Chapter 4: Software support Deleting a RAID conîguration T ake caution when deleting a RAID volume. Y ou will lose all data on the hard disk drives when you delete a RAID volume. T o delete a RAID volume: 1. In the Main Menu, press <3> to enter the Delete LD function. 2. Select the RAID item you want to delete and press <Del> or <Alt> <D>. Option ROM Utility (c) 2009 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. [ â] Up [ â] Down [PaUp/PaDn] Switch page [Del/Alt D] Delete LD [ Keys Available ] [ Delete LD Menu ] LD No RAID Mode Drv Capacity(GB) Status LD 1 RAID 0 2 xxxxxx Functional Dispalying a RAID set information T o display a RAID set information: 1. In the Main Menu, press <2> to enter the âLD View / LD Deîne Menuâ function. 2. Select a RAID item and press <Enter> to display its information. Option ROM Utility (c) 2009 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. Any Key To Continue....... [ View LD Deî¿nation Menu ] [ Drives Assignments ] Port:ID Drive Model Capabilities Capacity(GB) 01:00 xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxx 02:00 xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxx LD No LD Name RAID Mode Drv Capacity(GB) LD 1 xxxxx RAID 0 2 157.99 Strip Block 64 KB Cache Mode WriteThru 3. The utility prompts the following messages: Press <Ctrl> <Y> to delete the RAID volume. Press Ctrl-Y to delte the data in the disk! or press any other key to abort...
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-33 4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk A îoppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows ® XP operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. For Windows ® Vista or later operating systems, use either a USB îash drive with the RAID driver or the support DVD. ⢠The motherboard does not provide a îoppy drive connector . Y ou have to use a USB îoppy disk drive when creating a SA T A RAID driver disk. ⢠Windows ® XP may not recognize the USB îoppy disk drive due to Windows ® XP limitation. T o work around this OS limitation, refer to section 4.5.4 Using a USB îoppy disk drive . 4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS T o create a RAID driver disk without entering the OS 1. Boot your computer . 2. Press <Del> during POST to enter the BIOS setup utility . 3. Set the optical drive as the primary boot device. 4. Insert the support DVD into the optical drive. 5. Save changes and exit BIOS. 6. When the Make Disk menu appears, press <1> to create a RAID driver disk. 7. Insert a formatted îoppy disk into the USB îoppy disk drive, then press <Enter>. 8. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the process. 4.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows ® T o create a RAID driver disk in Windows ® : 1. Start Windows ® . 2. Plug the USB îoppy disk drive and insert a îoppy disk. 3. Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive. 4. Go to the Make Disk menu, and then click AMD AHCI/RAID 32/64bit xxxx Driver to create a RAID driver disk. 5. Select USB îoppy disk drive as the destination disk. 6. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the process. Write-protect the îoppy disk to avoid a computer virus infection.
4-34 Chapter 4: Software support 4.5.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows ® OS installation If you use a SA T A optical drive to run the OS installation disk, we strongly recommend that you install the optical dirve to the SA T A connectors 5/6 and set them to [IDE] mode. T o install the RAID driver for 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 îoppy disk with RAID driver into the USB îoppy 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. T o install the RAID driver for Windows ® Vista or later OS 1. During the OS installation, click Load Driver to allow you to select the installation media containing the RAID driver . 2. Insert the USB îash drive with RAID driver into the USB port or the support DVD into the optical drive, and then click Browse. 3. Click the name of the device youâve inserted, go to Drivers > RAID, and then select the RAID driver for the corresponding OS version. Click OK. 4. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation. Before loading the RAID driver from a USB îash drive, you have to use another computer to copy the RAID driver from the support DVD to the USB îash drive. 4.5.4 Using a USB îoppy disk drive Due to OS limitation, Windows ® XP may not recognize the USB îoppy disk drive when you install the RAID driver from a îoppy disk during the OS installation. T o solve this issue, add the USB îoppy disk driveâs V endor ID (VID) and Product ID (PID) to the îoppy disk containing the RAID driver . Refer to the steps below: 1. Using another computer , plug the USB îoppy disk drive, and insert the îoppy 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
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 4-35 4. Click Details tab. The V endor ID (VID) and Product ID (PID) are displayed. 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 îoppy disk drive varies with different vendors. 5. Browse the contents of the RAID driver disk to locate the île txtsetup.oem . 6. Double-click the île. A window appears, allowing you to select the program for opening the oem île. 7. Use Notepad to open the île.
4-36 Chapter 4: Software support 8. Find the [HardwareIds.SCSI.Napa_i386_ahci8086] and [HardwareIds.SCSI.Napa_amd64_ahci] sections in the txtsetup.oem île. 9. T ype the following line to the bottom of the two sections: id = âUSB\VID_xxxx&PID_xxxxâ, âusbstorâ 10. Save and exit the île. [HardwareIds.SCSI.Napa_i386_ahci8086] id= âPCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4392&CC_0104â,âahcix86â id= âPCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4391&CC_0106â,âahcix86â id= âPCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4393&CC_0104â,âahcix86â id= âUSB\VID_03EE&PID_6901â, âusbstorâ [HardwareIds.SCSI.Napa_amd64_ahci] id= âPCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4392&CC_0104â,âahcix64â id= âPCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4391&CC_0106â,âahcix64â id= âPCI\VEN_1002&DEV_4393&CC_0104â,âahcix64â id= âUSB\VID_03EE&PID_6901â, âusbstorâ Add the same line to both sections. The VID and PID vary with different vendors.
5 ATI ® CrossFireX⢠technology support This chapter describes how to install and conîgure A TI ® CrossFireX⢠graphics cards.
ROG Crosshair IV Formula Chapter summary 5 5.1 A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology .................................................... 5-1
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 5-1 5.1 ATI ® CrossFireX⢠technology The motherboard supports the A TI ® 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 ⢠Y ou should have two identical CrossFireX-ready graphics cards or one CrossFireX-ready dual-GPU graphics card that are A TI ® certiîed. ⢠En sur e that your graphi cs ca rd dri ver su pports the A TI C rossF ireX t echnol ogy . Dow nload the la test d river fr om the AMD w ebsite at w ww .amd .co m. ⢠Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power required by your system. See page 2-38 for details. 5.1.2 Before you begin For A TI CrossFireX to work properly , you have to uninstall all existing grap hics card drivers before installing A TI CrossFireX graphics cards to your system. T o uninstall existing graphics card drivers 1. Close all current applications. 2. For Windows XP , go to Control Panel > Add/Remove Programs . For Windows Vista, go to Control Panel > Programs and Features. 3. Select your current graphics card driver/s. 4. For Windows XP , select Add/Remove. For Windows Vista, select Uninstall. 5. T urn off your computer . ⢠We recommend that you install additional chassis fans for better thermal environment. ⢠Visit the A TI Game website at http://game.amd.com for the latest certiîed graphics card and the supported 3D application list.
5-2 Chapter 5: A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology support 5. Connect two independent auxiliary power sources from the power supply to the two graphics cards separately . 6. Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the graphics card. 4. Align and îrmly insert the CrossFireX bridge connector to the goldîngers on each graphics card. Ensure that the connector is îrmly in place. 5.1.3 Installing CrossFireX graphics cards The following pictures are for reference only . The graphics cards and the motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same. 1. Prepare two CrossFireX-ready graphics cards. 2. Insert the two graphics card into the PCIEX16 slots. 3. Ensure that the cards are properly seated on the slots. Goldîngers CrossFireX bridge
ROG Crosshair IV Formula 5-3 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 A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology . Download the latest driver from the AMD website (www .amd.com). 5.1.5 Enabling the A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology Aft er ins tallin g your grap hic s card s and the d evi ce driver s, ena ble t he Cro ssFire X⢠fea ture t hrough the A TI C atalys t⢠Co ntrol Center in Wi ndows envir onment . Launching the A TI Catalyst Control Center T o launch the A TI Catalyst Control Center 1. Right-click on the Windows ® desktop and select Catalyst(TM) Control Center. Y ou can also right-click the A TI icon in the Windows notiîcation area and select Cayalist Control Center . 2. The Catalyst Control Center Setup Assistant appears when the system detects the existance of multi- graphics cards. Click Go to continue to the Catalyst Control Center Advanced View window .
5-4 Chapter 5: A TI ® CrossFireX⢠technology support Enabling CrossFireX settings 1. In the Catalyst Control Center window , click Graphics Settings > CrossFireX > Conîgure . 2. From the Graphics Adapter list, select the graphics card to act as the display GPU. 3. Select Enable CrossFireX. 4. Click Apply, and then click OK to exit the window . 1 2 3 4
A Appendix: Debug code table The Appendix lists the debug code table for the LCD Poster .
ROG Crosshair IV Formula Chapter summary A Debug code table ...................................................................................... A-1
ROG Crosshair IV Formula A-1 Code Description CPU INIT CPU Initiation DET CPU T est CMOS R/W functionality . CHIPINIT Early chipset initialization: -Disable shadow RAM -Disable L2 cache -Program basic chipset registers DET DRAM Detect memory -Auto-detection of DRAM size, type and ECC. -Auto-detection of L2 cache DC FCODE Expand compressed BIOS code to DRAM EFSHADOW Call chipset hook to copy BIOS back to E000 & F000 shadow RAM. INIT IO Initialize IO devices. INIT HWM Initialize Hardware Monitor . CLR SCRN 1. Blank out screen 2. Clear CMOS error îag INIT8042 1. Clear 8042 interface 2. Initialize 8042 self-test ENABLEKB 1. T est special keyboard controller for Super I/O chips. 2. Enable keyboard interface. DIS MS 1. Disable PS/2 mouse interface (optional). 2. Auto detect ports for keyboard & mouse followed by a port & interface swap (optional). 3. Reset keyboard for Super I/O chips. R/W FSEG T est F000h segment shadow to see whether it is R/W-able or not. If test fails, keep beeping the speaker . DET FLASH Auto detect îash type to load appropriate îash R/W codes into the run time area in F000 for ESCD & DMI support. TESTCMOS Use walking 1âs algorithm to check out interface in CMOS circuitry . Also set real-time clock power status, and then check for override. PRG CHIP Program chipset default values into chipset. INIT CLK Initialize clock generator . CHECKCPU Detect CPU information including brand, type and CPU level (586 or 686). INTRINIT Initial interrupts vector table. INITINT9 Initialize INT 09 buf fer CPUSPEED 1. Program CPU internal MTRR (Pentium class CPU) for 0-640K memory address. 2. Initialize the APIC for Pentium class CPU. 3. Program early chipset according to CMOS setup. Example: onboard IDE controller . 4. Measure CPU speed. 5. Invoke video BIOS. VGA BIOS Initialize VGA BIOS TESTVRAM 1. Initialize multi-language 2. Put information on screen display , including BIOS logo, CPU type, CPU speed . RESET KB Reset keyboard. Debug code table
A-2 Appendix: Debug code table Code Description 8254TEST T est 8254 8259MSK1 T est 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 1. 8259MSK2 T est 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 2. 8259TEST T est 8259 functionality . COUNTMEM Calculate total memory by testing the last double word of each 64K page. MP INIT 1. Program MTRR of M1 CPU 2. Initialize L2 cache for P6 class CPU & program CPU with proper cacheable range. 3. Initialize the APIC for P6 class CPU. 4. On MP platform, adjust the cacheable range to smaller one in case the cacheable ranges between each CPU are not identical. USB INIT Initialize USB TEST MEM T est all memory (clear all extended memory to 0) SHOW MP Display number of processors (multi-processor platform) PNP LOGO Display PnP logo ONBD IO Initialize Onboard IO devices. EN SETUP Okay to enter Setup utility . MSINST AL Initialize PS/2 Mouse CHK ACPI Prepare memory size information for function call: INT 15h ax=E820h EN CACHE T urn on L2 cache SET CHIP Program chipset registers according to items described in Setup & Auto- conîguration table. AUTO CFG Assign resources to devices. INIT FDC 1. Initialize îoppy controller 2. Set up îoppy related îelds in 40:hardware. DET IDE Detect & install all IDE devices: HDD, LS120, ZIP , CDROM. COM/LPT Detect serial ports & parallel ports. DET FPU Detect & install co-processor CPU CHG New CPU installed EZ FLASH Execute EZ Flash CPR F AIL CPR error F AN F AIL Fan error UCODEERR UCODE error FLOPYERR Floppy error KB ERROR Keyboard error HD ERR HDD error CMOS ERR CMOS error MS ERROR Mouse error SMARTERR HDD smart function error HM ERROR Hard monitor error AINETERR AI NET error CASEOPEN Case open Debug code table
ROG Crosshair IV Formula A-3 Code Description P ASSWORD Clear EP A or customization logo. 1. Call chipset power management hook. 2. Recover the text fond used by EP A logo (not for full screen logo) 3. If password is set, ask for password. USB FINAL Initialize PnP boot devices 1. USB înal Initialization 2. NET PC: Build SYSID structure 3. Switch screen back to text mode 4. Set up ACPI table at top of memory . 5. Invoke ISA adapter ROMs 6. Assign IRQs to PCI devices 7. Initialize APM 8. Clear noise of IRQs. INIT ROM Initialize device option ROMs. NUM LOCK 1. Program daylight saving 2. Update keyboard LED & typematic rate UPDT DMI 1. Build MP table 2. Build & update ESCD 3. Set CMOS century to 20h or 19h 4. Load CMOS time into DOS timer tick 5. Build MSIRQ routing table. INT 19H Boot attempt (INT 19h) Debug code table Manufacturer ASUST ek COMPUTER INC. Address, City No. 150, LI-TE RD., PEITOU, T AIPEI 1 12, T AIWAN R.O.C Country T AIWAN Authorized Representative in Europe ASUS COMPUTER GmbH Address, City HARKORT STR. 21-23, 40880 RA TINGEN Country GERMANY
A-4 Appendix: Debug code table
ASUS contact information ASUST eK COMPUTER INC. Address 15 Li-T e Road, Peitou, T aipei, T aiwan 1 1259 T elephone 886-2-2894-3447 Fax 886-2-2890-7798 E-mail info@asus.com.tw Web site www .asus.com.tw T echnical Support T elephone 86-21-3842991 1 Online support support.asus.com ASUS COMPUTER INTERNA TIONAL (America) Address 800 Corporate Way , Fremont, CA 94539, USA T elephone 1-812-282-3777 Fax 1-510-608-4555 Web site usa.asus.com T echnical Support T elephone 1-812-282-2787 Support fax 1-812-284-0883 Online support support.asus.com ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria) Address Harkort Str . 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany Fax 49-2102-95991 1 Web site www .asus.de Online contact www .asus.de/sales T echnical Support T elephone (Component) 49-1805-010923* T elephone (System/Note/Eee/LCD) 49-1805-010920* Support Fax 49-2102-9599-1 1 Online support support.asus.com * EUR 0.14/minute from a German îxed landline; EUR 0.42/minute from a mobile phone.
EC Declaration of Conformity We, the undersigned, Manufacturer: ASUSTek COMPUTER INC. Address, City: No. 150, LI-TE RD., PEITOU, TAIPEI 112, TAIWAN R.O.C . Country: TAIWAN Authorized representative in Europe: ASUS COMPUTER GmbH Address, City: HARKORT STR. 21-23, 40880 RATINGEN Country: GERMANY declare the following apparatus: Product name : Motherboard Model name : CROSSHAIR IV FORMULA conform with the essential requirements of the following directives: 2004/108/EC-EMC Directive EN 55022:2 006 A1:2007 EN 61000-3 -2:2006 EN 55013:2 001 A1:2003 A2:2006 EN 55024:1 998 A1:2001 A2:2003 EN 61000 -3-3:1995 A1:2001 A2:2005 EN 55020:2 007 1999/5/EC-R &TTE Directive EN 300 328 V1.7.1(2006-05) EN 300 440-1 V1.4.1(2008-05) EN 300 440-2 V1.2.1(2008-03) EN 301 511 V9.0.2(2003-03) EN 301 908-1 V3.2.1(2007-05) EN 301 908-2 V3.2.1(2007-05) EN 301 893 V1.4.1(2005-03) EN 50360:2 001 EN 50371:2 002 EN 301 489-1 V1.8.1(2008-04) EN 301 489-3 V1.4.1(2002-08) EN 301 489-4 V1.3.1(2002-08) EN 301 489-7 V1.3.1(2005-11) EN 301 489-9 V1.4.1(2007-11) EN 301 489-17 V1.3.2(2008-04) EN 301 489-24 V1.4.1(2007-09) EN 302 326-2 V1.2.2(2007-06) EN 302 326-3 V1.3.1(2007-09) 2006/95/EC-L VD Directive EN 60950 -1:2001 A1 1:2004 EN 60950-1:2006 EN6006 5:2002 A1:2006 2009/125/EC-ErP Directive Regulation (EC) No. 1275/2008 EN 62301:2 005 Regulation (EC) No. 642/2009 EN 62301:2 005 Regulation (EC) No. 278/2009 EN 62301:2 005 CE marking Declaration Date: Mar . 09, 2010 Y ear to begin affixing CE marking:2010 Position : CEO Name : Jerr y Shen Signature : __________ ( E C co nf o rmit y m a rkin g) DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Per FCC Part 2 Section 2. 1077(a) Responsible Party Name: Asus Computer International Address: 800 Corporate Way, Fremont , CA 94539. Phone/Fax No: (510)739-3777/(510)608-4555 hereby declares that the product Product Name : Motherboard Model Number : CROSSHAIR IV FORMULA Conforms to the following specifications: FC C Pa rt 15, Sub part B, Unintentional Radiators FC C Pa rt 15, Sub part C, Intentional Radiators FC C Pa rt 15, Sub part E, Intentional Radiators Supplementary Information: Thi s device compl ies with part 15 of the FCC Rul es. Operat ion is subj ect to the follo wing two co nditio ns: (1 ) Thi s devi ce may not ca use harm ful int erfe rence, and (2) this device must accep t any inte rferen ce recei ved, inc ludi ng int erfere nce th at may cause undes ired o perati on. Represen tative Personâs Name : Steve Chang / President Signature : Date: Mar. 09, 2010