E13676 X99-E WS Um V4 Web
E13676 X99-E WS Um V4 Web
E13676 X99-E WS Um V4 Web
Motherboard
E13676
Revised Edition V4
December 2017
In your request please provide the name, model number and version, as stated in the About Box of the
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ii
Contents
Safety information...................................................................................................... vii
About this guide........................................................................................................ viii
X99-E WS specifications summary............................................................................ x
Package contents....................................................................................................... xv
Installation tools and components.......................................................................... xvi
iii
Chapter 3: BIOS Setup
3.1 Knowing BIOS............................................................................................. 3-1
3.2 BIOS setup program................................................................................... 3-2
3.2.1 EZ Mode...................................................................................... 3-3
3.2.2 Advanced Mode........................................................................... 3-4
3.2.3 QFan Control............................................................................... 3-7
3.2.4 EZ Tuning Wizard........................................................................ 3-9
3.3 My Favorites.............................................................................................. 3-11
3.4 Main menu................................................................................................. 3-13
3.5 Ai Tweaker menu....................................................................................... 3-15
3.6 Advanced menu........................................................................................ 3-32
3.6.1 CPU Configuration..................................................................... 3-33
3.6.2 PCH Configuration..................................................................... 3-35
3.6.3 PCH Storage Configuration....................................................... 3-36
3.6.4 System Agent Configuration...................................................... 3-38
3.6.5 USB Configuration..................................................................... 3-40
3.6.6 Platform Misc Configuration....................................................... 3-42
3.6.7 Onboard Devices Configuration................................................. 3-43
3.6.8 APM Configuration..................................................................... 3-46
3.6.9 Network Stack Configuration..................................................... 3-47
3.6.10 Intel(R) Ethernet Connection (2) I218-LM 00:1E:99:00:00:37... 3-48
3.6.11 Intel(R) I210 Gigabit Network Connection - 00:1E:99:00:00:38.3-49
3.7 Monitor menu............................................................................................ 3-50
3.8 Boot menu................................................................................................. 3-54
3.9 Tool menu.................................................................................................. 3-60
3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility............................................................. 3-60
3.9.2 ASUS O.C. Profile...................................................................... 3-61
3.9.3 ASUS DRAM SPD Information.................................................. 3-62
3.10 Exit menu................................................................................................... 3-63
3.11 Updating BIOS........................................................................................... 3-64
3.11.1 EZ Update.................................................................................. 3-64
3.11.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2....................................................................... 3-64
3.11.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3........................................................... 3-66
iv
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 Obtaining the software manuals.................................................. 4-3
4.3 Software information.................................................................................. 4-4
4.4 AI Suite 3...................................................................................................... 4-4
4.4.1 Ai Charger+.................................................................................. 4-7
4.4.2 USB 3.0 Boost............................................................................. 4-8
4.4.3 EZ Update.................................................................................... 4-9
4.4.4 USB BIOS Flashback................................................................. 4-11
4.4.5 USB Charger+............................................................................ 4-13
4.4.6 Push Notice................................................................................ 4-14
4.4.7 System Information.................................................................... 4-17
4.5 Audio configurations................................................................................ 4-18
4.6 ASUS Dr. Power Utility............................................................................. 4-20
v
6.2 NVIDIA® SLI™ technology.......................................................................... 6-7
6.2.1 Requirements............................................................................... 6-7
6.2.2 Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards....................................... 6-7
6.2.3 Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards..................................... 6-8
6.2.4 Installing four SLI-ready graphics cards....................................... 6-9
6.2.5 Installing the device drivers........................................................ 6-10
6.2.6 Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology.................................... 6-10
Appendix
Notices ..................................................................................................................... A-1
ASUS contact information....................................................................................... A-5
vi
Safety information
Electrical safety
• To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet
before relocating the system.
• When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables
for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible,
disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
• Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all
power cables are unplugged.
• Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices
could interrupt the grounding circuit.
• Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not
sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power
company.
• If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified service
technician or your retailer.
Operation safety
• Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals
that came with the package.
• Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power
cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.
• To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors,
slots, sockets and circuitry.
• Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area
where it may become wet.
• Place the product on a stable surface.
• If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified service
technician or your retailer.
vii
About this guide
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the
motherboard.
viii
Conventions used in this guide
To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used
throughout this manual.
Typography
Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Italics Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
<Key> Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign
means that you must press the enclosed key.
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or
Return key.
<Key1> + <Key2> + <Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key
names are linked with a plus sign (+).
ix
X99-E WS specifications summary
LGA2011-v3 socket for the Next Generation Intel® Core™ i7
processors
Supports 22nm CPU, up to 20 MB Smart Cache*
CPU
Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0*
* The Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on the CPU
types.
40-LANE CPU
7 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slots* (single at x16, dual at x16/x16,
triple at x16/x16/x16, quad at x16/x16/x16/x16, seven at x16/x8/x8/
x8/x8/x8/X8)
28-LANE CPU
Expansion slots 7 x PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slots* (single at x16, dual at x16/x16,
triple at x16/x16/x16, quad at x16/x16/x16/x16, seven at x16/x8/x8/
x8/x8/x8/X8)
x
X99-E WS specifications summary
1 x Intel® I210-AT Gigabit LAN controller
1 x Intel® I218-LM Gigabit LAN-Dual interconnect between the
LAN
integrated LAN controller and physical layer (PHY)
ASUS Turbo LAN utility
Realtek® ALC1150 8-channel high definition audio CODEC
featuring Crystal Sound 2
- Separate layer for left and right track, ensuring both sound deliver
equal quality
- Audio shielding ensures precision analog/digital separation and
greatly reduced multi-lateral interference
- Audio amplifier to enhance the highest quality sound for
headphone and speakers
Audio - High quality 109 dB SNR stereo playback output (Line-out at
back) and 104 dB SNR recording input (Line-in) support
- Absolute Pitch 192khz/24bit True BD Lossless Sound
- DTS UltraPC II
- DTS Connect
- Supports jack-detection, multi-streaming and front panel jack-
retasking (MIC)
- Optical S/PDIF out ports at rear I/O
Intel® X99 Express Chipset - supports ASUS USB 3.0 Boost
- 4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at rear panel
- 4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports at mid-board)
ASMedia® USB 3.0 controllers - support ASUS USB 3.0 Boost
USB
- 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports at rear panel (blue)
ASMedia® USB 3.0 Hubs - support ASUS USB 3.0 Boost
- 8 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (4 ports at rear panel, 4 ports at mid-board
for front panel support)
High Performance
5-Way Optimization by Dual Intelligent Processors 5
- Whole system optimization with a single click! 5-Way
Optimization tuning key perfectly consolidates TPU, EPU,
DIGI+ Power Control, Fan Xpert 3, and Turbo APP together,
providing better CPU performance, efficient power saving,
precise digital power control, whole system cooling and even
tailor your own app usages.
ASUS Exclusive DIGI+ Power Control
Features CPU Power
- Industry leading digital 8-phase power design
- ASUS CPU power utility
DRAM Power
- Industry leading digital 2+2-phase DRAM power design
- ASUS DRAM power utility
TPU
- Auto Tuning, TPU, GPU Boost, 2-level TPU switch
(continued on the next page)
xi
X99-E WS specifications summary
EPU
- EPU, EPU switch
ASUS Fan Xpert3
- Featuring Fan Auto Tuning function and multiple thermistors
selection for optimized system cooling control.
Turbo App
- Featuring automatic system performance tuning, network
priority, and audio scene configuration for selected
applications.
UEFI BIOS
- Most advanced options with fast response time
M.2 and SATA Express onboard
- The latest transfer technology with up to 32 Gb/s data transfer
speeds for M.2
- The ultra-fast transfer technology with up to 10 Gb/s data
transfer speeds for SATA Express
Interactive HomeCloud
ASUS HomeCloud Server
Media Streamer
- Pipe music or movies from your PC to a smart TV, your
entertainment goes wherever you go!
ASUS Exclusive - Media Streamer app for portable smartphone/tablet,
Features supporting iOS7 and Android 4.0 systems
Gaming Scenario
Turbo APP
- Perform each application with tailored performance, network
priority, and audio configuration for your needs
Turbo LAN
- Experience smooth online gaming with lower pings and less
lags
Crystal Sound 2
- Feel the sound power with different usage scenarios
Steam support
- Compatible with the most fun gaming platform under
Windows® system
ASUS EZ DIY
Push Notice
- Monitor your PC status with smart devices in real time
USB BIOS Flashback
- with USB BIOS Flashback Wizard for EZ BIOS download
scheduling
UEFI BIOS EZ Mode
- featuring friendly graphics user interface
xii
X99-E WS specifications summary
- ASUS O.C. Tuner
- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
- ASUS EZ Flash 2
Q-Design
ASUS Exclusive - ASUS Q-Code
Features - ASUS Q-Shield
- ASUS Q-LED (DIAG_CPU, DIAG_DRAM, DIAG_VGA, DIAG_
HDD)
- ASUS Q-Slot
- ASUS Q-DIMM
- ASUS Q-Connector
xiii
X99-E WS specifications summary
1 x EPU switch
1 x EZ XMP switch
1 x Power-on button
Internal I/O Connectors
1 x Reset button
1 x 3-pin Chassis intrusion (CHASSIS) connector
System Panel (Q-Connector)
128 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.7, WfM 2.0,
SM BIOS 2.7, ACPI 5.0, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2,
CrashFree BIOS 3, F11 EZ Tuning Wizard, F6 Qfan Control, F3 My
BIOS features
Favorites, Quick Note, Last Modified Log, F12 PrintScreen function,
F3 Shortcut function, and ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence
Detect) memory information
Manageability WfM 2.0, DMI 2.7, WOL by PME, PXE
Drivers
Support DVD
Anti-virus software (OEM version)
Windows® 8.1
Operating system Windows® 8
Windows® 7
Form Factors CEB Form Factor, 12 in. x 10.5 in. (30.5 cm x 26.7 cm)
xiv
Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items
nual
User Ma
Support DVD
User Guide
• The illustrated items above are for reference only. Actual product specifications may
vary with different models.
xv
Installation tools and components
DIMM
1 bag of screws
The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package.
xvi
1
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Product Introduction
M.2 Support*
This motherboard features the M.2 slot, which shares bandwidth with PCI Express 3.0 x4 slot
to speed up data transfer up to 32 Gb/s. This helps enhance the performance of your SSD
(Solid State Drive) that is dedicated only to the operating system.
* Supports PCIe mode only.
DTS UltraPC II
DTS UltraPC II delivers a superior surround sound experience through your system’s
speakers and headphones while monitoring and balancing the loudness level difference
between digital audio formats. It also ehnances the audio settings through augmenting
low and high frequencies of musical tones, restores compressed or re-mastered sounds,
improves bass performance even without a subwoofer, and improves dialogues derived from
DVD or Blu-ray Disc™.
Chapter 1
• Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.
• Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded
object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due
to static electricity.
• Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the
bag that came with the component.
• Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is
switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so
may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components.
Chapter 1
Refer to 1.2.9 Internal connectors and 2.4.1 Rear I/O connection for more information
about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.
Chapter 1
• Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.
• Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on the socket and
the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap
is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard
components. ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is shipment/
transit-related.
• Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise
Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the
LGA2011-v3 socket.
• The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts resulting from
incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/incorrect removal of the PnP
cap.
Chapter 1
A DDR4 module is notched differently from a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 module. DO NOT
install a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 memory module to the DDR4 slot.
Chapter 1
• You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A, Channel B, Channel C, and
Channel D. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-
channel configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then
mapped for single-channel operation.
• According to Intel® CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65 V is recommended to protect
the CPU.
• Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows® OS, when you install 4GB
or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be
about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the
following:
a) Use a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows® OS.
• The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect
(SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module.
Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a
lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. To operate at the vendor-marked
or at a higher frequency, refer to section 3.5 Ai Tweaker menu for manual memory
frequency adjustment.
• For system stability, use a more efficient memory cooling system to support a full
memory load (8 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.
• Memory modules with memory frequency higher than 2133MHz and their
corresponding timing or the loaded XMP profile is not the JEDEC memory standard.
The stability and compatibility of the memory modules depend on the CPU’s
capabilities and other installed devices.
• Always install the DIMMS with the same CAS Latency. For an optimum compatibility,
we recommend that you install memory modules of the same version or data code
(D/C) from the same vendor. Check with the vendor to get the correct memory
modules.
• Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs. Load
Chapter 1
the X.M.P. or D.O.C.P. settings in the BIOS for the hyper DIMM support.
Slot Description
Slot No.
40-LANE 28-LANE
1 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1 slot PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_1 slot
2 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_2 slot PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_2 slot
3 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_3 slot PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_3 slot
4 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_4 slot PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_4 slot
5 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_5 slot PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16_5 slot
Chapter 1
The default setting of PCIe x16_2 slot is in Auto mode, which automatically optimizes the
system bandwidth. ASUS Thunderbolt EX card is supported on PCIEX16_2 slot (Gen 2)
and automatically runs at x2 mode.
Quad VGA/
x16 N/A x16 N/A x16 N/A x16
PCIe cards
Septuple VGA/
x16 x8 x8 x8 x8 x8 x8
PCIe cards
• We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI™
mode.
A B C D E F G H
PCIe x16_1 shared – – – – – – –
PCIe x16_2 – shared – – – – – –
PCIe x16_3 – shared – – – – – –
PCIe x16_4 shared – – – – – – –
PCIe x16_5 shared – – – – – –
PCIe x16_6 shared – – – – – – –
PCIe x16_7 shared – – – – – – –
SMBUS Controller – – shared – – – – –
Intel® SATA Controller 1 – – – shared – – – –
Intel® SATA Controller 2 shared – – – – – – –
Intel® LAN1 (i218LM) – – – – shared – – –
Intel® LAN2 (i210) shared – – – – – – –
ASMedia SATA
shared – – – – – – –
Controller (106SE)
ASMedia SATA
shared – – – – – – –
Controller (1061)
Intel® xHCI – – – – – – – shared
Intel® EHCI 1 – – – – – shared – –
Intel® EHCI 2 – – shared – – – – –
HD Audio – – – – – – shared –
ASMedia Controller
– – shared – – – – –
(1042AE)
Chapter 1
1. Power-on button
The motherboard comes with a power-on button that allows you to power up or wake
up the system. The button also lights up when the system is plugged to a power source
indicating that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before
removing or installing any motherboard component.
2. Reset button
Press the reset button to reboot the system.
Chapter 1
• Refer to section 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the DIAG_DRAM LED.
• The DIAG_DRAM LED also lights up when the DIMM is not properly installed. Turn off
the system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function.
• During the tuning process, the system loads and tests failsafe memory settings. It
takes about 30 seconds for the system to test one set of failsafe settings. If the test
fails, the system reboots and test the next set of failsafe settings. The blinking speed
of the DIAG_DRAM LED increases, indicating different test processes.
• Due to memory tuning requirement, the system automatically reboots when each
timing set is tested. If the installed DIMMs still fail to boot after the whole tuning
process, the DIAG_DRAM LED lights continuously. Replace the DIMMs with ones
recommended in the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists) in this user manual or at
www.asus.com.
• If you turn off the computer and replace DIMMs during the tuning process, the system
continues memory tuning after turning on the computer. To stop memory tuning, turn
off the computer and unplug the power cord for about 5–10 seconds.
• If your system fails to boot up due to BIOS overclocking, press the MemOK! button
to boot and load the BIOS default settings. A message will appear during POST
Chapter 1
reminding you that the BIOS has been restored to its default settings.
• We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from
www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function.
• When the TPU switch is set to Enabled (TPU_I: CPU Ratio Boost), the system
automatically adjusts the CPU ratio for an enhanced performance.
• When the TPU switch is set to Enabled (TPU_II: CPU BCLK and Ratio Boost), the
system automatically adjusts the base clock rate (BLCK) and the CPU ratio for a more
enhanced performance.
• The TPU LEDs (TPU_LED) near the TPU switch light up when you set the TPU switch
to TPU_I mode or TPU_II mode. Refer to section 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact
location of the TPU LEDs.
• If you enable this switch under Windows® OS environment, the TPU function will be
activated after the next system bootup.
• You may use the 5-Way Optimization and TPU feature in the AI Suite 3 application,
adjust the BIOS setup program or enable the TPU switch at the same time. However,
the system will use the last setting you have made.
Chapter 1
• The EPU LED (O2LED3) near the EPU switch lights up when you enable the EPU
switch. Refer to section 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the EPU LED.
• If you enable this switch under Windows® OS environment, the EPU function will be
activated after the next system bootup.
• You may change the EPU settings in the software application or BIOS setup program
and enable the EPU function at the same time. However, the system will use the last
setting you have made.
Chapter 1
The PGLED3 LED near the Dr. Power switch lights up when you enable the Dr. Power
switch. Refer to section 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the PGLED3 LED.
The EZ XMP LED (XLED1) lights up when you enable the EZ XMP switch. For
the location of the EZ XMP LED, refer to section 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs.
Chapter 1
Chapter 1
6. PWR_SUPPLY LED
The ASUS Dr. Power LED near the EATX PWR connector lights up when the ASUS
Dr. Power switch setting is on and the power supply unit has failed.
Chapter 1
8. Q-Code LEDs
The Q-Code LED design provides you with a 2-digit error code that displays the system
status. Refer to the Q-Code table on the next page for details.
Chapter 1
Code Description
00 Not used
02 microcode
03 CACHE_ENABLED
04 PCH initialization
06 CPU_EARLY_INIT
10 PEI Core is started
11 – 14 Pre-memory CPU initialization is started
15 – 18 Pre-memory System Agent initialization is started
19 – 1C Pre-memory PCH initialization is started
2B – 2F Memory initialization
30 Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)
31 Memory Installed
32 – 36 CPU post-memory initialization
37 – 3A Post-Memory System Agent initialization is started
3B – 3E Post-Memory PCH initialization is started
4F DXE IPL is started
50 – 53 Memory initialization error. Invalid memory type or incompatible memory
speed
4F DXE IPL is started
54 Unspecified memory initialization error
55 Memory not installed
56 Invalid CPU type or Speed
57 CPU mismatch
58 CPU self test failed or possible CPU cache error
59 CPU micro-code is not found or micro-code update is failed
5A Internal CPU error
5B Reset PPI is not available
5C – 5F Reserved for future AMI error codes
E0 S3 Resume is stared (S3 Resume PPI is called by the DXE IPL)
E1 S3 Boot Script execution
E2 Video repost
E3 OS S3 wake vector call
E4 – E7 Reserved for future AMI progress codes
E8 S3 Resume Failed
E9 S3 Resume PPI not Found
EA S3 Resume Boot Script Error
EB S3 OS Wake Error
EC – EF Reserved for future AMI error codes
F0 Recovery condition triggered by firmware (Auto recovery)
F1 Recovery condition triggered by user (Forced recovery)
Chapter 1
A6 SCSI Detect
A7 SCSI Enable
A8 Setup Verifying Password
A9 Start of Setup
AA Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below)
AB Setup Input Wait
(continued on the next page)
• The SATAEXPRESS_E1 connector can support one SATA Express device or two
SATA devices.
• These connectors are set to [AHCI Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial
ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID
Mode]. Refer to section 3.6.3 PCH Storage Configuration for details.
Chapter 1
• Before creating a RAID set, refer to the manual bundled in the motherboard support
DVD.
• The SATAEXPRESS_1 connector can support one SATA Express device or two
SATA devices.
• Due to chipset behavior, the SATA6G_78 and SATA6G_910 ports (black) do not
support Intel® Rapid Storage Technology and RAID configuration.
• We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this
connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-definition audio capability.
• If you want to connect a high-definition or an AC’97 front panel audio module to this
connector, set the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD] or [AC97].
• Ensure to install the related driver to fully use the USB 3.0 ports under Windows® 7.
• The plugged USB 3.0 device may run on xHCI or EHCI mode depending on the
operating system’s setting.
• These USB 3.0 ports support native UASP transfer standard in Windows® 8 /
Windows® 8.1 and Turbo Mode when using USB 3.0 Boost feature.
Chapter 1
DO NOT connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the
motherboard!
You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB) first, and then
install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis supports front
panel USB ports.
• DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow
inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers!
Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors!
• Ensure that the CPU fan cable is securely installed to the CPU fan connector.
• The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 1A (12 W) fan power.
• The CPU_FAN and CHA_FAN connectors support the ASUS FAN Xpert 3 feature on
X99 platform.
• The CPU fan connector detects the type of CPU fan installed and automatically
switches the control modes. To configure the CPU fan’s control mode, go to
Advanced Mode > Monitor > CPU Q-Fan Control item in BIOS.
• The chassis fan connectors support DC and PWM modes. To set these fans to DC or
PWM, go to Advanced Mode > Monitor > Chassis Fan 1/4 Q-Fan Control items in
BIOS.
Chapter 1
• For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit
(PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version) and provides a
minimum power of 350 W.
• DO NOT forget to connect the 4-pin/8-pin EATX12 V power plug. Otherwise, the
system will not boot.
• We recommend that you use a PSU with a higher power output when configuring a
system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or
may not boot up if the power is inadequate.
• If you want to use two or more high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with
1000W power or above to ensure the system stability.
Chapter 1
Ensure that your chassis comes with the extra button cable that supports the DirectKey
feature. Refer to the technical documentation that came with the chassis for details.
The add-on Thunderbolt I/O card and Thunderbolt cables are purchased separately.
Chapter 1
A message appears when you connect the sensor or switch at the first time or when you
reconnect the sensor or switch to this connector. Reset the system to exit the message.
Chapter 1
Chapter 1
Basic Installation
2.1 Building your PC system
The diagrams in this section are for reference only. The motherboard layout may vary with
models, but the installation steps are the same for all models.
2. Place the motherboard into the chassis, ensuring that its rear I/O ports are aligned to
the chassis’ rear I/O panel.
Chapter 2
Please note the order in opening/ closing the double latch. Follow the instructions printed
on the metal sealing hatch or the illustrations shown below in this manual. The plastic cap
will pop up automatically once the CPU is in place and the hatch properly sealed down.
Chapter 2
Triangle
mark
Chapter 2
Chapter 2
To remove a DIMM
Chapter 2
OR OR
Chapter 2
OR
Chapter 2
HDD LED
HDD LED+ HDD LED
HDD LED-
R SW
PWR POWE
Ground
SW
Reset RESET
Ground
AAFP
USB 2.0
USB 3.0
• We recommend you to use a USB 2.0 storage device to save the latest BIOS version
for better compatibility and stability.
• Refer to section 2.4.1 Rear I/O connection for the location of the USB port that
supports USB BIOS Flashback.
3. Launch the USB BIOS Flashback Wizard to automatically download the latest BIOS
version.
4. Shut down your computer.
5. press the BIOS Flashback button for three seconds until the Flashback LED blinks
three times, indicating that the BIOS Flashback function is enabled.
6. Wait until the light goes out, indicating that the BIOS updating process is completed.
For more BIOS update utilities in BIOS setup, refer to the section 3.11 Updating BIOS in
Chapter 3.
• Do not unplug portable disk, power system, or press the CLR_CMOS button while
BIOS update is ongoing, otherwise update will be interrupted. In case of interruption,
please follow the steps again.
Chapter 2
• If the light flashes for five seconds and turns into a solid light, this means that
the BIOS Flashback is not operating properly. This may be caused by improper
installation of the USB storage device and filename/file format error. If this scenario
happens, please restart the system to turn off the light.
• Updating BIOS may have risks. If the BIOS program is damaged during the process
and results to the system’s failure to boot up, please contact your local ASUS Service
Center.
Q-Code Logger
button
Q-Code Logger
port
Chapter 2
Boost)
5. USB BIOS Flashback 11. Optical S/PDIF Out port
6. eSATA ports 12 12. Audio I/O ports***
* and **: Refer to the tables on the next page for the LAN port LEDs and audio port definitions.
• We strongly recommend that you connect USB 3.0 devices to USB 3.0 ports for faster
and better performance for your USB 3.0 devices.
• Due to the design of the Intel® X99 series chipset, all USB devices connected to the
USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports are controlled by the xHCI controller. Some legacy USB
devices must update their firmware for better compatibility.
You can disable the LAN controllers in BIOS. Due to hardware design, the LAN1 port’s
LEDs may continue to blink even when disabled.
Chapter 2
When the DTS UltraPC II function is enabled, ensure to connect the rear speaker to the
light blue port.
The system then runs the power-on self tests (POST). While the tests are running, the
BIOS beeps (refer to the BIOS beep codes table) 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.
7. At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the
instructions in Chapter 3.
BIOS Setup
The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is a Unified Extensible Interface that complies with UEFI
architecture, offering a user-friendly interface that goes beyond the traditional keyboard-
only BIOS controls to enable a more flexible and convenient mouse input. You can easily
navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as your operating system. The
term “BIOS” in this user manual refers to “UEFI BIOS” unless otherwise specified.
BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) stores system hardware settings such as storage
device configuration, overclocking settings, advanced power management, and boot
device configuration that are needed for system startup in the motherboard CMOS. In
normal circumstances, the default BIOS settings apply to most conditions to ensure
optimal performance. DO NOT change the default BIOS settings except in the following
circumstances:
• An error message appears on the screen during the system bootup and requests you
to run the BIOS Setup.
• You have installed a new system component that requires further BIOS settings or
update.
Inappropriate BIOS settings may result to instability or boot failure. We strongly recommend
that you change the BIOS settings only with the help of a trained service personnel.
When downloading or updating the BIOS file, rename it as X99EWS.CAP for this
motherboard.
Chapter 3
• The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and
may not exactly match what you see on your screen.
• Ensure that a USB mouse is connected to your motherboard if you want to use the
mouse to control the BIOS setup program.
• If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS setting, load the default
settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized
Defaults item under the Exit menu or press hotkey <F5>. See section 3.10 Exit
menu for details.
• If the system fails to boot after changing any BIOS setting, try to clear the CMOS and
reset the motherboard to the default value. See section 1.2.6 Onboard buttons and
switches for information on how to erase the RTC RAM via the Clear CMOS button.
• The BIOS setup program does not support the Bluetooth devices.
The default screen for entering the BIOS setup program can be changed between EZ Mode
or Advanced Mode. Refer to the Setup Mode item in section 3.8 Boot menu for details.
Enables or disables the SATA RAID mode Shows the Displays the Advanced
for Intel Rapid Storage Technology bootable devices mode menus
Displays the CPU Fan’s speed. Click Loads optimized
default settings Selects the boot
the button to manually tune the fans device priority
Chapter 3
The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system.
To switch from EZ Mode to Advanced Mode, click Advanced Mode or press F7 hotkey.
Sub-menu item Item description Configuration fields Scroll bar Last modified settings
Menu items
Goes back to EZ Mode
Displays the CPU/motherboard temperature,
CPU and memory voltage output
Chapter 3
Menu items
The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific items for that menu. For example,
selecting Main shows the Main menu items.
The other items (My Favorites, Ai Tweaker, Advanced, Monitor, Boot, Tool, and Exit) on the
menu bar have their respective menu items.
Submenu items
A greater than sign (>) before each item on any menu screen means that the item has a
submenu. To display the submenu, select the item and press <Enter>.
Language
This button above the menu bar contains the languages that you can select for your BIOS.
Click this button to select the the language that you want to display in your BIOS screen.
MyFavorites (F3)
This button above the menu bar shows all BIOS items in a Tree Map setup. Select frequently-
used BIOS settings and save it to MyFavorites menu.
• The Quick Note function does not support the following keyboard functions: delete,
cut, copy and paste.
• You can only use the alphanumeric characters to enter your notes.
Hot keys
This button above the menu bar contains the navigation keys for the BIOS setup program.
Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings.
Scroll bar
A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not fit
on the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> / <Page Down> keys to display
the other items on the screen.
General help
At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item. Use
<F12> key to capture the BIOS screen and save it to the removable storage device.
Configuration fields
These fields show the values for the menu items. If an item is user-configurable, you can
change the value of the field opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not
user-configurable.
A configurable field is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a field, select it and
press <Enter> to display a list of options.
Chapter 3
1. Press <F11> on your keyboard or click from the BIOS screen to open
EZ Tuning Wizard screen, then click Next.
2. Select a PC scenario Daily Computing or Gaming/Media Editing, then click Next.
3. Select the CPU fan type (Box cooler, Tower cooler, or Water cooler) that you
installed then click Next.
Chapter 3
If you are not sure of the CPU fan type, click I’m not sure. The system automatically
detects the CPU fan type.
1. Press <F11> on your keyboard or click from the BIOS screen to open
EZ Tuning Wizard screen.
2. Click RAID then click Next.
3. Select the type of storage for your RAID Easy Backup or Super Speed, then click
Next.
a. For Easy Backup, click
Next then select from Easy
Backup (RAID1) or Easy
Backup (RAID10).
4. After selecting the type of RAID, click Next then click Yes to continue the RAID setup.
5. After the RAID setup is done, click Yes to exit the setup then click OK to reset your
system.
Chapter 3
Chapter 3
1. Press <F3> on your keyboard or click from the BIOS screen to open
Setup Tree Map screen.
2. On the Setup Tree Map screen, select the BIOS items that you want to save in
MyFavorites screen.
Submenu panel
3. Select an item from main menu panel, then click the submenu that you want to save
as favorite from the submenu panel and tap or click or press <Enter> on your
keyboard.
• Configuration items such as Memory SPD Information, system time and date.
4. Click Exit (ESC) or press <esc> key to close Setup Tree Map screen.
5. Go to My Favorites menu to view the saved BIOS items.
Chapter 3
Security
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.
Chapter 3
• If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC)
RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches
for information on how to erase the RTC RAM via the Clear CMOS button.
• The Administrator or User Password items on top of the screen show the default [Not
Installed]. After you set a password, these items show [Installed].
User Password
If you have set a user password, you must enter the user password for accessing the system.
The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a
password, this item shows Installed.
<Enter>.
3. From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.
4. Confirm the password when prompted.
To clear the user password, follow the same steps as in changing a user password, but press
<Enter> when prompted to create/confirm the password. After you clear the password, the
User Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.
Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items. Incorrect field
values can cause the system to malfunction.
The configuration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you
installed on the motherboard.
The following item appears only when you set the Ai Overclocking Tuner to [Manual].
We recommend you to set the value based on the CPU specification, as high BCLK
frequencies may damage the CPU permanently.
The following item appears only when you set the CPU Core Ratio to [Per Core].
If you assign a value for 2-Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1-Core Ratio Limit to [Auto].
If you assign a value for 3-Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1-Core Ratio Limit and 2-Core
Ratio Limit to [Auto].
If you assign a value for 4-Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1-Core Ratio Limit, 2-Core Ratio
Limit, and 3-Core Ratio to [Auto].
If you assign a value for 5-Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1-Core Ratio Limit, 2-Core Ratio
Limit, 3-Core Ratio, and 4-Core Ratio to [Auto].
If you assign a value for 6-Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1-Core Ratio Limit, 2-Core Ratio
Limit, 3-Core Ratio, 4-Core Ratio, and 5-Core Ratio to [Auto].
Ensure that you installed an efficient CPU fan for CPU and graphics loading before
selecting either [BCLK First] or [Ratio First]. To keep the current overclocking tuner
status, select [Keep Current Settings].
or <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard
and press the <Enter> key.
Changing the values in this menu may cause the system to become unstable! If this
happens, revert to the default settings.
Secondary Timings
DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [7]
DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay L [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [7]
DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [1023]
DRAM Refresh Interval [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [32767]
DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [31]
DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]
DRAM FOUR ACT WIN Time [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [63]
DRAM WRITE to READ Delay [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]
DRAM WRITE to READ Delay(tWTR_L) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]
Chapter 3
tCCD_L [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [3]
RTL IOL control
DRAM RTL INIT Value [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [127]
DRAM RTL (CHA D0 R0) [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] - [127]
The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU specification.
DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.
DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.
The following item appears only when you set the CPU VRM Switching Frequency to
[Manual].
DO NOT remove the thermal module when setting this item to [Power Phase Response].
The thermal conditions should be monitored.
The following item appears only when you set the CPU Power Phase Control to [Power
Phase Response].
DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.
DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.
The following item appears only when you set the DRAM Switching Frequency to [Manual].
production.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Turbo Mode [Enabled]
This item allows you to enable your core processor’s speed to run faster than the
base operating frequency when it is below operating power, current and temperature
specification limit.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
The following items appear only when you set Fully Manual Mode item to [Enabled].
This item allows you to make the CPU Core Voltage as close to CPU Input Voltage as
possible.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
The following item appeara only when you set Max. Vcore item to [Enabled].
The following item appears only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Manual Mode].
The following items appear only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Offset Mode].
The following items appear only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Adaptive Mode].
The following item appears only when you set the CPU Cache Voltage to [Manual Mode].
Chapter 3
The following items appear only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Adaptive Mode].
The following items appear only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Auto] or
[Disabled].
Chapter 3
According to Intel® CPU specifications, DIMMs with voltage requirement over 1.65 V may
damage the CPU permanently. We recommend that you install the DIMMs with the voltage
requirement below 1.65 V.
Chapter 3
Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values
can cause the system to malfunction.
Chapter 3
The items in this menu may vary based on the CPU installed.
When set to [Enabled], this item allows the legacy OS to boot even without support for CPUs
with extended CPUID functions.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
The following item appears only when you set the SATA Mode Selection to [IDE].
SATA6G_1-6 (Gray)
These items display all connected devices to SATA6G ports. If some ports are not
used, these items show [Not Installed].
SATA Controller 2 Mode Selection [AHCI]
This item allows you to set the SATA configuration.
[Disabled] Disables the SATA function.
[IDE Mode] Set to [IDE Mode] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as
Parallel ATA physical storage devices.
[AHCI Mode] Set to [AHCI Mode] when you want the SATA hard disk drives to use the
AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface). The AHCI allows the onboard
storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that increases
storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to
internally optimize the order of commands.
Due to Intel® chipset specification, the SATA ports from SATA controller 2 does not support
Intel® Rapid Storage Technology including RAID configuration.
The following item appears only when you set the SATA Mode Selection to [IDE].
SATA6G_7-10 (Black)
These items display all connected devices to SATA6G ports. If some ports are not
used, these items show [Not Installed].
Chapter 3
NB PCI-E Configuration
The items in this menu allow you to select the operating speeds of the PCIe slots.
PCIEX16_1 Link Speed [Auto]
This item allows you to select the operating speed of the PCIEX16_1 slot.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] [Gen3]
PCIEX16_2 Link Speed [Auto]
This item allows you to select the operating speed of the PCIEX16_2 slot.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] [Gen3]
PCIEX16_3 Link Speed [Auto]
This item allows you to select the operating speed of the PCIEX16_3 slot.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] [Gen3]
PCIEX16_4 Link Speed [Auto]
This item allows you to select the operating speed of the PCIEX16_4 slot.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] [Gen3]
PCIEX16_5 Link Speed [Auto]
This item allows you to select the operating speed of the PCIEX16_5 slot.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] [Gen3]
PCIEX16_6 Link Speed [Auto]
This item allows you to select the operating speed of the PCIEX16_6 slot.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] [Gen3]
PCIEX16_7 Link Speed [Auto]
This item allows you to select the operating speed of the PCIEX16_7 slot.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] [Gen3]
Intel VT for Directed I/O (VT-d)
Chapter 3
The items in this menu allow you to configure the Intel® Virtualization Technology for Directed
I/O (VT-d).
VTd Azalea VCp Optimizations [Disabled]
This item allows you to enable/disable the Azalea VCp Optimizations.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
The following items appear only when you set the Intel VT for Directed I/O (VT-d) to
[Enabled].
Chapter 3
The Mass Storage Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is
detected, the item shows None.
Refer to section 1.2.2 Motherboard layout for the location of the USB ports.
Chapter 3
SA - PCI Express
SA SMI ASPM [Disabled]
This item allows you to enable/disable the ASPM (L1) support for the downstream devices.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [L1 only]
The following items appear only when you set the HD Audio Controller to [Enabled].
The following item appears only when you set the ASMedia USB 3.0 Controller to
[Enabled].
The following items appear only when you set the ASMedia Storage Controller to
[Enabled].
The following items appear only when you set the ASM106SE Storage Controller
(SATAEXPRESS_E1) to [Enabled].
The following item appears only when you set the Intel LAN Controller to [Enabled].
The following item appears only when you set the Network Stack to [Enabled].
Chapter 3
NIC Configuration
The items in this menu allow you to configure the boot protocol, Wake-on LAN, link speed,
and virtual LAN.
Link Speed [Auto Negotiated]
This item allows you to specify the port speed used for the selected boot protocol.
Configuration options: [Auto Negotiated] [10 Mbps Half] [10 Mbps Full] [100 Mbps Half]
[100 Mbps Full]
Wake On LAN [Enabled]
This item allows you enable/disable the server to be powered on using an in-band
magic packet.
Blink LEDs [0]
This item allows you to identify the physical network port with the blinking associated LEDs.
Use the number keys to key in the number. The values range from 0 to 15.
Chapter 3
NIC Configuration
The items in this menu allow you to configure the boot protocol, Wake-on LAN, link speed,
and virtual LAN.
Link Speed [Auto Negotiated]
This item allows you to specify the port speed used for the selected boot protocol.
Configuration options: [Auto Negotiated] [10 Mbps Half] [10 Mbps Full] [100 Mbps Half]
[100 Mbps Full]
Wake On LAN [Enabled]
This item allows you enable/disable the server to be powered on using an in-band
magic packet.
Blink LEDs [0]
This item allows you to identify the physical network port with the blinking associated LEDs.
Use the number keys to key in the number. The values range from 0 to 15.
Chapter 3
CPU Fan Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A], CPU Optional Fan Speed
[xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A], Chassis Fan 1/4 Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore]
/ [N/A]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU, chassis,
and power fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the
motherboard, the field shows N/A. Select [Ignore] if you do not wish to display the detected
speed.
Chapter 3
Qfan Tuning
Click this item to automatically detect the lowest speed and configure the minimum duty cycle
for each fan.
The following items appear only when you set the CPU Q-Fan Control to [Auto], [PWM
Mode], and [DC Mode].
The following items appear only when you set the CPU Fan Profile to [Manual].
The following items appear only when you set the Chassis Fan 1/4 Q-Fan Control to
[Disabled].
If you select T_SENSOR1, plug a thermistor cable to T_SENSOR1 header and stick the
thermistor cable’s head to the desired component as the temperature source.
The following items appear only when you set the Chassis Fan 1/4 Q-Fan Control to [PWM
Mode] or [DC Mode].
The following items appear only when you set the Chassis Fan Profile to [Manual].
Chapter 3
Boot Configuration
Fast Boot [Enabled]
[Disabled] This item allows your system to go back to its normal boot speed.
[Enabled] This item allows your system to accelerate the boot speed.
The following items appear only when you set the Fast Boot to [Enabled].
[All Devices] All devices connected to SATA ports are available during POST.
This process extends the POST time.
[Hard Drive Only] Only hard drives connected to SATA ports are detected during
POST.
[Boot Drive Only] Only boot drives connected to a SATA ports are detected during
POST.
[Disabled] All USB devices will not be available until OS boot up for a
fastest POST time.
[Full Initialization] All USB devices will be available during POST. This process will
extend the POST time.
[Partial For a faster POST time, only USB ports with keyboard and
Initialization] mouse connections will be detected.
The following item appears only when you set the Boot Logo Display to [Auto] and [Full
Screen].
The following items appear only when you set the Boot Logo Display to [Disabled].
The following items appear only when you set the Launch CSM to [Enabled].
Secure Boot
This item allows you to configure the Windows® Secure Boot settings and manage its keys to
protect the system from unauthorized access and malwares during POST.
OS Type [Windows UEFI Mode]
[Windows UEFI This item allows you to select your installed operating system.
Mode] Execute the Microsoft® Secure Boot check. Only select
this option when booting on Windows® UEFI mode or other
Microsoft® Secure Boot compliant OS.
[Other OS] Get the optimized function when booting on Windows® non-
UEFI mode. Microsoft® Secure Boot only supports Windows®
UEFI mode.
Key Management
This item allows you to manage the Secure Boot keys.
Install Default Secure Boot keys
This item allows you to immediately load the default Security Boot keys,
Platform key (PK), Key-exchange Key (KEK), Signature database (db), and
Revoked Signatures (dbx). When the default Secure boot keys are loaded,
the PK state will change from Unloaded mode to loaded mode.
Clear Secure Boot keys
This item appears only when you load the default Secure Boot keys. This
item allows you to clear all default Secure Boot keys.
Save Secure Boot Keys
This item allows you to save the PK (Platform Keys) to a USB storage
device.
PK Management
The Platform Key (PK) locks and secures the firmware from any permissible changes.
The system verifies the PK before your system enters the OS.
Delete PK
This item allows you to delete the PK from your system. Once the PK is
deleted, all the system’s Secure Boot keys will not be active.
Configuration options: [Yes] [No]
Load PK from File
This item allows you to load the downloaded PK from a USB storage
Chapter 3
device.
The PK file must be formatted as a UEFI variable structure with time-based authenticated
variable.
Key-exchange Key (KEK) refers to Microsoft® Secure Boot Key-Enrollment Key (KEK).
The KEK file must be formatted as a UEFI variable structure with time-based authenticated
variable.
DB Management
The db (Authorized Signature database) lists the signers or images of UEFI
applications, operating system loaders, and UEFI drivers that you can load on the
single computer.
Delete the db
This item allows you to delete the db file from your system.
Configuration options: [Yes] [No]
Load db from File
This item allows you to load the downloaded db from a USB storage
device.
Append db from File
This item allows you to load the additional db from a storage device so that
more images can be loaded securely.
The db file must be formatted as a UEFI variable structure with time-based authenticated
variable.
DBX Management
The dbx (Revoked Signature database) lists the forbidden images of db items that are
no longer trusted and cannot be loaded.
Chapter 3
The dbx file must be formatted as a UEFI variable structure with time-based authenticated
variable.
• To access Windows® OS in Safe Mode, press <F8 > after POST (Windows® 8 not
supported).
• To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS Logo
appears.
Boot Override
These item displays the available devices. The number of device items that appear on the
screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system. Click an item to start
booting from the selected device.
Chapter 3
GPU Post
This item shows the installed graphics cards in your motherboard. It also shows the
recommended number of graphics card to install to your motherboard for best performance.
Setup Animator
This item allows you to enable or disable the Setup animator.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the
system boot failure!
• We recommend that you update the BIOS file only coming from the same memory/
CPU configuration and BIOS version.
Profile Name
This item allows you to key in a profile name.
Save to Profile
This item allows you to save the current BIOS settings to the BIOS Flash, and create a
profile. Key in a profile number from one to eight, press <Enter>, and then select Yes.
USB drive.
Visit http://www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS file for this motherboard.
The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard BIOS setup program.
1. EZ Update: Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.
2. ASUS EZ Flash 2: Updates the BIOS using a USB flash drive.
3. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3: Restores the BIOS using the motherboard support DVD or a
USB flash drive when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted.
4. ASUS BIOS Updater: Updates the BIOS in DOS environment using the motherboard
support DVD and a USB flash disk drive.
3.11.1 EZ Update
The EZ Update is a utility that allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in Windows®
environment.
• This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.
Refer to the documentation that came with the support DVD.
Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS from the ASUS website
at www.asus.com.
2. Enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tool menu to select
ASUS EZ Flash Utility and press <Enter> to enable it.
• This function can support devices such as a USB flash disk with FAT 32/16 format and
single partition only.
• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system
boot failure!
Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select
the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 3.10 Exit Menu for
Chapter 3
details.
The BIOS file in the motherboard support DVD may be older than the BIOS file published
on the ASUS official website. If you want to use the newer BIOS file, download the file at
http://www.asus.com/support and save it to a USB flash drive.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause
system boot failure!
The screen captures used in this section are for reference only and may not be exactly the
same as actually shown on your computer screen.
NTFS is not supported under DOS environment. Ensure that your USB flash drive is in
single partition and in FAT32/16 format.
4. When the booting message appears, press <Enter> within five (5) seconds to enter
FreeDOS prompt.
ISOLINUX 3.20 2006-08-26 Copyright (C) 1994-2005 H. Peter Anvin
A Bootable DVD/CD is detected. Press ENTER to boot from the DVD/CD.
If no key is pressed within 5 seconds, the system will boot next priority
device automatically. boot:
5. On the FreeDOS prompt, type d: then press <Enter> to switch the disk from Drive C
(optical drive) to Drive D (USB flash drive).
PATH: C:\
C: FORMAN~1 <DIR>
D: X99-E_WS.CAP 8390626 2014-06-30 21:14:34
Note
[Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move [Esc] Exit
3. Press <Tab> to switch from Drives panel to Files panel then press <Up/Down or Home/
End> keys to select the BIOS file and press <Enter>.
4. After the BIOS Updater checks the selected BIOS file, select Yes to confirm the BIOS
update.
Yes No
5. Select Yes then press <Enter>. When BIOS update is done, press <ESC> to exit BIOS
Updater.
6. Restart your computer.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot
failure.
Chapter 3
Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select
Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit BIOS menu. See section 3.10 Exit menu
for details.
Software Support
• Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. The setup procedures presented
in this chapter are for reference only. Refer to Windows® operating system
documentation for detailed information.
Chapter 4
If the AutoPlay dialog box does not appear, browse the contents of the support DVD and
double-click or tap \\bin\ASSETUP.EXE to launch the ASUS motherboard support DVD
main menu.
X99-E WS 4-1
Support DVD main menu
The Drivers menu shows the available The Manual menu contains the list of
device drivers if the system detects The AHCI/RAID Driver supplementary user guides. Click or tap
installed devices. Install the necessary menu contains the an item to open the folder of the user
drivers to use the devices. RAID/AHCI driver disk. guide.
Click or tap
The Utilities menu to display the
shows the applications ASUS contact
and other software information.
that the motherboard
supports.
Click or tap an
icon to display
DVD/motherboard
information
Click or tap an
item to install
Chapter 4
The software manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe®
Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities tab before opening the files.
The screenshots in this section are for reference only. The actual software manuals
containing in the support DVD vary by models.
X99-E WS 4-3
4.3 Software information
Most of the applications in the support DVD have wizards that will conveniently guide you
through the installation. View the online help or readme file that came with the software
application for more information.
4.4 AI Suite 3
AI Suite 3 is an all-in-one interface that integrates several ASUS utilities and allows you to
launch and operate these utilities simultaneously.
Installing AI Suite 3
Ensure that you have an Administrator account before installing AI Suite 3 in Windows® 7,
Windows® 8, or Windows® 8.1 operating systems.
3. From the Utilities tab, click or tap AI Suite 3 then follow the succeeding onscreen
instructions.
Chapter 4
b. On the lower left corner of the Desktop, click or tap File Explorer then
select your DVD drive and tap or double-click or tap the Setup application.
Launching AI Suite 3
Windows® 7 OS
From the Desktop, click or tap Start > All Programs > ASUS > AI Suite 3 > AI Suite 3.
You can also launch AI Suite in Windows® 7 by clicking or tapping on the Notification
area.
Chapter 4
X99-E WS 4-5
AI Suite 3 Main menu
The AI Suite 3 main menu gives you easy-access controls and insight to what’s going on
with your computer - allowing you to optimize performance settings while at the same time
ensuring system stability.
The AI Suite main menu includes is a quick-access menu bar that allows you to swiftly launch
any of the integrated ASUS utilities. Click or tap on the top-right corner of the menu to
launch the menu bar.
The Ai Suite 3 screenshots in this section are for reference only and can vary depending on
motherboard model.
• Some functions in the AI Suite 3 main menu in this user guide may vary depending on
the motherboard model.
• Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at
www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
Launching Ai Charger+
To launch Ai Charger+, click or tap on the top-right corner of the AI Suite 3 main
menu, then select Ai Charger+.
Ai Charger+ screen
• * Check the manufacturer if your USB device is a Battery Charging Specification 1.1
(BC 1.1) compliant or compatible device.
• ** Actual charging speeds may vary depending on the charging rate and specifications
of your USB device.
• To ensure normal charging function, disconnect and reconnect your USB device every
time you enable or disable Ai Charger+.
• Ai Charger+ does not support USB hubs, USB extension cables, and generic USB
cables.
Chapter 4
X99-E WS 4-7
4.4.2 USB 3.0 Boost
USB 3.0 Boost technology supports UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol) that automatically
speeds up the transfer rates of your USB storage devices.
Ensure to connect your USB 3.0 device to the USB 3.0 ports that support USB 3.0 Boost.
Refer to section 2.4.1 Rear I/O connection of your user guide for more details.
• USB 3.0 Boost automatically detects the USB 3.0 devices that support UASP. For a
list of UASP-supported USB 3.0 devices, visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com.
• The data transfer speed varies with USB devices. For a higher data transfer
performance, use a USB 3.0 device.
Chapter 4
Launching EZ Update
To launch EZ Update, click or tap on the top-right corner of the AI Suite 3 main menu,
then select EZ Update.
Using EZ Update
Chapter 4
X99-E WS 4-9
Manually update the BIOS and selecting a boot logo
After you click or tap BIOS Update button, click or tap Flash to update the BIOS and upload
the boot logo in your system.
Chapter 4
X99-E WS 4-11
Downloading the latest BIOS
Before you start downloading, ensure that you have installed the USB storage device to
your computer’s USB port that supports USB BIOS Flashback. Refer to section 2.4.1 Rear
I/O connection of this user guide for more details.
Before using USB Charger+, ensure to disable the ErP Ready item from the Advanced >
APM > ErP Ready in the Advanced mode of the BIOS Setup program.
Click or tap to
discard the settings
Click or tap to select the type of USB device
that you wish to charge when the system is off
Ensure to connect your USB device into the USB port that supports this utility. Refer to
section 2.4.1 Rear I/O connection of your user guide for more details.
• The USB Charger+ does not support USB hubs and USB extension cables, and
generic USB cables.
• The USB Charger+ may not recognize some ASUS devices due to a special design.
Chapter 4
X99-E WS 4-13
4.4.6 Push Notice
This utility allows you get the detailed status of your system to your smart device. You can
also send messages to your smart device using this utility.
Before using this utility, ensure that you pair your computer with your smart device. For
pairing information, refer to section Pairing your computer and smart device.
You can also enable the Push Notice via the Push Notice shortcut on the lower-right corner
of your screen. To do this, click or tap << then click or tap then select .
Push Notice
2. Tap Push Scan then tap the name of your computer that you want to pair with.
To pair your computer and smart device, ensure that both are connected to the same
wireless network.
Tick these to
enable mode alerts Tick to select the
smart device
X99-E WS 4-15
Sending messages to your smart device
This feature allows you to send messages to your smart device.
You can also send messages via the Push Notice messaging shortcut on the lower-right
corner of your screen. To do this, click or tap << then click or tap then select .
Tap to view PC
sent messages
Tap to scan more
host computers
Chapter 4
Chapter 4
X99-E WS 4-17
Viewing the SPD information
Click or tap the SPD tab to view the memory’s information.
Configuration option tabs (vary with the audio devices connected) Advanced settings
Chapter 4
X99-E WS 4-19
4.6 ASUS Dr. Power Utility
ASUS Dr. Power is a monitoring utility that provides notifications when the power supply
is unable to provide sufficient power to the system. You can choose to allow continuous
notifications or stop messages from appearing until the next time you reboot your computer.
The utility is used to monitor changes in the power supplied to the system that may affect
performance and system stability.
ASUS Dr. Power Utility runs on your system only when the Dr. Power switch is enabled.
(Please refer to 1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches for additional details). If the switch
is disabled, the Dr. Power icon will not be available on the Windows® notification area.
Right-click on the notification area then click Event Notification to disable or enable
messages from the utility.
Chapter 4
Chapter 4
X99-E WS 4-21
Chapter 4
RAID Support
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 5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk for details.
X99-E WS 5-1
5.1.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks
The motherboard supports Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install
identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array.
To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration:
1. Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays.
2. Connect the SATA signal cables.
3. Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector on each drive.
Refer to Chapter 3 for details on entering and navigating through the BIOS Setup
Due to chipset limitation, when SATA ports are set to RAID mode, all SATA ports run at
RAID mode together.
Chapter 5
RAID Volumes:
None defined.
Physical Devices:
Port Device Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID)
0 ST3160812AS 9LS0HJA4 149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
1 ST3160812AS 9LS0F4HL 149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
2 ST3160812AS 3LS0JYL8 149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
3 ST3160812AS 9LS0BJ5H 149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
The navigation keys at the bottom of the screen allow you to move through the menus
and select the menu options.
The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only and may not
exactly match the items on your screen.
The utility supports maximum four hard disk drives for RAID configuration.
Chapter 5
X99-E WS 5-3
Creating a RAID set
To create a RAID set:
1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press <Enter>. The
following screen appears:
Name: Volume 0
RAID Level: aaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
Disks: dssdsdsds
Strip Size:aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
Capacity:aaaaaaaaaaaaaa
Sync:aaaaaaaaaa
Create volume
[HELP]
[SELECT DISKS]
Port Device Model Serial # Size Status
0 ST3160812AS 9LS0HJA4 149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
1 ST3160812AS 9LS0F4HL 149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
2 ST3160812AS 3LS0JYL8 149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
3 ST3160812AS 9LS0BJ5H 149.0GB Non-RAID Disk
We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size for
multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing.
7. When the Capacity item is selected, enter the RAID volume capacity that you want
and press <Enter>. The default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity.
8. When the Create Volume item is selected, press <Enter>. The following warning
message appears:
9. Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu, or <N> to go back
to the CREATE VOLUME menu.
Chapter 5
X99-E WS 5-5
Deleting a RAID set
Be cautious when deleting a RAID set. You will lose all data on the hard disk drives when
you delete a RAID set.
[HELP]
2. Use the up/down arrow key to select the RAID set you want to delete, and then press
<Delete>. The following warning message appears:
[DELETE VOLUME VERIFICATION]
ALL DATA IN THE VOLUME WILL BE LOST!
(This does not apply to Recovery volumes)
3. Press <Y> to delete the RAID set and return to the utility main menu, or press <N> to
return to the DELETE VOLUME menu.
Chapter 5
[CONFIRM EXIT]
2. Press <Y> to exit or press <N> to return to the utility main menu.
The motherboard does not provide a floppy drive connector. You have to use a USB floppy
disk drive when creating a SATA RAID driver disk.
X99-E WS 5-7
5.2.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®
To create a RAID driver disk in Windows®:
1. Start Windows®.
2. Plug the USB floppy disk drive and insert a floppy disk.
3. Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive.
4. Go to the Intel AHCI/RAID Driver menu then click Intel AHCI/RAID Driver path to
open the RAID driver folder.
5. Select 32bit or 64bit folder depending on your operating system. Copy the files of the
selected folder to the root path of your USB floppy disk drive.
Before loading the RAID driver from a USB flash drive, you have to use another computer
to copy the RAID driver from the support DVD to the USB flash drive.
To set up a Windows® UEFI operating system under RAID mode, ensure to load the UEFI
driver for your optical drive.
Chapter 5
6.1.1 Requirements
• In Dual CrossFireX mode, you should have two identical CrossFireX-ready graphics
cards or one CrossFireX-ready dual-GPU graphics card that are AMD® certified.
• Ensure that your graphics card driver supports the AMD CrossFireX technology.
Download the latest driver from the AMD website at www.amd.com.
• Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power
required by your system. See Chapter 1 for details.
• We recommend that you install additional chassis fans for better thermal environment.
• Visit the AMD Game website at http://game.amd.com for the latest certified graphics
card and the supported 3D application list.
X99-E WS 6-1
6.1.3 Installing two CrossFireX™ graphics cards
The following pictures are for reference only. The graphics cards and the motherboard
layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same.
Goldfingers
CrossFireX bridge
(bundled with
graphics cards)
Chapter 6
X99-E WS 6-3
6.1.5 Installing four CrossFireX™ graphics cards
To install four CrossFire™ graphics cards:
1. Prepare four CrossFireX-ready graphics cards.
2. Insert the four graphics cards into the PCIEX16 slots. Refer to Chapter 1 in this user
manual for the locations of the PCIEX16 slots recommended for multi-graphics card
installation.
3. Ensure that the cards are properly
seated on the slots.
4. Align and firmly insert the three
CrossFireX bridge connectors to the
goldfingers on each graphics card.
Ensure that the connectors are firmly
in place.
Ensure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the AMD® CrossFireX™
technology. Download the latest driver from the AMD website at www.amd.com.
Chapter 6
X99-E WS 6-5
Enabling Dual CrossFireX™ technology
To enable Dual CrossFire™ technology:
1. In the AMD Vision Engine Control Center window, click Performance > AMD
CrossFireX™.
2. Select Enable CrossFireX™.
3. Select a GPU combination from the drop-down list.
4. Click Apply to save and activate the GPU settings made.
Chapter 6
6.2.1 Requirements
• In SLI mode, you should have two identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA®
certified.
• Ensure that your graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA SLI technology. Download the
latest driver from the NVIDIA website at www.nvidia.com.
• Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power
required by your system.
• We recommend that you install additional chassis fans for better thermal environment.
• Visit the NVIDIA zone website at http://www.nzone.com for the latest certified graphics
card and supported 3D application list.
X99-E WS 6-7
4. Align and firmly insert the SLI bridge connector to the goldfingers on each graphics
card. Ensure that the connector is firmly in place.
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.
SLI bridge
Goldfingers
X99-E WS 6-9
6.2.5 Installing the device drivers
Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device
drivers.
Ensure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology.
Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website at www.nvidia.com.
B1. If you cannot see the NVIDIA Control Panel item in step
(A), select Screen Resolution.
Chapter 6
X99-E WS 6-11
Chapter 6
Appendix
Notices
Federal Communications Commission Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
• This device may not cause harmful interference.
• This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required
to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications to this unit not
expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority
to operate this equipment.
Appendices
A-2 Appendices
REACH
Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of
Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at
ASUS REACH website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.
DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to
enable proper reuse of parts and recycling. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin
indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in
municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.
DO NOT throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste. This symbol
of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal
waste.
WARNING
Cancer and Reproductive Harm -
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
License.
A-4 Appendices
ASUS contact information
Technical Support
Telephone +86-21-38429911
Fax +86-21-5866-8722, ext. 9101#
Online support https://www.asus.com/support/Product/ContactUs/
Services/questionform/?lang=en
Technical Support
Support fax +1-812-284-0883
Telephone +1-812-282-2787
Online support https://www.asus.com/support/Product/ContactUs/
Services/questionform/?lang=en-us
Technical Support
Telephone +49-2102-5789555
Support Fax +49-2102-959911
Online support https://www.asus.com/support/Product/ContactUs/
Services/questionform/?lang=de-de
Appendices
Supplementary Information:
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Signature :
Appendices
Ver. 140331
A-6 Appendices