Asus P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Manual
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Asus P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Manual

Fully pci-express 3.0 ready, intel z68 motherboard.
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Summary of Contents for Asus P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3

  • Page 1 P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3...
  • 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 Notices ... vi Safety information ... vii About this guide ... viii P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 specifications summary ... x Chapter 1: Product introduction Welcome! ... 1-1 Package contents... 1-1 Special features... 1-2 1.3.1 Product highlights... 1-2 1.3.2 Dual Intelligent Processors 2 with DIGI+ VRM ... 1-3 1.3.3...
  • Page 4 SATA Configuration ... 3-18 USB Configuration ... 3-20 Onboard Devices Configuration ... 3-21 APM ... 3-24 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility ... 3-29 ASUS O.C. Profile ... 3-30 ASUS Update utility... 3-32 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ... 3-35 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility... 3-36 ASUS BIOS Updater ...
  • Page 5 Contents 4.3.4 TurboV EVO ... 4-7 4.3.5 EPU ... 4-12 4.3.6 ASUS FAN Xpert ... 4-13 4.3.7 ASUS Probe II ... 4-14 4.3.8 Ai Charger+ ... 4-15 4.3.9 Audio configurations... 4-16 RAID configurations ... 4-17 4.4.1 RAID definitions ... 4-17 4.4.2...

  • Page 6: Notices

    Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at ASUS REACH website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm. DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to enable proper reuse of parts and recycling.

  • Page 7: 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 8: About This Guide

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

  • Page 9: 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.

  • Page 10: P8Z68-V Pro/Gen3 Specifications Summary

    CPUs. Some hyper DIMMs only support one DIMM per channel. Please refer to Memory QVL for details. *** Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists) 2 x PCI Express 3.0 / 2.0 x16 slots (single at x16 or dual at x8 / x8 mode) 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot [black] (max.
  • Page 11 Music Player, Personal Manager ASUS BT Turbo Remote: - Exclusive Smartphone Interface supporting iPhone, Android, Windows Mobile and Symbian systems ASUS Exclusive Features - ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user interface - MemOK! - AI Suite II - AI Charger+...
  • Page 12 64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.5, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3, F12 PrintScreen Function WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE...

  • Page 13: Chapter 1: Product Introduction

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

  • Page 14: Special Features

    Special features 1.3.1 Product highlights LGA1155 socket for Intel Core™ i3 Processors This motherboard supports the Intel processors in LGA1155 package with memory and PCI Express controllers integrated to support 2-channel (4 DIMMs) DDR3 memory and 16 PCI Express 2.0 lanes. This provides great graphics performance.

  • Page 15: Dual Intelligent Processors 2 With Digi+ Vrm

    MHz frequency as default. Complete USB 3.0 Integration ASUS facilitates strategic USB 3.0 accessibility for both the front and rear panel - 4 USB 3.0 ports in total. Experience the latest plug & play connectivity at speeds up to 10 times faster than USB 2.0.

  • Page 16: Asus Exclusive Features

    Unleash your performance with ASUS' simple onboard switch or AI Suite II utility. The TPU chip offers precise voltage control and advanced monitoring through Auto Tuning and TurboV functions. Auto Tuning offers a user friendly way to automatically optimize the system for fast, yet stable clock speeds, while TurboV enables unlimited freedom to adjust CPU frequencies and ratios for optimized performance in diverse situations.

  • Page 17: Asus Fan Xpert

    ASUS EZ-Flash 2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly utility that allows you to update the BIOS without using a bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3...

  • Page 18: Other Special Features

    The motherboard is European Union’s Energy-related Products (ErP) ready, and ErP requires products to meet certain energy efficiency requirements in regards to energy consumptions. This is in line with ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and energy-efficient products through product design and innovation to reduce carbon footprint of the product and thus mitigate environmental impacts.

  • Page 19: Chapter 2: Hardware Information

    • • • • ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Chapter 2 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 20: Motherboard Overview

    Motherboard overview 2.2.1 Motherboard layout Refer to 2.2.8 Internal connectors and 2.3.10 Rear panel connection for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. Chapter 2: Hardware information...

  • Page 21: Layout Contents

    IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_1-2) USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112) Reset switch POWER-on switch Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Page 2-26 2-28 2-16 2-17...

  • Page 22: 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 23: System Memory

    The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) slots. A DDR3 module is notched differently from a DDR or DDR2 module. DO NOT install a DDR or DDR2 memory module to the DDR3 slot. Recommended memory configurations ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3...

  • Page 24: Memory Configurations

    Memory configurations You may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, and 8GB unbuffered and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. • 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.
  • Page 25 P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3-2200 (O.C.) MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size G.SKILL F3-17600CL7D-4GBFLS(XMP) 4G ( 2x 2G ) G.SKILL F3-17600CL8D-4GBPS(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) G.SKILL F3-17600CL9D-4GBTDS(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) GEIL GET34GB2200C9DC(XMP) 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS...
  • Page 26 P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3-2133 (O.C.) MHz capability (continued) Vendors Part No. CORSAIR CMT4GX3M2A2133C9(XMP) G.SKILL F 3 - 1 7 0 6 6 C L 9 D - 4GBTDS(XMP) G.SKILL F3-17066CL8D-4GBPS(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) G.SKILL F3-17066CL9D-4GBTD(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) G.SKILL...
  • Page 27 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) DS OCZ3P1866C9LV6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) OCZ3RPR1866C9LV6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) Super Talent W1866UX2G8(XMP) 2GB(2 x 1GB) Team TXD32048M1866C9(XMP) P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1600 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size G.SKILL F3-14400CL6D-4GBFLS(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - G.SKILL...
  • Page 28 P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1333 MHz capability Vendors Part No. A-DATA SU3U1333W8G9-B Apacer 78.01GC6.9L0 Apacer 78.A1GC6.9L1 CORSAIR TW3X4G1333C9A CORSAIR CMX8GX3M2A1333C9(XMP) Crucial BL25664BN1337.16FF(XMP) Crucial CT25664BA1339.16FF ELPIDA EBJ20UF8BCF0-DJ-F ELPIDA EBJ21UE8BDF0-DJ-F G.SKILL F3-10600CL9D-4GBNT G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D-4GBHK(XMP) GEIL GET316GB1333C9QC GEIL GVP38GB1333C7QC Hynix...
  • Page 29 P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1066 MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size Crucial CT12864BA1067.8FF Crucial CT12864BA1067.8SFD Crucial CT12872BA1067.9FF Crucial CT25664BA1067.16FF Crucial CT25664BA1067.16SFD 2GB Crucial CT25672BA1067.18FF ELPIDA EBJ10UE8BAW0-AE-E ELPIDA EBJ10UE8EDF0-AE-F ELPIDA EBJ11UD8BAFA-AG-E ELPIDA EBJ21UE8BAW0-AE-E ELPIDA EBJ21UE8EDF0-AE-F 4 G B ( 2 x...

  • Page 30: Expansion Slots

    2.2.4 Expansion slots Ensure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. Slot No. Slot Description PCIe 2.0 x1_1 slot PCIe 3.0/ 2.0 x16_1 slot (single at x16 or dual at x8/x8 mode) PCIe 2.0 x1_2 slot PCI slot 1 PCIe 3.0/ 2.0 x16_2 slot [gray] (at x8 mode)

  • Page 31: Irq Assignments For This Motherboard

    M a r v e l l S ATA 6 G ® – Controller JMicron ATA Controller – 1394 Controller – HD Audio – I.G.D. (Internal Graphics shared Device) ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 PCIEX1_1 PCIEX1_2 USB3_34 – – – – – – – – shared –...

  • Page 32: Onboard Switches

    2.2.5 Onboard switches Onboard switches allow you to fine-tune performance when working on a bare or open- case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. Power-on switch The motherboard comes with a power-on switch that allows you to power up or wake up the system.
  • Page 33 BIOS default settings. A messgae 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 the ASUS website at www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 2-15...
  • Page 34 TPU switch Turning this switch to Enable will automatically optimize the system for fast, yet stable clock speeds. For ensuring the system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when the system is powered off. • The TPU LED (O2LED1) near the TPU switch lights when the switch setting is turned to Enable.
  • Page 35 • You may change the EPU settings in the software application or BIOS setup program, and enable the EPU function at the same time. However, the system will use the last setting you have made. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 2-17...

  • Page 36: Onboard Leds

    2.2.6 Onboard LEDs POST State LEDs The POST State LEDs of CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and HDD indicate key components status during POST (Power-on Self Test). If an error is found , the LED next to the error device will continue lighting until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitional way to locate the root problem within a second.
  • Page 37 TPU LED The TPU LED lights when the TPU switch is turned to Enable. EPU LED The EPU LED lights when the EPU switch is turned to Enable. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 2-19...

  • Page 38: Jumper

    2.2.7 Jumper Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data.

  • Page 39: Internal Connectors

    ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using Windows XP SP3 or later versions. ® ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial ®...
  • Page 40 Intel Z68 Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA3G_3–6 [blue]) ® These connectors connect to Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s hard disk drives and optical disc drives via Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s signal cables. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configuration with the Intel chipset.
  • Page 41 USB 3.0 connector, you can have a front panel USB 3.0 solution. You can connect the ASUS front panel USB 3.0 bracket to this connector to obtain the front panel USB 3.0 solution.
  • Page 42 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, blue) first, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis supports front panel USB ports.
  • Page 43 This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s). Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. The S/PDIF module is purchased separately. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 2-25...
  • Page 44 • The CPU_FAN connector supports the CPU fan of maximum 1A (12 W) fan power. • Only the CPU_FAN, CHA_FAN 1 and CHA_FAN 2 connectors support the ASUS FAN Xpert feature. • If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the rear chassis fan cable to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1 or CHA_FAN2 for better thermal environment.
  • Page 45 Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD]; if you want to connect an AC'97 front panel audio module to this connector, set the item to [AC97]. By default, this connector is set to [HD]. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 2-27...
  • Page 46 • 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. • If you want to use two or more high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with 1000W power or above to ensure the system stability.

  • Page 47: System Panel Connector

    Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON turns the system OFF. • Reset button (2-pin RESET) This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without turning off the system power. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 2-29...

  • Page 48: Building Your Computer System

    Building your computer system 2.3.1 Additional tools and components to build a PC system 1 bag of screws PC chassis Intel LGA 1155 CPU DIMM SATA optical disc drive (optional) The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package. 2-30 Philips (cross) screwdriver Power supply unit...

  • Page 49: Cpu Installation

    2.3.2 CPU installation The LGA1156 CPU is incompatible with the LGA1155 socket. DO NOT install a LGA1156 CPU on the LGA1155 socket. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 2-31...
  • Page 50 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2-32...

  • Page 51: Cpu Heatsink And Fan Assembly Installation

    CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation To install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Apply the Thermal Interface Material t o t h e C P U h e a t s i n k a n d C P U before you install the heatsink and fan if necessary.
  • Page 52 To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly Chapter 2: Hardware information 2-34...

  • Page 53: Dimm Installation

    2.3.4 DIMM installation To remove a DIMM ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 2-35...

  • Page 54: Motherboard Installation

    2.3.5 Motherboard installation The diagrams in this section are for reference only. The motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same. 2-36 Chapter 2: Hardware information...
  • Page 55 DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 2-37...

  • Page 56: Atx Power Connection

    2.3.6 ATX Power connection Chapter 2: Hardware information 2-38...

  • Page 57: Sata Device Connection

    2.3.7 SATA device connection ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 2-39...

  • Page 58: Front I/O Connector

    2.3.8 Front I/O Connector To install ASUS Q-Connector To install USB 2.0 Connector USB 2.0 To install USB 3.0 Connector 2-40 To install front panel audio connector USB 3.0 AAFP Chapter 2: Hardware information...

  • Page 59: Expension Card Installation

    2.3.9 Expension Card installation To install PCIe x16 cards To install PCIe x1 cards To install PCI cards ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 2-41...

  • Page 60: Rear Panel Connection

    2.3.10 Rear panel connection Rear panel connectors 1. USB 2.0 ports 3, 4, 5 and 6 2. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2 3. Bluetooth module* 4. Optical S/PDIF Out port 5. VGA port 6. Intel LAN (RJ-45) port 1** *, ** and ***: Refer to the tables on the next page for bluetooth module LED, LAN port LED, and audio port definitions.

  • Page 61: Lan Port Led Indications

    Playback software - CyberLink PowerDVD v9.0 Ultra Build 2320 • To play Blu-Ray Disc, make sure to use an HDCP compliant monitor. • You can only play Blu-Ray Disc under Windows ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Speed LED Status Description 10 Mbps connection...
  • Page 62 **Troubleshooting on monitor overscan / underscan problem Install Intel Graphics Accelerator Driver from the motherboard support DVD. From the Windows ® double-click the Intel(R) Graphics Media Accelerator Driver icon and click Graphics Properties. Click Display > General Settings and select a Resolution. Click Apply.

  • Page 63: Audio I/O Connections

    Black – Rear Speaker Out Gray – – 2.3.11 Audio I/O connections Audio I/O ports Connect to Headphone and Mic ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 6-channel 8-channel Line In Line In Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Mic In Mic In Center/Subwoofer...
  • Page 64 Connect to Stereo Speakers Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers Chapter 2: Hardware information 2-46...
  • Page 65 Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers When the DTS Surround Sensation UltraPC function is enabled, ensure to connect the rear speaker to the gray port. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 2-47...

  • Page 66: Starting Up For The First Time

    Starting up for the first time After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. Be sure that all switches are off. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector. Turn on the devices in the following order: Monitor External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)

  • Page 67: Chapter 3: Bios Setup

    Chapter 3: Knowing BIOS The ASUS UEFI BIOS offers a user-friendly interface that goes beyond traditional keyboard-only BIOS controls to enable more flexible and convenient mouse input. Users can easily navigate the UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as their operating system.

  • Page 68: Ez Mode

    Displays the CPU/motherboard temperature, CPU/5V/3.3V/12V voltage output, CPU/chassis/power fan speed EFI BIOS Utility - EZ Mode P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 BIOS Version : 0209 CPU Type : Genuine Intel(R) CPU 0 @ 3.10GHz Monday [9/13/2010] Total Memory : 512 MB (DDR3 1066MHz)

  • Page 69: Advanced Mode

    For displaying the system temperature, power status, and changing the fan settings. Boot For changing the system boot configuration Tool For configuring options for special functions Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default settings ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Configuration fields Advanced Monitor Boot Enabled/Disabled Bluetooth Controller Enabled...

  • Page 70: Menu Items

    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.

  • Page 71: Main Menu

    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 P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Advanced Monitor Boot Choose the system default language...

  • Page 72: 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 73: Ai Tweaker Menu

    DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHB DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHB CPU Spread Spectrum Version 2.00.1201. Copyright (C) 2010 American Megatrends, Inc. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Advanced Monitor [X.M.P.] When XMP is enabled BLCK frequency, CPU ratio and memory parameters will be auto optimized.
  • Page 74 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 individually set overclocking parameters. [X.M.P.] If you install memory modules supporting the eXtreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.) Technology, choose this item to set the profiles supported by your...

  • Page 75: Dram Timing Control

    Allows processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in specific condition. [Disabled] Disables this function. The following five items appear only when you set the EIST and Turbo Mode items to [Enabled]. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 SpeedStep Technology (EIST). ®...
  • Page 76 Long Duration Power Limit [Auto] Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. Long Duration Maintained [Auto] Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. Short Duration Power Limit [Auto] Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. Additional Turbo Voltage [Auto] Use the <+>...
  • Page 77 Reducing phase number under light system loading to increase VRM efficiency [Standard] Proceeds phase control depending on the CPU loading. [Optimized] Loads the ASUS optimized phase tuning profile. [Extreme] Proceeds the full phase mode. [Manual Adjustment] Allows manual adjustment.

  • Page 78: Igpu Offset Mode Sign

    CPU Offset Voltage [Auto] This item appears only when you set the CPU Voltage item to [Offset Mode] and allows you to set the Offset voltage. The values range from 0.005V to 0.635V with a 0.005V interval. CPU Manual Voltage [Auto] This item appears only when you set the CPU Voltage item to [Manual Mode] and allows you to set a fixed CPU voltage.
  • Page 79 0.395x to 0.630x with a 0.005x interval. Different ratio might enhance DRAM overclocking ability. CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto] [Auto] Automatic configuration. [Disabled] Enhances the BCLK overclocking ability. [Enabled] Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Yellow Pink 1.225V–1.280V 1.285V–1.335V 0.065V–0.120V 0.125V–0.175V 0.04V–0.065V 0.07V–0.1V 1.58125V–...

  • Page 80: Advanced Menu

    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. EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode Ai Tweaker Main >...

  • Page 81: Cpu Configuration

    <-> keys to adjust the ratio. The valid value ranges vary according to your CPU model. Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the overheated CPU to throttle its clock speed to cool down. [Disabled] Disables the CPU thermal monitor function. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Advanced Monitor Boot Adjust Non-Turbo Ratio Supported...
  • Page 82 Hyper-threading [Enabled] The Intel Hyper-Threading Technology allows a hyper-threading processor to appear as two logical processors to the operating system, allowing the operating system to schedule two threads or processes simultaneously. [Enabled] Two threads per activated core are enabled. [Disabled] Only one thread per activated core is enabled.

  • Page 83: System Agent Configuration

    PCH Configuration High Precision Timer High Precision Timer [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the High Precision Event Timer. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Advanced Monitor Boot Select which graphics controller to use as the primary boot device.

  • Page 84: Sata Configuration

    Boot (1) IDE Mode. (2) AHCI Mode. (3) RAID Mode. AHCI Mode Enabled Not Present Disabled Not Present Disabled ASUS CB-521 ATAPI Disabled →←: Select Screen ↑↓: Select Item Not Present Enter: Select +/-: Change Opt. Disabled F1: General Help...
  • Page 85 S.M.A.R.T. Status Check [Enabled] S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) is a monitor system. When read/write of your hard disk errors occur, this feature allows the hard disk to report warning messages during the POST. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 3-19...

  • Page 86: Usb Configuration

    3.5.5 USB Configuration The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features. EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode Main Ai Tweaker Back Advanced\ USB Configuration > USB Configuration USB Devices: 1 Keyboard, 1 Mouse, 2 Hubs Legacy USB Support Legacy USB3.0 Support EHCI Hand-off The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values.

  • Page 87: Onboard Devices Configuration

    [HD] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high definition audio. [AC97] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97 ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Advanced Monitor Boot Enabled/Disabled Azalia HD Audio...
  • Page 88 SPDIF Out Type [SPDIF] [SPDIF] Sets to [SPDIF] for SPDIF audio output. [HDMI] Sets to [HDMI] for HDMI audio output. Bluetooth Controller [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the onboard bluetooth controller. [Disabled] Disables the controller. VIA 1394 Controller [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the onboard IEEE 1394a controller. [Disabled] Disables the controller.
  • Page 89 Enables the USB 3.0 controller. [Disabled] Disables the controller. Asmedia USB 3.0 Battery Charging Support [Disabled] [Enabled] Enables Asmedia USB 3.0 fast battery charging support for USB 3.0 devices complying with the BC 1.1 regulation. [Disabled] Disables battery charging support. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 3-23...

  • Page 90: Apm

    3.5.7 EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode Main Ai Tweaker Back Advanced\ APM > Restore AC Power Loss Power On By PCI Power On By PCIE Power On By RTC Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off] [Power On] The system goes into on state after an AC power loss. [Power Off] The system goes into off state after an AC power loss.

  • Page 91: Monitor Menu

    (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the field shows N/A. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected speed. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Advanced Monitor Boot +73ºC / +163ºF...
  • Page 92 CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature. [Enabled] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature. CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM] This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to disable or set the CPU fan warning speed.
  • Page 93 The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard voltage regulators. Select Ignore if you do not want to detect this item. Anti Surge Support [Enabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the Anti Surge function. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 3-27...

  • Page 94: Boot Menu

    Full Screen Logo [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the full screen logo display feature. [Disabled] Disables the full screen logo display feature. Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo 2™ feature. Wait For ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables this function. [Enabled] The system waits for the <F1>...

  • Page 95: Tools Menu

    3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to confirm your choice.

  • Page 96: Asus O.c. Profile

    This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode Main Ai Tweaker Back Tool\ ASUS O.C. Profile > O.C. Profile Configuration Setup Profile 1 Status : Setup Profile 2 Status : Setup Profile 3 Status : Setup Profile 4 Status :...

  • Page 97: Exit Menu

    This option allows you to enter the EZ Mode screen. Launch EFI Shell from filesystem device This option allows you to attempt to launch the EFI Shell application (shellx64.efi) from one of the available filesystem devices. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 3-31...

  • Page 98: Updating Bios

    BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update or BIOS Updater utilities. 3.10.1 ASUS Update utility The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you to: ®...
  • Page 99 To update the BIOS through the Internet: From the ASUS Update screen, select Update BIOS from Internet, and then click Next. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network traffic. If you want to enable the BIOS downgradable function and auto...
  • Page 100 The screenshots in this section are for reference only. The actual BIOS information vary by models. • Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration. 3-34 Chapter 3: BIOS setup...

  • Page 101: Asus Ez Flash 2 Utility

    3.10.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature 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.

  • Page 102: Asus Crashfree Bios 3 Utility

    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 support.asus.com and save it to a USB flash drive.

  • Page 103: Asus Bios Updater

    3.10.4 ASUS BIOS Updater The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update 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.
  • Page 104 The BIOS Updater backup screen appears indicating the BIOS backup process. When BIOS backup is done, press any key to return to the DOS prompt. ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18 [2010/04/29] Current ROM BOARD: P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 VER: 0204 DATE: 08/05/2010 PATH: BIOS backup is done! Press any key to continue.
  • Page 105 Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit BIOS menu. See Chaper 3 of your motherboard user manual for details. • Ensure to connect all SATA hard disk drives after updating the BIOS file if you have disconnected them. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Update ROM BOARD: Unknown VER:...
  • Page 106 3-40 Chapter 3: BIOS setup...

  • Page 107: Chapter 4: Software Support

    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.

  • Page 108: Obtaining The Software Manuals

    The software manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe Acrobat Reader from the Utilities menu before opening the files. ® Click the Manual tab. Click ASUS Motherboard Utility Guide from the manual list on the left. The Manual folder of the support DVD appears.

  • Page 109: Software Information

    4.3.1 AI Suite II AI Suite II is an all-in-one interface that integrates several ASUS utilities and allows users to launch and operate these utilities simultaneously. Installing AI Suite II To install AI Suite II on your computer Place the support DVD to the optical drive.

  • Page 110: Digi+ Vrm

    4.3.2 DIGI+ VRM ASUS DIGI+ VRM 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 longer component lifespan and minimize power loss. After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch DIGI+ VRM by clicking Tool >...

  • Page 111: Bt Go

    The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU specification. • Do not remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored. Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration. 4.3.3...
  • Page 112 BT Turbo Key, Pocket Media, and Reset/Off functions. • Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration. •...

  • Page 113: Turbov Evo

    After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch TurboV EVO by clicking Tool > TurboV EVO on the AI Suite II main menu bar. Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration.
  • Page 114 Using Advanced Mode Click More Settings, and then click the Advanced Mode tab to adjust the advanced voltage settings. Advanced mode Target values Current values Click to restore all start-up settings GPU Boost GPU Boost overclocks the integrated iGPU for the best graphics performance. Click More Settings, and then click the GPU Boost tab.
  • Page 115 TurboV. Refer to Chapter 3 of your motherboard user manual for details. • The CPU Ratio bars show the status of the CPU cores, which vary with your CPU model. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Click to activate the CPU Ratio Applies all changes...

  • Page 116: Auto Tuning

    Auto Tuning ASUS TurboV EVO includes two auto tuning modes, providing the most flexible auto-tuning options. • The overclocking result varies with the CPU model and the system configuration. • To prevent overheating from damaging the motherboard, a better thermal environment is strongly recommended.
  • Page 117 Click Stop if you want to cancel the Overclocking process. TurboV automatically adjusts and saves BIOS settings and restarts the system. After re-entering Windows, a message appears indicating auto tuning success. Click OK to exit. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 4-11...

  • Page 118: Epu

    Select From the Last Reset to show the total CO2 that has been reduced since you *• click the Clear button • Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration. 4-12 Displays the following message if no VGA power saving engine is detected.

  • Page 119: Asus Fan Xpert

    4.3.6 ASUS FAN Xpert Asus Fan Xpert allows you to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan speeds according to different ambient temperatures and your PC’s system loading. The various fan profiles offer flexible controls of fan speeds to achieve a quiet and cool system environment.

  • Page 120: Asus Probe Ii

    4.3.7 ASUS Probe II ASUS Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer’s vital components, and detects and alerts you of any problem with these components. Probe II senses fan rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others. With this utility, you are assured that your computer is always at a healthy operating condition.

  • Page 121: Ai Charger

    * Check your USB device manufacturer if it fully supports the BC 1.1 function. • ** The actual charging speed may vary with your USB device’s conditions. • Ensure to remove and reconnect your USB device after enabling or disabling Ai Charger+ to ensure normal charging function. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 4-15...

  • Page 122: Audio Configurations

    Realtek HD Audio Manager for Windows XP Configuration options Control settings window Information button Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration. 4-16 proprietary UAJ ® Audio Driver from the support DVD that ®...

  • Page 123: Raid Configurations

    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 P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial ®...

  • Page 124: Installing Serial Ata Hard Disks

    4.4.2 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 125: Creating A Raid Set

    9LS0HJA4 ST3160812AS 9LS0F4HL ST3160812AS 3LS0JYL8 ST3160812AS 9LS0BJ5H Select 2 to 6 disks to use in creating the volume. [ ↑↓ ]-Prev/Next [SPACE]-SelectDisk [ENTER]-Done ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 All Rights Reserved. CREATE VOLUME MENU Name: Volume0 RAID Level: RAID0(Stripe) Disks: Select Disks...
  • Page 126 Use the up/down arrow key to select a drive, and then press <Space> to select. A small triangle marks the selected drive. Press <Enter> after completing your selection. Use the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID array (for RAID 0, 10 and 5 only),and then press <Enter>.
  • Page 127 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): Press <Y> to exit or press <N> to return to the utility main menu. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 All Rights Reserved. DELETE VOLUME MENU Drives...

  • Page 128: Intel Smart Response Technology

    Intel Smart Response Technology ® Intel Smart Response Technology boosts overall system performance. It uses an installed ® fast SSD (min 18.6GB available) as a cache for frequently accessed operations, speeding up hard drive/ main memory interaction. Key benefits are expedited hard drive speeds, reduced load and wait times, and maximized storage utilization.
  • Page 129 – Updating BIOS • If you want to restore the OS, go to BIOS Option ROM utility and select Acceleration Options to disable Intel • The performance of Intel ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 ® Smart Response Technology ® Smart Response Technology. ®...

  • Page 130: Creating A Raid Driver Disk

    Creating a RAID driver disk A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing a Windows on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. • The motherboard does not provide a floppy drive connector. You have to use a USB floppy disk drive when creating a SATA RAID driver disk.

  • Page 131: Installing The Raid Driver During Windows ® Os Installation

    Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation. Before loading the RAID driver from a USB flash drive, you have to use another computer to copy the RAID driver from the support DVD to the USB flash drive. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 ® Vista or later OS: ®...

  • Page 132: Using A Usb Floppy Disk Drive

    4.5.4 Using a USB floppy disk drive Due to OS limitation, Windows install the RAID driver from a floppy disk during the OS installation. To solve this issue, add the USB floppy disk drive’s Vendor ID (VID) and Product ID (PID) to the floppy disk containing the RAID driver.
  • Page 133 = “USB\VID_xxxx&PID_xxxx”, “usbstor” [HardwareIds.scsi.iaAHCI_DesktopWorkstationServer] id= “PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_1C02&CC_0106”,”iaStor” id= “USB\VID_03EE&PID_6901”, “usbstor” [HardwareIds.scsi.iaStor_DesktopWorkstationServer] id= “PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2822&CC_0104”,”iaStor” id= “USB\VID_03EE&PID_6901”, “usbstor” Add the same line to both sections. The VID and PID vary with different vendors. Save and exit the file. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 4-27...
  • Page 134 4-28 Chapter 4: Software support...

  • Page 135: Chapter 5: Multiple Gpu Technology Support

    For Windows Vista, go to Control Panel > Programs and Features. Select your current graphics card driver/s. For Windows XP, select Add/Remove. For Windows Vista, select Uninstall. Turn off your computer. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Chapter 5 CrossFireX™ technology that allows you to install ® Multiple GPU technology support certified.

  • Page 136: Installing Two Crossfirex™ Graphics Cards

    5.1.3 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. Prepare two CrossFireX-ready graphics cards. Insert the two graphics card into the PCIEX16 slots.

  • Page 137: Installing The Device Drivers

    From the Graphics Adapter list, select the graphics card to act as the display GPU. Select Enable CrossFireX. Click Apply, and then click OK to exit the window. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 CrossFireX™ technology ® desktop and select ® CrossFireX™ ®...

  • Page 138: Nvidia ® Sli™ Technology

    NVIDIA The motherboard supports the NVIDIA allows you to install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the installation procedures in this section. 5.2.1 Requirements • In SLI mode, you should have two identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA certified.

  • Page 139: Installing The Device Drivers

    You can launch the NVIDIA Control Panel by the following two methods. Right click on the empty space of the Windows and select NVIDIA Control Panel. The NVIDIA Control Panel window appears (See Step B5). ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 SLI bridge SLI™ technology ®...
  • Page 140 If you cannot see the NVIDIA Control Panel item in step (A), select Personalize. From the Personalization window, select Display Settings. From the Display Settings dialog box, click Advanced Settings. Chapter 5: Multiple GPU technology support...
  • Page 141 Start the NVIDIA Control Panel. The NVIDIA Control Panel window appears. Enabling SLI settings From the NVIDIA Control Panel window, select Set SLI Configuration. Click Enable SLI and set the display for viewing SLI rendered content. When done, click Apply. ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3...

  • Page 142: Lucidlogix ® Virtu™ Solution

    LucidLogix LucidLogix Virtu™ is a new generation GPU virtualization software that blurs the line ® between embedded graphics and discrete GPU for increased graphics performance. Its GPU virtualization dynamically assigns tasks to the best available graphics resources based on power, performance and system load. It allows users to fully utilize the unique capabilities of advanced Sandy Bridge multimedia features alongside the high end 3D rendering performance provided by installed graphics cards.

  • Page 143: Software Configuration

    Virtu™ is automatically activated when your system is powered on. Select ® Remove from system tray, if you want to remove LucidLogix ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3 Virtu™ from the support DVD that comes with ® Virtu™ icon appears in the notification area.
  • Page 144 To open the control panel Right-click LucidLogix panel. In the Main tab, you can check the LucidLogix settings. Check your current display mode, i-mode (blue) or d-Mode (green) 5-10 Virtu™ icon in the notification area and select Open control ® Virtu™...

  • Page 145: Asus Contact Information

    ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America) Address Telephone Web site Technical Support Telephone Support fax Online support ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria) Address Web site Online contact Technical Support Telephone Support Fax Online support * EUR 0.14/minute from a German fixed landline; EUR 0.42/minute from a mobile phone.

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