Asus MAXIMUS VIII GENE User Manual
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Asus MAXIMUS VIII GENE User Manual

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Summary of Contents for Asus MAXIMUS VIII GENE

  • Page 1 MAXIMUS VIII GENE...
  • Page 2 Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents Safety information ...................... vi About this guide ......................vii MAXIMUS VIII GENE specifications summary ............ix Package contents ..................... xiii Installation tools and components ................. xiv Chapter 1: Product Introduction Special features..................1-1 1.1.1 Product highlights................ 1-1 1.1.2 ROG Gaming Features ............... 1-3 1.1.3...
  • Page 4 3.6.11 HDD/SSD SMART Information ..........3-35 Monitor menu ................... 3-36 Boot menu ....................3-41 Tool menu ....................3-46 3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility ............3-46 3.9.2 Secure Erase ................3-46 3.9.3 ASUS Overclocking Profile ............3-48 3.9.4 ROG OC Panel H-Key Configure ..........3-49 3.9.5...
  • Page 5 Dual Intelligent Processors 5 ..............4-13 ROG Audio features ................. 4-29 Sonic Radar II ................... 4-36 GameFirst III ..................... 4-38 KeyBot II....................4-41 4.10 ASUS Media Streamer ................4-43 4.11 RAMDisk ....................4-45 4.12 MemTweakIt ....................4-48 4.13 ROG CPU-Z ....................4-50 4.14...

  • Page 6: Safety Information

    Safety information Electrical safety • To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system. • When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.

  • Page 7: About This Guide

    Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates. ASUS website The ASUS website (www.asus.com) provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Optional documentation Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer.

  • Page 8: Conventions Used In This Guide

    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 trying to complete a task IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.

  • Page 9: Maximus Viii Gene Specifications Summary

    MAXIMUS VIII GENE specifications summary LGA1151 socket for 6th Generation Intel Core™ i7 / i5 / i3 / ® Pentium / Celeron Processors ® ® Supports 14nm CPU Supports Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0* ® * The support of these features depends on the CPU types.
  • Page 10 - Sonic Radar II - DTS Connect Intel Z170 Express Chipset - Supports ASUS USB 3.1 Boost: ® - 8 x USB 3.0 ports (2 ports at mid-board; 6 ports at back panel) - 4 x USB 2.0 ports at mid-board* ASMedia USB 3.1 controller - Supports ASUS USB 3.1 Boost:...
  • Page 11 MAXIMUS VIII GENE specifications summary ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 5 - 5-Way Optimization tuning key perfectly consolidates TPU, EPU, DIGI+ Power Control, Fan Xpert 3, and Turbo App ASUS Exclusive Features - AI Suite 3 - USB 3.1 Boost - AI Charger+...
  • Page 12 1 x System panel connector 128 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI3.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 3.0, ACPI 5.0, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 3, CrashFree BIOS 3, F11 EZ Tuning Wizard, F6 Qfan Control, F3 My BIOS Features Favorites, F9 Quick Note, Last Modified log, F12 PrintScreen, and ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) memory information.

  • Page 13: Package Contents

    MAXIMUS VIII GENE specifications summary Windows ® Windows 8.1* ® Operating System Windows Support ® *64-bit supported only mATX Form Factor, 9.6”x 9.6” (24.4cm x 24.4cm) Form Factor Specifications are subject to change without notice. Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items.

  • Page 14: Installation Tools And Components

    Installation tools and components 1 Bag of screws Phillips (cross) screwdriver PC chassis Power supply unit Intel LGA 1151 CPU Intel LGA 1151 compatible CPU Fan DDR4 DIMM SATA hard disk drive SATA optical disc drive (optional) Graphics card (optional) The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package.

  • Page 15: Chapter 1: Product Introduction

    This motherboard supports multi-GPU SLI /CrossFireX graphics cards for an unrivalled ® gaming performance. With the Intel Z170 platform to optimize the PCIe allocation of multiple ® ™ GPUs, it supports up to 2-WAY GPU SLI or CrossFireX configuration. ® ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...
  • Page 16 M.2 Support This motherboard features an M.2 slot, which supports both PCIE and SATA modes. The PCIE mode operates at full PCI Gen. 3.0 x4 speeds. The SATA mode shares bandwidth with SATA ports 1 and 2 and will automatically disable those ports when an M.2 card is inserted. Supports 2242 (22 mm x 42 mm), 2260 (22 mm x 60 mm), 2280 (22 mm x 80 mm), and 22110 (22 mm x 110 mm) SSD cards.

  • Page 17: Rog Gaming Features

    GameFirst technology ASUS GameFirst technology is a network management software that features four preset packet prioritized profiles facilitating user’s need. Users can also manually allocate bandwidth and adjust priority settings of each application to run faster and smoother.

  • Page 18: Rog Exclusive Features

    USB 3.1 Boost ASUS USB 3.1 Boost, which supports USB 3.0 and USB 3.1 standard UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol), significantly increases a USB device’s transfer speed up to 170% faster than the already impressive USB 3.1 transfer speed.

  • Page 19: Rog Rich Bundled Software

    Consumers can connect their PC to a home theatre system. DTS Interactive is capable of performing multichannel encoding of DTS bitstreams on personal computers, and sending encoded bitstreams out of a digital audio connection (such as S/PDIF or HDMI) designed to deliver audio to an external decoder. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...

  • Page 20: Motherboard Overview

    Motherboard overview 1.2.1 Before you proceed Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. • Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. • Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due to static electricity.

  • Page 21: Motherboard Layout

    1.2.2 Motherboard layout Refer to Internal connectors and Rear I/O connection for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...

  • Page 22: Layout Contents

    Layout contents Connectors/Jumpers/Buttons and switches/Slots Page 1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V) 1-37 2. LGA1151 CPU Socket 3. CPU, water pump, CPU optional, extension, and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin W_PUMP; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 5-pin EXT_FAN; 1-36 4-pin CHA_FAN1-4) 4.

  • Page 23: Central Processing Unit (Cpu)

    Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard components. ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is shipment/ transit-related.

  • Page 24: System Memory

    1.2.4 System memory The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 4 (DDR4) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) slots. A DDR4 module is notched differently from a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 module. DO NOT install a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 memory module to the DDR4 slot. Recommended memory configurations Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1-10...

  • Page 25: Memory Configurations

    3.5 Extreme Tweaker menu for manual memory frequency adjustment. • For system stability, use a more efficient memory cooling system to support a full memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 1-11...
  • Page 26 MAXIMUS VIII GENE Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR4 3600+ MHz capability DIMM socket support Chip Chip Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Timing Voltage (Optional) Brand CORSAIR CMD16GX4M4B3600C18 16GB (4 x 4GB) 18-19-19-39 1.35V • • G.SKILL F4-3600C17-8GVK 16GB (4 x 4GB) 17-18-18-38 1.35V...
  • Page 27 16GB (4 x 4GB) 15-17-17-35 1.35V • • Kingston HX430C15PB2k4/16 16GB (4 x 4GB) 15-16-16-39 1.35V • • G.SKILL F4-3000C15Q-16GRR 16GB (4 x 4GB) 15-15-15-35 1.35V • • G.SKILL F4-3000C15Q-16GRK 16GB (4 x 4GB) 15-15-15-35 1.35V • • ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 1-13...
  • Page 28 DDR4 2800 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM Brand socket support (Optional) ADATA AX4U2800W4G17 32GB ( 8x 17-17-17-36 • • • 4GB ) ADATA AX4U2800W8G17 15-15-15-36 • • • Apacer 78.BAGM8.AF20B (XMP) 17-17-17-36 •...
  • Page 29 ISDT I5AN4G8NMFR 15-15-15-35 • • (XMP) ISDT IMA451U6MFR8N-CF0 ISDT I5AN4G8NMFR 15-15-15-35 • • • (XMP) Team TCD44G2666C15ABK Samsung K4A4G085WD 15-15-15-35 • • • (XMP) Team TCD48G2666C15ABK 32GB(4x Team TCD48G2666C15ABK 15-15-15-35 • • • (XMP) 8GB) ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 1-15...
  • Page 30 DDR4 2400 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM Brand socket support (Optional) AVEXIR AVD4U24001608G-4M 32GB ( 8x SK Hynix H5AN4G8NMFRTFC 16-16-16-39 • • • 4GB ) CORSAIR CMD16GX4M4A2400C14 16GB ( 4x 14-16-16-31 • •...
  • Page 31 ASUS exclusively provides hyper DIMM support function. • Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs. Load the X.M.P. settings in the BIOS for the hyper DIMM support. • Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 1-17...

  • Page 32: Expansion Slots

    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 PCIe 3.0 x16/x8_1 slot PCIe 3.0 x8_2 slot PCIe 3.0 x4_1 slot Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1-18...

  • Page 33: Irq Assignments For This Motherboard

    Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1-4 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. • New 6th generation Intel Core™ processors support PCIe 3.0 speed rate. ® PCIe_x16/x8_1 slot switches to x8 mode when PCIe_x8_2 slot is occupied. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 1-19...

  • Page 34: Onboard Buttons

    1.2.6 Onboard buttons Onboard 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. Power-on button (START) The motherboard comes with a power-on button that allows you to power up or wake up the system.
  • Page 35 BIOS safe mode. This button temporarily applies safe settings to the BIOS while retaining any overclocked settings allowing you to modify the settings causing boot failure. Use this button when overclocking or tweaking the settings of your system. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 1-21...
  • Page 36 BIOS default settings. A message will appear during POST reminding you that the BIOS has been restored to its default settings. • We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function. Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1-22...

  • Page 37: Onboard Leds

    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 flashes until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitive way to locate the root problem within seconds. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 1-23...
  • Page 38 PCH_LED (PCH_LED1-3) The PCH_LED is designed to indicate the PCH voltage and PCH PLL voltage. Q-Code LED 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 following page for details. Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1-24...
  • Page 39 Unspecified memory initialization error Memory not installed Invalid CPU type or Speed CPU mismatch CPU self test failed or possible CPU cache error CPU micro-code is not found or micro-code update is failed (continued on the next page) ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 1-25...
  • Page 40 Q-Code table Code Description PEI Core is started Pre-memory CPU initialization is started 11 – 14 Pre-memory System Agent initialization is started 15 – 18 19 – 1C Pre-memory PCH initialization is started 2B – 2F Memory initialization Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below) Memory Installed 32 –...
  • Page 41 7A – 7F Boot Device Selection (BDS) phase is started Driver connecting is started PCI Bus initialization is started PCI Bus Hot Plug Controller Initialization PCI Bus Enumeration PCI Bus Request Resources (continued on the next page) ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 1-27...
  • Page 42 Q-Code table Code Description PCI Bus Assign Resources Console Output devices connect Console input devices connect Super IO Initialization USB initialization is started USB Reset USB Detect USB Enable Reserved for future AMI codes 9E – 9F IDE initialization is started IDE Reset IDE Detect IDE Enable...
  • Page 43 System is waking up from the S4 sleep state 0x40 System has transitioned into ACPI mode. Interrupt controller is in PIC mode. 0xAC System has transitioned into ACPI mode. Interrupt controller is in APIC mode. 0xAA ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 1-29...

  • Page 44: Jumper

    1.2.8 Jumper LN2 Mode jumper (3-pin LN2_MODE) With LN2 mode activated, the ROG motherboard is optimized to remedy the cold-boot bug during POST and help the system boot successfully. Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1-30...

  • Page 45: Internal Connectors

    Before creating a RAID set, refer to section RAID configurations or the manual bundled in the motherboard support DVD. • When using NCQ, set the SATA Mode in the BIOS to [AHCI Mode]. Refer to section PCH Storage Configuration for details. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 1-31...
  • Page 46 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 ports. With an installed USB 3.0 module, you can enjoy all the benefits of USB 3.0 including faster data transfer speeds of up to 5 Gbps, faster charging time for USB-chargeable devices, optimized power efficiency, and backward compatibility with USB 2.0.
  • Page 47 Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB) first, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis supports front panel USB ports.
  • Page 48 Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports HD Audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector. We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-definition audio capability.
  • Page 49 Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors! • Ensure to fully insert the 4-pin CPU fan cable to the CPU fan connector. The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 1A (12 W) fan power. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 1-35...
  • Page 50 • If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system, refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus. com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details. Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1-36...

  • Page 51: System Panel Connector

    Pressing the power button for more than four seconds while the system is ON turns the system OFF. • Reset button (3-pin RESET) This 3-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without turning off the system power. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 1-37...
  • Page 52 The OC Panel and Front Base are purchased separately. • Visit www.asus.com for more information about the OC Panel and Front Base. T_Sensor connector (2-pin T_SENSOR1) This connector is for the thermistor cable that allows you to monitor the temperature of your motherboard’s critical components and connected devices.

  • Page 53: Probeit

    The ROG ProbeIt allows you to detect your system’s current voltage and OC settings. Use a multimeter to measure the ProbeIt points even during overclocking. See the illustration below to locate the respective ProbeIt points. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 1-39...
  • Page 54 Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1-40...

  • Page 55: Chapter 2: Basic 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. Install the ASUS Q-Shield to the chassis rear I/O panel. Place the motherboard into the chassis, ensuring that its rear I/O ports are aligned to the chassis’...
  • Page 56 Place nine screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis. DO NOT over tighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard. Chapter 2: Basic Installation...

  • Page 57: Cpu Installation

    Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1151 socket only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA1155 and LGA1156 sockets on the LGA1151 socket. Top of CPU Bottom of CPU Bottom of CPU ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...
  • Page 58 Top of CPU WARNING! • Ensure that the CPU is firmly clicked into place before installing it onto the CPU socket on the motherboard. • Use the CPU Installation Tool for installing the CPU only. DO NOT damage or bend the CPU Installation Tool. • Always firmly hold both sides of the CPU Installation Tool when installing, removing, or picking up the CPU Installation Tool. • ASUS will not cover damages resulting from incorrect CPU installation/removal, incorrect CPU orientation/placement, or other damages resulting from negligence by the user. Chapter 2: Basic Installation...

  • Page 59: Cpu Heatsink And Fan Assembly Installation

    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 ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...
  • Page 60 To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly Chapter 2: Basic Installation...

  • Page 61: Dimm Installation

    2.1.4 DIMM installation To remove a DIMM ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...

  • Page 62: Atx Power Connection

    2.1.5 ATX Power connection Chapter 2: Basic Installation...

  • Page 63: Sata Device Connection

    2.1.6 SATA device connection ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...

  • Page 64: Front I/O Connector

    2.1.7 Front I/O Connector To install ASUS Q-Connector To install USB 2.0 connector To install front panel audio connector AAFP USB 2.0 To install USB 3.0 connector USB 3.0 Chapter 2: Basic Installation 2-10...

  • Page 65: Expansion Card Installation

    2.1.8 Expansion Card installation To install PCIe x16 cards ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 2-11...

  • Page 66: Bios Update Utility

    For more BIOS update utilities in BIOS setup, refer to the section Updating BIOS in Chapter 3. Updating BIOS may have risks. If the BIOS program is damaged during the process and results to the system’s failure to boot up, please contact your local ASUS Service Center. Chapter 2: Basic Installation 2-12...

  • Page 67: Motherboard Rear And Audio Connections

    ® support USB BIOS Flashback function. 12. Optical S/PDIF OUT port 13. Audio I/O ports** * and ** : Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port LEDs, and audio port definitions. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 2-13...

  • Page 68: Audio I/O Connections

    • Due to USB 3.0 controller limitation, USB 3.0 devices can only be used under Windows 7 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 for faster and better performance for your USB 3.0 devices. • Due to the design of the Intel chipset, all USB devices connected to the USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports are controlled by the xHCI controller. Some legacy USB devices must update their firmware for better compatibility.
  • Page 69 Connect to Headphone and Mic Connect to Stereo Speakers Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 2-15...
  • Page 70 Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers Chapter 2: Basic Installation 2-16...

  • Page 71: Starting Up For The First Time

    While the system is ON, press the power button for less than four seconds to put the system on sleep mode or soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Press the power button for more than four seconds to let the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 2-17...
  • Page 72 Chapter 2: Basic Installation 2-18...

  • Page 73: Chapter 3: Bios Setup

    BIOS Setup Knowing BIOS The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is a Unified Extensible Interface that complies with UEFI architecture, offering a user-friendly interface that goes beyond the traditional keyboard- only BIOS controls to enable a more flexible and convenient mouse input. You can easily navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as your operating system.

  • Page 74: Bios Setup Program

    BIOS setup program Use the BIOS Setup to update the BIOS or configure its parameters. The BIOS screen include navigation keys and brief onscreen help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup program. Entering BIOS at startup To enter BIOS Setup at startup, press <Delete> during the Power-On Self Test (POST). If you do not press <Delete>, POST continues with its routines.

  • Page 75: Ez Mode

    Click to go to Advanced mode Search on the FAQ Loads optimized default settings Click to display boot devices Selects the boot device priority The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...

  • Page 76: Advanced Mode

    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 switch from EZ Mode to Advanced Mode, click Advanced Mode(F7) or press the <F7> hotkey.

  • Page 77: Menu Bar

    EZ Tuning Wizard(F11) This button above the menu bar allows you to view and tweak the overclocking settings of your system. It also allows you to change the motherboard’s SATA mode from AHCI to RAID mode. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...

  • Page 78: Hot Keys

    Quick Note (F9) This button above the menu bar allows you to key in notes of the activities that you have done in BIOS. • The quick Note function does not support the following keyboard functions: delete, cut, copy and paste. •...

  • Page 79: My Favorites

    • Configuration items such as Memory SPD Information, system time and date. Click Exit (ESC) or press <Esc> key to close Setup Tree Map screen. Go to My Favorites menu to view the saved BIOS items. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...

  • Page 80: Main Menu

    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. Chapter 3: BIOS Setup...
  • Page 81 Clear CMOS button to clear RTC RAM. • The Administrator or User Password items on top of the screen show the default [Not Installed]. After you set a password, these items show [Installed]. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...

  • Page 82: Administrator Password

    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 password: Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

  • Page 83: Extreme Tweaker Menu

    (X.M.P.) Technology, choose this item to set the profiles supported by your memory modules for optimizing the system performance. The [X.M.P.] configuration option appears only when you install memory modules supporting the eXtreme Memory Profile(X.M.P.) Technology. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-11...
  • Page 84 ASUS MultiCore Enhancement [Auto] [Auto] This item allows you to maximize the oveclocking performance optimized by ASUS core ratio settings. [Disabled] This item allows you to set to default core ratio settings. CPU Core Ratio [Auto] This item allows you to set the CPU core ratio limit per core or synchronize automatically to all cores.
  • Page 85 Ensure to use water cooling device before selecting [TPU II]. EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled] The ASUS EPU (Energy Processing Unit) sets the CPU in its minimum power consumption settings. Enable this item to set lower CPU core/cache voltage and achieve the best energy saving condition.
  • Page 86 DRAM CLK Period [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] – [26] Memory Scrambler [Enabled] Set this item to enable or disable memory scrambler support. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Channel A DIMM Control [Enable Both DIMMS] Allows you to enable or disable the Channel A DIMM slots. Configuration options: [Enable Both DIMMS] [Disable DIMM0] [Disable DIMM1] [Disable Both DIMMS] Channel B DIMM Control [Enable Both DIMMS]...
  • Page 87 [T. Probe] Select to set the VRM thermal balance mode. [Extreme] Select to set the VRM current balance mode. DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-15...
  • Page 88 CPU Power Phase Control [Auto] This item allows you to set the power phase control of the CPU. Configuration options: [Auto] [Standard] [Optimized] [Extreme] CPU Power Thermal Control [115] Higher temperature provides a wider CPU power thermal range and extends the overclocking tolerance to enlarge the overclocking potential.
  • Page 89 Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [-0.22] [-0.34] [-0.46] [+0.12] [+0.22] [+0.28] [+0.38] [+0.17] BCLK Frequency Slew Rate This item allows you to set frequency update rate. Lower values speed up clock changes. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disable] [32us/MHz] [64us/MHz] [128us/MHz] [512us/ MHz] ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-17...
  • Page 90 DRAM VTT Voltage [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [0.500] - [1.300] VPPDDR Voltage [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1.86500] - [3.13500] DMI Voltage [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [0.30000] - [1.90000] Core PLL Voltage [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [0.70000] - [1.60000] PLL Bandwidth [Auto] Select Level 6 to Level 8 when overclocking High BCLK or High CPU frequency.
  • Page 91 Configuration options: [Auto] [0.001] - [0.999] DRAM Voltage [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1.0032] - [2.0064] CPU VCCIO Voltage [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [0.70000] - [1.80000] CPU System Agent Voltage [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [0.70000] - [1.80000] ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-19...
  • Page 92 PLL Termination Voltage [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [0360] - [2.100] PCH Core Voltage [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [0.70000] - [1.80000] CPU Graphics Voltage Mode [Auto] Configures the mode of Voltage fed to the CPU graphics. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual Mode] [Offset Mode] The following items appear only when you set the CPU Graphics Voltage Mode to [Manual Mode].

  • Page 93: Advanced Menu

    The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-21...

  • Page 94: Cpu Configuration

    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. Active Processor Cores [All] This item allows you to select the number of CPU cores to activate in each processor package.
  • Page 95 This item allows you to set the a C-state limit for the CPU package. Configuration options: [C0/C1] [C2] [C3] [C6] [C7] [C7s] [Auto] CFG Lock [Disabled] This item allows you to disable or enable the CFG Lock. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-23...

  • Page 96: Platform Misc Configuration

    3.6.2 Platform Misc Configuration The items in this menu allow you to configure the platform-related features. PCI Express Native Power Management [Disabled] Enable this item to enhance the PCI-E power saving condition. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] The following item appears only when you set the PCI Express Native Power Management to [Enabled].
  • Page 97 This item is for the control of the Active State Power Management on SA side of the DMI link. Configuration options: [Disabled] [L1] PEG ASPM [Disabled] This item is for the control of the Active State Power Management for the PEG 0. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto] [ASPM L0s] [ASPM L1] [ASPM L0sL1] ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-25...

  • Page 98: System Agent (Sa) Configuration

    3.6.3 System Agent (SA) Configuration VT-d [Enabled] Allows you to enable virtualization technology function on memory control hub. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Graphics Configuration Allows you to select a primary display from graphical devices. Primary Display [Auto] [Auto] The primary display will be set to PCI-E when a PCI-E graphic card is detected.

  • Page 99: Rog Effects

    PCH (Logo) LED [Enabled] [Enabled] LEDs will always light up at the S0(Working), S3(Sleep), and S5(Soft off) states, but not light up at the S4/S5 state when the “ErP Ready” is enabled. [Disabled] LEDs will not light up. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-27...

  • Page 100: Pch Configuration

    3.6.5 PCH Configuration PCI Express Configuration This item allows you to configure the PCI Express slots. PCI-E Speed [Auto] This item allows your system to automatically select the PCI Express port speed. When set to [Gen1], the PCI-E port runs at PCI-E 1.0 speed. When set to [Gen2], the PCI-E port runs at PCI-E 2.0 speed.
  • Page 101 Hyper kit Mode [Disabled] [Enabled] Enable for “ASUS Hyper kit” card. [Disabled] Enable M.2 devices. SATA Controller(s) [enabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the SATA Device. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] SATA Mode Selection [AHCI] This item allows you to set the SATA configuration.

  • Page 102: Usb Configuration

    SATA6G_1(Gray) - SATA6G_6(Gray) SATA6G_1(Gray) - SATA6G_6(Gray) [Enabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the selected SATA port. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Hot Plug [Disabled] These items appears only when the SATA Mode Selection is set to [AHCI] and allows you to enable or disable SATA Hot Plug Support.

  • Page 103: Network Stack Configuration

    Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] The following items appear only when you set the Network Stack to [Enabled]. Ipv4/Ipv6 PXE Support [Enabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the Ipv4/Ipv6 PXE boot option. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-31...

  • Page 104: Onboard Devices Configuration

    3.6.9 Onboard Devices Configuration Scroll down to view the other BIOS items. HD Audio Controller [Enabled] [Disabled] HDA will be unconditionally disabled [Enabled] HDA will be unconditionally enabled PCIEX4_1 Bandwidth [Auto] [Auto] Run at X2 mode with SATA6G_56/SATAEXPRESS_2 enabled [X4 Mode] X4 mode Asmedia USB 3.1 Controller(USB3.1_EC1/USB3.1_EA2) [Enabled] This item allows you to disable or enable the ASMedia USB 3.1 Controller.
  • Page 105 Intel LAN PXE Option ROM [Disabled] This item appears only when Intel LAN Controller is set to [Enabled].This item allows you to enable or disable the Intel LAN preboot execution environment (PXE) option ROM. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-33...

  • Page 106: Apm Configuration

    3.6.10 APM Configuration 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 [Power Off] [Power Off] The system goes into OFF state after an AC power loss.

  • Page 107: Hdd/Ssd Smart Information

    3.6.11 HDD/SSD SMART Information This menu displays the SMART information of the connected devices. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-35...

  • Page 108: Monitor Menu

    Monitor menu The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change the fan settings. Q-Fan Configuration Qfan Tuning Click this item to automatically detect the lowest speed and configure the minimum duty cycle for each fan. CPU Q-Fan Control [Auto] [Auto] Detect the type of CPU fan installed and automatically switches the...
  • Page 109 The assignment fan will be controlled according to the selected temperature source. Configuration options: [CPU] [MotherBoard] [PCH] [T_SENSOR1] [EXT_Sensor1] [EXT_Sensor2] [EXT_Sensor3] For EXT_Sensor1-3, connect a Thermistor cable to the EXT_TS1-3 header then place the other end to the component to get the temperature. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-37...
  • Page 110 Chassis Fan 1-4 Step Up [0 sec] This item allows you to set the value of the CPU fan step up. Configuration options: [0 sec] [12 sec] [25 sec] [51 sec] [76 sec] [102 sec] [127 sec] [153 sec] [178 sec] [204 sec] Chassis Fan 1-4 Step Down [0 sec] This item allows you to set the value of the CPU fan step down.
  • Page 111 ASUS FAN EXTENSION CARD is required to configure these items Extension Fan 1-3 Q-Fan Control [DC Mode] [Disabled] Disable the Extension Fan Q-Fan control feature. [DC mode] Enable the Extension Fan Q-Fan control in DC mode for 3-pin chassis fan.
  • Page 112 Extension Fan 1-3 Lower Temperature [40] Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the lower limit of the Extension Fan 1-4 temperature. The values range from 20 to 75. The Extension Fan 1-4 will operate at the minimum duty cycle when the temperature is lower than the limit.

  • Page 113: Boot Menu

    Next Boot after AC Power Loss [Normal Boot] [Normal Boot] Returns to normal boot on the next boot after an AC power loss. [Fast Boot] Accelerates the boot speed on the next boot after an AC power loss. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-41...
  • Page 114 Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Option ROM Messages [Enabled] [Enabled] The Option ROM Messages will be shown during the POST. [Disabled] Only the ASUS logo will be shown during the POST. Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled] [Enabled] Execute the trap right away. [Disabled] Execute the trap during legacy boot.

  • Page 115: Secure Boot

    UEFI mode or other ® Microsoft Secure Boot compliant OS. ® [Other OS] Get the optimized function when booting on Windows non- ® UEFI mode. Microsoft Secure Boot only supports Windows ® ® UEFI mode. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-43...
  • Page 116 Key Management Clear Secure Boot keys This item allows you to clear all default Secure Boot keys. Save Secure Boot Keys This item allows you to save the PK (Platform Keys) to a USB storage device. PK Management Set New Key This item allows you to load the downloaded PK from a USB storage device.

  • Page 117: Boot Option Priorities

    OS in Safe Mode, press <F8> after POST (Windows 8 not supported). • To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when the ASUS Logo appears. Boot Override These items displays the available devices. The number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system.

  • Page 118: Tool Menu

    3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 3. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation message appears. Use the Left/Right arrow key to select between [by USB] or [by Internet], then press <Enter> to confirm your choice.
  • Page 119 Check the ASUS support site for a full list of SSDs tested with Secure Erase. The drive may become unstable if you run Secure Erase on an incompatible SSD. • The time to erase the contents of your SSD may take a while depending on its size.

  • Page 120: Asus Overclocking Profile

    3.9.3 ASUS Overclocking Profile This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. Profile Name Key in the profile name to save current BIOS settings to profile 1 to 8. Save to Profile Saves the current BIOS settings to profile number 1 to 8.

  • Page 121: Rog Oc Panel H-Key Configure

    This item allows you to save the new values of the CPU Core Voltage, VCCSA Voltage, BCLK Frequency, and CPU Ratio. Load from profile This item allows you to load the previous values of the CPU Core Voltage, VCCSA Voltage, BCLK Frequency, and CPU Ratio. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-49...

  • Page 122: Asus Spd Information

    3.9.5 ASUS SPD Information Allows you to view the DRAM SPD information. DIMM slot number Allows you to select the DIMM slot number to show the plugged DRAM Serial Presence Detect (SPD) information. Configuration options: [DIMM_A1] [DIMM_A2] [DIMM_B1] [DIMM_B2] Some DRAM manufacturers may not be recognized.

  • Page 123: Exit Menu

    <Esc>, a confirmation window appears. Select Yes to discard changes and exit. Launch EFI Shell from USB device This option allows you to attempt to launch the EFI Shell application (shellx64.efi) from one of the available filesystem devices. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-51...

  • Page 124: Updating Bios

    ® ASUS EZ Flash 3: Updates the BIOS using a USB flash drive. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3: Restores the BIOS using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted. ASUS BIOS Updater: Updates the BIOS in DOS environment using the motherboard support DVD and a USB flash disk drive.
  • Page 125 3.11.2 ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility 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 http://www.asus.com.

  • Page 126: Asus Crashfree Bios

    The BIOS file in the motherboard support DVD may be older than the BIOS file published on the ASUS official website. If you want to use the newer BIOS file, download the file at http://support.asus.com and save it to a USB flash drive.

  • Page 127: Asus Bios Updater

    3.11.4 ASUS BIOS Updater ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update the BIOS in DOS environment. The screen captures used in this section are for reference only and may not be exactly the same as actually shown on your computer screen.
  • Page 128 On the BIOS Updater screen, press <Tab> to switch from Files panel to Drives panel then select D:. ASUSTeK BIOS Updater for DOS V1.30 [2014/01/01] Current ROM Update ROM BOARD: MAXIMUS VIII GENE BOARD: Unknown VER: 0210 (H :00 B :00)
  • Page 129 DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure. Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit BIOS menu. See section 3.10 Exit menu for details. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 3-57...
  • Page 130 Chapter 3: BIOS Setup 3-58...

  • Page 131: Chapter 4: Software Support

    ® Method 1: Using SATA ODD & USB devices Load USB 3.0 drivers using the ASUS support DVD and install Windows 7 using a USB ® device. Requirement: • 1 x ASUS support DVD • 1 x Windows 7 installation source ® • 1 x SATA ODD • 1 x USB device (ODD or storage) The USB storage device requires 8 GB or more capacity. It is recommended to format the storage device before use. Insert the Windows 7 installation DVD into a USB ODD, or copy all files on the ® Windows 7 installation DVD to a USB storage device on a working system. ® Connect the USB ODD or USB storage device to your 100 series platform. Insert the ASUS support DVD into a SATA ODD on your 100 series platform. Power on your system and press F8 during POST (Power-On Self Test) to enter the boot screen. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...
  • Page 132 Select the USB ODD or USB storage device as the boot device. The USB 3.0 driver will be loaded automatically during installation startup. The “Setup is starting...” screen will show up if the USB 3.0 driver is loaded correctly. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the Windows 7 installation. ® Chapter 4: Software Support...
  • Page 133 ® Requirement: • 1 x ASUS support DVD • 1 x Windows 7 installation source ® • 1 x Working system (PC or notebook) • 1 x SATA ODD On your working system, create an ISO image file of the Windows 7 installation ® source using a third-party ISO software. Copy both “Auto_Unattend.xml” and “Auto_Unattend” folder from the root directory of the ASUS supporting DVD to your system. Edit the ISO file and add both “Auto_Unattend.xml” and “Auto_Unattend” folder into the ISO file. Burn this ISO file onto an empty DVD to create a modified Windows 7 installation ® DVD. Insert the modified Windows 7 installation DVD into an ODD on your 100 series ® platform. Power on your system and press F8 during POST (Power-On Self Test) to enter the boot screen. Select the ODD as the boot device. The USB 3.0 driver will be loaded automatically during installation startup. The “Setup is starting...” screen will show up if the USB 3.0 driver is loaded correctly. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the Windows 7 installation. ® ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...
  • Page 134 Method 3: Using ASUS EZ Installer Use the ASUS EZ Installer to create a modified Windows 7 installation source ® Requirement: • 1 x ASUS support DVD • 1 x Windows 7 installation DVD ® • 1 x Working system (PC or notebook) • 1 x SATA ODD • 1 x USB storage device (8 GB or more) Insert the Windows 7 installation DVD. ® Launch the ASUS EZ Installer located on the ASUS support DVD. Select a method of creating a modified Windows 7 installation file: ® • Windows 7 OS disk to USB storage device ® - Select Windows 7 OS disk to USB storage device then click Next.
  • Page 135 - Select the source of the Windows 7 installation disk then click Next. ® - Select the USB storage device and click next. Click the refresh icon if the USB storage device is not displayed. - C lick Yes to clear the contents on the USB storage device and create a bootable USB device. Make sure to backup contents on the USB storage device, as it will be formatted. - Once completed, click OK to finish. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...
  • Page 136 • Windows 7 OS disk to ISO file ® - Select Windows 7 OS disk to ISO file then click Next. - Check I agree and then click Next. - Select the source of the Windows 7 installation disk then click Next. ® Chapter 4: Software Support...
  • Page 137 - S elect the folder to save the modified Windows 7 installation ISO file and click ® Next. - Once completed, click OK to finish. - Burn this ISO file onto an empty DVD to create a modified Windows ® installation DVD. Insert the modified Windows 7 installation DVD into an ODD or connect the USB ® storage device with modified Windows 7 installation files onto your 100 series ® platform. Power on your system and press F8 during POST (Power-On Self Test) to enter the boot screen. Select the ODD or USB storage device as the boot device. The USB 3.0 driver will be loaded automatically during installation startup. The “Setup is starting...” screen will show up if the USB 3.0 driver is loaded correctly. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the Windows 7 installation. ® ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...

  • Page 138: Support Dvd Information

    Support DVD information The contents of the support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit www.asus.com for updates. 4.2.1 Running the support DVD Ensure that you have an Administrator account before running the support DVD in Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, or Windows ® ® ® ® To run the support DVD Place the Support DVD into the optical drive. 2. In the AutoPlay dialog box, click Run ASSETUP.exe. If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the file SETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the ASSETUP.EXE to run the...

  • Page 139: Obtaining The Software Manuals

    Click to select an item to install Contains ROG related videos. Click to display the ASUS contact information. Click to browse the file list of the suport CD Click to install the selected items 4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals The software manuals are included in the support DVD. Follow the instructions below to get...

  • Page 140: Software Information

    Some software manuals are provided in different languages. Open the language’s folder to view the software manual. The screenshots in this section are for reference only. The actual software manuals containing in the support DVD vary by models. Software information Most of the applications in the support DVD have wizards that will conveniently guide you through the installation. View the online help or readme file that came with the software application for more information. AI Suite 3 AI Suite 3 is an all-in-one interface that integrates several ASUS utilities and allows you to launch and operate these utilities simultaneously. Installing AI Suite 3 Ensure that you have an Administrator account before installing AI Suite 3 in Windows 7, ® Windows ® 8, Windows ® 8.1, or Windows ® 10 OS. To install AI Suite 3 on your computer: Windows 7 OS ® Place the Support DVD into the optical drive. 2. In the AutoPlay dialog box, click Run ASSETUP.exe then select the Utilities tab 3.
  • Page 141 If the ASUS motherboard support DVD main menu did not appear, try the following steps: Go to the Start Screen then click the Desktop app. On the lower left corner of the Desktop, click File Explorer then select your DVD drive and double-click the Setup application. Launching AI Suite 3 Windows 7 OS ® From the Desktop, click Start > All Programs > ASUS > AI Suite 3 > AI Suite 3. You can also launch AI Suite 3 in Windows 7 by clicking on the Notification area. ® Windows 8 / Windows 8.1 / Windows 10 OS ®...
  • Page 142 AI Suite 3 Main menu The AI Suite 3 main menu gives you easy-access controls and insight to what’s going on with your computer - allowing you to optimize performance settings while at the same time ensuring system stability. The AI Suite main menu includes is a quick-access menu bar that allows you to swiftly launch any of the integrated ASUS utilities. Click on the left of the menu to launch the menu bar. The AI Suite 3 screenshots in this section are for reference only and can vary depending on motherboard model.. Click to launch AI Suite 3 menu bar AI Suite 3 main menu bar • Some functions in the AI Suite 3 main menu in this user guide may vary depending on the motherboard model. • Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration. Chapter 4: Software Support 4-12...

  • Page 143: Dual Intelligent Processors 5

    Dual Intelligent Processors 5 ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 5 combines TPU, EPU, DIGI+ Power Control, Fan Xpert 3, and Turbo App functions to push the system’s performance to its optimal potential. It automatically balances the system’s performance, power saving, levels, and fan settings via the user-friendly AI Suite 3 utility. 5-Way Optimization The 5-Way Optimization function dynamically optimizes your PC based on real-time usage to provide the best system status. It covers the essential areas such as CPU performance, energy saving, stable digital power, cool and quiet fan control, and includes tailored settings for your apps to ensure your PC is ready for gaming, entertainment, productivity, or just about anything. Click this 5-Way Optimization button to auto-detect and tune the best settings for your system DO NOT remove your fan during the tuning process. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-13...

  • Page 144: Cpu Frequency

    Turbo Processing Unit (TPU) TPU allows you to manually adjust the CPU frequency, CPU cache, core frequencies, DRAM frequency, and related voltages for an enhanced system stability and a performance boost. Refer to the CPU documentation before adjusting CPU voltage settings. Setting a high voltage may damage the CPU permanently, and setting a low voltage may lead to an unstable system. For system stability, the TPU settings are not saved in the BIOS and are not loaded during system bootup. Save your overclocking settings as a TPU profile and manually load this profile after system bootup. Using TPU CPU Frequency Click to select the Click to adjust the Base Tick to enable number of cores to adjust Clock Frequency, CPU Ratio, and Group Tuning CPU Cache Ratio CPU Cache Voltage adjustments...

  • Page 145: Gpu Boost

    GPU Boost CPU Graphics Voltage Adjustments Click to apply the adjustments Click to undo the Click to enable the Click to load the Click to save the default settings adjustments saved profile adjustment into a profile ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-15...

  • Page 146: Energy Processing Unit (Epu)

    Energy Processing Unit (EPU) EPU is a real-time system power-saving chip that automatically detects the current system load and intelligently moderates power usage. It offers a total system-wide energy optimization, reduces fan noise, and extends the lifespan of your hardware components. Using EPU Click to configure the settings in Max Power Saving mode Click to configure the Click to configure the settings Click to configure the Click to configure the settings in Auto mode in High Performance mode settings in Away mode Global settings...

  • Page 147: Digi+ Power Control

    CPU Power Phase Control Increase the phase number under a heavy system load to get more transient and better thermal performance. Reduce the phase number under a light system load to increase the VRM efficiency. CPU VRM Switching Frequency Enables spread spectrum to enhance system stability. CPU Load-line Calibration It allows you to adjust the voltage range to control the CPU Load-line. Adjust to a high value for system performance or to a low value for power efficiency. CPU CPU Current Capability CPU Current Capability provides a wider total power range for overclocking. A higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously. CPU Power Thermal Control A higher temperature brings a wider CPU power thermal range and extends the overclocking tolerance to enlarge the overclocking potential. CPU Power Duty Control CPU Power Duty Control adjusts the current of every VRM phase and the thermal conditions of every phase component. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-17...

  • Page 148: Fan Xpert 3

    Fan Xpert 3 ASUS Fan Xpert 3 provides customizable settings of your fans for a cooler and more quiet computing environment. With its fan Auto Tuning feature, ASUS Fan Xpert 3 automatically tweaks the settings of CPU and chassis fans to achieve their best cooling performance. ASUS Fan Xpert 3 also supports hardware level PWM/DC combo mode for the CPU and chassis fans. You can also reduce the CPU fan speed below the default minimum for a noiseless operation during light loads. Click a screen to select the type of fan that you want to customize Click to Click to set the maximize the fan’s speed to fan speed silent mode Click to set the balanced Click to increase the fan’s...

  • Page 149: Turbo App

    Turbo App list Click to apply the changes Click to undo the changes Applications list pane Displays all the running applications on your system. Turbo App List pane Displays the applications added to the Turbo App List. Clieck the icon for more settings. * Only applications on the Turbo App List can be configured. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-19...
  • Page 150 Ai Charger+ Ai Charger+ allows you to fast-charge your portable BC 1.1* mobile devices on your computer’s USB port three times faster than the standard USB devices**. Launching Ai Charger+ To launch Ai Charger+, click on the left of the AI Suite 3 main menu, then select Ai Charger+. Ai Charger+ is available only in selected motherboard models. Ai Charger+ screen Tick to enable or Click to apply the disable Ai Charger+ selection • * Check the manufacturer if your USB device is a Battery Charging Specification 1.1 (BC 1.1) compliant or compatible device. • ** Actual charging speeds may vary depending on the charging rate and specifications of your USB device. • To ensure normal charging function, disconnect and reconnect your USB device every time you enable or disable Ai Charger+. • Ai Charger+ does not support USB hubs, USB extension cables, and generic USB cables. Chapter 4: Software Support 4-20...
  • Page 151 Click to enable the USB device’s normal data transfer rate Click to select a USB device Ensure to connect your USB 3.0 or 3.1 device to the USB ports that support USB 3.1 Boost. Refer to the Rear I/O connection section of your user guide for more details. • USB 3.1 Boost automatically detects the USB devices that support UASP. For a list of UASP-supported USB devices, visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com. • The data transfer speed varies with USB devices. For a higher data transfer performance, use a USB 3.1 device. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-21...
  • Page 152 EZ Update EZ Update is a utility that allows you to automatically update your motherboard’s software, drivers, or BIOS. With this utility, you can also manually update the BIOS and select the boot logo that will display during POST. Launching EZ Update To launch EZ Update, click on the left of the AI Suite 3 main menu, then click EZ Update on the AI Suite 3 main menu bar. EZ Update screen Click to automatically update your motherboard’s driver, software and firmware Click to select a Click to update boot logo the BIOS Click to search and select the BIOS file Chapter 4: Software Support 4-22...

  • Page 153: System Information

    System Information This utility displays the detailed information and settings of the installed motherboard, CPU, and memory. Launching the System Information To launch System Information, click on the left of the AI Suite 3 main menu, then select System Information. Viewing the motherboard information Click the MB tab to view the motherboard’s information. Viewing the CPU information Click the CPU tab to view the processor’s information. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-23...
  • Page 154 Viewing the SPD information Click the SPD tab to view the memory’s information. Chapter 4: Software Support 4-24...
  • Page 155 Launching Mobo Connect To launch Mobo Connect, click on the left of the AI Suite 3 main menu, then select Mobo Connect. Mobo Connect screen Set Hotkey for Keyboard/ Set Hotkey for Mouse sharing Audio Mode Select device for Select device for Click to apply the Keyboard/Mouse sharing audio Audio Mode settings ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-25...

  • Page 156: Push Notice

    Push Notice This utility allows you get the detailed status of your system to your smart device. You can also send messages to your smart device using this utility. Before using this utility, ensure that you pair your computer with your smart device. For pairing information, refer to section Pairing your computer and smart device. Launching Push Notice on your computer To launch Push Notice, click on the left of the AI Suite 3 main menu, then select Push Notice. Push Notice screen Click to enable Push Notice Tick to select the smart device Click to discard Click to apply the the settings settings You can also enable the Push Notice via the Push Notice shortcut on the lower-right corner...
  • Page 157 Setting up PC Status alerts This feature allows you to send alerts of the unusual activities of the voltage, temperature, and fan settings of your computer to your smart device. Tick to select the smart device Tick to select and send alerts to your smart device Tick to send alert when the selected items are back to its normal status ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-27...

  • Page 158: Sending Messages To Your Smart Device

    Sending messages to your smart device This feature allows you to send messages to your smart device. You can also send messages via the Push Notice messaging shortcut on the lower-right corner of your screen. To do this, click << then click then select Tick to select the smart device Click to send your message Click to key in your message Viewing your computer status on your smart device Tap on your smart device to launch Push Notice. Push Notice Tap to delete PC Tap to view PC alerts...

  • Page 159: Rog Audio Features

    ROG Audio features Installing the Software Follow the installation wizard to install the Realtek Audio Manager driver from the support ® DVD that is bundled with the motherboard. If the Realtek audio software is correctly installed, you will find the Realtek HD Audio ® ® Manager icon on the taskbar. Double-click on the icon to display the Realtek HD Audio ® Manager. Realtek ® HD Audio Manager Sonic Studio II Sonic Studio II is an audio suite that offers six audio controls: Reverb, Bass Boost, Equalizer, Voice Clarity, Smart EQ (Smart Volume), and Surround. Surround is dedicated for 2-channel headset and offers one of the best virtual surround technology for gaming. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-29...
  • Page 160 Equalizer Check this box to enable Equalizer. This item allows you to adjust the frequencies to suit your favorite type of music. Equalizer advanced settings This item available only when the Equalizer is enabled. This item allows you to configure the Equalizer settings. You can manually set or customized your setting or choose from any of the preset equalizer settings available. Equalizer presets Displays the current or selected equalizer preset. Bass Boost Check this box to boosts the bass effects. Use the slider to adjust the sound of the bass effect. Voice Clarity Check this box to enable Voice Clarity. Voice clarity extracts and boost the frequency of the human voice for crystal clear in-game communications and dialogues in movies. Smart EQ Check this box to enable Smart EQ. This item automatically adjust the frequency of an audio content to maintain deep bass and crispy high frequencies. Surround Check this box to enable Surround. This item recreates a multichannel listening experience over your stereo headphones or speakers. Reverb Check this box to enable Reverb. This item increases the feeling if spaciousness and lets you choose other reverb presets. Reverb presets Click to select a reverb effect from the different environmental spaces for reverb effects. This item is only available when the Reverb switch is enabled. Test tone Click the play button to start the test for the selected preset profile. Preset profiles Click any of the preset profiles. Choose from Gaming, Music, or Movie.
  • Page 161 Perfect Voice On my voice switch Click to toggle Perfect Voice on my voice ON/OFF. On incoming voice switch Click to toggle Perfect Voice on incoming voice ON/OFF Volume Stabilizer Check this box to enable Volume Stabilizer on your voice or on incoming voice. Use the slider to adjust the MIC volume. Noise Gate Check this box to enable Noise Gate. This item removes the background noise between words and sentences on your voice or on incoming voice. Noise Reduction Check this box to enable Noise Reduction. This item removes the remaining voice on top of your voice or your friend’s voice. Reset Click this button to reset the settings on your voice or on incoming voice to the default settings. Test tone Click the play button to start the test for the selected preset profile. Noise Gate mode Click to choose the Noise Gate mode from Auto or Manual. Manual mode allows you to use the slider to adjust the Noise Gate and Noise Reduction. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-31...
  • Page 162 Casting Enhancer Chapter 4: Software Support 4-32...

  • Page 163: Sonic Senseamp

    Sonic SenseAmp Sonic SenseAmp is an exclusive ROG invention that is a built-in headphone AMP on onboard audio with three AMP levels adjustment. It detects your headphone’s impedance and adjusts the built-in AMP accordingly. Sonic SenseAmp only works on front panel. When you plug a headphone into the front headphone jack, Sonic SenseAmp displays a pop- up window that displays “Detecting headphone impedance”. After detecting the headphone’s impedance, Sonic SenseAmp displays another pop-up window similar to the one shown below. Refer to the table below on the behavior of Sonic SenseAmp when adjusting the impedance of the detected headphone: Amplify Level is automatically set at Performance 32 ohm Amplify Level is automatically set at Powerful 150 ohms Amplify Level is automatically set at Extreme > 150 ohms The device plugged in detected as other device Other device ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-33...
  • Page 164 After you close the pop-window, Sonic SenseAmp enters speaker configuration and displays the adjusted headphone impedance. Click to manually adjust the amplify level Displays the impedance of your headphone Chapter 4: Software Support 4-34...

  • Page 165: Dts Connect

    DTS Connect DTS Connect delivers excellent audio entertainment across all formats and works with 4, 5.1 and 7.1 channels of incredible surround sound . It also allows you to connect your PC to a home theatre system. Control settings panel ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-35...

  • Page 166: Sonic Radar Ii

    Sonic Radar II Sonic Radar II is designed for First Person Shooting (FPS) games and shows the precise direction and intensity of where a sound is coming from. It features a simple and friendly user-interface and also features sound enhancers to amplify desired sound effects. Display Menu Customize the settings for each game including Transparency, Signal, Size, and Remanency. Displays the options available. Click a tab to select an option. Each option has its own settings and menus. Click to reset to the default settings Click to start the test tone Use the sliders to adjust the settings Displays the list of games...
  • Page 167 Audio Mode/Radar Selection menu Allows you to configure the sound enhancers. Tick to choose the desired sound enhancer Audio Mode/Radar Selection are enabled with shortcut keys in the game. Refer to the Controls tab for more information about the shortcut key settings. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-37...

  • Page 168: Gamefirst Iii

    GameFirst III GameFirst III is a network management software that features four preset packet prioritized profiles (Optimization, Game, Media Streaming and File Sharing) facilitating different user scenarios. Users can also manually allocate bandwidth and adjust priority settings of each application to run faster and smoother. To use GameFirst III, double-click on the desktop. Click any item for quick view Click to open the tabs for different functions Use the bar to adjust the bandwidth Click to load a preset speed settings or priority profile and key in the value of configure its settings the input field...
  • Page 169 Network Monitor Top 5 application Displays the top 5 bandwidth consuming applications currently used. Application usage Displays the individual downloading and uploading bandwidth of currently used applications. Total usage Displays the total downloading and uploading bandwidth of the currently used applications. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-39...
  • Page 170 Bandwidth Test You can use this feature to test the Internet Service Provider (ISP) speed or manually key in the desired uploading/downloading speed and apply the speed if needed. Key in the upload/ download speed Click to begin the speed test Click to apply the speed after manually keying in the desired speed or after you performing the speed test Using the Network Information Displays information about the physical network card such as speed, physical address, IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway.

  • Page 171: Keybot Ii

    Click to configure Macro Keys, Smart Input, Click to toggle the Function Keys, and Shortcut settings KeyBot II function on/off Click any of the items to perform a specific tasks, or click their corresponding keys on the keyboard Smart Input ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-41...
  • Page 172 Function Keys Shortcut Chapter 4: Software Support 4-42...

  • Page 173: Asus Media Streamer

    Streamer. Click to edit media files Click to select media type Select the device you Log in ASUS account to stream Click a media file to play want to stream to play in different networks ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...
  • Page 174 Adding and deleting media files Drag and drop or tick files to add or delete. Click to add or create a new folder Click to add the selected files Click to delete selected files Click to proceed with the deletion or Click to cancel changes addition of files The following media formats are supported: .3gp, .mp4, .m4a, .aac, .ts, .flac, .mp3, .mid,...

  • Page 175: Ramdisk

    Move the slider to the Click the drop-down right to set the size arrow to choose a drive allocation name for your RAMDisk Tick to enable Dynamic Click to finish creating Memory Allocation function the RAMDisk drive ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-45...

  • Page 176: Creating/Deleting A Junction Point

    To delete or format an existing RAMDisk drive: Click to delete the existing RAMDisk drive Click to format the existing RAMDisk drive The format function is available only if you enable the Dynamic Memory Allocation function on your disk. 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 file location. Select the Junction tab to create your junction point Click the drop-down arrow to select your Click to select where to RAMDisk drive and its...
  • Page 177 Synchronizing backup files After creating a junction point, RAMDisk automatically creates a backup folder in the file’s original location. Use RAMDisk to manually synchronize updates with these backup files. Click Synchronize to update your files ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-47...

  • Page 178: Memtweakit

    4.12 MemTweakIt MemTweakIt is a software that you can use to view all levels of memory timings. You can validate your MemTweakIt settings to generate a memory efficiency score that you can share and compare with other users on the ROG website. MemTweakIt functions depends on the chipset on the motherboard. Each chipset has differernt options. To use MemTweakIt, double-click on the desktop. Click a tab to configure the memory timing Click About tab then click REPUBLIC OF GAMERS to access the official ROG website Click to exit MemTweakIt Click to apply your settings Click to validate your settings.
  • Page 179 Validating and saving your MemTweakIt settings To validate and save your configuration online: Launch MemTweakIt and click Validate. In Online Mode, key in your ASUS account ID and password, and click Submit. Your configuration will be displayed in MemTweakIt webpage. To validate and save your configuration manually: Launch MemTweakIt and click Validate. In Manual Mode, click Save Validation File. Key in a file name for your configuration file and click Submit. Click validation webpage. In MemTweakIt - Validation File Upload window, key in your ASUS account ID and password. Click Browse, locate the saved .cvf file, and click Open. Click Submit. Your configuration will be displayed in MemTweakIt webpage. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-49...

  • Page 180: Rog Cpu-Z

    4.13 ROG CPU-Z This utility gathers information about the main devices installed in your system and displays it in an ROG custom layout. ROG CPU-Z provides you information and status of your CPU, motherboard, memory, graphics card, and other components installed in your system. You can generate a report about your system info and send or post it on the CPU-Z website. To use ROG CPU-Z, double-click on the desktop. Chapter 4: Software Support 4-50...

  • Page 181: Ramcache

    4.14 RAMCache ROG RAMCache software provides a user-friendly and transparent solution to increase your PC overall performance, by utilizing the system memory (DRAM) that is not in use. RAMCache allocates a cache of RAM between the computer hard disk and the applications, then reads in real time your performance needs regarding the applications you are currently using and the disk I/O demands. RAMCache copies the most frequently used data from the disk to the RAM cache where it can be processed faster, and then automatically writes it back to the disk – thus accelerating the computer overall performance with a minimized risk of data loss. To use RAMCache, double-click on the desktop. To start RAMCache: Launch RAMCache and select disk or partition to cache. Select cache size and then click Start. • You can only cache one partition at a time. • Min and Max amounts of RAM at disposal is automatically updated. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE 4-51...
  • Page 182 Chapter 4: Software Support 4-52...

  • Page 183: Chapter 5: Raid Support

    With the RAID 10 configuration you get all the benefits of both RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations. Use four new hard disk drives or use an existing drive and three new drives for this setup. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...

  • Page 184: Installing Serial Ata Hard Disks

    5.1.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks The motherboard supports Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array. To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration: Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays.

  • Page 185: Intel ® Rapid Storage Technology Option Rom Utility

    The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only and may not exactly match the items on your screen. The utility supports maximum four hard disk drives for RAID configuration. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...
  • Page 186 Creating a RAID set To create a RAID set: From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press <Enter>. The following screen appears: Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology - Option ROM - v10.5.1.1070 Copyright(C) 2003-10 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ CREATE VOLUME MENU ] Name: Volume0...
  • Page 187 WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST. Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N): Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu, or <N> to go back to the CREATE VOLUME menu. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...
  • Page 188 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: From the utility main menu, select 2. Delete RAID Volume and press <Enter>. The following screen appears: [ DELETE VOLUME MENU ] Name...

  • Page 189: Creating A Raid Driver Disk

    When the Make Disk menu appears, press <1> to create a RAID driver disk. Insert a formatted floppy disk into the USB floppy disk drive, then press <Enter>. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the process. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...

  • Page 190: Creating A Raid Driver Disk In Windows

    5.2.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows ® To create a RAID driver disk in Windows ® Start Windows ® Plug the USB floppy disk drive and insert a floppy disk. Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive. Go to the Make Disk menu, and then click Intel AHCI/RAID Driver Disk to create a RAID driver disk.

  • Page 191: Appendix

    Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment. ASUS MAXIMUS VIII GENE...

  • Page 192: Canadian Department Of Communications Statement

    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 complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
  • Page 193 ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services ASUS recycling and takeback programs come from our commitment to the highest standards for protecting our environment. We believe in providing solutions for you to be able to responsibly recycle our products, batteries, other components as well as the packaging materials.
  • Page 194 Slovenščina AsusTek Inc. tukaj izjavlja, da je ta naprava skladna s di conformità CE. temeljnimi zahtevami in drugimi relevantnimi določili direktiv CE. Za več Компания ASUS заявляет, что это устройство соответствует основным informacij glejte Izjavo CE o skladnosti. требованиям и другим соответствующим условиям европейских...

  • Page 195: Asus Contact Information

    +1-510-739-3777 +1-510-608-4555 Web site http://www.asus.com/us/ Technical Support Support fax +1-812-284-0883 Telephone +1-812-282-2787 Online support http://www.service.asus.com/ ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria) Address Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany +49-2102-959911 Web site http://www.asus.com/de Online contact http://eu-rma.asus.com/sales Technical Support Telephone +49-1805-010923 Support Fax...
  • Page 196 Appendix...

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