Page 2 - First Edition; Copyright; Offer to Provide Source Code of Certain Software
ii E8226 First Edition May 2013 Copyright © 2013 ASUSTeK 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 me...
Page 3 - Contents; Z87-WS specifications summary; Product Introduction; Dual Intelligent Processors 4 with 4-Way Optimization; Basic installation
iii Contents Safety information ..................................................................................................... viiAbout this guide ....................................................................................................... viii Z87-WS specifications summary ..........
Page 4 - Starting up for the first time; BIOS setup
iv 2.2 BIOS update utility ................................................................................... 2-11 2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections ............................................. 2-13 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection ...................................................................
Page 5 - Software support; Audio configurations; RAID support; RAID configurations; RAID definitions
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 ...............................
Page 6 - Multiple GPU support; ATI; Enabling the AMD; NVIDIA; Appendices
vi Chapter 6: Multiple GPU support 6.1 ATI ® CrossFireX™ technology .................................................................. 6-1 6.1.1 Requirements .............................................................................. 6-1 6.1.2 Before you begin .......................................
Page 7 - Safety information; Electrical safety; Operation safety; technician or your retailer.
vii Safety information Electrical safety To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system.When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables a...
Page 8 - About this guide; How this guide is organized; This guide contains the following parts:; Where to find more information; products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
viii About this guide This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard. How this guide is organized This guide contains the following parts: • Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technolog...
Page 9 - Conventions used in this guide; Bold text; Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
ix Conventions used in this guide To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task. CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when...
Page 11 - Storage; Audio; ALC1150 8-channel high definition audio; USB
xi Storage Intel ® Z87 Express Chipset with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 - 6 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports (yellow) - Supports Intel ® Dynamic Storage Accelerator, Intel ® Smart Response Technology, Intel ® Rapid Start Technology, Intel ® Smart Connect Technology* Marvell ® 9230 SATA controllers - 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports ...
Page 12 - ASUS unique features; ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 4 with 4-Way; CPU Power; ASUS Exclusive Features:
xii ASUS unique features ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 4 with 4-Way Optimization - 4-Way Optimization tuning key perfectly consolidates ASUS-exclusive DIGI+Power Control, TPU, EPU, and Fan Xpert 2 that quickly optimize the digital power setting, system performance, power saving and whole system c...
Page 13 - Internal I/O connectors
xiii Rear Panel I/O Ports 4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue)4 x USB 2.0/1.0 ports (1 supports USB BIOS Flashback)1 x PS/2 Keyboard/mouse port1 x HDMI port1 x Display port1 x Mini-Display port2 x eSATA ports2 x LAN (RJ-45) ports (2 x Intel ® LAN) 1 x Optical S/PDIF Out port8-channel Audio I/O ports Interna...
Page 14 - Manageability
xiv Manageability WfM 2.0, DMI 2.7, WOL by PME, PXE Support DVD contents DriversASUS UtilitiesASUS UpdateAnti-virus software (OEM version) Accessories 10 x Serial ATA 6Gb/s cables1 x COM port bracket1 x USB+ 1394 bracket1 x ASUS 4-Way SLI bridge connector1 x ASUS 3-Way SLI bridge connector1 x ASUS S...
Page 15 - User Manual; Package contents; Check your motherboard package for the following items
xv User Manual ASUS Z87-WS motherboard User manual Support DVD 10 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables COM port bracket 2 USB ports + 1394a cable with 1394 bracket 1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge connector 1 x ASUS 4-Way SLI™ bridge connector 1 x ASUS 3-Way SLI™ bridge connector 1 x 2-in-1 Q-connector 1 x I/O Shield •...
Page 16 - Installation tools and components
xvi Installation tools and components 1 bag of screws Philips (cross) screwdriver PC chassis Power supply unit Intel ® LGA1150 CPU Intel ® LGA1150 compatible CPU Fan DIMM SATA hard disk drive SATA optical disc drive (optional) Graphics card (optional) The tools and components in the table above are ...
Page 17 - Chapter 1; Product introduction; Special features; Product highlights; Z87 platform that optimizes PCIe
ASUS Z87-WS 1-1 Chapter 1 Product introduction 1 1.1 Special features 1.1.1 Product highlights LGA1150 socket for 4th generation Intel ® Core™ i7 / Intel ® Core™ i5 / Intel ® Core™ i3, Pentium ® and Celeron ® processors This motherboard supports 4th generation Intel ® Core™ i7 / Intel ® Core™ i5 / I...
Page 18 - Chapter 1: Product introduction; Intel; cloud, leading to a more efficient computing experience.
1-2 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 Intel ® Smart Response Technology Intel ® Smart Response Technology, an important part of Green ASUS eco-friendly computing, reduces load and wait time, eliminates unecessary hard drive spin thus lowering power usage, and uses an installed SSD (requires ...
Page 19 - ASUS Workstation Exclusive Features; Best performance for PCI Express 3.0 4-Way CrossFireXTM and SLITM; SLITM offer; ASUS Dr. Power: Intelligent power supply monitoring; normal operation. A special fin design results in 3-5; Diagnostic LED
ASUS Z87-WS 1-3 Chapter 1 1.1.2 ASUS Workstation Exclusive Features Best performance for PCI Express 3.0 4-Way CrossFireX™ and SLI™ Native third generation PCI Express x16 4-way AMD CrossFireX™ and NVIDIA ® SLI™ offer the fastest and most reliable graphics performance ever. It’s ideal for profession...
Page 20 - Digital Power Control; tuning for optimal system efficiency, stability and performance.; TPU; component’s lifespan.; ASUS Fan Xpert 2; specifications and positions.
1-4 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 1.1.3 Dual Intelligent Processors 4 with 4-Way Optimization ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 4 brings system control solution to a totally whole new level, combining TPU, EPU, DIGI+ Power Control and Fan Xpert 2 functions to push the system’s performance...
Page 21 - ASUS Exclusive Features; powered off, in sleep or hibernation mode.; USB BIOS Flashback; updates, and download the latest BIOS automatically.; AI Suite 3; need to switch back and forth between different utilities.
ASUS Z87-WS 1-5 Chapter 1 1.1.4 ASUS Exclusive Features USB 3.0 Boost ASUS USB 3.0 Boost, which supports USB 3.0 standard UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol), significantly increases a USB device’s transfer speed up to 170% faster than the already impressive USB 3.0 transfer speed. It automatically ac...
Page 22 - ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution; New log reminder allows you to view all your modified settings
1-6 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 1.1.5 ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution ASUS Fanless Design - Heat-sink solution The stylish heatsink features a 0-dB thermal solution that offers you a noiseless PC environment. The heatsink design also lowers the temperature of the chipset and power phase ar...
Page 23 - Other special features; DTS Connect; deliver audio to an external decoder.; DTS UltraPC II; thus mitigate environmental impacts.
ASUS Z87-WS 1-7 Chapter 1 1.1.7 Other special features DTS Connect To get the most out of your audio entertainment across all formats and quality levels, DTS Connect combines two technologies, DTS Neo:PC™ upmixes stereo sources (CDs, MP3s, WMAs, Internet radio) into as many as 7.1 channels of incred...
Page 24 - Motherboard overview; Before you proceed; any motherboard settings.
1-8 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 • Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. • Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due to static ...
Page 25 - Motherboard layout
ASUS Z87-WS 1-9 Chapter 1 Refer to 1.2.6 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 ParadePS8201 PLX PEX8747
Page 26 - Layout contents; Page; ATX power connectors
1-10 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 Layout contents Connectors/Jumpers/Slots Page 1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V1, 8-pin EATX12V; 6-pin EATX12V_1) 1-37 2. LGA1150 CPU socket 1-11 3. CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CPU_OPT, 4-pin CHA_FAN...
Page 27 - Generation Intel
ASUS Z87-WS 1-11 Chapter 1 1.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1150 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 ins...
Page 28 - Recommended memory configurations; System memory
1-12 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 Recommended memory configurations 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 ...
Page 29 - Memory configurations
ASUS Z87-WS 1-13 Chapter 1 • You 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 configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation. • According to Inte...
Page 31 - Expansion slots; Slot No. Slot Description
ASUS Z87-WS 1-15 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 3.0/2.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16 or dual at x8/x8 mode) 2 PCIe 3.0/2.0...
Page 32 - IRQ assignments for this motherboard
1-16 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 • We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI™ mode. • Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1-4 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. • We recommend you connect...
Page 33 - Onboard buttons and switches; to enhance system performance.; ASUS Dr. POWER switch
ASUS Z87-WS 1-17 Chapter 1 1.2.6 Onboard buttons and switches Onboard switches and buttons 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. Power-on button The mo...
Page 34 - memory compatibility tuning for successful boot.
1-18 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 3. MemOK! button Installing DIMMs that are not compatible with the motherboard may cause system boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! to switch lights continuously. Press and hold the MemOK! button until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin au...
Page 35 - DirectKey button; conveniently enter the BIOS during boot-up.
ASUS Z87-WS 1-19 Chapter 1 Ensure to save your data before using the DirectKey button. 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 POS...
Page 36 - TPU switch; CPU ratio and clock speed for optimal system performance.
1-20 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 5. TPU switch With its two-level adjustment functions, the TPU allows you to automatically adjust the CPU ratio and clock speed for optimal system performance. • Enable this switch when the system is powered off. • When the TPU switch is set to Enabled ...
Page 37 - EPU switch; moderate power consumption.; Clear CMOS button; hangs due to overclocking.
ASUS Z87-WS 1-21 Chapter 1 6. EPU switch Enable this switch to automatically detect the current PC loading and intelligently moderate power consumption. Enable this switch when the system is powered off. • The EPU LED (OLED2) near the EPU switch lights up when the EPU switch is enabled. Refer to sec...
Page 38 - Reset button; Press the reset button to reboot the system.; MSATA switch; The mSATA switch configures mSATA support for the motherboard.
1-22 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 8. Reset button Press the reset button to reboot the system. Auto-detectmSATA or SATA port 6 ForcemSATAfunction 9. MSATA switch The mSATA switch configures mSATA support for the motherboard.
Page 39 - Onboard LEDs; POST State LEDs; The TPU LED lights up when the TPU switch is enabled.
ASUS Z87-WS 1-23 Chapter 1 1.2.7 Onboard LEDs 1. POST State LEDs The POST State LEDs provide the status of these key components during POST (Power-On-Self Test): CPU, memory modules, VGA card, and hard disk drives If an error is found, the critical component’s LED stays lit until the problem is solv...
Page 40 - EPU LED; The EPU LED lights up when the EPU switch is enabled.
1-24 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 3. EPU LED The EPU LED lights up when the EPU switch is enabled. 4. Q-Code LED The Q-Code LED 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.
Page 41 - Code
ASUS Z87-WS 1-25 Chapter 1 Q-Code table 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 initiali...
Page 44 - Legacy Option ROM Initialization
1-28 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 Code Description A9 Start of Setup AA Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below) AB Setup Input Wait AC Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below) AD Ready To Boot event AE Legacy Boot event AF Exit Boot Services event B0 Runtime S...
Page 46 - PGLED3 LED
1-30 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 6. PGLED3 LED The ASUS Dr. Power LED near the ASUS Dr. Power switch lights up when the ASUS Dr. Power switch is on Enable. 7. +12V_PWR LED The ASUS Dr. Power LED near EATX12V connector lights up when the ASUS Dr. Power switch setting is on enable and th...
Page 47 - Internal connectors; configuration with the Intel; AHCI Mode; RAID; RAID configurations
ASUS Z87-WS 1-31 Chapter 1 1.2.8 Internal connectors 1. Intel ® Z87 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1-6 [yellow]) These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s signal cables.If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0,...
Page 48 - opening at the back of the system chassis.
1-32 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 2. Marvell 9230 ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_E1234 [dark brown]) These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s signal cables. • Marvell storage controller can only support AHCI mode. • These SATA ports...
Page 50 - 80 MBps connection speed.
1-34 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 DO NOT connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB, dark brown) first, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if yo...
Page 51 - CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors; black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.
ASUS Z87-WS 1-35 Chapter 1 7. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 4-pin CHA_FAN1~4) 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...
Page 52 - audio I/O module cable to this connector.; HD
1-36 Chapter 1: Product introduction Chapter 1 8. 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...
Page 53 - EATX power connectors; push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.
ASUS Z87-WS 1-37 Chapter 1 • For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 350 W. • DO NOT forget to connect the 4-pin/8-pin EATX12 V power plug. Otherwise, the syste...
Page 57 - Chapter 2; Building your PC system; Motherboard installation
ASUS Z87-WS 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 I/O Shield to the ch...
Page 58 - Chapter 2: Basic installation
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.
Page 59 - CPU installation
ASUS Z87-WS 2-3 Chapter 2 2.1.2 CPU installation Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1150 socket only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA155 and LGA1156 socket on the LGA1150 socket.
Page 60 - CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation; To install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly
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. To install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly
Page 61 - To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly
ASUS Z87-WS 2-5 Chapter 2 To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly
Page 62 - To remove a DIMM; DIMM installation
2-6 Chapter 2: Basic installation Chapter 2 To remove a DIMM 2.1.4 DIMM installation
Page 63 - ATX Power connection; OR
ASUS Z87-WS 2-7 Chapter 2 2.1.5 ATX Power connection OR
Page 64 - SATA device connection
2-8 Chapter 2: Basic installation Chapter 2 2.1.6 SATA device connection OR OR
Page 65 - To install USB 2.0 connector; POWER SW; HDD LED
ASUS Z87-WS 2-9 Chapter 2 USB 2.0 AAFP To install USB 2.0 connector To install front panel audio connector USB 3.0 To install USB 3.0 connector 2.1.7 Front I/O Connectors To install ASUS Q-Connector HDD LED POWER SW RESET SW HDD LED- HDD LED+ PWR Reset Ground Ground HDD LED
Page 66 - Expansion Card installation; To install PCIe x16 cards
2-10 Chapter 2: Basic installation Chapter 2 2.1.8 Expansion Card installation To install PCIe x16 cards To install PCIe x1 cards
Page 67 - To use USB BIOS Flashback:; Insert the USB storage device to the USB Flashback port.; indicates that the BIOS Flashback function is enabled.
ASUS Z87-WS 2-11 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 BIO...
Page 69 - Rear panel connectors; Display Port
ASUS Z87-WS 2-13 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 descriptions. Rear panel connectors 1. PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port 7. Mini-Display Port 2. ASmedia ® USB 3.0 ports, suppo...
Page 70 - * LAN ports LED indications; Activity Link LED
2-14 Chapter 2: Basic installation Chapter 2 • A plugged USB 3.0 device may run on xHCI or EHCI mode, depending on the operating system’s setting. • DO NOT insert a different connector to the external SATA port. • We strongly recommend that you connect USB 3.0 devices to USB 3.0 ports for a faster a...
Page 71 - Connect to Headphone and Mic; Audio I/O connections; Port
ASUS Z87-WS 2-15 Chapter 2 Connect to Headphone and Mic Connect to Stereo Speakers 2.3.2 Audio I/O connections Audio I/O ports ** Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration Port Headset 2-channel 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Line In Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out ...
Page 72 - Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers
2-16 Chapter 2: Basic installation Chapter 2 Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers
Page 73 - Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers; After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.
ASUS Z87-WS 2-17 Chapter 2 Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers When the DTS UltraPC II feature is enabled, ensure to connect the rear speaker to the gray port. 2.4 Starting up for the first time 1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. 2. Ensure that all switches are off. 3. C...
Page 74 - BIOS Beep; Turning off the computer
2-18 Chapter 2: Basic installation Chapter 2 BIOS Beep Description One short beep VGA detectedQuick boot set to disabledNo keyboard detected One continuous beep followed by two short beeps then a pause (repeated) No memory detected One continuous beep followed by three short beeps No VGA detected On...
Page 75 - Chapter 3; optimal performance.; DO NOT change the default BIOS settings; except in the following; We strongly; Knowing BIOS
ASUS Z87-WS 3-1 Chapter 3 The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is a Unified Extensible Interface that complies with UEFI architecture, offering a user-friendly interface that goes beyond the traditional keyboard- only BIOS controls to enable a more flexible and convenient mouse input. You can easily navigate the ...
Page 76 - Load Optimized; BIOS menu screen; EZ Mode; BIOS setup program; Entering BIOS at startup; failed to enter BIOS Setup using the first two options.
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 t...
Page 77 - Advanced Mode, click; Advanced Mode; key for the advanced BIOS settings.; Setup Mode
ASUS Z87-WS 3-3 Chapter 3 3.2.1 EZ Mode By default, the EZ Mode screen appears when you enter the BIOS setup program. The EZ Mode provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to select the display language, system performance mode and boot device priority. To access the A...
Page 78 - Chapter 3: BIOS setup; following sections for the detailed configurations.; Exit; Menu bar; The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:
3-4 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.2.2 Advanced Mode The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to configure the BIOS settings. The figure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the following sections for the detailed configurations. To access the Advance...
Page 79 - Main
ASUS Z87-WS 3-5 Chapter 3 Menu items The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific items for that menu. For example, selecting Main shows the Main menu items. The other items (Ai Tweaker, Advanced, Monitor, Boot, Tool, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items. Back but...
Page 80 - Last Modified button; the pointer to the item.
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 Modified button This button shows the items that you last modified and saved in BIOS Setup. Adding items to My Favorites To add frequently-used ...
Page 81 - Security
ASUS Z87-WS 3-7 Chapter 3 3.4 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...
Page 82 - Administrator Password; selected fields in the BIOS setup program.; User Password; Confirm the password when prompted.
3-8 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 fields in the BIOS setup program. To set an administrator...
Page 83 - Ai Tweaker menu
ASUS Z87-WS 3-9 Chapter 3 To 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. Confi...
Page 84 - Allows your system to automatically optimize the CPU ratio, BCLK; eXtreme Memory Profile
3-10 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal frequency. Select any of these preset overclocking configuration options: [Auto] Loads the optimal settings for the system. [Manual] Allows you to auto...
Page 85 - DRAM speed is set to the optimized settings.
ASUS Z87-WS 3-11 Chapter 3 If you assign a value for 2-Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1-Core Ratio Limit to [Auto] . 3-Core Ratio Limit [Auto] Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually assign a 3-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 4-Core Ratio Li...
Page 86 - DRAM Timing Control; according to the integrated graphics loading.
3-12 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 DRAM Timing Control The subitems in this menu allow you to set the DRAM timing control features. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press the <Enter> key. Changing the ...
Page 87 - RTL IOL control
ASUS Z87-WS 3-13 Chapter 3 DRAM FOUR ACT WIN Time [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [255] DRAM WRITE to READ Delay [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [15] DRAM CKE Minimum pulse width [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [15] DRAM CAS# Write Latency [Auto] Configuration option...
Page 89 - Allows you to set the optimized scrambler setting for stability.
ASUS Z87-WS 3-15 Chapter 3 MISCMRC Fast Boot [Auto] Allows you to enable, disable or automatically set the MRC fast boot. Configuration options: [Auto] [Enable] [Disable] DRAM CLK Period [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [14] Channel A/B DIMM Control [Enable Bot...] Configuration options: [...
Page 91 - the value. The values depend on the CPU installed.; CPU Power Management; Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]; average heat production.
ASUS Z87-WS 3-17 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 <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values depend on the CPU installed. DO NOT remove ...
Page 92 - Turbo Mode Parameters
3-18 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 Turbo Mode Parameters Long Duration Package Power Limit [Auto] Allows you to limit the Turbo Ratio’s time duration that exceeds the TDP (Thermal Design Power) for maximum performance. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from ...
Page 94 - CPU Core Voltage Offset
3-20 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 Extreme OV [Disabled] Default set to DIsabled and help to protect CPU not been burned by Over Voltage. When set to Enabled, you might choose high level voltage to overclock, but not guaranteed CPU life. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] CPU Core Voltage...
Page 95 - CPU Cache Voltage Offset; CPU Graphics Voltage Offset
ASUS Z87-WS 3-21 Chapter 3 Offset Mode Sign [+] [+] To offset the voltage by a positive value. [–] To offset the voltage by a negative value. CPU Cache Voltage Offset Allows you to set the CPU cache voltage offset. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V...
Page 97 - Automatic configuration.
ASUS Z87-WS 3-23 Chapter 3 PCH Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the Core voltage for the PCH (Platform Controller Hub). You can use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.70V to 1.50V with a 0.0125V interval. • The values of the CPU PLL Voltage, CPU Manual Volta...
Page 99 - CPU Configuration; Disables the CPU thermal monitor function.
ASUS Z87-WS 3-25 Chapter 3 3.6.1 CPU Configuration 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 cl...
Page 100 - Intel Virtualization Technology [Disabled]; This item allows you to manage and configure the CPU’s power.
3-26 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled] [Enabled] Allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs with extended CPUID functions. [Disabled] Disables this function. Execute Disable Bit [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the No-Execution Page Protection Techn...
Page 101 - Allows you to enable or disable the CPU C states.; Allows you to set the duration of C6 latency for C6 state.
ASUS Z87-WS 3-27 Chapter 3 Turbo Mode [Enabled] Allows you to set the processor cores to run faster than the base frequency when operating below power, current and temperature specification limit. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] CPU C States [Auto] Allows you to enable or disable the CPU...
Page 102 - PCH Configuration; PCI Express Configuration; Allows you to configure the PCI Express slots.
3-28 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.6.2 PCH Configuration PCI Express Configuration Allows you to configure 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. Configurati...
Page 103 - Allows you to enable or disable the hybrid hard disk support.; Intel Smart Connect Technology [Disabled]; Allow you to enable or disable the Intel; SATA Configuration; SATA Port items show; Not Present; if no SATA device is installed to the corresponding SATA
ASUS Z87-WS 3-29 Chapter 3 Active Memory Threshold [0] Key in the value for the additional partition size for Rapid Start Technology to work. Ensure that the caching partition size is larger than the total memory size. Hybrid Hard Disk Support [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the hybrid ha...
Page 104 - Allows you to set the SATA configuration.
3-30 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 SATA Mode Selection [AHCI] Allows you to set the SATA configuration. [Disabled] Disables the SATA function. [IDE] Set to [IDE Mode] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as Parallel ATA physical storage devices. [AHCI] Set to [AHCI Mode] when you w...
Page 105 - Enables the function.; Graphics Configuration; System Agent Configuration
ASUS Z87-WS 3-31 Chapter 3 VT-d [Disabled] Allows you to enable virtualization technology function on memory control hub. [Enabled] Enables the function. [Disabled] Disables this function. CPU Audio Devices [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable CPU SA Audio devices. Configuration options: [Enabl...
Page 106 - will be fixed at 64MB.; DMI Configuration; Allows you to configure the NB PCI Express settings.; Memory Configuration; Allows you to configure the memory configuration parameters.
3-32 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 iGPU Multi-Monitor [Disabled] Allows you to enable the iGPU Multi-Monitor. The iGPU shared system memory size will be fixed at 64MB. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] DMI Configuration Allows you to control various DMI (Desktop Management Interface) fun...
Page 107 - USB Configuration; USB Devices; None; be recognized in boot devices list.
ASUS Z87-WS 3-33 Chapter 3 3.6.5 USB Configuration The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features. The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None . Legacy USB Support [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the support for USB devices ...
Page 108 - Platform Misc Configuration; PCI Express Native Power Management [Disabled]; operations in the operating system.; Vista controls the ASPM support for the device.; USB Single Port Control; Allows you to enable or disable the individual USB port.
3-34 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.6.6 Platform Misc Configuration The items in this menu allow you to configure 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 operatin...
Page 109 - Onboard Devices Configuration; Scroll down to view the other BIOS items.; Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97
ASUS Z87-WS 3-35 Chapter 3 3.6.7 Onboard Devices Configuration Scroll down to view the other BIOS items. HD Audio Controller [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the High Definition Audio Controller. [Disabled] Disables the controller. The following items appear only when you set the HD Audio Controller to [...
Page 111 - will become user-configurable with set values.; APM
ASUS Z87-WS 3-37 Chapter 3 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. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled (S4+S5] [Enabled (S5)] Restore AC Power Loss ...
Page 112 - Network Stack; This item allows user to disable or enable the UEFI network stack.; Allows you to enable or disable the Ipv4/Ipv6 PXE boot option.
3-38 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.6.9 Network Stack Network Stack [Disable] This item allows user to disable or enable the UEFI network stack. Configuration options: [Disable] [Enable] The following item appears only when you set the Network Stack to [Enabled] . Ipv4/Ipv6 PXE Support [Enabled] ...
Page 113 - temperatures. Select
ASUS Z87-WS 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.Scroll down to display the other BIOS items. CPU Temperature / MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and disp...
Page 114 - Set to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.
3-40 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 CPU Q-Fan Control [Auto] Allows you to set the CPU Q-Fan operating mode. [Advance Mode] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature in Advance mode for 4-pin CPU fan. [Auto] Detects the type of CPU fan installed and automatically switches the mode control. When a 3-pin...
Page 115 - Set to minimize the fan speed for quiet chassis fan operation.
ASUS Z87-WS 3-41 Chapter 3 Chassis Fan Speed Low Limit 1/4 [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. Configuration options: [Ignore] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM] Chassis Fan ...
Page 116 - Boot Configuration; Boot menu
3-42 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 Boot Configuration 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 appear only when you set the Fast Boot to [Enabled] . USB Support [Partial In....
Page 117 - Next Boot after AC Power Loss [Normal Boot]
ASUS Z87-WS 3-43 Chapter 3 Network Stack Driver Support [Disabled] [Disabled] Select to skip the network stack driver from loading during POST. [Enabled] Select to load the network stack driver during POST. Next Boot after AC Power Loss [Normal Boot] [Normal Boot] Returns to normal boot on the next ...
Page 118 - Maximizes the boot logo size.
3-44 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 Boot Logo Display [Auto] [Auto] Automatically adjusts Boot Logo for Windows ® requirements. [Full Screen] Maximizes the boot logo size. [Disabled] Disables the full screen boot logo display during POST. Post Delay Time [3 sec] This item appears only when you set ...
Page 119 - Boot Devices Control [UEFI and Legacy OpROM]; Secure Boot; Allows you to configure the Windows
ASUS Z87-WS 3-45 Chapter 3 CSM (Compatibility Support Module) Allows you to configure the CSM (Compatibility Support Module) items to fully support the various VGA, bootable devices and add-on devices for better compatibility. Launch CSM [Enabled] [Auto] The system automatically detects the bootable...
Page 120 - The system verifies the PK before your system enters the OS.
3-46 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 Key Management This item appears only when you set OS Type to [Windows UEFI Mode] . It allows you to manage the Secure Boot keys. Clear Secure Boot keys This item appears only when you load the default Secure Boot keys. This item allows you to clear all default S...
Page 121 - Allows you to load the downloaded db from a USB storage device.
ASUS Z87-WS 3-47 Chapter 3 DB Management The db (Authorized Signature database) lists the signers or images of UEFI applications, operating system loaders, and UEFI drivers that you can load on the single computer. Delete the db Allows you to delete the db file from your system.Configuration options...
Page 122 - ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility; This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.; Not Installed; Label; Allows you to key in a label of the setup profile.
3-48 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.9 Tools menu The Tools menu items allow you to configure 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 confirmation...
Page 123 - Save to Profile; Load from Profile; Yes; ASUS SPD Information; Allows you to view the DRAM SPD information.
ASUS Z87-WS 3-49 Chapter 3 Save to Profile Allows you to save the current BIOS settings to the BIOS Flash, and create a profile. Key in a profile number from one to eight, press <Enter>, and then select Yes . Load from Profile Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Fla...
Page 124 - Load Optimized Defaults; a confirmation window appears. Select; Discard Changes & Exit; ASUS EZ Mode; the available filesystem devices.
3-50 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. You can access the EZ Mode from the Exit menu. Load Optimized Defaults This option allows you to load the defau...
Page 125 - instructions of this chapter to update your BIOS if necessary.; EZ Update: Updates the BIOS in a Windows
ASUS Z87-WS 3-51 Chapter 3 3.11 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 ...
Page 126 - To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:
3-52 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.11.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 allows you to update the BIOS without having to use a bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility. Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS from the ASUS website at www.asus.com. To update the BIOS using...
Page 127 - Recovering the BIOS; containing the BIOS file to the USB port.
ASUS Z87-WS 3-53 Chapter 3 • This function can support devices such as a USB flash disk formatted using FAT 32/16 on a single partition only. • DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure! Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compa...
Page 128 - gets corrupted during the updating process.; Before updating BIOS; and save them on the USB flash drive.; Booting the system in DOS environment; optical drive as the boot device.
3-54 Chapter 3: BIOS setup Chapter 3 3.11.4 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 file that you can use as a backup when the BIOS fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. The succeed...
Page 129 - pressing the item number.; Updating the BIOS file; To update the BIOS file using BIOS Updater:; The BIOS Updater screen appears as below.
ASUS Z87-WS 3-55 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 flash drive). Updating the BIOS file To update ...
Page 131 - Running the support DVD; Installing an operating system
ASUS Z87-WS 4-1 Chapter 4 4.2 Support DVD information The contents of the support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for updates. 4.2.1 Running the support DVD Place the support DVD into the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the D...
Page 132 - Chapter 4; Obtaining the software manuals; Utilities; Manual
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 files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe ® Acrobat ® Rea...
Page 133 - Installing AI Suite 3; To install AI Suite 3 on your computer:; Using AI Suite 3; on the notification area.; Main screen
ASUS Z87-WS 4-3 Chapter 4 4.3 Software information Most of the applications in the support DVD have setup wizards that will conveniently guide you through the installation. View the online help or readme file that came with the software application for more information. 4.3.1 AI Suite 3 AI Suite 3 i...
Page 134 - Chapter 4: Software support; AI Suite 3 main menu bar
4-4 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 AI Suite 3 main menu bar • The screenshots of AI Suite 3 in this user manual are for reference only. The actual screenshots vary with models. • Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for detailed software co...
Page 135 - Dual Intelligent Processors 4; Power Control and Fan Xpert 2 to their optimal settings.; settings to enhance system stability and boost performance.
ASUS Z87-WS 4-5 Chapter 4 4.3.2 Dual Intelligent Processors 4 Dual Intelligent Processors 4 comes with these five utilities in one interface: 4-Way Optimization, TPU, EPU, DIGI+ Power Control, and Fan Xpert 2. 4-Way Optimization The 4-Way Optimization utility allows you to automatically tweak the TP...
Page 136 - Using TPU; CPU Frequency
4-6 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 Using TPU CPU Frequency Tick to enable Group Tuning Click or to adjust the Base Clock Frequency, CPU Ratio, and CPU Cache Ratio Click or to select the number of cores to adjust Click to save settings as a profile Click to load a saved profile • Set the CPU R...
Page 137 - Voltage
ASUS Z87-WS 4-7 Chapter 4 Voltage Drag the slider to adjust DRAM, CPU Analog I/O, PCH, and CPU Input voltages Drag the slider to adjust CPU System Agent, CPU Digital I/O, VTTDDR, and PCHVLX voltages Drag to adjust Offset Voltage and OC Voltage offset Drag to adjust Offset Voltage and OC Voltage offs...
Page 138 - EPU; settings to conserve power.; Using EPU
4-8 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 4.3.3 EPU EPU is an enery management utility that allows you to adjust the CPU, GPU, and Fan Control settings to conserve power. Using EPU Click to configure the settings in Auto mode Click to configure the settings in High Performance mode Click to configur...
Page 139 - Voltage Decrement; Select Auto or Manual for Voltage Decrement.; Configured Max CPU Power; Click or; Fan Profile; Click; Mute; Tick to select a setting for Add-on USB ports power
ASUS Z87-WS 4-9 Chapter 4 • When you enable Configured Max CPU Power for advanced energy saving, the CPU frequency may display 800 MHz in the Windows ® OS information of your computer. However, the true CPU frequency varies depending on the wattage that you manually set. You can adjust the CPU watta...
Page 140 - heat to extend component lifespan and to minimize power loss.; range simultaneously.
4-10 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 4.3.4 DIGI+ Power Control ASUS DIGI+ Power Contol allows you to adjust VRM voltage and frequency modulation to enhance reliability and stability. It also provides the highest power efficiency, generating less heat to extend component lifespan and to minimiz...
Page 141 - DRAM Current Capability; frequency range simultaneously.; DRAM Voltage Frequency; DRAM screen
ASUS Z87-WS 4-11 Chapter 4 1 DRAM Current Capability A higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously. 2 DRAM Voltage Frequency Allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency for system stability or to increase OC range. 3 DRAM Power Phas...
Page 142 - Fan Xpert 2
4-12 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 4.3.5 Fan Xpert 2 Fan Xpert 2 automatically detects and tweaks the fan speeds, and provides you with optimized fan settings based on the fans’ specifications and positions. Click a screen to select the type of fan that you want to customize Click to set the...
Page 143 - Customizing the fan settings; Smart Mode; your system’s temperature.
ASUS Z87-WS 4-13 Chapter 4 Customizing the fan settings Smart Mode Smart Mode allows you to customize the fans’ rotation speeds and responsiveness based on your system’s temperature. Click to switch between CPU and chassis fan screens Click to apply changes Click to undo changes Click to go back to ...
Page 144 - RPM Mode
4-14 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. • When the CPU temperature reaches 75 o C, the fan will automatically run at full speed to protect the CPU. • For motherboard models without the CPU fan detection la...
Page 145 - on the AI Suite 3 main menu bar.; Normal
ASUS Z87-WS 4-15 Chapter 4 4.3.6 USB 3.0 Boost USB 3.0 Boost technology supports UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol) which automatically speeds up the transfer rates of your USB storage devices. To launch USB 3.0 Boost, click USB 3.0 Boost on the AI Suite 3 main menu bar. Using USB 3.0 Boost 1. Connec...
Page 146 - To launch Network iControl, click; Network iControl; Quick Connection screen
4-16 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 4.3.7 Network iControl Network iControl is a one-stop setup network control center that allows you to manage your network bandwidth and set the bandwidth priority for your running programs. To launch Network iControl, click Network iControl on the AI Suite ...
Page 147 - Info screen
ASUS Z87-WS 4-17 Chapter 4 Click to add selected application for network priority Click to save the profile settings or rename the profile Click to select a network profile Info screen EZ Profile screen List of network applications
Page 148 - Scheduling the BIOS download; In the Download Setting field, tick; Downloading the updated BIOS; from the Save to: field, select the USB
4-18 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 4.3.8 USB BIOS Flashback USB BIOS Flashback allows you to check and save the latest BIOS version to a USB storage device. Use this utility to quickly check for the latest available BIOS and set a schedule to when you can download for a newer version. To lau...
Page 150 - BIOS and select a boot logo when the system goes into POST.; EZ Update
4-20 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 4.3.10 EZ Update EZ Update is a utility that allows you to automatically update your motherboard’s software, drivers and the BIOS version easily. With this utlity, you can also manually update the saved BIOS and select a boot logo when the system goes into ...
Page 152 - System Information; Viewing the motherboard information; MB; Viewing the CPU information; CPU
4-22 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 4.3.12 System Information This utility allows you get detailed information of the motherboard, CPU, and memory settings. To launch System Information, click System Information on the AI Suite 3 main menu bar. Viewing the motherboard information From the Sys...
Page 153 - Viewing the SPD information; From the System Information screen, click; SPD; tab to view the memory’s information.
ASUS Z87-WS 4-23 Chapter 4 Viewing the SPD information From the System Information screen, click SPD tab to view the memory’s information.
Page 154 - Launching ASUS SSD Caching II
4-24 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 4.3.13 ASUS SSD Caching II ASUS SSD Caching II uses installed SSDs for multi-caching of frequently accessed data or applications. It combines multiple SSDs and their hard drive capacity to boost the system’s overall performance. Launching ASUS SSD Caching I...
Page 155 - Configuring ASUS SSD Caching II; Connect at least one HDD and another SSD to the Marvell
ASUS Z87-WS 4-25 Chapter 4 • During initialization, you can proceed with using your computer. You can check the caching status later or wait for a pop-up message notifying that initialization is complete. • For regular use, the SATA6G_E12/E34 connectors are recommended for data drives. • After disab...
Page 156 - Follow the installation wizard to install the Realtek; Realtek
4-26 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 4.3.14 Audio configurations 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 in...
Page 157 - Installing Dr. Power Utility; Drivers; Right-click on the Dr. Power icon on the notification area and click; Event Notification
ASUS Z87-WS 4-27 Chapter 4 4.3.15 ASUS Dr. Power Utility ASUS Dr. Power is a monitoring utility that provides notifications when the power supply is unable to provide sufficient power to the system. You can choose to allow continuous notifications or stop messages from appearing until the next time ...
Page 158 - - Messages will be displayed every 15 minutes.; hours; - Messages will be displayed every 4 hours.; Not showing; - Messages for any power issues will not be displayed.
4-28 Chapter 4: Software support Chapter 4 When ASUS Dr. Power detects that your system is running low on power, an event notification pops up to indicate that your power supply requires attention. The message will be displayed for 15 seconds or until you click the Close button. ASUS Dr. Power will ...
Page 159 - Chapter 5; This motherboard supports Intel; Creating a RAID driver disk; optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in
ASUS Z87-WS 5-1 Chapter 5 RAID support 5 5.1 RAID configurations This motherboard supports Intel ® Rapid Storage Technology with RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 and RAID 5 support. If you want to install a Windows ® operating system to a hard disk drive included in a RAID set, you have to create a RAID driv...
Page 160 - Chapter 5: RAID configurations; Installing Serial ATA hard disks; To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration:; Setting the RAID item in BIOS; Advanced
5-2 Chapter 5: RAID configurations Chapter 5 5.1.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks This motherboard supports Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array. To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configurat...
Page 161 - To enter the Intel; and select menu options.
ASUS Z87-WS 5-3 Chapter 5 5.1.4 Intel ® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility To enter the Intel ® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility: 1. Turn on the system. 2. During POST, press <Ctrl> + <I> to display the utility main menu. The navigation keys at the bottom of the scree...
Page 162 - Creating a RAID set; To create a RAID set:; From the utility main menu, select; Create RAID Volume; following screen appears:
5-4 Chapter 5: RAID configurations Chapter 5 Creating a RAID set To create a RAID set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press <Enter>. The following screen appears: 2. Enter a name for the RAID set and press <Enter>. 3. When the RAID Level item is selected,...
Page 163 - When the; Capacity; item is selected, enter the RAID volume capacity that you want; Create Volume; to the CREATE VOLUME menu.
ASUS Z87-WS 5-5 Chapter 5 5. Use the up/down arrow keys to select a drive, and then press <Space>. A small triangle marks the selected drive. Press <Enter> after completing your selection. 6. Use the up/down arrow keys to select the stripe size for the RAID array (for RAID 0, 10 and 5 on...
Page 164 - Deleting a RAID set; To delete a RAID set:; Delete RAID Volume
5-6 Chapter 5: RAID configurations Chapter 5 Deleting a RAID set Be cautious when deleting a RAID set. You will lose all data on the hard disk drives when you delete a RAID set. To delete a RAID set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 2. Delete RAID Volume and press <Enter>. The following s...
Page 165 - Exiting the Intel; Creating a RAID driver disk; operating system; Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS; To create a RAID driver disk without entering the OS:; Save changes and exit BIOS.
ASUS Z87-WS 5-7 Chapter 5 Exiting the Intel ® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility To exit the utility: 1. From the utility main menu, select 5. Exit , and then press <Enter>. The following warning message appears: Are you sure you want to exit? (Y/N): [ CONFIRM EXIT ] 5.2 Creating a RA...
Page 166 - Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows; Plug the USB floppy disk drive and insert a floppy disk.; Installing the RAID driver during Windows
5-8 Chapter 5: RAID configurations Chapter 5 5.2.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows ® To create a RAID driver disk in Windows ® : 1. Start Windows ® . 2. Plug the USB floppy disk drive and insert a floppy disk. 3. Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive.4. Go to the Intel AHCI...
Page 167 - Requirements; Control Panel > Programs and Features
ASUS Z87-WS 6-1 Chapter 5 6 Chapter 6: Multiple GPU support 6.1 ATI ® CrossFireX™ technology This motherboard supports ATI ® CrossFireX™ technology, which allows you to install multi- graphics processing units (GPU) cards. Follow the installation procedures in this section. 6.1.1 Requirements • In C...
Page 168 - Installing two CrossFireXTM graphics cards; Align and firmly insert the CrossFireX
6-2 Chapter 6: Multiple GPU technology support Chapter 5 6.1.3 Installing two CrossFireX™ graphics cards The following pictures are for reference only. The graphics cards and the motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same. 1. Prepare two CrossFireX-ready grap...
Page 169 - Installing three CrossFireXTM graphics cards; Align and firmly insert the two
ASUS Z87-WS 6-3 Chapter 5 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. 6.1.4 Installing three CrossFireX™ graphics cards 1. Prepare three CrossFireX-ready graphics cards. 2. Insert...
Page 170 - Installing four CrossFireXTM graphics cards; Align and firmly insert the four
6-4 Chapter 6: Multiple GPU technology support Chapter 5 6.1.5 Installing four CrossFireX™ graphics cards 1. Prepare four CrossFireX-ready graphics cards. 2. Insert the four graphics cards into the PCIEX16 slots. Refer to Chapter 1 in this user manual for the locations of the PCIEX16 slots recommend...
Page 171 - Installing the device drivers; through the AMD CatalystTM Control Center from the Windows desktop.; Launching the AMD Catalyst Control Center; To launch the AMD Catalyst Control Center:; Right-click on the Windows; Catalyst Control Center; to configure the
ASUS Z87-WS 6-5 Chapter 5 6.1.6 Installing the device drivers Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device drivers. Ensure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the AMD® CrossFireX™ technology. Download the latest driver from the AMD websit...
Page 172 - Enabling Dual CrossFireX technology; Enable CrossFireX; Apply
6-6 Chapter 6: Multiple GPU technology support Chapter 5 1 Enabling Dual CrossFireX technology 1. In the Catalyst Control Center window, click Performance > AMD CrossFireX TM . 2. Select Enable CrossFireX TM . 3. Select a GPU combination from the drop-down list. 4. Click Apply to save and activat...
Page 173 - This motherboard supports the NVIDIA
ASUS Z87-WS 6-7 Chapter 5 6.2 NVIDIA ® SLI™ technology This motherboard supports the NVIDIA ® SLI™ (Scalable Link Interface) technology, which allows you to install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) cards. Follow the installation procedures in this section. 6.2.1 Requirements • In Dual SLI mode,...
Page 174 - Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards; Align and firmly insert the SLI bridge
6-8 Chapter 6: Multiple GPU technology support Chapter 5 6.2.2 Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards The following pictures are for reference only. The graphics cards and the motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same. Goldfingers SLI bridge 1. Prepare two ...
Page 175 - Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards; Align and firmly insert the 3-Way SLI
ASUS Z87-WS 6-9 Chapter 5 6.2.3 Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards 3-Way SLI bridge 1. Prepare three SLI-ready graphics cards.2. Insert the three graphics cards into the PCIEX16 slots. If your motherboard has more than two PCIEX16 slots, refer to Chapter 1 in this user manual for the location...
Page 176 - Installing four SLI-ready graphics cards; graphics card. Ensure that the connector is firmly in place.
6-10 Chapter 6: Multiple GPU technology support Chapter 5 6.2.4 Installing four SLI-ready graphics cards 1. Prepare four SLI-ready graphics cards.2. Insert the four graphics cards into the PCIEX16 slots. If your motherboard has more than two PCIEX16 slots, refer to Chapter 1 in this user manual for ...
Page 177 - Screen; Enabling the NVIDIA® SLITM technology; Launching the NVIDIA Control Panel
ASUS Z87-WS 6-11 Chapter 5 B1. If you cannot see the NVIDIA Control Panel item in step (A), select Screen Resolution . B2. From the Screen Resolution window, click Advanced settings . 6.2.5 Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the S...
Page 178 - Enabling SLI settings; Configure SLI
6-12 Chapter 6: Multiple GPU technology support Chapter 5 B3. The NVIDIA Control Panel window appears. Enabling SLI settings From the NVIDIA Control Panel window, select Configure SLI , Surround , PhysX . In the Quad-SLI enabled , click Maximize 3D Performance SLI to set the display for viewing SLI ...
Page 179 - Insert four Tesla computing processor
ASUS Z87-WS 6-13 Chapter 5 6.3 NVIDIA ® CUDA™ technology This motherboard supports the NVIDIA ® CUDA™ technology and up to 4 NVIDIA ® Tesla™ computing processor cards(based on different type tesla cards), providing optimum multi- purpose computing performance. Follow the installation procedures in t...
Page 181 - Notices; Federal Communications Commission Statement; This device may not cause harmful interference.
ASUS Z87-WS 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 includ...
Page 182 - IC: Canadian Compliance Statement; un fonctionnement non souhaité de l’appareil.; Canadian Department of Communications Statement
A-2 Appendices Appendices IC: Canadian Compliance Statement Complies with the Canadian ICES-003 Class B specifications. 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 complie...
Page 183 - information in different regions.; RF Equipment Notices
ASUS Z87-WS 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...
Page 184 - Bluetooth Industry Canada Statement; matériel brouilleur du Canada.; NCC: Taiwan Wireless Statement
A-4 Appendices Appendices Bluetooth Industry Canada Statement This Class B device meets all requirements of the Canadian interference-causing equipment regulations.Cet appareil numérique de la Class B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada. NCC: Taiwan Wirele...
Page 185 - ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.; Technical Support
ASUS Z87-WS A-5 Appendices ASUS contact information ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. Address 15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259 Telephone +886-2-2894-3447 Fax +886-2-2890-7798 E-mail [email protected] Web site www.asus.com.tw Technical Support Telephone +86-21-38429911 Online support support.asus.com A...
Page 186 - DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY; EC
A-6 Appendices Appendices DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Per FCC Part 2 Section 2. 1077(a) Responsible Party Name: A su s C om pu te r In te rn at io na l Address: 800 Corporate Way, Fremont , C A 9 45 39 . Phone/Fax No: (510)739-3777/(510)608-4555 he re by d ec la re s t ha t t he p ro du ct Product Nam...