ASUS SABERTOOTH Z97 MARK 2 User Manual

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z97 MARK 2 Motherboard manual cover
Pages 174
Year 2014
Language(s)
English en

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z97 MARK 2 Motherboard Specification

The ASUS SABERTOOTH Z97 MARK 2 motherboard is a robust and durable platform designed for high-performance computing. It is built on the Intel Z97 chipset, supporting Intel's 4th and 5th generation Core processors with the LGA 1150 socket. This ATX form factor motherboard ensures compatibility with a wide range of PC cases and configurations. It features dual-channel DDR3 memory slots, supporting up to 32GB of RAM with speeds of up to 1866MHz, enabling efficient multitasking and smooth performance for intensive applications. The board is equipped with multiple expansion slots including two PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16 slots supporting NVIDIA SLI and AMD CrossFireX for enhanced graphics capabilities, along with three PCIe 2.0 x1 slots and two PCI slots for additional hardware expansion.

Storage options are versatile with six SATA 6Gb/s ports, providing ample connectivity for hard drives and SSDs. The motherboard also includes a comprehensive array of I/O ports such as USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 for high-speed data transfer and connectivity. Networking is managed by an Intel Gigabit Ethernet controller, ensuring fast and reliable internet connectivity. Audio is delivered through an 8-channel HD audio codec, offering immersive sound quality.

The SABERTOOTH Z97 MARK 2 stands out with its TUF (The Ultimate Force) components, which provide enhanced durability and stability, including military-grade capacitors and MOSFETs. The motherboard features advanced thermal management with TUF Thermal Radar 2 technology for real-time monitoring and control over temperatures, ensuring optimal cooling performance. With its combination of reliability, performance, and comprehensive features, the ASUS SABERTOOTH Z97 MARK 2 is an ideal choice for users seeking a high-quality motherboard for gaming and professional applications.

ASUS SABERTOOTH Z97 MARK 2 Motherboard F.A.Q.

How do I update the BIOS on the ASUS SABERTOOTH Z97 MARK 2?

To update the BIOS, download the latest BIOS version from the ASUS support website. Save it to a USB drive, enter the BIOS setup during boot by pressing F2 or DEL, and use the EZ Flash Utility to select and update the BIOS from your USB drive.

What should I do if my system fails to boot after a BIOS update?

If the system fails to boot after a BIOS update, try clearing the CMOS by removing the battery for a few minutes or using the jumper method. Reinstall the battery, power on, and reconfigure the BIOS settings.

How can I enable XMP for my RAM on this motherboard?

Enter the BIOS setup by pressing F2 or DEL during startup, navigate to the AI Tweaker menu, and set the XMP profile for your RAM modules to enable enhanced memory performance.

What is the maximum RAM capacity supported by the ASUS SABERTOOTH Z97 MARK 2?

The ASUS SABERTOOTH Z97 MARK 2 motherboard supports up to 32GB of DDR3 RAM across its four DIMM slots.

How do I troubleshoot no display on boot with this motherboard?

Check all cable connections, ensure the monitor is on, try reseating the RAM and GPU, and reset the CMOS. If the problem persists, test with another monitor or GPU to isolate the issue.

Where can I find the fan control settings in the BIOS?

Fan control settings are located in the BIOS under the Monitor tab. You can configure fan profiles or set custom curves for optimal cooling performance.

Can I use an M.2 SSD with the ASUS SABERTOOTH Z97 MARK 2 motherboard?

Yes, the motherboard supports M.2 SSDs via the PCIe slot using an adapter, although it does not have a dedicated M.2 slot. Ensure compatibility with available PCIe lanes.

What are the steps to configure RAID on this motherboard?

Enter the BIOS and navigate to the Advanced menu, select SATA Configuration, and set it to RAID mode. Save and exit, then use the RAID configuration utility during boot to create your RAID array.

How can I enhance system cooling with the ASUS SABERTOOTH Z97 MARK 2?

Utilize the built-in thermal radar feature for real-time temperature monitoring and fan adjustments. Consider adding additional case fans or upgrading existing ones for better airflow.

Is it possible to overclock the CPU with this motherboard, and how?

Yes, overclocking is possible. Enter the BIOS, go to the AI Tweaker menu, and adjust the CPU multiplier and voltage settings. Monitor temperatures closely to ensure stability and prevent overheating.