Contents

P9X79 PRO specifications summary
About this guide
Safety information
Notices
Chapter 1: Product introduction
- 1.1 Welcome!
- 1.2 Package contents
- 1.3 Special features
  - 1.3.1 Product highlights
  - 1.3.2 Dual Intelligent Processors 3 with New DIGI+ Power Control
  - 1.3.3 ASUS Exclusive Features
  - 1.3.4 ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution
  - 1.3.5 ASUS EZ DIY
  - 1.3.6 Other special features
Chapter 2: Hardware information
- 2.1 Before you proceed
- 2.2 Motherboard overview
  - 2.2.1 Motherboard layout
  - 2.2.2 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
  - 2.2.3 System memory
  - 2.2.4 Expansion slots
  - 2.2.5 Onboard switches
  - 2.2.6 Onboard LEDs
  - 2.2.7 Internal connectors
- 2.3 Building your computer system
  - 2.3.1 Additional tools and components to build a PC system
  - 2.3.2 CPU installation
  - 2.3.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation
  - 2.3.4 DIMM installation
  - 2.3.5 Motherboard installation
  - 2.3.6 ATX Power connection
  - 2.3.7 SATA device connection
  - 2.3.8 Front I/O Connector
  - 2.3.9 Expansion Card installation
  - 2.3.10 USB BIOS Flashback
  - 2.3.11 Rear panel connection
  - 2.3.12 Audio I/O connections
- 2.4 Starting up for the first time
- 2.5 Turning off the computer
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
- 3.1 Knowing BIOS
- 3.2 BIOS setup program
  - 3.2.1 EZ Mode
  - 3.2.2 Advanced Mode
- 3.3 Main menu
- 3.4 Ai Tweaker menu
  - 3.4.1 DRAM Timing Control
  - 3.4.2 DIGI+ Power Control
  - 3.4.2 CPU Performance Settings
- 3.5 Advanced menu
  - 3.5.1 CPU Configuration
  - 3.5.2 CPU Power Management Configuration
  - 3.5.3 PCH Configuration
  - 3.5.4 SATA Configuration
  - 3.5.4 USB Configuration
  - 3.5.6 Onboard Devices Configuraton
  - 3.5.6 APM
- 3.6 Monitor menu
- 3.7 Boot menu
- 3.8 Tools menu
  - 3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility
  - 3.8.2 ASUS DRAM SPD Information
  - 3.8.3 ASUS O.C. Profile
  - 3.8.4 ASUS Drive Xpert
- 3.9 Exit menu
- 3.10 Updating BIOS
  - 3.10.1 ASUS Update utility
  - 3.10.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
  - 3.10.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility
  - 3.10.4 ASUS BIOS Updater
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 Obtaining the software manuals
- 4.3 Software information
  - 4.3.1 AI Suite II
  - 4.3.2 TurboV EVO
  - 4.3.3 DIGI+ Power Control
  - 4.3.4 EPU
  - 4.3.5 FAN Xpert+
  - 4.3.6 Sensor Recorder
  - 4.3.7 Probe II
  - 4.3.8 BT GO!
  - 4.3.9 USB 3.0 Boost
  - 4.3.10 ASUS SSD Caching
  - 4.3.11 ASUS Update
  - 4.3.11 MyLogo2
  - 4.3.8 Audio configurations
- 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 Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utility
  - 4.4.5 Marvell RAID 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: Multiple GPU technology support
- 5.1 AMD CrossFireX technology
  - 5.1.1 Requirements
  - 5.1.2 Before you begin
  - 5.1.3 Installing two CrossFireX graphics cards
  - 5.1.4 Installing the device drivers
  - 5.1.5 Enabling the AMD 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

ASUS P9X79 PRO User Manual

Pages 168

Year 2013

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ASUS P9X79 PRO Motherboard Specification

The ASUS P9X79 PRO motherboard is designed for high-performance computing, catering to power users and enthusiasts. It supports Intel's LGA 2011 socket, compatible with 2nd generation Core i7 processors, and is built on the robust Intel X79 chipset, offering enhanced multitasking capabilities and superior data transfer speeds. This motherboard features quad-channel DDR3 memory support with a capacity of up to 64GB, allowing for efficient handling of memory-intensive applications.

Equipped with ASUS's Dual Intelligent Processors 3 technology, the P9X79 PRO integrates two onboard chips—the TPU (TurboV Processing Unit) and EPU (Energy Processing Unit)—to optimize both performance and power efficiency. ASUS's DIGI+ Power Control provides precise voltage regulation for both the CPU and memory, enhancing overclocking stability and flexibility.

The board includes three PCIe 3.0 x16 slots, supporting NVIDIA SLI and AMD CrossFireX technologies for multi-GPU setups, ensuring high graphics performance. Storage options are extensive, with support for six SATA 6Gb/s and four SATA 3Gb/s ports, enabling fast data retrieval and transfer speeds. The motherboard also features multiple USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports, providing versatile connectivity options for peripherals.

Network connectivity is robust with an integrated Intel Gigabit LAN controller that ensures fast and reliable internet access. Additionally, the ASUS P9X79 PRO includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, facilitating wireless connections. The motherboard's UEFI BIOS offers an intuitive interface for easy configuration and system monitoring. Overall, the ASUS P9X79 PRO motherboard delivers a powerful platform for users seeking a high-performance, feature-rich computing experience.

ASUS P9X79 PRO Motherboard F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on the ASUS P9X79 PRO motherboard?

To update the BIOS, download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS support website. Save it to a USB flash drive. Reboot your computer, enter the BIOS setup, and use the ASUS EZ Flash utility to select the BIOS file from the USB drive and update.

What is the maximum RAM supported by the ASUS P9X79 PRO motherboard?

The ASUS P9X79 PRO motherboard supports up to 64GB of DDR3 RAM, distributed across its 8 memory slots.

How can I troubleshoot boot issues with the ASUS P9X79 PRO?

First, check all cable connections and ensure RAM and GPU are properly seated. Use the ASUS Q-Code display to identify error codes. Refer to the manual for specific error code descriptions. Reset the CMOS if necessary.

Is it possible to overclock the CPU using the ASUS P9X79 PRO?

Yes, the ASUS P9X79 PRO supports CPU overclocking. Enter the BIOS setup, navigate to the AI Tweaker menu, and adjust the CPU ratio and voltage settings to overclock. Ensure adequate cooling is in place.

What graphics card compatibility does the ASUS P9X79 PRO offer?

The ASUS P9X79 PRO features 3 PCIe 3.0 x16 slots and is compatible with a wide range of modern graphics cards. Ensure the power supply meets the GPU’s requirements.

How can I enable RAID on the ASUS P9X79 PRO motherboard?

To enable RAID, enter the BIOS setup and set the SATA mode to RAID. Save and exit, then use the Intel Rapid Storage Technology utility during boot to configure your RAID setup.

What should I do if my ASUS P9X79 PRO motherboard loses power unexpectedly?

Check the power supply connections and ensure the PSU is functional. Inspect for any loose or damaged cables. Ensure the motherboard is not shorting against the case.

Can the ASUS P9X79 PRO support multiple monitors?

Yes, the ASUS P9X79 PRO can support multiple monitors if you use a graphics card with multiple outputs. Configure multiple displays in the operating system settings.

How do I reset the CMOS on the ASUS P9X79 PRO motherboard?

To reset the CMOS, turn off the power and unplug the system. Use a jumper cap to short the CLRTC pins on the motherboard for a few seconds or remove the CMOS battery for about 10 minutes. Reinstall the battery or remove the jumper cap, then power on.

What cooling solutions are recommended for the ASUS P9X79 PRO?

The ASUS P9X79 PRO is compatible with a variety of aftermarket CPU coolers and liquid cooling systems. Ensure the chosen solution fits the case and provides adequate airflow to keep components cool, especially when overclocking.