Contents

Notices
- Safety information
- About this guide
- Maximus III GENE specifications summary
Chapter 1: Product introduction
- 1.1 Welcome!
- 1.2 Package contents
- 1.3 Special features
  - 1.3.1 Product highlights
  - 1.3.2 ROG Intelligent Performance & Overclocking features
  - 1.3.3 ROG unique features
  - 1.3.4 ASUS special features
Chapter 2: Hardware information
- 2.1 Before you proceed
- 2.2 Motherboard overview
  - 2.2.1 Motherboard layout
  - 2.2.2 Layout contents
  - 2.2.3 Placement direction
  - 2.2.4 Screw holes
- 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
  - 2.3.1 Installing the CPU
  - 2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan
  - 2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan
- 2.4 System memory
  - 2.4.1 Overview
  - 2.4.2 Memory configurations
  - 2.4.3 Installing a DIMM
  - 2.4.4 Removing a DIMM
- 2.5 Expansion slots
  - 2.5.1 Installing an expansion card
  - 2.5.2 Configuring an expansion card
  - 2.5.3 Interrupt assignments
  - 2.5.4 PCI slot
  - 2.5.5 PCI Express x4 slot
  - 2.5.6 PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots
- 2.6 Jumper
- 2.7 I/O shield installation
- 2.8 Connectors
  - 2.8.1 Rear panel connectors
  - 2.8.2 Internal connectors
  - 2.8.3 ASUS Q-Connector (system panel)
  - 2.8.4 Onboard switches
- 2.9 Starting up for the first time
- 2.10 Turning off the computer
  - 2.10.1 Using the OS shut down function
  - 2.10.2 Using the dual function power switch
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
- 3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS
  - 3.1.1 ASUS Update utility
  - 3.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
  - 3.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility
  - 3.1.4 ASUS BIOS Updater
- 3.2 BIOS setup program
  - 3.2.1 BIOS menu screen
  - 3.2.2 Menu bar
  - 3.2.3 Navigation keys
  - 3.2.4 Menu items
  - 3.2.5 Submenu items
  - 3.2.6 Configuration fields
  - 3.2.7 Pop-up window
  - 3.2.8 Scroll bar
  - 3.2.9 General help
- 3.3 Extreme Tweaker menu
  - 3.3.1 CPU Level Up [Auto]
  - 3.3.2 Memory Level Up [Auto]
  - 3.3.3 Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]
  - 3.3.4 OC From CPU/Memory Level Up [Auto]
  - 3.3.5 CPU Ratio Setting [Auto]
  - 3.3.6 CPU Configuration
  - 3.3.7 Intel(R) SpeedStep(TM) Tech [Enabled]
  - 3.3.8 Intel(R) TurboMode Tech [Enabled]
  - 3.3.9 QPI Frequency [Auto]
  - 3.3.10 DRAM Timing Control
  - 3.3.11 CPU Clock Amplitude [Auto]
  - 3.3.12 PCH Clock Amplitude [Auto]
  - 3.3.13 CPU Clock Skew [Auto]
  - 3.3.14 PCH Clock Skew [Auto]
  - 3.3.15 Extreme OV [Disabled]
  - 3.3.16 Full Phase Control [Full Phase]
  - 3.3.17 Load-Line Calibration [Auto]
  - 3.3.18 CPU Voltage Mode [VID]
  - 3.3.19 CPU Voltage [Auto]
  - 3.3.20 CPU PLL Voltage [Auto]
  - 3.3.21 IMC Voltage [Auto]
  - 3.3.22 PCH Voltage [Auto]
  - 3.3.23 DRAM Voltage [Auto]
  - 3.3.25 DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA/B [Auto]
  - 3.3.26 CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto]
  - 3.3.27 PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto]
  - 3.3.28 ASUS O.C. Profile
- 3.4 Main menu
  - 3.4.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx]
  - 3.4.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]
  - 3.4.3 Language [English]
  - 3.4.4 SATA 16
  - 3.4.5 Storage Configuration
  - 3.4.6 AHCI Configuration
  - 3.4.7 System Information
- 3.5 Advanced menu
  - 3.5.1 CPU Configuration
  - 3.5.2 Chipset
  - 3.5.3 Onboard Device Configuration
  - 3.5.4 USB Configuration
  - 3.5.5 LED Control
  - 3.5.6 iROG Configuration
  - 3.5.7 ROG Connect
- 3.6 Power menu
  - 3.6.1 Suspend Mode [Auto]
  - 3.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume [No]
  - 3.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support [Disabled]
  - 3.6.4 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]
  - 3.6.5 EuP Ready [Disabled]
  - 3.6.7 Hardware Monitor
- 3.7 Boot menu
  - 3.7.1 Boot Device Priority
  - 3.7.2 Boot Settings Configuration
  - 3.7.3 Security
- 3.8 Tools menu
  - 3.8.1 ASUS O.C. Profile
  - 3.8.2 GO_Button File
  - 3.8.3 AI NET 2
  - 3.8.4 MemPerfect
  - 3.8.5 ASUS EZ Flash 2
- 3.9 Exit menu
Chapter 4: Software support
- 4.1 Installing an operating system
- 4.2 Support DVD information
  - 4.2.1 Running the support DVD
  - 4.2.2 Drivers menu
  - 4.2.3 Utilities menu
  - 4.2.4 Make disk menu
  - 4.2.5 Manual menu
  - 4.2.6 Video menu
  - 4.2.7 ASUS Contact information
  - 4.2.8 Other information
- 4.3 Software information
  - 4.3.1 Sound Blaster X-Fi audio utility
  - 4.3.2 ASUS PC Probe II
  - 4.3.3 ASUS AI Suite
  - 4.3.4 ASUS Fan Xpert
  - 4.3.5 ASUS EPU-6 Engine
  - 4.3.6 TurboV EVO
- 4.4 RAID configurations
  - 4.4.1 RAID definitions
  - 4.4.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks
  - 4.4.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS
  - 4.4.4 Intel Matrix Storage Manager option ROM utility
- 4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk
  - 4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS
  - 4.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows
  - 4.5.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows OS installation
  - 4.5.4 Using a USB floppy disk drive
Chapter 5: ATI CrossFireX technology support
- 5.1 ATI CrossFireX technology
  - 5.1.1 Requirements
  - 5.1.2 Before you begin
  - 5.1.3 Installing CrossFireX graphics cards
  - 5.1.4 Installing the device drivers
  - 5.1.5 Enabling the ATI CrossFireX technology
- 5.2 NVIDIA SLI technology
  - 5.2.1 Requirements
  - 5.2.2 Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards
  - 5.2.3 Installing the device drivers
  - 5.2.4 Enabling the NVIDIA SLI technology
Appendix: Debug code table

ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE User Manual

ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE Motherboard manual cover

Pages 170

Year 2009

Language(s)

of 170

ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE Motherboard Specification

The ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE is a micro-ATX motherboard designed for gaming enthusiasts and power users who demand high performance and reliability. It supports Intel's LGA 1156 socket processors, including the Intel Core i7, i5, and i3 series, and is based on the Intel P55 Express chipset. The motherboard supports dual-channel DDR3 memory with speeds up to 2133 MHz (overclocked), allowing for enhanced multitasking and system responsiveness.

The MAXIMUS III GENE is equipped with two PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots, supporting ATI CrossFireX and NVIDIA SLI technologies for multi-GPU configurations. It also includes a PCIe x4 slot and a PCI slot for additional expansion options. For storage, the motherboard offers six SATA 3Gb/s ports, enabling RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configurations for improved data redundancy and performance.

Networking capabilities are provided by an integrated Gigabit Ethernet controller, ensuring fast and reliable internet connectivity. The motherboard features SupremeFX X-Fi audio technology, delivering high-definition sound with EAX Advanced HD 4.0 support for an immersive gaming experience. Connectivity options include a range of USB 2.0 ports, FireWire, and eSATA, facilitating the connection of various peripherals and external devices.

The ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE incorporates ROG-exclusive features such as the MemOK! button for easy memory compatibility, CPU Level Up for straightforward overclocking, and GameFirst for optimized online gaming performance. The motherboard's sleek design includes a black and red color scheme with a heat-pipe cooling solution, ensuring efficient thermal management. With its robust feature set and focus on performance, the ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE is an ideal choice for compact, high-performance gaming systems.

ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE Motherboard F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on my ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE motherboard?

To update the BIOS, download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS support website. Place the file on a USB drive, enter the BIOS setup during boot, navigate to the EZ Flash utility, and select the BIOS file from your USB drive to initiate the update.

What should I do if my ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE motherboard doesn't power on?

Check the power supply connections, ensure the power button is functioning, and verify the RAM and CPU are properly seated. If the issue persists, try resetting the CMOS by removing the battery or using the CLR_CMOS jumper.

How can I enable XMP on the ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE motherboard for better RAM performance?

Enter the BIOS setup, navigate to the AI Tweaker menu, and set the AI Overclock Tuner to XMP. Save and exit the BIOS to apply the settings.

What is the maximum RAM supported by the ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE motherboard?

The ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE motherboard supports up to 16GB of DDR3 RAM across two DIMM slots.

How do I troubleshoot boot loop issues on my ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE motherboard?

Check for faulty RAM or improper seating, ensure all power connections are secure, and try booting with minimal hardware connected. Updating the BIOS and resetting the CMOS can also help resolve boot loop issues.

Can I use an M.2 SSD with the ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE motherboard?

The ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE does not have an M.2 slot. However, you can use an M.2 to PCIe adapter card to install an M.2 SSD via the PCIe slots.

How do I reset the CMOS on the ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE motherboard?

To reset the CMOS, turn off the system and disconnect the power. Locate the CLR_CMOS jumper on the motherboard and move the jumper cap from the default position to the clear position for a few seconds. Alternatively, remove the CMOS battery for a few minutes.

What are the common beep codes for the ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE motherboard and their meanings?

Common beep codes include one short beep for a successful POST, two short beeps for a memory issue, and continuous long beeps for a graphics card problem. Refer to the motherboard manual for a detailed list of beep codes.

How can I improve cooling on my ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE motherboard?

Ensure proper airflow by using quality case fans, manage cables to prevent airflow obstruction, and consider using an aftermarket CPU cooler. Regularly clean dust from the system to maintain optimal cooling performance.

How do I configure RAID on the ASUS MAXIMUS III GENE motherboard?

Enter the BIOS setup, navigate to the Advanced menu, and select the SATA Configuration option. Change the SATA Mode to RAID. Save and exit the BIOS, then use the RAID configuration utility during boot to set up the RAID array.