Contents

Notices
- Safety information
- About this guide
- P8H61-MX specifications summary
Chapter 1
Product introduction
- 1.1 Before you proceed
- 1.2 Motherboard overview
  - 1.2.1 Placement direction
  - 1.2.2 Screw holes
  - 1.2.3 Motherboard layout
  - 1.2.4 Layout contents
- 1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
  - 1.3.1 Installing the CPU
  - 1.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan
  - 1.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan
- 1.4 System memory
  - 1.4.1 Overview
  - 1.4.2 Memory configurations
  - 1.4.3 Installing a DIMM
  - 1.4.4 Removing a DIMM
- 1.5 Expansion slots
  - 1.5.1 Installing an expansion card
  - 1.5.2 Configuring an expansion card
  - 1.5.4 PCI Express x4 slot
  - 1.5.4 PCI Express x1 slot
  - 1.5.5 PCI Express x16 slot
- 1.6 Jumpers
- 1.7 Connectors
  - 1.7.1 Rear panel connectors
  - 1.7.2 Internal connectors
- 1.8 Software support
  - 1.8.1 Installing an operating system
  - 1.8.2 Support DVD information
Chapter 2
BIOS information
- 2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS
  - 2.1.1 ASUS Update utility
  - 2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2
  - 2.1.3 ASUS BIOS Updater
- 2.2 BIOS setup program
- 2.3 Main menu
  - 2.3.1 System Language [English]
  - 2.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]
  - 2.3.3 System Time [xx:xx:xx]
  - 2.3.4 Security
- 2.4 Ai Tweaker menu
  - 2.4.1 Memory Frequency [Auto]
  - 2.4.2 iGPU Max. Frequency [Auto]
  - 2.4.3 GPU Boost [OK]
  - 2.4.4 DRAM Timing Control
  - 2.4.5 CPU Power Management
- 2.5 Advanced menu
  - 2.5.1 CPU Configuration
  - 2.5.2 System Agent Configuration
  - 2.5.3 PCH Configuration
  - 2.5.4 SATA Configuration
  - 2.5.5 USB Configuration
  - 2.5.6 Onboard Devices Configuration
  - 2.5.7 APM
- 2.6 Monitor menu
  - 2.6.1 CPU Temperature / MB Temperature [xxxC/xxxF]
  - 2.6.2 CPU / Chassis Fan Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]
  - 2.6.3 CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled]
  - 2.6.4 Chassis Q-Fan Control [Enabled]
  - 2.6.5 CPU Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage
  - 2.6.6 Anti Surge Support [Enabled]
- 2.7 Boot menu
  - 2.7.1 Bootup NumLock State [On]
  - 2.7.2 Full Screen Logo [Enabled]
  - 2.7.3 Wait for F1 If Error [Enabled]
  - 2.7.4 Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS]
  - 2.7.5 Setup Mode [EZ Mode]
  - 2.7.6 Boot Option Priorities
  - 2.7.7 Boot Override
- 2.8 Tools menu
  - 2.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash Utility
  - 2.8.2 ASUS SPD Information
  - 2.8.3 ASUS O.C. Profile
- 2.9 Exit menu

ASUS P8H61-MX User Manual

Pages 60

Year 2012

Language(s)

of 60

ASUS P8H61-MX Motherboard Specification

The ASUS P8H61-MX is a micro-ATX motherboard designed to support Intel's 2nd and 3rd generation Core i7/i5/i3/Pentium/Celeron processors in the LGA1155 package. Built on the Intel H61 chipset, it provides a stable and efficient platform for everyday computing tasks. The motherboard features two DIMM slots supporting up to 16GB of DDR3 memory, with speeds up to 1333MHz, catering to the needs of both home and office users. It offers integrated graphics support through the CPU with a D-Sub (VGA) output, enabling basic display functions without a dedicated graphics card.

For expansion capabilities, the P8H61-MX includes one PCI Express 3.0/2.0 x16 slot for graphics upgrades and two PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots for additional peripherals. Storage needs are met with four SATA 3Gb/s ports, facilitating connections for hard drives and SSDs. The motherboard supports high-definition audio via its Realtek ALC887 8-channel audio codec, providing quality sound output for multimedia applications.

Networking is handled by the Realtek 8111F Gigabit LAN controller, ensuring reliable and fast wired internet connections. The rear I/O panel is equipped with four USB 2.0 ports, a PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port, a LAN port, and three audio jacks. Additional USB 2.0 headers on the board allow for further expansion of USB connectivity.

The ASUS P8H61-MX also includes ASUS-exclusive features such as AI Suite II, a user-friendly interface for system monitoring and adjustment, and ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 for BIOS recovery. This motherboard provides a solid foundation for budget-conscious builds, balancing performance and essential features for daily use.

ASUS P8H61-MX Motherboard F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on my ASUS P8H61-MX motherboard?

To update the BIOS, download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS support website. Use the ASUS EZ Flash Utility in the BIOS setup to update it. Make sure to back up your data before proceeding.

What should I do if my ASUS P8H61-MX motherboard fails to boot?

Check all power connections and ensure RAM and other components are properly seated. Clear the CMOS by removing the battery for a few minutes or using the jumper. Consider testing with minimal hardware attached.

How can I enable virtualization on the ASUS P8H61-MX motherboard?

Enter the BIOS setup during boot by pressing the 'Del' key. Navigate to the 'Advanced' tab, find 'Intel Virtualization Technology', and set it to 'Enabled'. Save and exit the BIOS.

What are the supported RAM specifications for ASUS P8H61-MX?

The ASUS P8H61-MX motherboard supports up to 16GB of DDR3 RAM, with speeds of 1333/1066 MHz across two DIMM slots.

Why is my ASUS P8H61-MX motherboard not recognizing all installed RAM?

Ensure that the RAM modules are fully seated and compatible with the board. Test each module individually and try different slots to rule out faulty RAM or slots.

How can I reset the BIOS settings to default on ASUS P8H61-MX?

You can reset the BIOS settings by entering the BIOS setup and selecting the 'Load Setup Defaults' option, or by clearing the CMOS using the jumper or by removing the battery for a few minutes.

What should I do if I experience overheating issues with my ASUS P8H61-MX?

Ensure proper airflow within the case. Clean dust from components and fans, and confirm that the CPU cooler is properly installed. Consider reapplying thermal paste if necessary.

Can I use an SSD with the ASUS P8H61-MX motherboard?

Yes, you can use an SSD with the ASUS P8H61-MX motherboard. Connect it via SATA port and configure it as the primary boot drive in the BIOS for improved performance.

How do I access the BIOS setup on the ASUS P8H61-MX motherboard?

To access the BIOS setup, press the 'Del' key repeatedly during the initial boot process until the BIOS screen appears.

What is the maximum CPU support for the ASUS P8H61-MX motherboard?

The ASUS P8H61-MX motherboard supports Intel CPUs up to the 3rd generation Core processors, including i7, i5, and i3, with a maximum TDP of 95W. Refer to the ASUS CPU support list for the latest compatibility.