Asus P8B WS manual

Motherboard P8B WS[...]

ii E6384 First Edition February 201 1 Copyright © 201 1 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 pur[...]

iii Contents Notices ......................................................................................................... vi Safety information .................................................................................... viii About this guide ......................................................................................... ix ?[...]

iv Contents 2.3.10 Rear panel connection .................................................. 2-42 2.3.1 1 Audio I/O connections ................................................... 2-43   ...................................................... 2-46 2.5 T[...]

v Contents 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 ........[...]

vi 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 b[...]

vii REACH Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at ASUS website at http://csr .asus.com/english/ REACH.htm. ASUS Recycling/T akeback Services ASUS recycling and takeback programs come from our commitment to the highe[...]

viii 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 a[...]

ix  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 documenta[...]

x 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[...]

xi P8B WS specications summary CPU LGA1 155 socket for Intel ® 2nd Generation Core™ i3 desktop processor LGA 1 155 socket for Intel ® XEON E3-1200 series server/ workstation processor Supports 32nm CPU * Supports Intel ® T urbo Boost T echnology 2.0 ** Refer to www .asus.com for Intel CPU support list Chipset Intel ® C206 Chipset Memory 4 [...]

xii Audio Realtek ® ALC892 8-Channel High Denition Audio CODEC - BD Audio Layer Content Protection - Supports Jack-Detection, Multi-streaming and Front Panel Jack-Retasking - Optical S/PDIF out port at back I/O ASUS Unique Features GPU Boost with switch ASUS Power Design - 8+2 Phase Power Design ASUS EPU - EPU, EPU switch ASUS Exclusive Feature[...]

xiii Internal I/O Connectors 24-pin A TX Power connector 8-pin A TX +12V Power connector CPU fan with PWM control Chassis fan1 with Q-fan control Chassis fan2 with Q-fan control Chassis fan3 with Q-fan control PWR fan AAFP connector 1 x COM port connector 2 x USB connectors support additional 4 USB ports 2 x USB 2.0/1.1 vertical ports TPM header S/[...]

xiv[...]

1 Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.[...]

ASUS P8B WS Chapter summary 1 1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1 1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1 1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-2[...]

ASUS P8B WS 1-1 1.1 Welcome! Thank you for buying an ASUS P8B WS motherboard! The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards! Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in your package with the list below [...]

1-2 Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1.3 Special features 1.3.1 Product highlights Green ASUS This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packagings to safeguard consumers’ h[...]

ASUS P8B WS 1-3 USB 3.0 Support Experience ultra-fast data transfers at 4.8Gbps with USB 3.0--the latest connectivity standard. Built to connect easily with next-generation components and peripherals, USB 3.0 transfers data 10X faster and is also backward compatible with USB 2.0 components. GPU Boost Go to the Limit with iGPU Level Up! GPU Boost ac[...]

1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction CUDA parallel computing power supported The motherboard will achieve outstanding and dependable performance in the role of a Personal Supercomputer when working in tangent with discrete CUDA technology—providing unprecedented return on investment. Users can count on up to 4 T esla GPUs that are plugged into P8B[...]

ASUS P8B WS 1-5 AI Suite II One-stop Access to Innovative ASUS Features With its fast user-friendly interface, ASUS AI Suite II consolidates all exclusive ASUS features and allows you to supervise overclocking, energy management and fan speed control, voltage and sensor readings, even interact with your mobile via Bluetooth technology . All in one [...]

1-6 Chapter 1: Product Introduction ASUS Q-Design DIY quickly , DIY easily! ASUS Q-Design enhances your DIY experience. All of Q-LED, Q-DIMM, and Q-Slot design speed up and simplify the DIY process! ASUS Q-Connector Make connection quick and accurate! The ASUS Q-Connector allows you to connect or disconnect chassis front panel cables in one easy st[...]

ASUS P8B WS 1-7 ASUS Crystal Sound 8 Channel Audio Codec The onboard 8-channel HD audio (High Denition Audio, previously codenamed Azalia) CODEC enables high-quality Absolute Pitch 192khz/24bit audio output, true BD lossless sound, jack-sensing feature, retasking functions and multi-streaming technology .[...]

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.[...]

ASUS P8B WS Chapter summary 2 2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1 2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-2 2.3 Building your computer system ............................................... 2-30  ?[...]

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. • Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power s[...]

2.2 Motherboard overview 2.2.1 Motherboard layout Refer to 2.8 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. 2-2 Chapter 2: Hardware information[...]

2.2.2 Layout contents Connectors/Jumpers/Switches/Slots Page 1. LGA1 155 CPU Socket 2-4 2. Power connectors (24-pin EA TXPWR, 8-pin EA TX12V) 2-28 3. DDR3 DIMM slots 2-5 4. CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_F AN, 4-pin CHA_F AN1-3, 3-pin PWR_FAN) 2-24 5. GPU Boost Switch 2-13 6. MemOK! switch 2-14 7. USB 2.0 connectors (T ype A: USB[...]

2.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1 155 socket designed for the Intel ® 2nd Generation Core™ i3 series Desktop Processors and Intel ® Xeon ® E3- 1200 series Server/Workstation Processors. • Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on the socket and the socket contacts are no[...]

 2.2.4 System memory The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) slots. A DDR3 module is notched differently from a DDR or DDR2 module. DO NOT install a DDR or DDR2 memory module to the DDR3 slot. ASUS P8B [...]

 Y ou may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, 8GB unbuffered ECC or non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets depending on the installed CPU. • 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 conguratio[...]

P8B WS Motherboard    3-1333MHz capability -1333MHz capability V endors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 2 4 Apacer 78.01GC6.9L0 1GB SS Apac[...]

• 1 DIMM: Supports one module inserted in any slot as Single-channel memory conguration. • 2 DIMMs: Supports one pair of modules inserted into either the blue slots or the black slots as one pair of Dual-channel memory conguration. • 4 DIMMs: Supports 4 modules inserted into both the blue and black slots as two pairs of Dual-channel mem[...]

P8B WS Motherboard    3-1066MHz capability -1066MHz capability V endors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 2 4 Crucial CT12864BA1067.8FF 1GB S[...]

2.2.5 Expansion slots Ensure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. Slot No. Slot Description 1 PCIe 2.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16 or dual at x8/x8 mode) 2 PCIe 2.0 x16_2 slot (x8 mode) 3 PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot 4 PCIe 2.0 x16_3 slot (x4 mode) [...]

IRQ assignments for this motherboard A B C D E F G H PCIEx16_1 shared – – – – – – – PCIEx16_2 shared – – – – – – PCIEx16_3 – – shared – – – – – PCIEx16_4 shared – – – – – – – PCIEx1_1 shared – – – – – – – PCI1 shared – – – – – – – VIA1394 – – – shared – – ?[...]

2.2.6 Onboard switches Onboard switches allow you to fine-tune performance when working on a bare or open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. 1. EPU switch T urning this switch to Enable will automaticall y detect the current P C loadings and intelligently moderate th[...]

2. GPU Boost switch T urning this switch to Enable will automatically optimize the system for fast, yet stable GPU speed. For ensuring the system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when the system is powered off. The GPU Boost Switch functions only when you install the DESKTOP CPU that supports onboard graphics. ASUS P8B WS 2-13[...]

3. MemOK! switch Installing DIMMs that are incompatible with the motherboard may cause system boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! switch lights continuously . Press and hold the MemOK! switch until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin automatic memory compatibility tuning for successful boot. • Refer to section 2.2.6 Onboard LEDs for [...]

2.2.7 Onboard LEDs 1. POST State LEDs POST State LEDs check key components (CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and HDD) in sequence during motherboard booting process. If an error is found, the LED next to the error device will continue lighting until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitive way to locate the root problem within sec[...]

3. EPU LED The EPU LED lights when the EPU switch is turned to Enable . 4. Standby power LED The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any mother[...]

5. DRAM LED The DRAM_LED lights when the installed DIMMs incompatible with the motherboard or improperly installed. When using the MemOK! switch for automatic memory compatibility tuning, the DRAM_LED will blink. ASUS P8B WS 2-17[...]

2.2.8 Jumper 1. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) This jumper allows you to clear the Real T ime Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. Y ou can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords. [...]

2. Chassis Fan control setting (3-pin CHAF AN_SEL) These jumpers allow you to switch for fan pin selection. The CHAF AN_SEL jumper is for the front fans and rear fans control. Set to pins 1–2 when using 3-pin fans or pins 2–3 when using 4-pin fans. • If you use a 4-pin fan but set the jumper to pin 1-2, the fan you installed may not work. •[...]

2.2.9 Internal connectors 1. Intel ® C206 Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SA T A6G_1/2 [gray]) These connectors connect to Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial A T A 6.0 Gb/s signal cables. • These connectors are set to [IDE Mode] by default. If you intend to create a Serial A T A RAID set using these connectors, set the SA [...]

2. Intel ® C206 Serial A T A 3.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SA T A3G_3–6 [blue]) These connectors connect to Serial A T A 3.0 Gb/s hard disk drives and optical disc drives via Serial A T A 3.0 Gb/s signal cables. If you installed Serial A T A hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 conguration with the Intel ® Rapid Storage T ech[...]

Y ou can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) rst, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis supports front panel USB ports. Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! 3. USB 2.0 connectors (T ype A: USB7/8; 10-1 pin USB910; US[...]

4. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) This connector is for an IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module cable to this connector , then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector . Doing so will damage the motherboard! The IEEE 1394a module is purchas[...]

6. CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_F AN; 4-pin CHA_F AN1/2/3; 3-pin PWR_F AN) 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 . • The CPU_F AN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 2A (24 W) fan power . • If you install two [...]

7. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector . • We recommend that you connect a high-denition front panel audio module to this connecto[...]

9. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM) This connector supports a T rusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which can securely store keys, digital certicates, passwords, and data. A TPM system also helps enhance network security , protects digital identities, and ensures platform integrity . This connector can also serve for G.P . Diagnosis card installtio[...]

Code table for G.P . Diagnosis card 15, 19 Initiate chip AC OS in PIC mode E0 Check and wake up system AA OS in APIC mode 2B-2F Prepare system for memory detection and sizing 00 Leave BIOS and pass control to OS 32 Early CPU initiation 01 S1 34 W ake up AP 03 S3 98 Detect PS2 mouse/keyboard 04 S4 97 Initiate VGA BIOS 05 S5 9A-9D USB initiation 10 R[...]

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 t these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down rmly until the connectors completely t. • For a fully congured system, we recommend that you use a po[...]

• 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.[...]

2.3 Building your computer system 2.3.1 Additional tools and components to build a PC system 1 bag of screws Philips (cross) screwdriver PC chassis Power supply unit Intel LGA 1 155 CPU Intel LGA 1 155 compatible CPU Fan DIMM SA T A hard disk drive SA T A optical disc drive (optional) Graphics card (optional) The tools and components in the table a[...]

A B 1 2 3 2.3.2 CPU installation ASUS P8B WS 2-31[...]

C B A 5 6 4 2-32 Chapter 2: Hardware information[...]

2.3.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation Apply the Thermal Interface Material to the CPU heatsink and CPU before you install the heatsink and fan if necessary . 2 B B A A 1 T o install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly 3 4 ASUS P8B WS 2-33[...]

T o uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly 2 A B B A 1 2-34 Chapter 2: Hardware information[...]

1 2 3 T o remove a DIMM 2.3.4 DIMM installation B A ASUS P8B WS 2-35[...]

2.3.5 Motherboard installation 2 1 The diagrams in this section are for reference only . The motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same. 2-36 Chapter 2: Hardware information[...]

DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard. 3 ASUS P8B WS 2-37[...]

2.3.6 A TX Power connection 1 2 OR 2-38 Chapter 2: Hardware information[...]

2.3.7 SA T A device connection 2 OR 1 ASUS P8B WS 2-39[...]

2.3.8 Front I/O Connector IDE_LED POWER SW RESET SW IDE_LED- IDE_LED+ PWR Reset Ground Ground 1 2 USB AAFP T o install ASUS Q-Connector T o install USB Connector T o install front panel audio connector The actual location may vary with motherboards. 2-40 Chapter 2: Hardware information[...]

2.3.9 Expension Card installation T o install PCIe x16 cards T o install PCIe x1 cards T o install PCI cards ASUS P8B WS 2-41[...]

2.3.10 Rear panel connection Rear panel connectors 1. PS/2 mouse and keyboard port 7. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4 2. IEEE 1394a port 8. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2 3. LAN (RJ-45) port 2* 9. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port 4. DVI port 10. Optical S/PDIF Out port 5. LAN (RJ-45) port 1* 1 1. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2 6. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6 12. Audio I/O ports** ?[...]

 Port H e a d s e t 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 – – Cente[...]

Connect to Stereo Speakers Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers 2-44 Chapter 2: Hardware information[...]

Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers ASUS P8B WS 2-45[...]

2.4 Starting up for the 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 follow[...]

2.5 Turning off the computer Wh il e the sys te m is ON, pre ss in g the pow e r s wi tc h for le ss tha n fou r sec on ds puts the system on sleep mode or soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. Refer to section 3.7 Po[...]

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 ASUS P8B WS 3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 3-1 3.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 3-1 3.3 Main menu .................................................................................... 3-5 3.4 Ai T weaker menu Ai T weaker men[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-1 3.1 Knowing BIOS BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) stores system hardware settings such as storage device conguration, overclocking settings, advanced power management, and boot device conguration that are needed for system startup in the motherboard CMOS. In normal circumstances, the default BIOS settings apply to most con[...]

3-2 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.2.1 EZ Mode By default, the EZ Mode screen appears when you enter the BIOS setup program. The EZ Mode provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to select the display language, system performance mode and boot device priority . T o access the Advanced Mode, click Exit/Advanced Mode , then se[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-3 Main Ai T weaker Advanced Monitor Boot T ool Exit Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 201 1 American Megatrends, Inc. [X.M.P .] When XMP is enabled BLCK frequency , CPU ratio and memory parameters will be auto optimized. →← : Select Screen ↑↓ : Select Item Enter: Select +/-: Change Opt. F1: General Help F2: Previous V alues F5:[...]

3-4 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Menu items The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specic items for that menu. For example, selecting Main shows the Main menu items. The other items (Ai T weaker , Advanced, Monitor , Boot, T ool, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items. Back button This button appears when entering a subme[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-5 3.3 Main menu The Main menu screen appears when you enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS Setup program. The Main menu provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to set the system date, time, language, and security settings. Security The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings[...]

3-6 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Administrator Password If you have set an administrator password, we recommend that you enter the administrator password for accessing the system. Otherwise, you might be able to see or change only selected elds in the BIOS setup program. T o set an administrator password: 1. Select the Administrator Password item and p[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-7 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 . T o set a user password: 1. Select the User Password item and press <Enter>. 2. From the C[...]

3-8 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.4 Ai Tweaker menu The Ai T weaker menu items allow you to congure overclocking-related items. Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai T weaker menu items. Incorrect eld values can cause the system to malfunction. The conguration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you insta[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-9 Ai Overclock T uner [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal frequency . This item appears only when you install X.M.P . memory modules to the motherboard. Select any of these preset overclocking conguration options: [Auto] Loads the optimal settings for the system. [X.M.P .] If[...]

3-10 Chapter 3: BIOS setup GPU Boost GPU Boost accelerates the integrated GPU for extreme graphics performance. Conguration options: [Ok] [Cancel] DRAM Timing Control The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the DRAM timing control features. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. T o restore the default setting, type [auto][...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-1 1 Primary Plane Current Limit [Auto] Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. Secondary Plane Current Limit [Auto] Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. Some of the following items are adjusted by typing the desired values using the numeric keypad and press the <Enter> key . Y ou can also u[...]

3-12 Chapter 3: BIOS setup VCCSA V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the VCCSA voltage. The values range from 0.77V to 1.60V with a 0.01V interval. CPU PLL V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the CPU PLL voltage. The values range from 1.20V to 2.20V with a 0.01V interval. Load-Line Calibration [Auto] Load-line is dened by Intel VRM spec and affects [...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-13 Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect eld values can cause the system to malfunction. 3.5 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Main Ai T weaker Advanced Monitor Boot Tool Exit CPU Conguration Parameters EFI BIOS Util[...]

3-14 Chapter 3: BIOS setup   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. Scroll down to display the following items: CPU Ratio [Auto] Allows you to set the r[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-15 Active Processor Cores [All] Allows you to choose the number of CPU cores to activate in each processor package. Conguration options: [All] [1] [2] [3] Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables this function. [Enabled] Allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs with extended CPUID functions. E[...]

3-16 Chapter 3: BIOS setup    Main Ai T weaker Advanced Monitor Boot Tool Exit Select which graphics controller to use as the primary boot device. Back Advanced System Agent Conguration > EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode System Agent Conguration I[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-17   Main Ai T weaker Advanced Monitor Boot Tool Exit Enabled/Disabled the High Precision Event Timer . Back Advanced PCH Conguration > EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode PCH Chipset Conguration High Precision Timer Enabled High Precision Timer [Enabled] Allows [...]

3-18 Chapter 3: BIOS setup SA T A Mode [IDE Mode] Allows you to set the SA T A conguration. [Disabled] Disables the SA T A function. [IDE Mode] Set to [IDE Mode] when you want to use the Serial A T A hard disk drives as Parallel A T A physical storage devices. [AHCI Mode] Set to [AHCI Mode] when you want the SA T A hard disk drives to use the AH[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-19   The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features. The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None . Legacy USB Support [Enabled] [Disabled] The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup[...]

3-20 Chapter 3: BIOS setup   Main Ai T weaker Advanced Monitor Boot Tool Exit Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 201 1 American Megatrends, Inc. Enabled/Disabled Azalia HD Audio →← : Select Screen ↑↓ : Select Item Enter: Select +/-: Change Op[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-21 VIA 1394 Controller [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the controller . [Enabled] Enables the onboard IEEE 1394a controller . Intel LAN2 Controller [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the controller . [Enabled] Enables the Intel LAN2 controller . Intel LAN2 OPROM [Disabled] This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] an[...]

3-22 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Restore 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 PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled] [Disab[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-23 Power On By RTC [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables R TC to generate a wake event. [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the items RTC Alarm Date (Days) and Hour/Minute/Second will become user-congurable with set values.[...]

3-24 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.6 Monitor menu The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change the fan settings. Main Ai T weaker Advanced Monitor Boot T ool Exit Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 201 1 American Megatrends, Inc. →← : Select Screen ↑↓ : Select Item Enter: Select +/-: Change Opt. F1: Genera[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-25 CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature. [Enabled] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature. CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM] This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to disable or set the CPU fan warning speed. Conguration options: [Ignore] [200 RPM][...]

3-26 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chassis Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM] This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to disable or set the chassis fan warning speed. Conguration options: [Ignore] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM] Chassis Fan Profile [Standard] This item appears only when you en[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-27 3.7 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Bootup NumLock State [On] [On] Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [On]. [Off] Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [Off]. Full Screen Logo [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the full screen logo display feature. [Enabled] Enables the full screen l[...]

3-28 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.8 Tool menu The T ool menu items allow you to congure options for special functions. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the submenu. Main Ai T weaker Advanced Monitor Boot T ool Exit Be used to update BIOS EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode 3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash Utility Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash Uti[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-29   This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. Main Ai T weaker Advanced Monitor Boot T ool Exit Save BIOS settings to Prole Back T ool ASUS O.C. Prole > EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode The ?[...]

3-30 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.8.3 Asus SPD Information Main Ai T weaker Advanced Monitor Boot T ool Exit Drive Xpert Mode Back T ool Asus SPD Information > EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode DIMM Slot # Slot 1 Manufacturer Micron Module Size 1024 MBytes Maximum Bandwidth 1066 Mhz Part Number TF12864AZ-1G1F1 Serial Number ea19a0bc Product Week/Y ea[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-31 3.9 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. Y ou can access the EZ Mode from the Exit menu. Load Optimized Defaults This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup menus. When you sele[...]

3-32 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.10 Updating BIOS The ASUS website publishes the latest BIOS versions to provide enhancements on system stability , compatibility , or performance. However , BIOS updating is potentially risky . If there is no problem using the current version of BIOS, DO NOT manually update the BIOS . Inappropriate BIOS updating may res[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-33 3.10.1 ASUS Update utility The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows ® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you to: • Update the BIOS directly from the Internet • Download the latest BIOS le from the Internet • Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS le[...]

3-34 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 2. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network trafc. If you want to enable the BIOS downgradable function and auto BIOS backup function, check the checkboxs before the two items on the screen. 4. Y ou can decide whether to change the BIOS boot logo, which is the image appearing on screen during the Power-On [...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-35 • The screenshots in this section are for reference only . The actual BIOS information vary by models. • Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www .asus.com for detailed software conguration. ?[...]

3-36 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.10.2 ASUS EZ Flash Utility The ASUS EZ Flash Utility feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to use a bootable oppy disk or an OS-based utility . 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 Utility: 1. Insert th[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-37 3.10.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS le when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. Y ou can restore a corrupted BIOS le using the motherboard support DVD or a USB ash drive that contains the BIOS le. The BIOS[...]

3-38 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Booting the system in DOS environment 1. Insert the USB ash drive with the latest BIOS le and BIOS Updater to the USB port. 2. Boot your computer . When the ASUS Logo appears, press <F8> to show the BIOS Boot Device Select Menu . Insert the support DVD into the optical drive and select the optical drive as the[...]

ASUS P8B WS 3-39 2. The BIOS Updater backup screen appears indicating the BIOS backup process. When BIOS backup is done, press any key to return to the DOS prompt. ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18 [2011/04/29] Current ROM Update ROM Note Saving BIOS: PATH: A: BOARD: P8B WS VER: 0301 DATE: 01/24/2011 BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown BIOS[...]

3-40 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 4. Select Y es and press <Enter>. When BIOS update is done, press <ESC> to exit BIOS Updater . Restart your computer . DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure! • For BIOS Updater version 1.04 or later , the utility automatically exits to the DOS prompt afte[...]

4 Software support This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package and the software.[...]

ASUS P8B WS Chapter summary 4 4.1 Installing an operating system ................................................... 4-1 4.2 Support DVD information ............................................................ 4-1 4.3 Software information ................................................................... 4-3 4.4 ?[...]

ASUS P8B WS 4-1 If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer , browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the le 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 64-bit Vista / 7 / 64-bit 7[...]

4-2 Chapter 4: Software support 4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals The software manuals are included in the support DVD. Follow the instructions below to get the necessary software manuals. The software manual les are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe ® Acrobat ® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening the les. Th[...]

ASUS P8B 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 le that came with the software application for more information. 4.3.1 AI Suite II AI Suite II is an all-in-one interface that integrates several ASUS utilitie[...]

4-4 Chapter 4: Software support 4.3.2 EPU EPU is an energy-efcient tool that satises different computing needs. This utility provides several modes that you can select to save system power . Selecting Auto mode will have the system shift modes automatically according to current system status. Y ou can also customize each mode by conguring [...]

ASUS P8B WS 4-5 Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www .asus.com for detailed software conguration. 4.3.3 F AN Xpert Fan Xpert intelligently allows you to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan speeds according to different ambient temperatures caused by dif ferent climate conditions in different geographic[...]

4-6 Chapter 4: Software support 4.3.4 Probe II Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer’s vital components, and detects and alerts you of any problem with these components. Probe II senses fan rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others. With this utility , you are assured that your computer is always at a healthy operat[...]

ASUS P8B WS 4-7 4.3.5 Sensor Recorder Sensor Recorder allows you to monitor the changes in the system voltage, temperature, and fan speed, as well as recording the changes. Launching Sensor Recorder After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, click T ool > Sensor Recorder on the AI Suite II main menu bar to launch PC Probe II.[...]

4-8 Chapter 4: Software support 4.3.6 Ai Charger+ Battery Charging V ersion 1.1 (BC 1.1), a USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) certied USB charging function, is designed to make USB charging faster than the standard USB devices. If your USB device supports the BC 1.1 function*, when you connect your USB device to your system, the system automatical[...]

ASUS P8B WS 4-9   The Realtek ® audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio capability to deliver the ultimate audio experience on your computer . The software provides Jack-Detection function, S/PDIF Out support, and interrupt capability . The CODEC also includes the Realtek ® p[...]

4-10 Chapter 4: Software support Control settings window  options Information button Exit button Minimize button B. Realtek HD Audio Manager for Windows XP Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www .asus.com for detailed software conguration.[...]

ASUS P8B WS 4-1 1 4.4 RAID congurations The motherboard supports the following SA T A RAID solution: • Intel ® Rapid Storage T echnology with RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 and RAID 5 support. • Y ou must install Windows ® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial A T A hard disk drives. The Serial A T A RAID feature is available on[...]

4-12 Chapter 4: Software support 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 conguration: 1. Install the SA T A hard disks into the drive b[...]

ASUS P8B WS 4-13 Creating a RAID set T o create a RAID set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID V olume and press <Enter>. The following screen appears: 2. Enter a name for the RAID set and press <Enter>. 3. When the RAID Level item is selected, press the up/down arrow key to select a RAID level to create, and then pres[...]

4-14 Chapter 4: Software support 5. Use the up/down arrow key to select a drive, and then press <Space> to select. A small triangle marks the selected drive. Press <Enter> after completing your selection. 6. Use the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID array (for RAID 0, 10 and 5 only),and then press <Enter>. T[...]

ASUS P8B WS 4-15 Deleting a RAID set T ake caution when deleting a RAID set. Y ou will lose all data on the hard disk drives when you delete a RAID set. T o delete a RAID set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 2. Delete RAID V olume and press <Enter>. The following screen appears: Exiting the Intel ® Rapid Storage T echnology Option ROM [...]

4-16 Chapter 4: Software support 4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk A oppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing a Windows ® operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. • ?[...]

ASUS P8B WS 4-17 4.5.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows ® OS installation T o install the RAID driver in Windows ® XP: 1. During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6 key to install third-party SCSI or RAID driver . 2. Pr es s <F 6> , a nd th en ins er t the o pp y d isk w it h R AID d riv er in to th e U S[...]

4-18 Chapter 4: Software support   Due to OS limitation, Windows ® XP may not recognize the USB oppy disk drive when you install the RAID driver from a oppy disk during the OS installation. T o solve this issue, add the USB oppy disk driv[...]

ASUS P8B WS 4-19 8. Find the [HardwareIds.scsi.iaAHCI_DesktopWorkstationServer] and [HardwareIds.scsi.iaStor_DesktopWorkstationServer] sections in the txtsetup.oem le. 9. T ype the following line to the bottom of the two sections: id = “USBVID_xxxx&PID_xxxx”, “usbstor” 10. Save and exit the le. Add the same line to both sections.[...]

4-20 Chapter 4: Software support[...]

5 Multiple GPU technology support This chapter describes how to install and congure multiple A TI ® CrossFireX™ and NVIDIA ® SLI™ graphics cards.[...]

ASUS P8B WS Chapter summary 5 5.1 A TI ® CrossFireX™ technology .................................................... 5-1 5.2 NVIDIA ® CUDA™ technology ...................................................... 5-5[...]

ASUS P8B WS 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 • In CrossFireX mode, you should have two identical CrossFireX-ready graphics card[...]

5-2 Chapter 5: Multiple GPU 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 rmly insert the CrossFireX bridge connector to the goldngers on each graphics card. Ensure that the connector is rm[...]

ASUS P8B WS 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 at www .amd.com. 5.1.5 Enabling the A TI ® CrossFir[...]

5-4 Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support Enabling Dual CrossFireX settings 1. In the Catalyst Control Center window , click Graphics Settings >  . 2. From the Graphics Adapter list, select the graphics card to act as the display GPU. 3. Select Enable CrossFireX . 4. Click Apply[...]

ASUS P8B WS 5-5 5.2 NVIDIA ® CUDA™ technology The motherboard supports the NVIDIA ® CUDA™ technology and up to 4 NVIDIA ® T elsa™ computing processor cards, providing the optimum multi purpose computing performance. Follow the installation procedures in this section. 5.2.1 Requirements • 32/64-bit Microsoft ® Windows XP/ V ista/ Linux R[...]

5-6 Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support 2. Connect either one 8-pin power connector or two 6-pin power connectors from the power supply to the Quadro graphics card and T esla computing processor card(s). 3. Connect a display cable to the graphics card. 4. Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the dev[...]

ASUS contact information ASUST eK COMPUTER INC. (T aiwan) A ddress 15 Li-T e Road, Peitou, T aipei, T aiwan 1 1259 T elephone +886-2-2894-3447 Web site http://www .asus.com.tw T echnical Support T elephone 0800-093-456 Online Support http://support.asus.com/techserv/techserv .aspx ASUST eK COMPUTER INC. (China) A ddress No.508, Chundong Road, Xinzh[...]

EC Declaration of Conformity We, the undersigned, Manufacturer: ASUSTek COMPUTE R 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 RATI NGEN Country: GERMANY declare the following apparatus: Product name : Mother[...]