Asus MAXIMUS VI manual

Motherboard MAXIMUS VI HERO[...]

ii E8459 Revised Edition V2 June 2013 Copyright © 2013 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 purc[...]

iii Contents Safety information ...................................................................................................... vi About this guide ........................................................................................................ vii MAXIMUS VI HERO specications summary ..............................................[...]

iv Chapter 3: BIOS setup 3.1 Knowing BIOS ............................................................................................ 3-1 3.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................................. 3-2 3.2.1 EZ Mode...................................................................................... 3[...]

v 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 Obtainin[...]

vi Safety information Electrical safety T o prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system. When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power c[...]

vii About this guide This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring the motherboard. How this guide is organized This guide contains the following parts: • Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. It includes description of the sw[...]

viii Conventions used in this guide T o ensure that you perform certain tasks properly , take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. 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 IMPORT ANT : Instr[...]

ix MAXIMUS VI HERO specications summary (continued on the next page) CPU LGA1 150 socket for the 4th Generation Intel ® Core™ i7/Intel ® Core™i5/Intel ® Core™ i3, Pentium ® , and Celeron ® processors Supports 22nm CPU Supports Intel ® T urbo Boost T echnology 2.0* * The Intel ® T urbo Boost T echnology 2.0 support depends on the CPU[...]

x (continued on the next page) LAN 1 x Intel ® I217-V Gigabit LAN Controller Audio ROG SupremeFX Audio 8-Channel High Denition Audio - SupremeFX Shielding T echnology - ELNA ® Premium Audio Capacitors - Content Protection for Full Rate lossless DVD Audio, Blu-ray DVD, and HD-DVD audio content playback - Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, Front P[...]

xi (continued on the next page) ROG Exclusive Features Extreme Engine Digi+ III - Full digital 8+2 phase CPU/DRAM power - NexFET TM Power Block MOSFET - 60A BlackWing Chokes - 10K Black Metallic Capacitors ROG GameFirst II ROG RAMDisk CPU Level Up UEFI BIOS features - Extreme T weaker - T weaker’s Paradise - ROG SSD Secure Erase - BIOS Print - GP[...]

xii Internal Connectors 1 x USB 3.0 connector (supports additional 2 USB 3.0 ports) 2 x USB 2.0 connectors (support additional 4USB 2.0 ports, 1 connector shares with ROG_EXT header) 1 x ROG Extension (ROG_EXT) header 8 x SA T A 6Gb/s connectors 1 x 4-pin CPU fan connector 1 x 4-pin CPU optional fan connector 3 x 4-pin Chassis fan connectors 1 x 24[...]

xiii Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items. Motherboard ROG MAXIMUS VI HERO Cables 3 x 2-in-1 SA T A 6 Gb/s cables 1 x SLI ® bridge Accessories I/O Shield 1 x 12-in-1 ROG cable label 1 x 2-in-1 Q-Connector kit 1 x ROG Door Hanger Application DVD ROG motherboard support DVD Documentation User guide If any of the ab[...]

xiv Installation tools and components 1 bag of screws Philips (cross) screwdriver PC chassis Power supply unit Intel LGA 1 150 CPU Intel LGA 1 150 compatible CPU Fan DDR3 DIMM SA T A hard disk drive SA T A optical disc drive (optional) Graphics card (optional) The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package.[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-1 Chapter 1 Product introduction 1 1.1 Special features 1.1.1 Product highlights Republic of Gamers The Republic of Gamers offers you the best of the best. W e offer the best hardware engineering, the fastest performance, the most innovative ideas, and we welcome the best gamers to join in. In the Republic of Gamers, mercy ru[...]

1-2 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 1.1.2 ROG Gaming Features SupremeFX The re-engineered ROG-exclusive SupremeFX audio technology features an onboard 8-channel high-denition sound of true audophile-grade performance that is equal in power , clarity , and range to dedicated sound cards. Its unique Red Line Shielding and special metalli[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-3 Chapter 1 1.1.3 ROG Exclusive Features Extreme Engine Digi+ III Extreme Engine Digi+ III offers you a hardcore power delivery for a challenging and extreme gaming enjoyment. It utilizes the best components such as NexFET ™ Power Block MOSFET s, BlackWing chokes with special n design, and super-premium 10K black metalli[...]

1-4 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 1.1.5 ROG rich bundled software Kaspersky ® Anti-Virus Kaspersky ® Anti-Virus Personal offers premium antivirus protection for individual users and home ofces. It is based on advanced antivirus technologies. The product incorporates the Kaspersky ® Anti-Virus engine, which is renowned for maliciou[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-5 Chapter 1 1.2 Motherboard overview 1.2.1 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[...]

1-6 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 Refer to 1.2.9 Internal connectors and 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. 1.2.2 Motherboard layout[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-7 Chapter 1 Layout contents Connectors/Jumpers/Buttons and switches/Slots Page 1. A TX power connectors (24-pin EA TXPWR; 8-pin EA TX12V) 1-43 2. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_F AN; 4-pin CPU_OPT ; 4-pin CHA_F AN1-3) 1-42 3. LGA1 150 CPU Socket 1-8 4. DDR3 DIMM slots 1-9 5. Q_Code LEDs 1-31 6. MemOK! bu[...]

1-8 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 1.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1 150 socket designed for the 4th Generation Intel ® Core™ i7 / Intel ® Core™ i5 / Intel ® Core™ i3, Pentium ® , and Celeron ® processors. • Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-9 Chapter 1 Recommended memory congurations 1.2.4 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.[...]

1-10 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 Memory congurations Y ou may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB and 8GB unbuffered and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. • Memory module with memory frequency higher than 2133 MHz and its corresponding timing or the loaded XMP prole is not the JEDEC memory standard. The stability and compatibility o[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-1 1 Chapter 1 MAXIMUS VI HERO Motherboard Qualied V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3 2800 MHz capability DDR3 2600 MHz capability DDR3 2666 MHz capability V endors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 A VEXIR A VD3U28001204G-4CI 16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS - - 12-14-14-35 1.65V • • [...]

1-12 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 DDR3 2500 MHz capability V endors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 G.SKILL F3-20000CL10Q-16GBZHD(XMP) 16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS - - 10-11-1 1-31 1.65 • • DDR3 2400 MHz capability V endors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIM[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-13 Chapter 1 DDR3 2200 MHz capability V endors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 G.SKILL F3-17600CL7D-4GBFLS(XMP) 4G ( 2x 2G ) DS - - 7-10-10-28 1.65 • GEIL GET34GB2200C9DC(XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 9-10-9-28 1.65 • • GEIL GET38GB2200C9ADC(XMP) 8GB ( 2x 4GB ) DS[...]

1-14 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 DDR3 2000 MHz capability V endors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optiona l) 2 4 AEXEA AXA3ES2G2000LG28V (XMP) 2GB DS - - - 1.65 • • AEXEA AXA3ES 4GK2000LG2 8V (XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS - - - 1.65 • • Apacer 78.AAGD5.9KD (XMP) 6GB ( 3x 2GB ) DS - - 9-[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-15 Chapter 1 DDR3 1866 MHz capability V endors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Opti onal) 2 4 A-DA TA AX3U1866XW8G10(XMP) 16GB ( 2x 8GB ) DS - - 10-1 1-10-30 1.5 • • CORSAIR CMD16GX3M2A1866C9 (V er5.29)(XMP) 16GB ( 2x 8GB ) DS - - 1866 9-9-9-27 1.5 • CORSAIR CMD16GX3M4A1866C9[...]

1-16 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 DDR3 1800 MHz capability V endors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 G.SKILL F3-14400CL9D-4GBRL(XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • • DDR3 1600 MHz capability (continued on the next page) V endors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip N[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-17 Chapter 1 DDR3 1600 MHz capability V endors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 CORSAIR CMD16GX3M2A1600C9 (V er8.21)(XMP) 16GB (2x8GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2A1600C8 (V er5.12)(XMP) 8GB (2x4GB ) DS - - 1600 8-8- 8-24 1.5 • • CORSAIR CMD8GX3M2A160[...]

1-18 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 (continued on the next page) DDR3 1600 MHz capability V endors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D- 8GBRL (XMP) 8GB (2x4GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • G.SKILL F3-12800CL9D- 8GBSR2 (XMP) 8GB (2x4GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.25 • [...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-19 Chapter 1 DDR3 1600 MHz capability V endors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 Micron MT16JTF1G64AZ- 1G6E1 8GB DS Micron D9QBJ - - • • MICRON MT16KTF51264AZ- 1G6M1 4GB DS MICRON D9PFJ - - • • Micron MT8JTF51264AZ- 1G6E1 4GB SS Micron D9QBJ - - • • MICRON [...]

1-20 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 DDR3 1333 MHz capability V endors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Vol tage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 ACTICA ACT1GHU64B8F1333S 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F - - • • ACTICA ACT1GHU72C8G1333S 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F(ECC) - - • • ACTICA ACT2GHU64B8G1333M 2GB DS Micron D9KPT -[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-21 Chapter 1 (continued on the next page) DDR3 1333 MHz capability V endors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 GEIL GG34GB1333C9DC 4GB (2x2GB ) DS GEIL GL1 L128 M88BA1 15FW 9-9-9-24 1.3 • • GEIL GG34GB1333C9DC 4GB (2x2GB ) DS GEIL GL1L128M88BA15B 9-9-9-24 1.3 • ?[...]

1-22 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 DDR3 1333 MHz capability V endors Part No. Size SS/ DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing V oltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 4 Patriot PGD316G1333ELK (XMP) 16GB (2x8GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5 • • Patriot PSD32G13332 2GB DS Prtriot PM128M8D3BU-15 9 - • • RiDA TA C304627CB1AG22Fe 2GB DS RiDAT A C304[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-23 Chapter 1 1.2.5 Expansion slots 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 x1_1 slot 2 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16/x8_1 slot 3 PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot 4 PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16/x8_2 slot 5 PCIe 2.0 x1_3 slo[...]

1-24 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 • We recommend that you provide sufcient power when running CrossFireX or SLI We recommend that you provide sufcient power when running CrossFireX or SLI ® mode. • Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_F AN1-3 when Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard conne[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-25 Chapter 1 1.2.6 Onboard buttons Onboard buttons allow you to ne-tune performance when working on a bare or open- case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. 1. Power-on button The motherboard comes with a power-on button that allows you to power u[...]

1-26 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 • Refer to section 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the MEMOK_LED. • The DRAM_LED also lights up when the DIMM is not properly installed. T urn off the system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function. • The MemOK! button does not function under Windows ® OS environment[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-27 Chapter 1 4. DirectKey button This feature allows your system to go to the BIOS Setup program with the press of a button. With DirectKey , you can enter the BIOS anytime without having to press the <Del> key during POST . It also allows you to turn on or turn off your system and conveniently enter the BIOS during boo[...]

1-28 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure! T o erase the RTC RAM: 1. T urn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3 for [...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-29 Chapter 1 1.2.8 Onboard LEDs 1. Hard Disk LED The hard disk LED is designed to indicate the hard disk activity . It blinks when data is being written into or read from the hard disk drive. The LED does not light up when there is no hard disk drive connected to the motherboard or when the hard disk drive does not function. [...]

1-30 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 3. Q LED Q LEDs check key components (CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and booting devices) in sequence during motherboard booting process. If an error is found, the corresponding LED ashes until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitive way to locate the root problem within seconds[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-31 Chapter 1 5. 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. 4. BIOS Flashback LED This LED ashes when the BIOS is updating and turns off after the BIOS update.[...]

1-32 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 Q-Code table (continued on the next page) Code Description 00 Not used 01 Power on. Reset type detection (soft/hard). 02 AP initialization before microcode loading 03 System Agent initialization before microcode loading 04 PCH initialization before microcode loading 06 Microcode loading 07 AP initializ[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-33 Chapter 1 Q-Code table (continued on the next page) Code Description 50 – 53 Memory initialization error. Invalid memory type or incompatible memory speed 54 Unspecied 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[...]

1-34 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 Code Description 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 54 Unspecied memory initialization error 55 Memory not installed 56 Invalid CPU type or Speed 57 CPU mismatch 58 CPU self[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-35 Chapter 1 Code Description F9 Recovery capsule is not found F A Invalid recovery capsule FB – FF Reserved for future AMI error codes 60 DXE Core is started 61 NVRAM initialization 62 Installation of the PCH Runtime Services 63 – 67 CPU DXE initialization is started 68 PCI host bridge initialization 69 System Agent DXE [...]

1-36 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 Code Description 9C USB Detect 9D USB Enable 9E – 9F Reserved for future AMI codes A0 IDE initialization is started A1 IDE Reset A2 IDE Detect A3 IDE Enable A4 SCSI initialization is started A5 SCSI Reset A6 SCSI Detect A7 SCSI Enable A8 Setup V erifying Password A9 Start of Setup AA Reserved for ASL[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-37 Chapter 1 Code Description D2 PCH initialization error D3 Some of the Architectural Protocols are not available D4 PCI resource allocation error . Out of Resources D5 No Space for Legacy Option ROM D6 No Console Output Devices are found D7 No Console Input Devices are found D8 Invalid password D9 Error loading Boot Option [...]

1-38 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 1.2.9 Internal connectors 1. Intel ® Z87 Serial A T A 6 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SA T A6G_1-6 [red]) These connectors connect to Serial A T A 6 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial A T A 6 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guratio[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-39 Chapter 1 2. ASMedia ® Serial A T A 6 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SA T A6G_E1/2 [red]) These connectors connect to Serial A T A 6 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial A T A 6 Gb/s signal cables. 3. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_12) This connector allows you to connect a USB 3.0 module for additional USB 3.0 front or rear panel [...]

1-40 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 4. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port. Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector , then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. The S/PDIF module is purchased separately[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-41 Chapter 1 Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! Y ou can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB) rst, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis supports front panel USB ports. 6. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 p[...]

1-42 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 7. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_F AN; 4-pin CPU_OPT ; 4-pin CHA_FAN1-3) Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector . • DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan co[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-43 Chapter 1 • For a fully congured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit For a fully congured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with A TX 12 V Specication 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 350 W . • Do not forget to connect the 4-pin/8-[...]

1-44 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 • 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 HDD_LED) Th[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 1-45 Chapter 1 10. DirectKey connector (2-pin DRCT) This connector is for the chassis-mounted button that supports the DirectKey function. Connect the button cable that supports DirectKey , from the chassis to this connector on the motherboard. Ensure that your chassis comes with the extra button cable that supports the DirectK[...]

1-46 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 1 1 ROG Extension - ROG_EXT connector (18-1 pin ROG_EXT) This connector is for the OC Panel and the other ROG device. 12. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM) This connector supports a T rusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which securely store keys, digital certicates, passwords and data. A TPM system also[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 2-1 Chapter 2 Basic Installation 2 2.1 Building your PC system 2.1.1 Motherboard installation 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. 1. Install the ASUS Q-Shield to the chassis rear I/O panel. Chapter 2: Basic Ins[...]

2-2 Chapter 2: Basic Installation Chapter 2 3. Place nine screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis. DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 2-3 Chapter 2 2.1.2 CPU installation 1 A B 2 3 A B C 4 5 Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1 150 socket only . DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA1 155 and LGA1 156 sockets on the LGA1 150 socket.[...]

2-4 Chapter 2: Basic Installation Chapter 2 2.1.3 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 . T o install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 2-5 Chapter 2 T o uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly[...]

2-6 Chapter 2: Basic Installation Chapter 2 1 2 3 T o remove a DIMM 2.1.4 DIMM installation B A[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 2-7 Chapter 2 2.1.5 A TX Power connection 1 2 OR OR[...]

2-8 Chapter 2: Basic Installation Chapter 2 2.1.6 SA T A device connection 2 OR 1[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 2-9 Chapter 2 2.1.7 Front I/O Connector T o install ASUS Q-Connector 1 2 USB 2.0 T o install USB 2.0 connector T o install front panel audio connector USB 3.0 T o install USB 3.0 connector AAFP[...]

2-10 Chapter 2: Basic Installation Chapter 2 2.1.8 Expansion Card installation T o install PCIe x16 cards[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 2-1 1 Chapter 2 2.2 BIOS update utility USB BIOS Flashback USB BIOS Flashback allows you to easily update the BIOS without entering the existing BIOS or operating system. Simply insert a USB storage device to the USB port, press the USB BIOS Flashback button for three seconds, and the BIOS is updated automatically . T o use USB[...]

2-12 Chapter 2: Basic Installation Chapter 2 2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection * and ** : Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port LEDs, and audio port denitions. Rear panel connectors 1. PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse combo port PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse combo port 2. Intel® USB 2.0 port 9 and 10. Intel® USB 2.0 por[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 2-13 Chapter 2 * LAN ports LED indications • Due to USB 3.0 controller limitation, USB 3.0 devices can only be used under Windows ® OS environment and after the USB 3.0 driver installation. • USB 3.0 devices can only be used as data storage only . • We strongly recommend that you connect USB 3.0 devices to USB 3.0 ports [...]

2-14 Chapter 2: Basic Installation Chapter 2 Connect to Headphone and Mic Connect to Stereo Speakers Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 2-15 Chapter 2 Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers[...]

2-16 Chapter 2: Basic Installation Chapter 2 Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 2-17 Chapter 2 2.4 Starting up for the rst time 1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover . 2. Ensure that all switches are of f. 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[...]

2-18 Chapter 2: Basic Installation Chapter 2[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-1 Chapter 3 BIOS setup 3 3.1 Knowing BIOS The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is a Unied 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 exible and convenient mouse input. Y ou can easily navigate the new UEFI[...]

3-2 Chapter 3: BIOS setup 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 a[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-3 Chapter 3 3.2.1 EZ Mode 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 select Advanced Mode or press <F7> hot key for the advanced BIOS [...]

3-4 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.2.2 Advanced Mode The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to congure the BIOS settings. The gure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the following sections for the detailed congurations. T o access the Advanced Mode, click Exit , then select Advanced Mode[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-5 Chapter 3 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 (My Favorites, Ai T weaker , Advanced, Monitor , Boot, T ool, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items. Back button This button appear[...]

3-6 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.3 My Favorites MyFavorites is your personal space where you can easily save and access your favorite BIOS items. Last Modied button This button shows the items that you last modied and saved in BIOS Setup. Adding items to My Favorites T o add frequently-used BIOS items to My Favorites: 1. Use the arrow ke[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-7 Chapter 3 3.4 Extreme T weaker menu The Extreme T weaker menu items allow you to congure overclocking-related items. Be cautious when changing the settings of the Extreme 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 [...]

3-8 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 Ai Overclock T uner [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal frequency . Select any of these preset overclocking conguration options: [Auto] Loads the optimal settings for the system. [Manual] Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters. [X.M.P .] [...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-9 Chapter 3 When the CPU Core Ratio is set to [Per Core] , the following item appears: 1-Core Ratio Limit [Auto] Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default T urbo Ratio setting or manually assign a 1-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 2-Core Ratio Limit. 2-Core Ratio Limit [Auto] Select [Auto] to apply the [...]

3-10 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 Xtreme T weaking [Disabled] This item may help improve some benchmarks performance. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] CPU Graphics Max. Ratio [Auto] Allows you to automatically optimize the CPU Graphics Ratio or manually set a value for an optimal CPU Graphics Ratio. Use the <+> or <-> key[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-1 1 Chapter 3 Secondary Timings DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15] DRAM REF Cycle Time [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [51 1] DRAM Refresh Interval [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [65535] DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [...]

3-12 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 DRAM RTL (CHB_R1D1) [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [63] DRAM IO-L (CHA_R0D0) [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] DRAM IO-L (CHA_R0D1) [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] DRAM IO-L (CHA_R1D0) [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [15] DRAM IO-L (CHA_R1D1) [Auto] Con[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-13 Chapter 3 tRDWR [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31] tRDWR_dr [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31] tRDWR_dd [Auto] Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [31] MISC MRC Fast Boot [Auto] Allows you to enable, disable or automatically set the MRC fast boot. Conguration options: [Auto] [Enabled] [...]

3-14 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 DIGI+ Power Control CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto] Load-line is dened by Intel ® VRM specication and affects CPU power voltage. The CPU working voltage will decrease proportionally to CPU loading. Higher load-line calibration could get higher voltage and good overclocking performance but increases the C[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-15 Chapter 3 CPU Current Capability [Auto] DIGI + VRM CPU Current Capability provides wider total power range for overclocking. A higher value setting gets higher VRM power consumption delivery and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously . Conguration options: [Auto] [100%] [1 10%] [120%] [130%] [140%] Choo[...]

3-16 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 CPU Power Thermal Control [130] A higher temperature brings a wider CPU power thermal range and extends the overclocking tolerance to enlarge the O.C. potential. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 130 to 151. DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions sh[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-17 Chapter 3 T weakers’ Paradise The subitems in this menu allow you to set the CPU ratio and features. BCLK T uning VCCIN Shadow V oltage [Auto] Pseudo V oltage for VCCIN. Conguration options: [Auto] [0.800] – [2.440V] T ermination Anti-Aliasing [Auto] T ermination Anti-Aliasing can be enabled to smooth out the change[...]

3-18 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 PCIE T uning Internal Graphics [Auto] Keep IGD enabled based on setup options. Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] CPU Power Management The subitems in this menu allow you to set the CPU ratio and features. Enhanced Intel SpeedStep T echnology [Enabled] Allows the operating system to dynamically [...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-19 Chapter 3 CPU Internal Power Fault Control Thermal Feedback [Auto] Allows the CPU to take precautionary actions when the thermal conditions of the external regulator exceeds the threshold. Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] CPU Integrated VR Fault Management [Auto] Allows you to prevent tripping the Fully [...]

3-20 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 Power Fast Ramp Response [Auto] Allows you to increase to enhance the response of the voltage regulator during the load transient. Conguration options: [Auto] [0.00] - [1.50] CPU Internal Power Saving Control Power Saving Level 1 Threshold [Auto] Lower value provides sufcient overclocking tolerance to enla[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-21 Chapter 3 CPU Cache V oltage [Auto] Congures the amount of V oltage fed to the UNCore of the processor including it is cache. Increase when increasing CPU Cache Frequency . Use <+> or <-> key to adjust the value. The values range from -0.999V to 0.999V at 0.001V increment. CPU Graphics V oltage [Auto] Con[...]

3-22 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 Eventual CPU Input V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the Eventual CPU Input V oltage. Use <+> or <-> key to adjust the value. The values range from 0.800V to 2.440V at 0.010V increment. DRAM V oltage [Auto] Allows you to set the voltage for the system memory . Use <+> or <-> key to adjust[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-23 Chapter 3 3.5 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 syst[...]

3-24 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 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[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-25 Chapter 3 T o change a user password: 1. Select the User Password item and press <Enter>. 2. From the Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press <Enter>. 3. From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>. 4. Conrm the password when prompted. T o cle[...]

3-26 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.6.1 CPU Conguration The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically detects. The items in this menu may vary based on the CPU installed. Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the overheated CPU to throttle its clock speed to cool down. [Disabled] Disa[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-27 Chapter 3 Execute Disable Bit [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the No-Execution Page Protection T echnology . [Disabled] Forces the XD feature ag to always return to zero (0). Intel ® Virtualization T echnology [Disabled] [Enabled] Allows a hardware platform to run multiple operating systems separately and simultaneously , [...]

3-28 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.6.2 PCH Conguration PCI Express Conguration Allows you to congure the PCI Express slots. DMI Link ASPM Control [Auto] Allows you to control the ASPM (Active State Power Management) on both Northbridge side and Southbridge side of the DMI Link. Conguration options: []Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] Enhan[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-29 Chapter 3 ASPM Support [Disabled] Allows you to set the ASPM level. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto] [L0s] [L1] [L0sL1] PCIe Speed [Auto] Allows you to select the PCI Express port speed. Conguration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] Intel (R) Rapid Start T echnology [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable Intel [...]

3-30 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.6.3 SA T A Conguration While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SA T A devices. The SA T A Port items show Empty if no SA T A device is installed to the corresponding SA T A port. Scroll down to display the other BIOS items. SA T A Mode Selection [AHCI] Allows you to set the SA T[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-31 Chapter 3 S.M.A.R.T . Status Check [Enabled] S.M.A.R.T . (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting T echnology) is a monitor system. When read/write of your hard disk errors occur , this feature allows the hard disk to report warning messages during the POST . Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Hot Plug [Disabled][...]

3-32 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 iGPU Memory [Auto] Allows you to select the amount of system memory allocated to DVMT 5.0 by the iGPU. Conguration options: [Auto] [32M] [64M] [96M] [128M] [160M] [192M] [224M] [256M] [288M] [320M] [352M] [384M] [416M] [448M] [480M] [512M] [1024M] Render Standby [Auto] Allows you to enable the Intel ® Graphi[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-33 Chapter 3 3.6.5 USB Conguration 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] [Enabled] Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS). [Disab[...]

3-34 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.6.6 Platform Misc Conguration The items in this menu allow you to congure the platform-related features. PCI Express Native Power Management [Disabled] Allows you to enhance the power saving feature of PCI Express and perform ASPM operations in the operating system. Conguration options: [Disabled] [En[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-35 Chapter 3 3.6.7 Onboard Devices Conguration Scroll down to view the other BIOS items. HD Audio Controller [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the High Denition Audio Controller. [Disabled] Disables the controller. The following items appear only when you set the HD Audio Controller to [Enabled] . Front Panel T ype [HD] Allow[...]

3-36 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 ASM1061 Storage Controller (SA T A6G_E12) [Enabled] Allows you to select the ASM1061 storage controller operating mode. [Disabled] Disables the ASM1061 storage controller . [Enabled] Enables the ASM1061 storage controller. Hot-plug [Disabled] Allows you to set the Hot Plug support. Conguration options: [Disab[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-37 Chapter 3 3.6.8 APM ErP Ready [Disabled] Allows you to switch off some power at S4+S5 or S5 to get the system ready for ErP requirement. When set to [Enabled] , all other PME options will be switched off. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled (S4+S5] [Enabled (S5)] Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off] [Power On] The sys[...]

3-38 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.6.9 Network Stack Network Stack [Disabled] This item allows you to disable or enable the UEFI network stack. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enable] The following items appear only when you set the Network Stack to [Enabled]. Ipv4/Ipv6 PXE Support [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the Ipv4/Ipv6 PXE[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-39 Chapter 3 3.7 Monitor menu The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change the fan settings. Anti Surge Support [Enabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the Anti Surge function. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] V oltage Monitor CPU Core 0-3 V oltage; CPU Cache [...]

3-40 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 Fan Speed Control CPU Q-Fan Control [Auto] [Disabled] Disables the Q-Fan control. [Auto] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control for 4-pin CPU fan. Select this mode for the PWM mode Q-Fan control. [Advance Mode] When a 3-pin CPU fan is installed, select this mode for the DC mode Q-Fan control. The following items appear o[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-41 Chapter 3 Chassis1/Chassis2/Chassis3 Q-Fan Control [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature. [Enabled] Enables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature. Chassis1/Chassis2/Chassis3 Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM] This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to disable[...]

3-42 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.8 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Scroll down to display the other BIOS items. Boot Conguration Fast Boot [Enabled] [Disabled] Allows your system to go back to its normal boot speed. [Enabled] Allows your system to accelerate the boot speed. The following items app[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-43 Chapter 3 HW Fast Boot [Disabled] Allows the system to enable or disable the HW Fast Boot. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] DirectKey Enable [Go to BIOS...] [Disabled] Disables the DirectKey button. The system will only power on or off when you press the DirectKey button. [Go to BIOS Setup] Allows the system to[...]

3-44 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS] [Force BIOS] The third-party ROM messages will be forced to display during the boot sequence. [Keep Current] The third-party ROM messages will be displayed only if the third-party manufacturer had set the add-on device to do so. Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled] When set to [Enable[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-45 Chapter 3 Secure Boot Allows you to congure the Windows ® Secure Boot settings and manage its keys to protect the system from unauthorized access and malwares during POST . OS T ype [Windows UE..] [Windows UEFI Mode] Allows you to select your installed operating system. Execute the Microsoft ® Secure Boot check. Only [...]

3-46 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 Key-exchange Key (KEK) refers to Microsoft ® Secure Boot Key-Enrollment Key (KEK). Delete the KEK Allows you to delete the KEK from your system. Conguration options: [Y es] [No] Load KEK from File Allows you to load the downloaded KEK from a USB storage device. Append KEK from File Allows you to load the add[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-47 Chapter 3 3.9 T ools menu The T ools menu items allow you to congure options for special functions. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the submenu. 3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a conrmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key [...]

3-48 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 Click to start the SSD Secure Erase Displays the available SSDs Status denition: Frozen The frozen state is the result of a BIOS protective measure. The BIOS guards drives that do not have password protection by freezing them prior to booting. If the drive is frozen, a power of f or hard reset of your PC must[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-49 Chapter 3 Add your CMOS Prole Label Allows you to input the label of the setup proles. Save to Profile Allows you to save the current BIOS settings to the BIOS Flash, and create a prole. Key in a prole number from one to eight, press <Enter>, and then select Y es . Load CMOS Prole Load from Profile All[...]

3-50 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.9.4 ASUS SPD Information Allows you to view the DRAM SPD information. 3.9.5 ROG OC Panel H-Key Congure The ROG OC Panel H-Key Congure allows you to input and save values on the CPU core voltage, CPU input voltage, BCLK Frequency , and CPU ratio in the UEFI BIOS. The saved values can be synchronized to a [...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-51 Chapter 3 CPU Input V oltage [Auto] This item allows you to congure the input voltage to the cores of the processor . Y ou can use <+> or <-> key to raise the voltage by an increment of 0.010V . The minimum voltage is 0.800V and the maximum voltage is 3.040V . BCLK Frequency [Auto] This item allows you to in[...]

3-52 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.10 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[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-53 Chapter 3 3.1 1 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 updatin[...]

3-54 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.1 1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 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 2: 1. Insert the USB ash disk t[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-55 Chapter 3 • This function can support devices such as a USB ash disk with F A T 32/16 format and This function can support devices such as a USB ash disk with F A T 32/16 format and single partition only . • DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system DO NOT shut down or reset t[...]

3-56 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.1 1.4 ASUS BIOS Updater The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update the BIOS in DOS environment. This utility also allows you to copy the current BIOS le that you can use as a backup when the BIOS fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. The succeeding utility screens are for reference only . The[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 3-57 Chapter 3 3. When the Make Disk menu appears, select the FreeDOS command prompt item by pressing the item number . 4. At the FreeDOS prompt, type d: and press <Enter> to switch the disk from Drive C (optical drive) to Drive D (USB ash drive). Updating the BIOS le T o update the BIOS le using BIOS Updater: 1.[...]

3-58 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 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 0224 or later , the utility automatically exits to the DOS F[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-1 Chapter 4 4 Chapter 4: Software support Software support 4 4.1 Installing an operating system • This motherboard supports Windows ® 8 32/64-bit and Windows ® 7 32/64-bit operating systems (OS). • Motherboard settings and hardware options vary . Use the setup procedures presented Motherboard settings and hardware optio[...]

4-2 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 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 tab before opening the ?[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-3 Chapter 4 The screenshots in this section are for reference only . The actual software manuals containing in the support DVD vary by models. 3. Some software manuals are provided in different languages. Open the language’s folder to view the software manual. 4.3 Software information Most of the applications in the support[...]

4-4 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 Launching AI Suite 3 Windows ® 7 OS From the Desktop, click Start > All Programs > ASUS > AI Suite 3 > AI Suite 3. Y ou can also launch AI Suite 3 in Windows ® 7 by clicking on the Notication area. Windows ® 8 OS T o launch AI Suite 3 in Windows ® 8, tap the AI Suite 3 app on the Start Sc[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-5 Chapter 4 AI Suite 3 main menu bar • Some functions in the AI Suite 3 main menu in this user manual may vary depending on the motherboard model. • Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www .asus.com for de[...]

4-6 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 4.4.1 Dual Intelligent Processors 4 with 4-W ay Optimization Dual Intelligent Processors 4 with 4-W ay Optimization comes with these ve utilities in one interface: 4-W ay Optimization, T urboV Processing Unit (TPU), Energy Processing Unit (EPU), DIGI+ Power Control, and Fan Xpert 2. 4-W ay Optimization T[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-7 Chapter 4 Using TPU CPU Frequency Tick to enable Group T uning Click or to adjust the Base Clock Frequency , CPU Ratio, and CPU Ring Ratio Click or to select the number of cores to adjust Click to save the adjustment into a prole Click to load the saved prole Click to apply the adjustments Click to undo the adjustment[...]

4-8 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 V oltage Drag the slider to adjust CPU Core, CPU Cache, CPU Analog I/O, PCH Interfacing, VTTDDR, and PCHVLX voltages. Drag the slider to adjust DRAM, CPU System Agent, CPU Digital I/O, PCH, CPU Input, and PLL T ermination voltages. Drag the slider to adjust PCH ICC V oltage Click to save the adjustment into[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-9 Chapter 4 Energy Processing Unit (EPU) EPU is an energy-processing utility that allows you to adjust the CPU, GPU, and Fan Control settings to their power-saving conditions. Using EPU • When you enable Congured Max CPU Power for advanced energy saving condition, the CPU frequency may display 800 MHz in the Windows ® O[...]

4-10 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 CPU Power Y ou can congure the following CPU Power items: • CPU Power Duty Control CPU Power Duty Control adjusts the current of every VRM phase and the thermal conditions of every phase component. • CPU Load-line Calibration CPU Load-line Calibration adjusts the voltage range and controls the syste[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-1 1 Chapter 4 Fan Xpert 2 Fan Xpert 2 automatically detects and tweaks the fan speeds, and provides you with optimized fan settings based on the fans’ specications and positions. Using Fan Xpert 2 Click a screen to select the type of fan that you want to customize Click to set the fan’s speed to silent mode Click to se[...]

4-12 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 RPM Mode RPM Mode allows you to set the fan speed when the CPU temperature is below 75 o C. Click and drag to adjust the fan’s speed Click to switch between the CPU and chassis fan screens Click to go back to the previous screen • When the CPU temperature reaches 75 o C, the fan will automatically run [...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-13 Chapter 4 4.4.2 EZ Update EZ Update is a utility that allows you to automatically update your motherboard’s softwares, drivers and the BIOS version easily . With this utlity , you can also manually update the BIOS and select the boot logo that will display during POST . Launching EZ Update T o launch EZ Update, click on [...]

4-14 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 Click to select a USB device Click to enable the USB device’s normal data transfer rate Click to enable UASP or T urbo Mode to the USB device for a faster data transfer rate 4.4.3 USB 3.0 Boost USB 3.0 Boost technology supports UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol) that automatically speeds up the transfer r[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-15 Chapter 4 4.4.4 System Information This utility allows you get the detailed information of the motherboard, CPU, and memory settings. Launching the System Information T o launch System Information, click or tap on the top-right corner of the AI Suite 3 main menu, then select System Information . Viewing the motherboard inf[...]

4-16 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 Viewing the SPD information Click or tap the SPD tab to view the memory’s information.[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-17 Chapter 4 Set a schedule for the BIOS Update download Click to check for a new BIOS update available for download Click or tap to cancel the download schedule setting Click or tap to apply the download schedule setting 4.4.5 USB BIOS Flashback USB BIOS Flashback allows you to check and save the latest BIOS version to a USB[...]

4-18 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 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 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection of your user manual for more details. T o download the updated BIOS: 1. From the USB BIO[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-19 Chapter 4 4.4.6 USB Charger+ USB Charger+ allows you to quick-charge your portable USB devices even if your computer is off, in sleep mode or hibernate mode. Before using USB Charger+, ensure to disable the ErP Ready item in the BIOS. T o do this, go to Advanced > APM > ErP Ready in the Advanced mode then set this it[...]

4-20 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 4.4.7 Audio congurations The Realtek ® audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio capability to deliver the ultimate audio experience on your computer . The software provides Jack-Sensing function, S/PDIF Out support, and interrupt capability . The CODEC also includes the Realtek ® proprietary UAJ ® (Unive[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-21 Chapter 4 4.5 MemT weakIt MemT weakIt is a software that you can use to view all levels of memory timings. Y ou can validate your MemT weakIt settings to generate a memory efciency score that you can share and compare with other users on the ROG website. T o use MemT weakIt, double-click on the desktop. Click About tab [...]

4-22 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 T o validate and save your conguration manually: 1. Launch MemT weakIt and click V alidate . 2. In Manual Mode , click Save Conguration File . 3. Key in a le name for your conguration le and click Save . 4. Click validation webpage . 5. In MemT weakIt - V alidation File Upload window , key i[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-23 Chapter 4 4.6 RAMDisk RAMDisk is a data-storage software that reserves a part of your system’s memory and turns it into a high-speed virtual drive where you can store cache les and game apps for instant access. The following folders are not suitable for RAMDisk optimization. Moving them into the RAMDisk might negative[...]

4-24 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 T o delete an existing RAMDisk drive: Click to delete the existing RAMDisk drive. Creating/Deleting a Junction Point A junction point creates a link that remaps the original contents into the RAMDisk, enabling access to the desired application or data to be done purely within the original le location. S[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-25 Chapter 4 Synchronizing backup les After creating a junction point, RAMDisk automatically creates a backup folder in the le’s original location. Use RAMDisk to manually synchronize updates with these backup les. Click Synchronize to update your les[...]

4-26 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 4.7 Sonic Radar Sonic Radar is a head-up display (HUD) designed for First Person Shooting (FPS) games, that shows the precise direction and intensity of where a sound is coming from. In-game sound including gunshots, footprints, voice call-outs, or even a ticking bomb, is visualized as radar signals on the[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-27 Chapter 4 Sonic Radar in-game • The screen shot is for reference only and can vary depending on the game you are playing. • All rights of the FPS game Battleeld 3 is reserved to EA Digital Illusions CE AB and Electronic Arts. Sonic Radar display * Battleeld 3. All rights reserved. Radar signals indicate where sou[...]

4-28 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 4.7.2 Game presets and Radar Selection The optimized game presets and radar selection sound enhancers provide the most conducive settings that enhances your point of view while playing FPS games. Click to select a game preset. Click to select the threat to enhance. The Radar Selection options vary per Game[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-29 Chapter 4 4.7.3 Advanced Settings Click from the Sonic Radar main menu to show the Advanced Settings panel. Smoothness and opacity Allows you to adjust the texture and transparency of the Sonic Radar display . Radar position Allows you to set a convenient position for the Sonic Radar display , anywhere on your in- game scr[...]

4-30 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 Shortcut keys Y our gaming experience is further enhanced with a set of default shortcut keys that allows you to perform tasks faster and easier without exiting the game. Default shortcut key Function and description <Right Ctrl> + Numeric Pad <0> Hide/show the Sonic Radar display . <Left Ct[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 4-31 Chapter 4 4.8 Perfect V oice Sonic Radar comes with the Perfect voice, a single microphone noise reduction solution initially designed for V oice-Over-IP (VOIP) software. With Perfect voice, you can deliver perfectly enunciated voice call-outs. Perfect voice works via two major features: Noise Gate and Noise Reduction. Noi[...]

4-32 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 5-1 Chapter 5 RAID support 5 5.1 RAID congurations The motherboard comes with the Intel ® Rapid Storage T echnology that supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 and RAID 5 conguration. 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[...]

5-2 Chapter 5: RAID support Chapter 5 5.1.2 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 dr[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 5-3 Chapter 5 5.1.4 Intel ® Rapid Storage T echnology Option ROM utility T o enter the Intel ® Rapid Storage T echnology Option ROM utility: 1. T urn on the system. 2. During POST , press <Ctrl> + <I> to display the utility main menu. The navigation keys at the bottom of the screen allow you to move through the me[...]

5-4 Chapter 5: RAID support Chapter 5 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 [...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 5-5 Chapter 5 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>.[...]

5-6 Chapter 5: RAID support Chapter 5 Deleting a RAID set Be cautious 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: 2. Use the up/down arrow key to select [...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO 5-7 Chapter 5 Exiting the Intel ® Rapid Storage T echnology Option ROM utility T o exit the utility: 1. From the utility main menu, select 5. Exit , and then press <Enter>. The following warning message appears: A re y ou s ur e yo u wa nt t o exit? (Y /N ): [ CONFIRM EXIT ] 5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk A oppy disk[...]

5-8 Chapter 5: RAID support Chapter 5 5.2.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows ® T o create a RAID driver disk in Windows ® : 1. Start Windows ® . 2. Plug the USB oppy disk drive and insert a oppy disk. 3. Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive. 4. Go to the Make Disk menu, and then click Intel AHCI/RAID Driver Disk t[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO A-1 Appendices Appendices 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[...]

A-2 Appendices Appendices IC: Canadian Compliance Statement Complies with the Canadian ICES-003 Class B specications. This device complies with RSS 210 of Industry Canada. This Class B device meets all the requirements of the Canadian interference-causing equipment regulations. This device complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standar[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO A-3 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 [...]

A-4 Appendices Appendices ASUS contact information ASUST eK COMPUTER INC. Address 15 Li-T e Road, Peitou, T aipei, T aiwan 1 1259 T elephone +886-2-2894-3447 Fax +886-2-2890-7798 E-mail info@asus.com.tw Web site www .asus.com.tw T echnical Support T elephone +86-21-3842991 1 Online support support.asus.com ASUS COMPUTER INTERNA TIONAL (America) Add[...]

ASUS MAXIMUS VI HERO A-5 Appendices EC Declaration of Conformity We, the undersigned, Manufacturer: ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. Address, City: 4F, No. 150, LI-TE Rd., PEITOU, TAIPEI 112, TAIWAN Country: TAIWAN Authorized representative in Europe: ASUS COMPUTER GmbH Address, City: HARKORT STR. 21-23, 40880 RATINGEN Country: GERMANY declare the following a[...]

A-6 Appendices Appendices[...]