Asus RAMPAGE III FORMULA User Manual
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Asus RAMPAGE III FORMULA User Manual

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Summary of Contents for Asus RAMPAGE III FORMULA

  • Page 1 Rampage III Formula...
  • 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 ....................... viii Safety information ..................ix About this guide ..................xi Rampage III Formula specifications summary ........xiii 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...
  • Page 4 BIOS Setup Managing and updating your BIOS ..........3-1 3.1.1 ASUS Update utility ............3-1 3.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ........... 3-4 3.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ........3-5 BIOS Setup program ..............3-6 3.2.1 BIOS menu screen ............3-7 3.2.2...
  • Page 5 IOH PCIE Voltage [Auto] ..........3-15 3.3.30 ICH Voltage [Auto] ............3-16 3.3.31 ICH PCIE Voltage [Auto] ..........3-16 3.3.32 ASUS O.C. Profile ............3-16 3.3.33 CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto] ........3-16 3.3.34 PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto] ........3-16 Main menu .................. 3-17 3.4.1...
  • Page 6 Boot Device Priority ............3-39 3.7.2 Boot Settings Configuration .......... 3-40 3.7.3 Security ................. 3-41 Tools menu ................. 3-43 3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ............3-43 3.8.2 ASUS O.C. Profile ............3-44 3.8.3 GO_Button File ............. 3-46 3.8.4 BIOS FlashBack ............3-47 3.8.5...
  • Page 7 Video menu ..............4-5 4.2.7 ASUS Contact information ..........4-5 4.2.8 Other information ............4-6 Software information ..............4-8 4.3.1 ASUS AI Suite II .............. 4-8 4.3.2 TurboV EVO ..............4-9 4.3.3 FAN Xpert ..............4-11 4.3.4 Probe II ................. 4-12 4.3.5...

  • Page 8: Notices

    Canadian Department of Communications. This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. REACH Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at ASUS website at http://green.asus.com/english/ REACH.htm. viii...

  • Page 9: 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 10 Operation safety • Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals that came with the package. • Before using the product, ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.

  • Page 11: About This Guide

    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 12: 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 13: Rampage Iii Formula Specifications Summary

    ® *Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs. characteristics of individual CPUs. *Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lidts). Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lidts). Expansion Slots 3 x PCIe2.0 x16 slots, support x16; x16/x16; x16/x8/x8...
  • Page 14 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 Q-Fan Plus ROG BIOS Wallpaper ASUS Q-Connector ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED) ASUS Q-Slot ASUS Q-DIMM BIOS Features 16Mb AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 2.5, ACPI2.0a Multi-Language BIOS...
  • Page 15 Rampage III Formula specifications summary Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE Back Panel I/O Ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard port (purple) 1 x Clr CMOS switch 1 x Optical S/PDIF out port 1 x IEEE 1394a connector 2 x External SATA ports...

  • Page 17: Chapter 1: Product Introduction

    This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports. Chapter 1: Product introduction...
  • Page 18 Chapter summary Welcome! ..................1-1 Package contents ................. 1-1 Special features ................1-2 ROG Rampage III Formula...

  • Page 19: Welcome

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

  • Page 20: Special Features

    Green ASUS This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packaging to safeguard consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment.

  • Page 21: Rog Intelligent Performance & Overclocking Features

    ROG has introduced GameFirst, a feature that manages the flow of traffic according to your needs so that you can still listen to online music, download and upload files, and engage in Internet chats without sacrificing the low ping times you need to pwn your opponents. ROG Rampage III Formula...
  • Page 22 Extreme Engine Digi+ Powerful combination of analog and digital design elements Extreme Engine Digi+ equipped with high performance digital VRM design can easily achieve the ultimate performance with adjustable CPU PWM frequency. It expedites heat dissipation and achieves better electric conduction keeping critical components reliable.

  • Page 23: Voltiminder Led

    In the pursuit of extreme performance, overvoltage adjustment is critical but risky. Acting as the "red zone" of a tachometer, the Voltiminder LED displays the voltage status for CPU, IOH/ICH, and Memory in a intuitive color-coded fashion. The voltiminder LED allows quick voltage monitoring for overclockers. ROG Rampage III Formula...

  • Page 24: Rog Unique Features

    With an easy press during overclock, this exclusive onboard switch allows gamer to effortlessly fine-tune the performance without having to short the pins or moving jumpers! ASUS Q-Connector Make connections quick and accurate The Q-Connector allows you to connect or disconnect chassis front panel cables in one easy step with one complete module.

  • Page 25: Asus Special Features

    Conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings Freely share and distribute favorite overclocking settings The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Profile that allows users to conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be stored in the CMOS or a separate file, giving users freedom to share and distribute their favorite overclocking settings.
  • Page 26 Chapter 1: Product Introduction...

  • Page 27: Chapter 2: Hardware Information

    This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It Chapter 2: Hardware includes description of the jumpers and connectors on the motherboard. information...
  • Page 28 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ........... 2-9 System memory ................. 2-14 Expansion slots ................2-26 Jumper ..................2-30 I/O shield Installation ..............2-32 Connectors ................. 2-33 Starting up for the first time ............2-52 2.10 Turning off the computer ............2-53 ROG Rampage III Formula...

  • Page 29: Before You Proceed

    Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components. ROG Rampage III Formula...

  • Page 30: Onboard Leds

    Onboard LEDs The motherboard comes with a set of LEDs that indicate the voltage conditions of CPU, memory, northbridge and southbridge. You may adjust the voltages in BIOS. There are also an LED for hard disk drive activity and an onboard switch for power status. For more information about voltage adjustment, refer to 3.3 Extreme Tweaker menu.
  • Page 31 The LED does not light up when there is no hard disk drive connected to the motherboard or when the hard disk drive does not function. ROG Rampage III Formula...
  • Page 32 BIOS LED The BIOS LEDs help indicate the BIOS activity. Press the BIOS button to switch between BIOS1 and BIOS2 and the LED lights up when the corresponding BIOS is in use. GO LED Blinking: Indicates that MemOK! is enabled before POST. Lighting: Indicates that the system loads the preset profile (GO_Button file) for temporary overclocking when in OS.
  • Page 33 ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard power-on switch. ROG Rampage III Formula...

  • Page 34: Motherboard Overview

    Motherboard overview 2.2.1 Motherboard layout Chapter 2: Hardware information...

  • Page 35: Layout Contents

    IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) 2-41 Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 2-43 Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 2-44 Refer to 2.9 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. ROG Rampage III Formula...

  • Page 36: Placement Direction

    2.2.3 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, ensure that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis as indicated in the image below. 2.2.4 Screw holes Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.

  • Page 37: Central Processing Unit (Cpu)

    ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is shipment/transit-related. • Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the LGA1366 socket.
  • Page 38 Lift the load lever in the direction of the arrow to a 135º angle. Load plate Lift the load plate with your thumb and forefinger to a 100º angle. Remove the PnP cap from the CPU socket. PnP cap 2-10 Chapter 2: Hardware information...
  • Page 39 Material. If it gets into your eyes or touches your skin, ensure that you wash it off immediately and seek professional medical help. To prevent contaminating the Thermal Interface Material, DO NOT spread the Thermal Interface Material with your finger directly. ROG Rampage III Formula 2-11...

  • Page 40: Installing The Cpu Heatsink And Fan

    2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan The Intel LGA1366 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan ® assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance. • When you buy a boxed Intel processor, the package includes the CPU fan ®...

  • Page 41: Uninstalling The Cpu Heatsink And Fan

    Rotate each fastener counterclockwise. Pull up two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to disengage the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard. Carefully remove the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard. ROG Rampage III Formula 2-13...

  • Page 42: System Memory

    System memory 2.4.1 Overview The motherboard comes with six Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR2 DIMM but is notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR2 DIMM socket. DDR3 modules are developed for better performance with less power consumption.

  • Page 43: Memory Configurations

    To operate at the vendor-marked or at a higher frequency, refer to section 3.3 Extreme Tweaker menu for manual memory frequency adjustment. • For system stability, use a more efficient memory cooling system to support a full memory load (6 DIMMs) or overclocking condition. ROG Rampage III Formula 2-15...
  • Page 44 Rampage III Formula Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR�-24��MH�� capability 3-2400MHz capability -2400MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 DIMM 3 DIMM 5 DIMM 6 DIMM CORSAIR CMGTX3(XMP) 9-11-9-27 1.65 • G.SKILL F3-19200CL9D-4GBPIS(XMP)
  • Page 45 Rampage III Formula Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR�-2���MH�� capability 3-2000MHz capability -2000MHz capability Vendor Part No. Size SS/DS Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 DIMM 3 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM Apacer 78.AAGD5.9KD(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) 9-9-9-27 •...
  • Page 46 Rampage III Formula Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR�-�8��MH�� capability 3-1866MHz capability -1866MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size SS/DS Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 DIMM 3 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM CORSAIR CMT6GX3M3A1866C9(XMP) 6GB ( 3x 2GB ) 9-9-9-24 1.65...
  • Page 47 Rampage III Formula Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR�-����MH�� capability 3-1600MHz capability -1600MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) 2 DIMM 3 DIMM 4 DIMM 6 DIMM A-DATA AX3U1600GB2G9-2G 4GB ( 2x 2GB ) 9-9-9-24 1.55~1.75...
  • Page 48 OCZ3G1600LV3GK 3GB(3 x 1GB) 8-8-8 1.65 • • • OCZ3P1600LV3GK 3GB(3 x 1GB) 7-7-7 1.65 • • • OCZ3BE1600C8LV4GK 4GB( 2x 2GB ) 8-8-8 1.65 • OCZ3BE1600C8LV4GK 4GB( 2x 2GB ) 8-8-8 1.65 • • • OCZ3OB1600LV4GK 4GB( 2x 2GB ) 9-9-9 1.65 OCZ3P16004GK...
  • Page 49 • • • Patriot PVT36G1600LLK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) 8-8-8-24 1.65 • • • Rampage III Formula Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR�-����MH�� capability 3-1333MHz capability -1333MHz capability Vendors Part No. Size Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support...
  • Page 50 G.SKILL F3-10666CL7D-4GBRH(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - 7-7-7-21 • • • G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D-4GBECO(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - 8-8-8-24 1.35 • • • • G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D-4GBHK(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - 8-8-8-21 1.5-1.6 • • • • G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D-4GBRM(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - 8-8-8-21 1.5-1.6...
  • Page 51 • Patriot PDC32G1333LLK PATRIOT • • • • Patriot PVT33G1333ELK 3GB(3 x 1GB) 9-9-9-24 1.65 • • • Patriot PSD31G13332 DS Patriot PM64M8D3BU-15 Patriot PGS34G1333LLKA 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - 7-7-7-20 • • • • ROG Rampage III Formula 2-23...
  • Page 52 Patriot PVS34G1333ELK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - 9-9-9-24 • Patriot PVS34G1333LLK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - 7-7-7-20 • • Patriot PVT36G1333ELK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - 9-9-9-24 1.65 • • • MFACR423PA0105 DS PQI PQC32808E15R • • • Silicon SP001GBLTU1333S01 NANYA NT5CB128M8AN-CG •...

  • Page 53: Installing A Dimm

    DIMM. Always insert the DIMM into the socket VERTICALLY to prevent DIMM notch damage. 2.4.4 Removing a DIMM Press the retaining clip outward to unlock the DIMM. Remove the DIMM from the socket. ROG Rampage III Formula 2-25...

  • Page 54: Expansion Slots

    Expansion slots In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support. 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.

  • Page 55: Interrupt Assignments

    System CMOS/Real Time Clock IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* Reserved Numeric Data Processor Primary IDE Channel * These IRQs are usually available for PCI devices. ROG Rampage III Formula 2-27...

  • Page 56: Pci Slot

    IRQ assignments for this motherboard PCIE_X16_1 shared – – – – – – – PCIE_X16/X1_2 shared – – – – – – – PCIE_X16/X8_3 shared – – – – – – – PCIEX1_1 shared – – – – – – –...

  • Page 57: Pci Express X1 Slots

    We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI mode. See page 2-45 for details. • Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1/2/3 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. ROG Rampage III Formula 2-29...

  • Page 58: Jumper

    Jumper Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC_SW) This jumper allows you to enable the clr CMOS switch on the back I/O. You can clear the CMOS memory and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The clr CMOS switch on the back I/O helps you easily clear the system setup information such as system passwords.
  • Page 59 This jumper prevents QPI voltage from dropping too much when you perform overclocking. The low QPI voltage may cause system malfunction. Set the jumper to pin 2—3 to activate this function and pin 1—2 to disable this function. ROG Rampage III Formula 2-31...

  • Page 60: I/O Shield Installation

    I/O shield Installation Install the I/O shield to the chassis by snapping it in place from inside. Orient the motherboard and install it to the chassis. Ensure that the motherboard external ports fit the I/O openings. Be cautious when installing the motherboard. The I/O shield edge springs may damage the I/O ports.

  • Page 61: Connectors

    Clear CMOS switch USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2 Optical S/PDIF Out port Audio ports To use hot-plug, set the Controller Mode in the BIOS settings to [AHCI] mode. See section �.5.� Onboard Devices Configuration for details. ROG Rampage III Formula 2-33...

  • Page 62: Rog Connect Switch

    * LAN port LED indications Activity/ Speed Speed LED Activity/Link Description Link LED Soft-off Mode Yellow Blinking During Power ON/OFF Yellow Blinking ORANGE 100 Mbps connection LAN port Yellow Blinking GREEN 1 Gbps connection 2.8.2 ROG Connect switch The ROG Connect function allows you to monitor and control remotely with the other computer through the provided ROG Connect cable.

  • Page 63: Audio I/O Connections

    Mic In Mic In Mic In Center/ Center/ Orange – – Subwoofer Subwoofer Rear Speaker Rear Speaker Rear Speaker Black – Side Speaker Gray – – – Audio I/O ports Connect to Headphone and Mic ROG Rampage III Formula 2-35...
  • Page 64 Connect to Stereo / 2.1-channel Speakers Connect to 4.1-channel Speakers Connect to 5.1-channel Speakers 2-36 Chapter 2: Hardware information...
  • Page 65 Connect to 7.1-channel Speakers ROG Rampage III Formula 2-37...

  • Page 66: Internal Connectors

    2.8.4 Internal connectors ICH10R Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA 1-6 �grey�) ICH10R Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA 1-6 �grey�) These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk drives and optical disc drives. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configuration with the Intel Matrix Storage Technology through the ®...
  • Page 67 XP Service Pack 2 or later versions before using ® Serial ATA hard disk drives. When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the Onboard SATA6G Controller • item in the BIOS to [AHCI Mode]. Refer to section 3.5.3 Onboard Devices Configuration for details. ROG Rampage III Formula 2-39...
  • Page 68 Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! You can connect the USB cable to ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) first, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard. OC station connector (8-pin OC_Station) This connector is for ASUS OC Station connection only.
  • Page 69 Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector. Doing so will damage the motherboard! The IEEE 1394a module is purchased separately. ROG Rampage III Formula 2-41...
  • Page 70 CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin PWR_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN1–3, 4-pin OPT_FAN1–3) The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350 mA–2000 mA (24 W max.) or a total of 1 A–7 A (84 W max.) at +12V. Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.
  • Page 71 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. ROG Rampage III Formula 2-43...
  • Page 72 Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector. •...

  • Page 73: Atx Power Connectors

    • 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. ROG Rampage III Formula 2-45...
  • Page 74 11. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. • System power LED (2-pin PLED) This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.
  • Page 75 12. ASUS Q-Connector (system panel) Use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect the chassis front panel cables. To install the ASUS Q-Connector: Connect the front panel cables to the ASUS Q-Connector. Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector to know the detailed...

  • Page 76: Onboard Switches

    2.8.5 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 Press the power-on switch to wake/power up the system. Reset switch Press the reset switch to reboot the system.
  • Page 77 (GO_Button file) for temporary overclocking when in BIOS button The motherboard comes with two BIOS. Press the BIOS button to switch BIOS and load different BIOS settings. The nearby BIOS LEDs indicate the BIOS you are using. ROG Rampage III Formula 2-49...
  • Page 78 Q reset button When the LN2_Mode jumer does not work and your CPU cannot resume function, press the Q reset button to temporarily stop the power supply to the CPU and help the CPU recover from a frozen condition. 2-50 Chapter 2: Hardware information...

  • Page 79: Probeit

    Refer to the following illustration for ProbeIt location. Using ProbeIt You may connect the multitester to the motherboard as shown. The photos above are for reference only, the actual motherboard layout and measure points location may differ by models. ROG Rampage III Formula 2-51...

  • Page 80: 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.

  • Page 81: 2.10 Turning Off The Computer

    BIOS setting. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. Refer to section 3.6 Power Menu in Chapter 3 for details. ROG Rampage III Formula 2-53...
  • Page 82 2-54 Chapter 2: Hardware information...

  • Page 83: Chapter 3: Bios Setup

    This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided. BIOS Setup...
  • Page 84 Managing and updating your BIOS ..........3-1 BIOS Setup program ..............3-6 Extreme Tweaker menu ............... 3-9 Main menu .................. 3-17 Advanced menu ................. 3-23 Power menu ................3-33 Boot menu .................. 3-39 Tools menu ................. 3-43 Exit menu ..................3-50 ROG Rampage III Formula...

  • Page 85: Managing And Updating Your Bios

    ® ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk or USB flash disk.) ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility: Restores the BIOS using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted.
  • Page 86 To update the BIOS through the Internet: desktop by clicking Start Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows ® > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears. Select Update BIOS from the Select the ASUS FTP site nearest...
  • Page 87 To update the BIOS through a BIOS file: desktop by clicking Start Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows ® > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears. Select Update BIOS from a file option from the drop-down menu, then click Next.

  • Page 88: Asus Ez Flash 2 Utility

    3.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to use a DOS-based utility. The EZ Flash 2 utility is built in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing <Alt> + <F2> during the Power-On Self Tests (POST).

  • Page 89: Asus Crashfree Bios 3 Utility

    3.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive that contains the BIOS file.

  • Page 90: Bios Setup Program

    The BIOS Setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen. • Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS file for this motherboard. Chapter 3: BIOS Setup...

  • Page 91: Bios Menu Screen

    At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings. Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another. ROG Rampage III Formula...

  • Page 92: Menu Items

    3.2.4 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 (Advanced, Power, Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items.

  • Page 93: Extreme Tweaker Menu

    CPU Voltage 1.230 [Auto] CPU PLL Voltage 1.812 [Auto] QPI/DRAM Core Voltage 1.151 [Auto] DRAM Bus Voltage 1.601 [Auto] DRAM REF Voltages IOH temp.: 47˚C/116.5˚F 61˚C/141.5˚F IOH Voltage 1.111 [Auto] IOH PCIE Voltage 1.508 [Auto] ICH temp.: 61˚C/141.5˚F ICH Voltage 1.111 [Auto] ←→ Select Screen ICH PCIE Voltage [Auto] ↑↓ Select Item +- Change Option ---------------- O.C. Profile ------------------ F1 General Help ASUS O.C. Profile F10 Save and Exit ----------- Spread Spectrum Control ----------- ESC Exit CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto] PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto] v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. ROG Rampage III Formula...

  • Page 94: Cpu Level Up [Auto]

    3.3.1 CPU Level Up �Auto� Allows you to select a CPU level, and the related parameters will be automatically adjusted according to the selected CPU level. If you want to manually configure the settings in detail, set Ai Overclock Tuner to [Manual] after selecting a CPU level. Configuration options: [Auto] [i7-950-3.06G] [i7-965-3.20G] 3.3.2 Sync Mode �Enabled�...

  • Page 95: Cpu Turbo Power Limit [Disabled]

    Configuration options: [Auto] [1600MHz] [1733MHz] [1866MHz] [2000MHz] [2133MHz] [2266MHz] [2400MHz] [2533MHz] [2666MHz] [2800MHz] [2933MHz] [3066MHz] [3200MHz] [3333MHz] [3466MHz] 3.3.11 QPI Link Data Rate �Auto� Allows you to adjust the QPI link data rate. Configuration options: [Auto] [Slow Mode] [4800MT/s] [5866MT/s] [6400MT/s] ROG Rampage III Formula 3-11...

  • Page 96: Dram Timing Control

    3.3.12 DRAM Timing Control The configuration options for some of the following items vary depending on the depending on the DIMMs you install on the motherboard. 1st Information: The values vary depending on your settings of the following sub-items: CAS# Latency 7 [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [3 DRAM Clock] [4 DRAM Clock] –...

  • Page 97: Cpu Differential Amplitude [Auto]

    Configuration options: [Auto] [2 DRAM Clock] – [9 DRAM Clock] WRITE to WRITE Delay(SR) 4 [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [4 DRAM Clock] [6 DRAM Clock] 3.3.13 CPU Differential Amplitude �Auto� Different AMP might enhance BCLK overclocking ability. Configuration options: [Auto] [700mV] [800mV] [900mV] [1000mV] ROG Rampage III Formula 3-13...

  • Page 98: Cpu Clock Skew [Auto]

    3.3.14 CPU Clock Skew �Auto� Adjusting this item may help enhancing BCLK overclocking ability. You may need to adjust the IOH Clock Skew item at the same time. Configuration options: [Auto] [Normal] [Delay 100ps]–[Delay 1500ps] 3.3.15 IOH Clock Skew �Auto� Adjusting this item may help enhancing BCLK overclocking ability.

  • Page 99: Cpu Voltage [Auto]

    Allows you to set the IOH voltage. The values range from 1.11300V to 1.90800V with a 0.01325V interval. 3.3.29 IOH PCIE Voltage �Auto� Allows you to set the IOH voltage. The values range from 1.51050V to 2.78250V with a 0.01325V interval. ROG Rampage III Formula 3-15...

  • Page 100: Ich Voltage [Auto]

    3.3.31 ICH PCIE Voltage �Auto� Allows you to set the ICH voltage. The values range from 1.51050V to 2.05375V with a 0.01325V interval. �.�.�2 ASUS O.C. Profile Refer to 3.8 Tools Menu for details 3.3.33 CPU Spread Spectrum �Auto� [Disabled] Enhances the BCLK overclocking ability.

  • Page 101: Main Menu

    Allows you to set the system time. 3.4.2 System Date �Day xx/xx/xxxx� Allows you to set the system date. 3.4.3 Language �English� Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options. Configuration options: [繁體中文] [簡体中文] [日本語] [Français] [Deutsch] [English] ROG Rampage III Formula 3-17...

  • Page 102: Sata 1-6

    3.4.4 SATA 1–6 While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of Serial ATA devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SATA device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to display the SATA device information. Rampage III Formula BIOS Setup Version 0206 Main SATA 1 Select the type...
  • Page 103 32-bit double word transfer to the processor. This makes more efficient use of the PCI bus as fewer transactions are needed for the transfer of a particular amount of data. [Disabled] Disable this function. ROG Rampage III Formula 3-19...

  • Page 104: Storage Configuration

    �.4.5 Storage Configuration The items in this menu allow you to set or change the configurations for the SATA devices installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you want to configure the item. Rampage III Formula BIOS Setup Version 0206 Main Storage Configuration Set [Compatible Mode] when Legacy OS (i.e.

  • Page 105: Ahci Configuration

    SATA Port1 [Auto] Allows you to select the type of device connected to the system. Configuration options: [Auto] [Not Installed] SMART Monitoring [Enabled] Allows you to set the Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology. Configration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ROG Rampage III Formula 3-21...

  • Page 106: System Information

    3.4.7 System Information This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS automatically detects the items in this menu. Rampage III Formula BIOS Setup Version 0206 Main BIOS Information Version : 0206 Build Date: 07/14/10 Processor Type : Intel(R) Core(TM) i7 CPU 930 @ 2.80GHz Speed : 2800MHz System Memory Usable Size : 2040MB ←→ Select Screen BIOS Status ↑↓ Select Item Now BIOS status : BIOS1 +- Change Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc.

  • Page 107: Advanced Menu

    ESC Exit Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch [Enabled] MPS and ACPI MADT ordering [Modern ordering] Intel(R) Virtualization Tech [Enabled] v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Scroll down to display the following items: CPU TM Function [Enabled] Execute-Disable Bit [Enabled] Intel(R) HT Technology [Enabled] ←→ Select Screen *Active Processor Cores [All] A20M [Disabled] ↑↓ Select Item +- Change Option *Intel(R) SpeedStep(TM) Tech [Enabled] F1 General Help *Intel(R) Turbo Mode Tech [Enabled] F10 Save and Exit Intel(R) C-STATE Tech [Enabled] ESC Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. ROG Rampage III Formula 3-23...
  • Page 108 CPU Ratio Setting �Auto� Allows you to adjust the ratio between CPU Core Clock and BCLK Frequency. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The valid value ranges differently according to your CPU model. C1E Support �Disabled� [Enabled] Enables the C1E support function.
  • Page 109 C3 Auto Demotion �Enabled� This item appears only when you set the Intel(R) C-STATE Tech item to [Enabled]. When this item is enabled, thte CPU will conditionally demote C6/C7 requests to C3 based on uncore auto-demote information. ROG Rampage III Formula 3-25...

  • Page 110: Chipset

    3.5.2 Chipset The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. Rampage III Formula BIOS Setup Version 0206 Advanced Advanced Chipset Settings WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction. Intel VT-d Configuration Intel VT-d Configuration Rampage III Formula BIOS Setup Version 0206 Advanced Intel VT-d Configuration Intel Virtualization Technology for Intel VT-d...

  • Page 111: Onboard Devices Configuration

    This item appears only when you enable the previous item(s). [Disabled] Disables GbE to wake up from S5. [Enabled] Enables GbE to wake up from S5. Onboard 1394 Controller �Enabled� [Enabled] Enables the onboard 1394 Controller. [Disabled] Disables the controller. ROG Rampage III Formula 3-27...
  • Page 112 Onboard SATA6G Controller �IDE Mode� [Disabled] Disables the onboard SATA6G controller. [IDE Mode] Set to [IDE Mode] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as Parallel ATA physical storage devices. [AHCI Mode] Set to [AHCI] when you want the SATA hard disk drives to use the AHCI (Advabced Host Controller Interface).

  • Page 113: Usb Configuration

    If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled. [Enabled] Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS). [Disabled] Disables the function. ROG Rampage III Formula 3-29...

  • Page 114: Pcipnp

    3.5.5 PCIPnP The PCIPnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices. BIOS Setup UTILITY Advanced Advanced PCI/PnP Settings NO: lets the BIOS configure all the WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections devices in the may cause system to malfunction. system. Plug And Play O/S [No] Plug And Play O/S �No� [Yes] When set to [Yes] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system configures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot.

  • Page 115: Led Control

    IOH PCIE voltage [IOH PCIE]. Configuration options: [IOH] [IOH PCIE] ICH LED Selection �ICH� Allows you to switch the onboard ICH LED display between ICH voltage [ICH], and ICH PCIE voltage [ICH PCIE]. Configuration options: [ICH] [ICH PCIE] ROG Rampage III Formula 3-31...

  • Page 116: Irog Configuration

    �.5.7 iROG Configuration Rampage III Formula BIOS Setup Version 0206 Advanced iROG Configuration iROG Timer Keeper System will record iROG ID_Number Information using time every 1 iROG_1 ID_Number: 11 minute iROG_2 ID_Number: 4 iROG Timer Keeper [Last State] Current Operation time: Total Operation time: ←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. iROG Timer Keeper �Last State� Allows you to set the iROG Time Keeper operation mode. Configuration options: [Last State] [Disabled] [Enabled] 3.5.8 ROG Connect...

  • Page 117: Power Menu

    ACPI 2.0 Support �Enabled� [Disabled] When set to [Disabled], the system will not add additional tables as per ACPI 2.0 specifications. [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the system adds additional tables as per ACPI 2.0 specifications. ROG Rampage III Formula 3-33...

  • Page 118: Apm Configuration

    3.6.4 ACPI APIC Support �Enabled� Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) support in the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). [Disabled] When set to [Disabled], the system disable the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) support in the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC).
  • Page 119 Sets specific keys on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. Sets specific keys on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. . ROG Rampage III Formula 3-35...

  • Page 120: Hardware Monitor

    3.6.7 Hardware Monitor Rampage III Formula BIOS Setup Version 0206 Advanced Hardware Monitor Voltage Monitor Voltage Monitor Temperature Monitor FAN Speed Monitor FAN Speed Control ←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. Voltage Monitor CPU Voltage; CPU PLL Voltage; QPI/DRAM Voltage; IOH Voltage; IOH PCIE Voltage; ICH Voltage; ICH PCIE Voltage; DRAM Bus Voltage; 3.3V Voltage;...

  • Page 121: Fan Speed Control

    Set to [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed. Chassis Q-Fan Control [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the Chassis fan controller. [Disabled] Disables the Chassis Q-fan controller. [Enabled] Enables the Chassis Q-fan controller. ROG Rampage III Formula 3-37...
  • Page 122 The Chassis Fan Profile item appears when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Function feature. Chassis Fan Profile [Standard] This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the chassis fan. [Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the chassis fan automatically adjust depending on the chassis temperature.

  • Page 123: Boot Menu

    These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system. Configuration options: [xxx Drive] [Disabled] ROG Rampage III Formula 3-39...

  • Page 124: Boot Settings Configuration

    Enables the full screen logo display feature. [Disabled] Disables the full screen logo display feature. Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo3™ feature. AddOn ROM Display Mode �Force BIOS� Sets the display mode for option ROM. [Force BIOS] [Keep Current] .

  • Page 125: Security

    <Enter>. The message Password Uninstalled appears. If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM. See section 2.6 Jumper for information on how to erase the RTC RAM. ROG Rampage III Formula 3-41...

  • Page 126: Change User Password

    After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change other security settings. Rampage III Formula BIOS Setup Version 0206 Boot Security Settings <Enter> to change password. Supervisor Password :Installed <Enter> again to User Password :Installed disabled password. Change Supervisor Password User Access Level [Full Access] Change User Password Password Check [Setup] User Access Level �Full Access� This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items.

  • Page 127: Tools Menu

    3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 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 128: Asus O.c. Profile

    �.8.2 ASUS O.C. Profile This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. Rampage III Formula BIOS Setup Version 0206 Tools O.C. PROFILE Configuration Typing your profile name, [0-9][a-z][A-Z] O.C. Profile 1 Status : Not Installed are acceptable. O.C. Profile 2 Status : Not Installed O.C.
  • Page 129 DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the system boot failure! • We recommend that you update the BIOS file only coming from the same memory/CPU configuration and BIOS version. • Only the CMO file can be loaded. ROG Rampage III Formula 3-45...

  • Page 130: Go_Button File

    3.8.3 GO_Button File This menu allows you to set the GO Button files, and load the desired GO Button file. Rampage III Formula BIOS Setup Version 0206 Tools GO_Button File Enable or Disable Frequency Controller Current Settings BCLK Speed :133MHz PCIE Speed :100MHz CPU Voltage :1.230V CPU PLL Voltage :1.812V QPI/DRAM Voltage :1.151V IOH Voltage :1.111V IOH PCIE Voltage :1.508V ICH Voltage :1.111V DRAM Voltage :1.601V ←→ Select Screen Frequency Controller [Disabled] ↑↓ Select Item CPU Voltage [Auto] +- Change Option...

  • Page 131: Bios Flashback

    BIOS Update BIOS1 to BIOS2 Press <Enter> to copy the current settings of BIOS1 to BIOS2. BIOS Name BIOS Description Select [None] Add a description to each BIOS for convenient usage. Configuration options: [None] [BIOS1] [BIOS2] ROG Rampage III Formula 3-47...

  • Page 132: Drive Xpert Configuration

    �.8.5 Drive Xpert Configuration Rampage III Formula BIOS SETUP Version 0206 Tools Drive Xpert Configuration Update Drive Xpert Mode changes after Drive Xpert Group: saving changes and Current Mode :Normal Mode exiting BIOS setup. Discard Drive Xpert Driver Xpert Mode Update: Mode changes after Update To Super Speed [Press Enter] exiting BIOS setup Update To EZ Backup [Press Enter] without saving any Update To Normal Mode [Press Enter] changes. Drive Xpert Device(s) List: Port 0 : [Not Detected] ←→ Select Screen Port 1 : [Not Detected] ↑↓ Select Item +- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc.
  • Page 133 SATA_6G_1 connector on the motherboard. Drive Xpert Device(s) List: Port 0 / Port 1 Press <Enter> to display the information of the hard disks which are connected to the SATA_6G_1 and SATA_6G_2 connectors on the motherboard. ROG Rampage III Formula 3-49...

  • Page 134: Exit Menu

    Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. Rampage III Formula BIOS Setup Version 0206 Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Exit system Setup after Exit Options saving the changes. F10 key can be used for Exit & Save Changes this operation. Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes Load Setup Defaults ←→ Select Screen...

  • Page 135: Chapter 4: Software Support

    This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package and the software. Software support...
  • Page 136 Chapter summary Installing an operating system ........... 4-1 Support DVD information ............4-1 Software information ..............4-8 RAID configurations ..............4-18 Creating a RAID driver disk ............4-25 ROG Rampage III Formula...

  • Page 137: Installing An Operating System

    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 to the optical drive.

  • Page 138: Drivers Menu

    The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices. ASUS InstAll - Drivers Installation Wizard Launches the ASUS InstAll driver installation wizard. Intel Chipset Driver Installs the Intel chipset driver.

  • Page 139: Utilities Menu

    Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities Installs all of the utilities through the Installation Wizard. ASUS AI Suite II Installs the ASUS AI Suite II.

  • Page 140: Make Disk Menu

    4.2.4 Make disk menu The Make disk menu contains items to create the Intel ICH10R driver disk. Intel AHCI/RAID Driver Allows you to create an Intel AHCI/RAID driver disk. ® Marvell 9128 AHCI SATA Driver Allows you to create a Marvell 9128 AHCI SATA driver disk.

  • Page 141: Video Menu

    ROG users’ outstanding performances with ROG motherboards. 4.2.7 ASUS Contact information Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. You can also find this information on the inside front cover of this user guide. ROG Rampage III Formula...

  • Page 142: Other Information

    4.2.8 Other information The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on the motherboard and the contents of the support DVD. Click an icon to display the specified information. Motherboard Info Displays the general specifications of the motherboard. Browse this DVD Displays the support DVD contents in graphical format.
  • Page 143 Filelist Displays the contents of the support DVD and a brief description of each in text format. ROG Rampage III Formula...

  • Page 144: Software Information

    Start > All Programs > To launch AI Suite from the Windows ® ASUS > AI Suite II > AI Suite II v1.xx.xx. The AI Suite II main window appears. After launching the application, the AI Suite II icon appears in the Windows ®...

  • Page 145: Turbov Evo

    4.3.2 TurboV EVO ASUS TurboV EVO introduces TurboV that allows you to overclock your system effectively. After installing AI After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch TurboV EVO by clicking Tool > TurboV EVO on the AI Suite II main window.
  • Page 146 Using CPU Level Up The CPU Level Up allows you to overclock immediately with OC profile presets in WIndows environment without the hassle of entering BIOS. ® Move the pointer to level up your CPU and click Apply to use the new CPU frequency configuration.

  • Page 147: Fan Xpert

    Stable: fixes the CPU fan speed to avoid noise caused by the unsteady fan • rotation. The fan will speed up when the temperature exceeds 70ºC. User: Allows you to configure the CPU fan profile under certain limitations. • ROG Rampage III Formula 4-11...

  • Page 148: Probe Ii

    4.3.4 Probe II Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer’s vital components, and detects and alerts you of any problem with these components. Probe II senses fan rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others. Because Probe II is software-based, you can start monitoring your computer the moment you turn it on.
  • Page 149 Click Preference on the top to customize Probe II, including detection cycle, and temperature display unit. Checking Alert Log Click Alert Log on the top to check the log. Click Clear to reset the log if needed. ROG Rampage III Formula 4-13...

  • Page 150: Sensor Recorder

    4.3.5 Sensor Recorder Sensor Recorder allows you to monitor the change in your system including voltage, temperature and fan speed. You can also browse the history record. Launching Sensor Recorder After installing AI Suite II from the motherboard support DVD, launch PC Probe II by clicking Tool >...

  • Page 151: Sound Blaster X-Fi Mb 2

    After installing Sound Blaster X-Fi MB 2 successfully, you need to activate this utility online before first use. Double-click Activate on the desktop. Ensure that you have successfully installed the LAN driver and have connected to the Internet. Click Activate to start activation. ROG Rampage III Formula 4-15...
  • Page 152 Using Sound Blaster X-Fi MB 2 Speaker and Headphone Equalizer Mixer Adjusting Volume Restoring to the Default Mute Speaker and Headphone You can adjust the speaker-related or the headphone-related configurations. Environment audio extensions (EAX) After enabling the EAX effects, you are allowed to select and add your desired environment sounds into the music.
  • Page 153 You can manually adjust the audio volumes, including Line In, Stereo Mix and Microphone, when recording or during the playback. THX is a high-fidelity sound technology that allows you to adjust the surround sound effect, sub-woofer volume, etc.. ROG Rampage III Formula 4-17...

  • Page 154: Raid Configurations

    RAID configurations The motherboard comes with the Intel ICH10R Southbridge controller that ® supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10, and RAID 5 for six independent Serial ATA channels. 4.4.� RAID definitions RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in parallel, interleaved stacks.

  • Page 155: Installing Serial Ata Hard Disks

    Go to the Main menu > Storage Configuration, and then press <Enter>. Set the Configure SATA as item to [RAID]. Save your changes, and then exit the BIOS Setup. Refer to Chapter 3 for details on entering and navigating through the BIOS Setup. ROG Rampage III Formula 4-19...

  • Page 156: Intel ® Matrix Storage Manager Option Rom Utility

    4.4.4 Intel Matrix Storage Manager option ROM utility ® The Intel Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM utility allows you to create RAID 0, ® RAID 1, RAID 10 (RAID 0+1), and RAID 5 set(s) from Serial ATA hard disk drives that are connected to the Serial ATA connectors supported by the Southbridge.

  • Page 157: Creating A Raid Set

    1 ST3160812AS 9LS0F4HL 149.0GB Non-RAID Disk 2 ST3160812AS 3LS0JYL8 149.0GB Non-RAID Disk 3 ST3160812AS 9LS0BJ5H 149.0GB Non-RAID Disk Select 2 to 6 disks to use in creating the volume. [ ↑↓ ]-Prev/Next [SPACE]-SelectDisk [ENTER]-Done 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 ROG Rampage III Formula 4-21...
  • Page 158 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>. The available stripe size values range from 4 KB to 128 KB. The following are typical values: RAID 0: 128KB RAID 10: 64KB RAID 5: 64KB...

  • Page 159: Deleting A Raid Set

    <Del>. The following warning message appears. [ DELETE VOLUME VERIFICATION ] ALL DATA IN THE VOLUME WILL BE LOST! Are you sure you want to delete volume “Volume0”? (Y/N): Press <Y> to delete the RAID set and return to the utility main menu, or press <N> to return to the DELETE VOLUME menu. ROG Rampage III Formula 4-23...
  • Page 160 Exiting the Intel Matrix Storage Manager ® To exit the utility From the utility main menu, select 4. Exit, and then press <Enter>. The following warning message appears. [ CONFIRM EXIT ] Are you sure you want to exit? (Y/N): Press <Y> to exit or press <N> to return to the utility main menu. 4-24 Chapter 4: Software support...

  • Page 161: Creating A Raid Driver Disk

    Driver Disk to create an Intel ICH10R RAID driver disk. ® Insert a floppy disk into the floppy disk drive. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the process. Write-protect the floppy disk to avoid computer virus infection. ROG Rampage III Formula 4-25...
  • Page 162 To install the RAID driver in Windows ® During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6 key to install third-party SCSI or RAID driver. Press <F6>, and then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the floppy disk drive.

  • Page 163: Chapter 5: Ati Crossfirex™ Technology Support

    This chapter describes how to install and configure ATI CrossFireX™ graphics ® cards. CrossFireX™ ® technology support...
  • Page 164 Chapter summary CrossFireX™ technology ............ 5-1 ® NVIDIA SLI™ technology ............5-5 ® ROG Rampage III Formula...

  • Page 165: Ati ® Crossfirex™ Technology

    For Windows XP, go to Control Panel > Add/Remove Programs. 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. ROG Rampage III Formula...

  • Page 166: Installing Crossfirex Graphics Cards

    5.1.3 Installing 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 167: Installing The Device Drivers

    Windows notification area and select Cayalist Control Center. The Catalyst Control Center Setup Assistant appears when the system detects the existance of multi- graphics cards. Click Go to continue to the Catalyst Control Center Advanced View window. ROG Rampage III Formula...
  • Page 168 Enabling CrossFireX settings In the Catalyst Control Center window, click Graphics Settings > CrossFireX > Configure. 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.

  • Page 169: Nvidia ® Sli™ Technology

    PCIEX16 slots, refer to Chapter 2 in this user manual for the locations of the PCIEX16 slots recommended for multi-graphics card installation. Ensure that the cards are properly seated on the slots. ROG Rampage III Formula...

  • Page 170: Installing The Device Drivers

    Align and firmly insert the SLI bridge connector to the goldfingers on each graphics card. Ensure that the connector is firmly in place. Connect two independent auxiliary power sources from the power supply to the two graphics cards separately. Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the graphics card. SLI bridge Goldfingers 5.2.3...
  • Page 171 B1. If you cannot see the NVIDIA Control Panel item in step (A), select Personalize. B2. From the Personalization window, select Display Settings. B3. From the Display Settings dialog box, click Advanced Settings. ROG Rampage III Formula...
  • Page 172 B4. Select the NVIDIA GeForce tab, and then click Start the NVIDIA Control Panel. B5. 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.

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