ASUS Z87 Motherboards - Overview, Guides and Official Support

ASUS Z87 Motherboards Overview





We've prepared pics and videos to provide an overview of motherboard layouts and features at a glance. Stability test images have also been added for the boards, here's an intro to the testing by JJ:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fE2pD...ature=youtu.be







Mainstream Motherboards


Comprised of 7 models, the ASUS mainstream motherboard n(channel) line-up provides a set of features that aligns perfectly with the needs of the general/enthusiast PC user.

http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/3889/deluxedual.jpg





http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/4364/deluxeq.jpg



Z87-Deluxe video overview: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZeOlBvmwSE

http://img838.imageshack.us/img838/6...eluxeaida6.jpg Z87-Deluxe stability test at 4.8GHz DDR3-2400





http://img545.imageshack.us/img545/4046/expertn.jpg






http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/4306/proef.jpg


Z87-Pro video overview: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPpx9USEqXg




http://img43.imageshack.us/img43/2185/plusf.jpg


http://img854.imageshack.us/img854/7...87proaida6.jpg Z87-Plus stability test at 4.8GHz DDR3-2400






http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/5576/z87a.jpg


Z87-A overview video : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3dvBqXtRIQ

http://img832.imageshack.us/img832/7...87aaida64s.jpg Z87-A stability test at 4.8GHz DDR3-2400





http://img534.imageshack.us/img534/5633/z87c.jpg





The naming of models through the ASUS mainstream stack has changed from previous generations. Expert replaces EVO, while the -A and -C suffixes replace the LX and LE models. Altogether, this makes it easier for users to determine how boards place in the hierarchy.

For comparison purposes, the next two specification tables show how the boards differ in terms of features:


http://img842.imageshack.us/img842/246/z87features.jpg






Intel i217V LAN

The Z87-Plus upwards include Intel’s latest i217V Ethernet controller. The I217V offers improved processor off-loading while consuming 90% lower power than Intel’s previous generqation controllers. Expect a smoother experience during periods of high activity such as playing multiplayer games or when making large file transfers over a network.



802.11AC and 802.11N Dual Band Wi-Fi

At the upper-end, the Deluxe models now feature 802.11AC Wi-Fi, while dual-band 802.11N Wi-FI is included on all models from Pro to Expert. The Wi-Fi daughterboard is conveniently placed within the rear IO cluster – which avoids sacrificing a PCIe slot and keeps it away from areas of high heat (near graphics cards for example).

The Wi-Fi antenna has also been revised physically; incorporating two antennae within a single unit. This makes it easier to place and direct towards peers or clients. The module connectors have been upgraded to robust SMA fittings – which are more secure than clip-on types. Plus you can replace the antennae easily with readily available SMA based offerings if you wish to do so.



NFC Express


http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/4913/nfcexpress2.png


Bundled with the Z87-DELUXE/Dual and available as a separate accessory for ASUS 87 motherboards, NFC Express brings a new way to interact with your PC using either your NFC-enabled Smart devices or the included tags. By scanning your Smart Device or tag on the NFC Express module, the user can perform a variety of actions, from logging in and launching programs to transferring files, all with the simple wave of your Android-based Smart Device** or tag. In addition, though the NFC Express requires one USB 3.0 port, it provides two additional USB 3.0 ports in return, increasing versatility and usefulness of an already intuitive design.

Near-field communication (NFC) technology works by inductive coupling. The magnetic field of two NFC capable devices reacts when they are in proximity to one another (within 5 centimetres). These changes in the magnetic field convert into pulses within the sending or receiving device and then decoded to complete the NFC data exchange.







Quick note on Overclocking

For those of you interested in overclocking, rest assured every model in the mainstream line-up above the Z87-C is capable of pushing Haswell to maximum operating frequencies for everyday use. The power consumption of the Haswell processors is not very high. An 8 phase motherboard is perfectly adequate to supply Haswell with enough power for overclocking.




http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/374/asusfeatures.jpg


Mainstream motherboards feature cheatsheet



Common to the entire stack is an intuitive and easy to use UEFI, comprehensive AI Suite III software, and a slew of hardware features.





The Software Situation

AI Suite has been re-vamped to incorporate new features and a new layout to the GUI. Say hello to AI Suite III:



http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/882...3dashboard.png






CPU frequency, system voltages, temperatures and fan speed monitoring are now persistent at the lower edge of the AI Suite GUI. No need to click back and forth between tabs to monitor these items.


A total of 8 modules are available as part of the AI Suite III package (dependent on motherboard model):


4-Way Optimization

Wi-Fi Engine

Wi-FI Go!

NFC Express

USB BOOST

USB Charger+

Ai Charger+

USB BIOS Flashback



We still provide the option to select which of the modules to install; it is possible to customize the installation according to needs. AI Suite III is available on TUF and ROG motherboards as well.





4-Way Optimization





http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/882...3dashboard.png





The automated overclocking portion of AI Suite III has been enhanced; adding more functions and more control. Auto Tuning, EPU, DIGI+ Power and Fan Xpert II modules are now all part of the 4-way tuning process. A single click will optimize the system 4 ways (as the name implies).

If all four modules are selected, the entire process takes about 10 minutes to complete and is capable of providing a system overclock to around 95% of the processor’s frequency potential. On top of that, the system is optimized for power savings at idle-light loads by EPU, while all plugged in fans are calibrated by Fan Xpert II to ensure optimal speeds and noise levels in relation to system loading.

Individual modules of the 4-way process can be configured separately or manually if you prefer. And as pointed out earlier, there is the option to prioritize multiplier overclocking over BCLK overclocking (multiplier overclocking is default).

Auto-tuning writes overclocking settings back to UEFI. If you prefer manually tuning a system, running 4-way optimization first is a great starting point. More so the case when you’re unfamiliar with a platform and which parameters to adjust. Use the software to get the system overclocked, and then you can adjust parameters in UEFI to preference.

Other cool new features in AI Suite III:



http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/7581/tpu.png




In the TPU section, voltages can now be entered manually via the keyboard - you can type in the voltage instead of using the slider to make adjustments.





http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/74/epu.png






For EPU, we’ve added granular control of TDP limiting making possible to set the maximum power of the processor in 1W increments from 10 Watts to 67 Watts. Handy if building a low power file server or low-noise HTPC.







http://img547.imageshack.us/img547/6...usatapower.jpg




Add-on USB and SATA controllers can also be set to switch off when there are no devices attached or for hot-pluggable devices, helping to shave off that last few Watts of power consumption.






http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/6846/epuandtpu.jpg




EPU and TPU switches are also placed on the motherboard, negating the need to use AI Suite III if you prefer simple. All you need to do is slide the switch you wish to use while the system is powered off, then power the system on and let the EPU/TPU microcontrollers take care of the rest.

Obviously, using the hardware switches is more limiting than AI Suite III options, however, we’ve provided two stages to the hardware TPU overclock feature. Moving the slider to position one will over clock two cores to 4.3GHz, one core to 4.2GHz and the last core to 4.1GHz. If all four cores are loaded, the core frequency will cap at 4.1GHz. Setting the TPU slider to this position automatically applies the XMP profile for your memory as well – no need to enter UEFI at all!

Using position two results in a 4.25GHz overclock on all four cores. This profile is suitable for good aftermarket air coolers.

New UEFI Features

Since launch a few years ago, ASUS’s UEFI has become known for offering the smoothest user experience. With each platform release, we aim to improve this further by incorporating new features to make usage and functionality of UEFI even better.



Hot new additions to UEFI for Haswell


UEFI’s EZ mode is designed for those of us that want a simple interface without complications. We’ve added the ability to set the time/date, XMP memory options and select fan profiles directly from EZ-Mode instead of needing to enter the advanced mode to do so. While these aren’t huge changes, they make setting the system up easier than ever:



http://img593.imageshack.us/img593/4248/uefiezmode.png
EZ Mode – simple and intuitive system setup





Advanced mode has a few new additions, too:


http://img856.imageshack.us/img856/1...stmodified.png
Last Modified – check what was changed on the last system re-BOOT.


The Last Modified tab keeps a record of the previous changes to UEFI. Handy for tracking any unsuccessful changes to the system and especially useful if you changed a lot of things at once.






http://img46.imageshack.us/img46/1779/uefquicknote.png

Quick Note – scratchpad for keeping notes



Quick Note is an e-diary, you can now take notes of parameter changes when overclocking for reference later on.




http://img29.imageshack.us/img29/9616/myfavorites.jpg
My Favorites – Customizable UEFI!



One of the hot new UEFI features is the My Favorites page. Any settable function of UEFI can be added to the My Favorites page for convenience. The entire page can be populated with settings from different areas of UEFI, saving time when tuning a system.





http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/8792/shortcutsb.jpg




Adding a setting to the shortcuts menu is another way of making UEFI customizable. Right-click on any parameter to add it to the shortcut menu. Selecting the function in the shortcuts menu later takes us to the setting within UEFI directly, making navigation simpler and more efficient.





http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/6892/satarename.jpg
SATA port renaming…



Last but not least is the option to rename each of the SATA ports. When running multiple drives (especially if same model), it can be confusing to know which drive contains the OS or data. Simply rename the ports to reflect what each drive stores to avoid confusion in case it needs to be removed.

TUF Motherboards

Video overview: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEvU75Twh2c

Over the years the TUF series of motherboards has become known as the de-facto standard for users who want reliability above all else. That’s because the components, feature set and validation process of these motherboards is designed with that in mind – and it’s all backed by a 5 year warranty.


First up, the TUF mainstay Sabertooth, armed with Z87:

http://img694.imageshack.us/img694/6...ertoothz87.jpg




http://img837.imageshack.us/img837/4...toothtable.jpg

Z87 Sabertooth Features


http://img94.imageshack.us/img94/762...abertoothz.jpg Z87 Sabertooth stability test at 4.8GHz DDR3-2400



TUF Feature Rundown


TUF Armor has been modified with new venting to improve thermal dissipation in hot spots. Air is directed by vents to the back of the motherboard:


http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/207/tufarmor.jpg






Every IO port has dust covers, to help keep things tidy:



http://img28.imageshack.us/img28/7127/tufslotcovers.jpg
PCIe slot dust covers...




http://img593.imageshack.us/img593/3...ffortifier.jpg
The TUF Fortifier- bringing up the rear in style.


To improve motherboard rigidity and thermal dissipation, the Fortifier is placed at the back of the board. For those of you wondering, the Fortifier does not have any special PC case requirements – it’ll fit all cases that are suitable for an ATX motherboard.





TUF Components

TUF motherboards feature components that tolerate wider temperature ranges whilst providing longer lifespan. As an example: Conventional solid polymer capacitors used on motherboards are rated between -55C and +105C, in comparison the capacitors we’re using on TUF motherboards can tolerate temperatures between -70C and +125C. Rated lifespan of these capacitors is up to 5X higher than standard solid capacitors. We team these up with military spec certified MOSFETs and high efficiency chokes to ensure the on-board power delivery circuitry outlasts the lifespan of the platform.




Software - Thermal Radar 2

Tying this all together is attention to thermal control. Specialized software called Thermal Radar 2 rounds out the package to ensure system temps are under control in all circumstances. Thermal Radar II is part of the AI Suite III package and available for TUF motherboards only.

The Sabertooth provides you with no fewer than 8 fan headers. The primary CPU fan header can control both 3-pin and 4-pin fans, while all chassis fan headers will control 4-pin and 3-pin fans in DC mode (3 pin). The lower chassis fan headers are accompanied by thermistor inputs, which can be used with the supplied thermal probes to monitor the temperature of components or peripherals.



http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/7...hfanmarkup.jpg Eight fully controllable fan headers


Once fans and probes are setup, use Thermal Radar 2 to calibrate each fan:



http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/5...rmalradar1.jpg


http://img707.imageshack.us/img707/4...rmalradar2.jpg




Granular fan control – and it’s available for every on-board fan header:


http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/9728/thermalradar3.jpg
Set gradients for fan speed according to temps




http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/9...adarstatic.jpg Or set static RPM...



http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/447...arprofiles.jpg
Save your settings to profile or use presets

Many of you asked for a micro-ATX sized TUF board. The wait is over:


http://img802.imageshack.us/img802/2569/gryphon.jpg
The Z87 Gryphon ? Micro ATX done the TUF way?




http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/8962/gryphontable.jpg
Z87 Gryphon Features



Gryphon comes without the Fortifier and Thermal Armor, although they?re available to purchase as optional extras. Either way, there?s no compromise on component quality or software features. And it?s covered by a 5 year warranty just like the Sabertooth.

ROG Motherboards



The ROG line of motherboards are designed specifically for gamers and overclockers. Enhanced audio, cooling and gamer centric software are a few of the features available on ROG.

For die-hard overclockers, the Extreme series continues to lead the industry with innovative overclocking functions and hardware tweaks to squeeze every last ounce of performance from the platform.





http://img845.imageshack.us/img845/6508/m6ep.jpg

Maximus VI Extreme



Most of the features above are fairly self-explanatory. We’ll detail the ROG exclusive features below. Let’s start with the new OC Panel:




http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/4601/ocpanel.jpg
The new OC Panel


OC panel is a plug in device that provides external control and display of system temperatures, voltages and overclocking. It can be hand-held, stand on its own, or be mounted in the drive bay of a case:



http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/8...panelfront.jpg



OC Panel connects to the motherboard via a data cable, and needs one SATA power cable to function:



http://img547.imageshack.us/img547/7...connectors.jpg


Overview of available functions in “Normal Mode”:






http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/669...lfunctions.jpg



OC panel allows monitoring of system temperatures, speeds together with control of CPU Level-Up overclocking and fan profiles.


For extreme overclockers there’s a host of additional features:



http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/8...nelextreme.jpg



Subzero Sense: Provides a temperature readout for K-Type thermal probes. No need for an additional digital temperature monitor when using subzero forms of cooling.

VGA SMB: Connect your compatible graphics cards to the OC Panel via this header for hardware level control of GPU power functions such as Loadline, Switching Frequency, OCP and voltage. Compatible with CHIL buck controller based GPUs only.


VGA Hotwire: For GPU modders. Connect these headers to each of your GPUs for real-time voltage control.


Slow Mode: Down-clocks the CPU to minimum ratio. A helpful feature to use between benchmark runs and for saving screenshots when system stability may be an issue.


Pause Switch: Halts the system at the hardware level. Useful for heavy load benchmarks where the CPU or GPUs are heavily stressed. Allows the system to be paused so that temperatures can be better controlled during the benchmark.



Every Z87 ROG motherboard is compatible with the new OC Panel. However’ it is only bundled with the Maximus VI Extreme. It will be available to purchase separately for the Z87 Gene, Formula or Hero.




http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/5122/geney.jpg
Maximus VI Gene


Maximus VI Gene is back. New gaming oriented software and new hardware additions. We’ll get into the gaming oriented features a little later. It makes sense to cover the new mPCIE Combo II feature now, however.

NGFF Socket II: Is a new socket standard with PCIeX2 bandwidth. NGFF compatible SSDs can be used with this interface, meaning you can plug a NGFF SSD directly into this header on the board (sold separately) and use it as a cache drive to bolster system performance.

In previous generations the ROG line-up was comprised of three models – Gene, Formula and Extreme. Formula will come a little later, but there’s a new model that’s available at launch called Hero:


http://img801.imageshack.us/img801/5788/max6hero.jpg
Maximus VI Hero


Hero fills a void for an ATX size mid-range gaming board. It’s aimed at budget conscious gamers and that want ROG centric features as part of their new build – SupremeFX, GameFirst II and an overclocking oriented UEFI are all standard.


Maximus VI Hero video overview: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0rHUSQrljs


Gaming Features




SupremeFX


Gene, Formula and Hero have a specialized audio solution called SupremeFX. Based on Realtek’s latest ALC1150 chipset and the Cirrus Logic DAC, the ROG team has optimized the PCB layout of these boards by isolating layers and spacing sensitive traces away from other areas of the motherboard. Shielding is also utilized to minimize spurious noise from entering signal lines. High quality capacitors are used for power supply decoupling to minimize ripple and provide a low impedance at audio critical frequencies.

On the software side, the latest addition to the package is Sonic Radar:



http://img835.imageshack.us/img835/6910/sonicradar.jpg
The Sonic Radar GUI



Sonic Radar is a HUD that is useful in FPS games. It shows a visual representation of where sounds are coming from. The location of footsteps, gunshots, explosions and anything else is shown in the 360 degree HUD while gaming:

http://img802.imageshack.us/img802/4391/bf32l.jpg
BF3 – Sonic Radar showing direction of audio effects



The HUD can be made more transparent and its location on the screen changed. Sonic Radar very useful feature when gaming with stereo headsets, where surround effects are simulated and may not be easy to pinpoint.


On the subject of headsets, Perfect Voice has been added to improve the clarity of VOIP calls. It’s a software based filter that uses digital signal processing to remove noise pickup from your mic while making a call:



http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/2...rfectvoice.jpg
DSP helps reduce ambient noise for clearer comms


Perfect Voice works with any plug in microphone/headset to clean up voice transmission during calls.



ROG RAMDISK




With high density memory modules and kits becoming the norm, many of us have an abundance of free memory on our systems that never gets utilized. ROG RAM Disk has been coded to take advantage of that free space to help speed up the system.


http://img835.imageshack.us/img835/6672/ramdisk.jpg
ROG RAM Disk GUI


Unlike many free RAM drive tools, ROG RAM DISK has no size limitations – up to 80% of the free memory (not used by the OS) can be configured as a RAM drive.

To get you an idea of how fast a RAM drive is, check the screenshot below:


http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/3742/ramdiskperf.jpg
10000 MB/s sequential write speeds


Applications stored on ROG RAM DISK are written to hard storage (HHD/SSD) when the system is prompted for shutdown.



Of course, re-installing games to the RAM DISK would be a painful experience. That's why ROG RAM DISK has a feature know as Junction Mode.


http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/2...iskjuntion.jpg






Setting a junction point to a game folder allows critical game files to be transferred to the RAM DISK without interfering with the original installation. Just point the software at the game folder and it will take care of the rest. This way, critical files such as maps can be accessed directly from the RAM DISK, speeding up load times.





UEFI

ROG motherboards are known for having a comprehensive UEFI for overclocking. That hasn't changed for Z87, we’re providing more options than ever. Maximus VI Extreme UEFI pcitured - options will vary according to model.


http://img89.imageshack.us/img89/8862/roguefi1.jpg


http://img94.imageshack.us/img94/2751/roguefi2.jpg



The Maximus VI Extreme has lots of hardware settings available for tweakers. Many of these require on-board hardware to work – you won’t find these on other boards. This is stuff we tested extensively during platform development that helps to wring out the most from each CPU.

We’ve spent a lot of time refining parameters so that manual tuning isn't needed to get the most from the system. Manual tuning is of course still possible if manual tweaking is preferred.

The ROG boards have been tuned to work with all kinds of memory modules. There are more profile presets than ever before:



http://img703.imageshack.us/img703/6...yprofiles1.jpg



http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/7...yprofiles2.jpg



http://img7.imageshack.us/img7/5066/memoryprofiles3.jpg
LOADS of memory profiles




There’s multiple types of profile for each configuration and all popular DRAM ICs – and some unpopular ones, too!

To make things easier still, there’s a neat community resource known as ROG Exchange that works with our Z87 ROG motherboards that allows you to share UEFI profiles with friends.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=4OBzSefkiDw

If stuck with UEFI settings, ROG connect allows getting help from a friend who can share settings in a profile that can be downloaded and used by others.




SSD Secure Erase from UEFI


There’s more to ROG UEFI’s than overclocking, however. A neat n+1 feature of the ROG Z87 UEFI is that it incorporates a secure erase tool for SSDs.


http://img541.imageshack.us/img541/1979/secureerase.jpg

Supported SSDs can be secure erased directly from UEFI, restoring them to original performance levels easily.


Stability Tests:

http://img833.imageshack.us/img833/6...aximusviex.jpg Maximus VI Extreme stability test at 4.8GHz DDR3-2400




http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/3...aximusvihe.jpg
Maximus VI Hero stability test at 4.8GHz DDR3-2400




http://img809.imageshack.us/img809/3...aximusvige.jpg
Maximus VI Gene stability test at 4.8GHz DDR3-2400









Overclocking Guides/Videos for Z87 Motherboards:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=Jq3TE-1whi8

http://kylebennett.com/ASUS/OCingGuidev0.99.zip

Thanks for posting, Raja! :up:

I love that there's still a profile for Elpida Hyper... :)
What does "New Single-sided" refer to? Hynix MFR as well?

Ufff, long thread man! Maybe only liiiiitle things. ROG thread could be separate? There is many ROG fans.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Don_Dan

Thanks for posting, Raja! :up:

I love that there's still a profile for Elpida Hyper... :)
What does "New Single-sided" refer to? Hynix MFR as well?

---

Yes.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by FlanK3r

Ufff, long thread man! Maybe only liiiiitle things. ROG thread could be separate? There is many ROG fans.

---

True, but there is one Raja, and he wants to keep things in one thread :)

How is ASUS doing regarding IOMMU (Intel VT-d/AMD-Vi) support?

Depends on what the chipset supports. Past few years, most Vt-d features have been shifted over to Q series chipsets by Intel. We won't be claiming any pseudo support if the chipset does not fully support or pass all tests.

Not seeing the ROG boards for sale anywhere yet. Any idea when they will show up?

I'm running a Z87-Deluxe and seem to be experiencing some kind of BIOS/hardware incompatabilty(?) using the Intel yellow SATA ports and an OCZ Vertex2 SSD. The board doesn't seem to recognize the drive correctly... sometimes the drive doesn't even show up in UEFI. I wasn't successful at loading Windows either (kept getting bluescreens). However, the ASMedia brown SATA ports do work with the OCZ drive so I've been using those. I don't currently have access to my other hdd drives at this time and I haven't been able to do further troubleshooting on the native Intel ports.

Nice boards but the USB bug would bother me too much and waiting two or three months is not an option for me. I think I'm gonna take the 4770K back and decide whether I should get another Z77 config or step up to the X79 platform cause right now I need a 3-way SLI capable mobo...(boooo Intel)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by solofly

Nice boards but the USB bug would bother me too much and waiting two or three months is not an option for me. I think I'm gonna take the 4770K back and decide whether I should get another Z77 config or step up to the X79 platform cause right now I need a 3-way SLI capable mobo...(boooo Intel)

---

The C2 chipset stepping is due in July. The USB issue seems to be minor compared to the thermal and OC issues. It will take more than a chipset stepping to fix those.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by PolRoger

I'm running a Z87-Deluxe and seem to be experiencing some kind of BIOS/hardware incompatabilty(?) using the Intel yellow SATA ports and an OCZ Vertex2 SSD. The board doesn't seem to recognize the drive correctly... sometimes the drive doesn't even show up in UEFI. I wasn't successful at loading Windows either (kept getting bluescreens). However, the ASMedia brown SATA ports do work with the OCZ drive so I've been using those. I don't currently have access to my other hdd drives at this time and I haven't been able to do further troubleshooting on the native Intel ports.

---

I have this, Sandforce-based drives have issues with some BIOSes. Same issue was present on Z77 for me, but was fixed with BIOS updates. NOt all boards have this problem for me, only two out of 7 so far.

Not just an "ASUS issue".

That OC panel looks very nice :)
Nice boards ASUS !

Quote:

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Originally Posted by cadaveca

I have this, Sandforce-based drives have issues with some BIOSes. Same issue was present on Z77 for me, but was fixed with BIOS updates. NOt all boards have this problem for me, only two out of 7 so far.

Not just an "ASUS issue".

---

Some of these Sandforce controllers are non compliant with SATA spec for startup according to Intel. Not much we can do about that part, it makes their detection flaky.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by lochabar

Not seeing the ROG boards for sale anywhere yet. Any idea when they will show up?

---

North America is expecting shipment of boards this week. Other regions not sure as I only cover NA.

-Raja

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by solofly

Nice boards but the USB bug would bother me too much and waiting two or three months is not an option for me. I think I'm gonna take the 4770K back and decide whether I should get another Z77 config or step up to the X79 platform cause right now I need a 3-way SLI capable mobo...(boooo Intel)

---

The USB issue is only a minor wake up from sleep issue where the drive needs to be plugged back in if the system fell asleep with you streaming video AFAIK (innostar drives). If that does not affect you (as it won't most people), there's not much to be concerned about. That's why Intel released the chipset anyway. The usage scenario for desktops is a bit of a rarity..

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

Some of these Sandforce controllers are non compliant with SATA spec for startup according to Intel. Not much we can do about that part, it makes their detection flaky.

---

Such is life. It's only these older drives, so oh well. Secondary controllers sometimes or using USB 3.0 dock works just as well. :p

i got this Asus Z87-K
when I use USB 3 in io panel, freeze the system ...
there are 4 normal usb, i use 2 for CD drive and also 2 for mouse and keyboard, so only usb 3 back.. any fix for this ?

What devices are you plugging in (make/model) and which OS? Can't really offer any help with such limited information in your post.

sorry.. i use a usb stick one corsair voyger and one kingston GT R400, it freeze with both usb keys.. i use win 7, but its in bios it freeze, i use bios 0309

@Raja

In the BIOS of the Z87-Deluxe there are offset (+/-) voltage adjustments for both CPU Analog I/O and CPU Digital I/O... What are the nomimal default voltage starting points for these settings? There isn't a voltage display in BIOS present like there is for System Agent Voltage. I don't really like adjusting voltages without being able to determine just how much voltage I'm actually applying. :shrug: I'll most likely be getting one of the ROG boards once they become available.

I'll have to check the white papers for nominal values on those rails. Usually they are close to 1.05V or so (maybe less for this gen). You can set fully manual mode and see what the voltage defaults to as well. AI Suite III should show you the voltages. The auto rules are well defined and will track DRAM ratios for you, so you should not need to adjust manually anyway.


PS. ignore the 50mv rule for VCCIO-A to D in the OC guide, shammy jumped the gun on that.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Rosty

sorry.. i use a usb stick one corsair voyger and one kingston GT R400, it freeze with both usb keys.. i use win 7, but its in bios it freeze, i use bios 0309

---

I will report that back to HQ. Technically you should contact ASUS support for your region though, as I only cover NAmerica :)

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

I'll have to check the white papers for nominal values on those rails. Usually they are close to 1.05V or so (maybe less for this gen). You can set fully manual mode and see what the voltage defaults to as well. AI Suite III should show you the voltages. The auto rules are well defined and will track DRAM ratios for you, so you should not need to adjust manually anyway.


PS. ignore the 50mv rule for VCCIO-A to D in the OC guide, shammy jumped the gun on that.

---

CPU System Agent allows for full manual adjustment as well as offset (+/-) and it has a corrosponding voltage readout in BIOS and AI Suite III but CPU Analog I/O and CPU Digital I/O only allow for either auto or offset (+/-) and there is no readout in BIOS or AI Suite III? So you can leave it on Auto and wonder what it scales to as you explore Dram speeds/ratios or you are left to trial and error via + offset as you increase the + increments while pushing memory clocks.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

I will report that back to HQ. Technically you should contact ASUS support for your region though, as I only cover NAmerica :)

---

ok thank you

I feel your sarcasm. :P


In "fully manual mode" on that board I thought it allowed static setting of those two rails - like the M6E does. Most CPUs need no more than 1.15V-1.20V for that voltage (that's where the board will take it to on Auto when DRAM rations in excess of DDR3-2400 are used).

AI Suite III TPU section should show where the slider is at in fully manual mode IIRC. Don't have a Deluxe here with me, so flying blind. The best I can do for you is probe the M6E i have at defaults - and that won't be til tomorrow at some point now.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

I feel your sarcasm. :P

In "fully manual mode" on that board I thought it allowed static setting of those two rails - like the M6E does.

---

Well... I'm feeling somewhat like an idiot. ;)

I went back into BIOS and somehow I didn't see or rather missed the enable "fully manual mode" setting and was stuck with only seeing the offset (+/-) setting! Enabling that function does allow the static setting of those two rails. I set CPU S/A, CPU Analog I/O and CPU Digital I/O all to 1.15v and was able to complete a 32M at DDR3-2800. :up:



http://i695.photobucket.com/albums/v...ps4aa830d5.png

Very good :)

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Rosty

sorry.. i use a usb stick one corsair voyger and one kingston GT R400, it freeze with both usb keys.. i use win 7, but its in bios it freeze, i use bios 0309

---

Does it happen with either stick plugged in? Do you have XMP set for memory at all? Does this happen at board default settings.


In order for HQ to stand any chance of replicating this, I need this info.

Thanks
Raja

I would like to keep adaptive voltage, is there a way to set these I/O manually in adaptive mode? If not what is the starting point for the +/-? I dont know if Im blind or what but I dont see a reading for I/O in BIOS or in AIS3. AIS3 just shows the offset, for example if I add 0.15 it just shows .15 in AIS3 not the actual.

Im trying to stabilize memory at at least 2400 while keeping CPU at 4.9 but I dont know what is safe to try for i/o voltage offset. Cinebench stable I mean, not 32M.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by PolRoger

Well... I'm feeling somewhat like an idiot. ;)

I went back into BIOS and somehow I didn't see or rather missed the enable "fully manual mode" setting and was stuck with only seeing the offset (+/-) setting! Enabling that function does allow the static setting of those two rails. I set CPU S/A, CPU Analog I/O and CPU Digital I/O all to 1.15v and was able to complete a 32M at DDR3-2800. :up:

---

Zac, I'll probe the M6E and let you know the defaults today.

You should be able to do what pol did and set manual mode at default, Ai Suite III should have a slider for that voltage in TPU I think. From there you can work out what the base is before you start offsetting when back in adaptive mode...

Release dates for NA:

1) ROG Impact = July
2) Maximus VI Formula = July
3) Z87-WS = now

The New OC Panel, till what temperature can it read? Basic question being can it read LN2 temperatures reliably?

Yes it can. Shammy would not have put that feature on there otherwise - it IS for Ln2.

Quick test Hero 3000

http://imageshack.us/a/img443/7176/s...ot004jb.th.png

http://imageshack.us/a/img689/6987/s...ot005ki.th.png

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Eldonko

I would like to keep adaptive voltage, is there a way to set these I/O manually in adaptive mode? If not what is the starting point for the +/-? I dont know if Im blind or what but I dont see a reading for I/O in BIOS or in AIS3. AIS3 just shows the offset, for example if I add 0.15 it just shows .15 in AIS3 not the actual.

Im trying to stabilize memory at at least 2400 while keeping CPU at 4.9 but I dont know what is safe to try for i/o voltage offset. Cinebench stable I mean, not 32M.

---

Default IO-A is 1.03V while IO-D is 1.01V. IO-D will scale with CPU Core (CPU ring freq) to 1.12V when over 43X. At higher DRAM dividers Auto takes it to 1.15V or so (maybe more). Bottom line, running over 1.20V is probably not worth it on 24/7 systems. I would advise sticking with the auto rules most of the time anyway.

Is it possible to use OC Panel with Maximus VI Formula board?

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Dumo

Quick test Hero 3000

http://imageshack.us/a/img443/7176/s...ot004jb.th.png

http://imageshack.us/a/img689/6987/s...ot005ki.th.png

---

what's the max DDR voltage on this mobo - are this already available ?
Thanks

Is this board going to be available in the US been looking for any ROG boards nothing. I have used ROG for yrs maybe this time I will have to try Gigabyte, I feel like ASUS are pulling an EVGA lots of pics no product.

This is all I can find

Quote:

---

All three motherboards begin shipping 2 June. Pricing and availability vary by territory.

---

http://www.asus.com/us/News/p9ABRB4hx3b0W1fV

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

Depends on what the chipset supports. Past few years, most Vt-d features have been shifted over to Q series chipsets by Intel. We won't be claiming any pseudo support if the chipset does not fully support or pass all tests.

---

Got any more info regarding this? Intel themselves says that for VT-d you just need Processor and BIOS support, they say nothing about Chipset, check here. Intel claims VT-d support on many of their Desktop Motherboards using a wide range of Chipset for Sandy Bridge (H61, Q67, X79), Ivy Bridge (B75, H77, Q77, Z75, Z77) and Haswell (B85, Q87).

Other manufacturers are pumping out beta BIOSes to support this feature either with public availability or at request on Motherboards with a variety of non-Q Chipsets, but as far that I am aware, ASUS has the worst track record regarding support for this feature. While many ASUS Motherboards do have an option to enable/disable VT-d support in the BIOS, they got usually an incorrectly implemented DMAR tables for Intel platform or ACPI IVRS tables for AMD, so it can't be used. It is also prone to be broken with a BIOS upgrade, as on some Motherboards that did have it working, newer BIOSes broke them.

You may want to check into this issue, as ASUS DO have Motherboards claiming support yet not working. I'm holding back from purchasing a new ASUS Motherboard for Haswell until its guaranteed it will work with VT-d/AMD-Vi, as that is what they will be used for.

Contact your local support rep and see what they say. The info I gave you pertains to how it has been from HQ when I have asked for the past two gens. All 50 tests of vt-D would only work on Q series boards and not Z series.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by V I P E R

Is it possible to use OC Panel with Maximus VI Formula board?

---

Yes, all Z87 ROG boards have the header for OC Panel.

If someone want to see SSD Secure Erase from BIOS. I made short video :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1U8yxNFRSZg

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by XBrytanX

what's the max DDR voltage on this mobo

---

2.4V and 1.92V for cpu

Testing the Asus Z87-PRO is a lot of fun , I like this mid-range board a lot ,very stable board even at high clocks and subsero.
quick cinebench 11.5 at 5700Mhz on Cascade @ -108c
http://imageshack.us/a/img442/8185/cine2.jpg


http://imageshack.us/a/img442/8185/cine2.jpg

Nice :)

your chips seems good chipsy :).

@Raja@Asus:

I got Asus Z87-Pro. It came with BIOS revision 0801. According to your website first production version is 1007. Did I get production mainboard or an early review sample?

I am asking this because for the first time with an Asus board I am having a lot of problems with SATA controller on a fresh Windows 7 install -- my OCZ Vertex 2 was not showing up every time and when it did it was throwing disk and ntfs errors in the event log. SSD works fine in a USB to SATA enclosure and I updated its firmware and did secure erase just to make sure everything is up to date. Intel RST was giving me errors in the event log for that port where Vertex 2 is connected. Port number changed if I connected it to another port.

I also tried different cables and I finally reverted to Microsoft AHCI driver which seems to aleviate the issue.

However, now I am getting the following error in the event log:

Code:

---

atapi - The driver detected a controller error on \Device\Ide\IdePort0.

---

IDE port 0 is boot drive (OC Vertex 3 LP) which I also upgraded to latest firmware.

Every HDD/SSD I have in this build was working perfectly on my P8Z68-V Pro.

Moreover, I could not boot the computer with ICH set to RAID mode and SATA DVD attached -- this also worked on P8Z68-V Pro.

CPU is 4770K, and RAM is 16GB 1600Mhz CL9 Kingston HyperX kit which is on your QVL for this mainboard. Video card is Asus 680 GTX.

Short from imaging Windows to another HDD/SSD to rule out OCZ incompatibility as a source of problem, I am out of ideas what I can try to resolve this controller error and I am beginning to suspect a faulty motherboard.

Please help.

0801 is not pre production, that was the original build. Just update to the latest.


The issue you are getting with the SSD is known. The Sandofrce controlles are non-compliant and Intel have tightened up tolerances on Z87. You may need to upgrade your drive if SSD vendors or we cannot patch it. Sandforce's controllers have always been problematic, and this latest stuff with SATA detection compliance is another list of things that controller needs patches for. With the drives being as old as they are, anny SSD vendor we have approached is not interested in doing anything with them because they are now EOL.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by zir_blazer

Got any more info regarding this? Intel themselves says that for VT-d you just need Processor and BIOS support, they say nothing about Chipset, check here. Intel claims VT-d support on many of their Desktop Motherboards using a wide range of Chipset for Sandy Bridge (H61, Q67, X79), Ivy Bridge (B75, H77, Q77, Z75, Z77) and Haswell (B85, Q87).

Other manufacturers are pumping out beta BIOSes to support this feature either with public availability or at request on Motherboards with a variety of non-Q Chipsets, but as far that I am aware, ASUS has the worst track record regarding support for this feature. While many ASUS Motherboards do have an option to enable/disable VT-d support in the BIOS, they got usually an incorrectly implemented DMAR tables for Intel platform or ACPI IVRS tables for AMD, so it can't be used. It is also prone to be broken with a BIOS upgrade, as on some Motherboards that did have it working, newer BIOSes broke them.

You may want to check into this issue, as ASUS DO have Motherboards claiming support yet not working. I'm holding back from purchasing a new ASUS Motherboard for Haswell until its guaranteed it will work with VT-d/AMD-Vi, as that is what they will be used for.

---

You wont' get any guarantees it is working. You can take this as a guarantee that it doesn't:

http://ark.intel.com/products/75013/Intel-DH82Z87-PCH


Anyone claiming it is working is not being honest with you.

Thanks for the quick reply!

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

0801 is not pre production, that was the original build. Just update to the latest.

---

I already did, in an effort to solve the problem.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

The issue you are getting with the SSD is known. The Sandofrce controlles are non-compliant and Intel have tightened up tolerances on Z87. You may need to upgrade your drive if SSD vendors or we cannot patch it. Sandforce's controllers have always been problematic, and this latest stuff with SATA detection compliance is another list of things that controller needs patches for. With the drives being as old as they are, anny SSD vendor we have approached is not interested in doing anything with them because they are now EOL.

---

I was afraid you are going to say that... I heard about all the problems but I didn't have them on my P8Z68-V Pro so I was hoping it will work with Z87-Pro as well.

Can you please recommend a few SSD drives that are known to be compatible with Asus Z87-Pro?

All of the newer drives should be fine AFAIK..

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

All of the newer drives should be fine AFAIK..

---

Does ASUS have QVL for SSD?

If not, please cosider making one because what we know about new chipsets and new SSDs will always be considerably less than what your engineers know.

After spending $640 on this upgrade I would really like to avoid buying an incompatible SSD, not to mention the hassle of repeated OS reinstalls.

Another thing I need to know is whether SATA DVD are also problematic with Z87? Should I connect it to ASMedia perhaps?

Also, a few questions about BIOS:

1. Is it possible to have UEFI enabled and Secure Boot disabled? If so, how?
2. If boot is enabled only for Windows UEFI and other storage devices disabled or set to ignore why is DVD still accessed during POST?
3. Is there a more detailed documentation available for BIOS options? Many terms are not explained and those that are explained are not explained very well so it is hard to understand what they do.

Finally, a suggestion if I may:
1. When flashing BIOS from EZ Flash wording is awkward -- it asks "Do you want to read this file?" and if I answer YES it immediately proceeds with flashing. I was expecting another confirmation after the file is read. Maybe you should change the question to "Do you want to flash this file?"

There is a QVL for SSDs yes.


Not that I know of. If your DVD drive worked before it should now.

As for the questions:


1) Why do you want to do this? I've never tried it. Try it and see what happens.

2) Not sure, I wouldn't worry about it (likely detection purposes).

3) Which terms specifically?



EZ flash prompts twice before flashing (point at file once, then final confirm). It's enough.


If you have any more support queries please contact your local ASUS office. I only cover NA users - I am not global support.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

If you have any more support queries please contact your local ASUS office. I only cover NA users - I am not global support.

---

Sorry to bother you then but my local Asus office can only give out marketing phrases, not support :)

I am asking you because there is a high probability you know this stuff, Z87 boards and their settings are so new that nobody has any experience with it yet.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

There is a QVL for SSDs yes.

---

Nice, where can I see it?

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

1) Why do you want to do this?

---

Because I use Windows 7 in UEFI mode and Windows 7 does not use secure boot? Maybe it does not matter?

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

Which terms specifically?

---

- Dynamic Storage Accelerator (mentions power states but not what and how it does)
- Two other new Intel tech (can't remember names now, disabled by default)
- Asus Multicore enhancement
- Everything in DIGI+ power control
- Everything in CPU power management
- HW Fast boot

A lot of options have useless help in the form of "XYZ -- Controls XYZ, values can be Enabled or Disabled, default is Enabled" without telling you what is it for or at least what each setting does when set to Enalbed or Disabled.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

EZ flash prompts twice before flashing. It's enough.

---

Umm... no, it just asked if I want to read the file and when I said yes it worked for a while then said "flashing completed successfully". I am pretty tired at this point but I think I would notice the other prompt.

Finally, why it is not possible to disable Intel AMT / MEI?

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by audiofreak

Nice, where can I see it?



Because I use Windows 7 in UEFI mode and Windows 7 does not use secure boot? Maybe it does not matter?



- Dynamic Storage Accelerator (mentions power states but not what and how it does)
- Two other new Intel tech (can't remember names now, disabled by default)
- Asus Multicore enhancement
- Everything in DIGI+ power control
- Everything in CPU power management
- HW Fast boot

A lot of options have useless help in the form of "XYZ -- Controls XYZ, values can be Enabled or Disabled, default is Enabled" without telling you what is it for or at least what each setting does when set to Enalbed or Disabled.



Umm... no, it just asked if I want to read the file and when I said yes it worked for a while then said "flashing completed successfully". I am pretty tired at this point but I think I would notice the other prompt.

Finally, why it is not possible to disable Intel AMT / MEI?

---

1 On the ASUS support page. If not up now they will be soon.

2 Dont think it matters

3. Some C-States have impact on SATA performance.
Multcore enhance clocks all cores at turbo frequency instead of Intel default turbo policy.
Go to ROG forums and read my OC guides for DIGI+ section (older guides have the info). You don't need to adjust though, leave at auto.

For everything in CPU Management Read up on C-State tech (power gating of various sections of CPU). The rest is pretty easy to work out if you read the name. And you dont really need to change anything in there. Anything disabled or enabled is done so either for power saving, performance or thermal reasons.

HW FAST BOOT enables UEFI fast boot feature with compatible GPUs etc to reduce BOOT times.


MEI is needed by the platform for various things from POST routines to access for temperature and on the fly changes. Can't be "disabled", would not work.


My flashing never does what your does. You might have pressed enter twice. And you wanted to flash right? Otherwise why were you even in the EZ flash section? I always get prompted to read the file and then to update UEFI. That's more than enough in my book. No need for any more than that so I won't be suggesting any changes to the process.



Rest of your questions please direct at your local support.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

MEI is needed by the platform for various things from POST routines to access for temperature and on the fly changes. Can't be "disabled", would not work.

---

With MEI drivers all of the following gets installed:

Code:

---

1. Intel? Management Engine Interface
2. Intel? Dynamic Application Loader
3. Intel? Identity Protection Technology (Intel? IPT)
4. Local Management Service

---

Apart from the first one which is necessary, I am almost sure I don't need any of the other three.

Intel AMT is a business oriented feature, not to mention it has nothing to do with overclocking from Windows and can pose a security risk if left enabled without being properly configured and accounted for because it enables REMOTE management of the PC through an out of band network communication. That is what I meant when I asked why I cannot disable it, sorry if my wording was not clear but I am really tired.

I have also noticed that some of those components do not uninstall properly (errors in the event log keep showing even after uninstall).

I would really appreciate to be able to install just the driver for MEI (no services, no applications) like I was doing with Z68 and also drivers only for AMDA00 (ACPI\PNP0A0A device) to remove the "Unknown device" from the Device Management because I am not using any of the Asus provided applications for on the fly tweaking.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

My flashing never does what your does. You might have pressed enter twice.

---

You know, maybe I did.

But still, even if I did accidentally hit Enter twice the important and basic rule of user interface programming is that before every critical user input you flush the keyboard buffer to be sure that cat didn't walk over the keyboard or that the user did not accidentally press same key more than once which can also happen if the key contacts bounce or if the repeat rate is too fast.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

And you wanted to flash right?

---

Sure, but I wanted to check version and checksum, or maybe get a chance to dump existing BIOS first. Next time I will do it from DOS using BUPDATER -- lesson learned.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

That's more than enough in my book. No need for any more than that so I won't be suggesting any changes to the process.

---

I agree that two prompts are enough, but you may still suggest them to add a keyboard buffer flush before second prompt.

Thanks the info and the patience, I am going to get Samsung 840 Pro 256GB to replace OCZ Vertex 2 and 3 which I have now.

I will post how it works later in the evening.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by audiofreak

I am going to get Samsung 840 Pro 256GB to replace OCZ Vertex 2 and 3 which I have now.

---

There is no Z87 compatibility issue with the Vertex 3.

@Raja

What is the purpose/function of the ASUS Mini Bar ribbon in the new AI Suite III? :shrug:

It seems rather useless and I always have to right click on the AI Suite III icon to disable it.

http://i695.photobucket.com/albums/v...ps355a9ff7.png

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Praz

There is no Z87 compatibility issue with the Vertex 3.

---

Well, I am having controller errors on the port the drive is connected to whenever there is disk activity.

I hope it is not the board... we will see in one hour.

If someone wants to install MEI without other services the command to run is:

Code:

---

setup.exe -drvonly

---

It's a mini bar. If you don't need it disable it. :)

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by PolRoger

@Raja

What is the purpose/function of the ASUS Mini Bar ribbon in the new AI Suite III? :shrug:

It seems rather useless and I always have to right click on the AI Suite III icon to disable it.

http://i695.photobucket.com/albums/v...ps355a9ff7.png

---

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by audiofreak

With MEI drivers all of the following gets installed:

Code:

---

1. Intel? Management Engine Interface
2. Intel? Dynamic Application Loader
3. Intel? Identity Protection Technology (Intel? IPT)
4. Local Management Service

---

Apart from the first one which is necessary, I am almost sure I don't need any of the other three.

Intel AMT is a business oriented feature, not to mention it has nothing to do with overclocking from Windows and can pose a security risk if left enabled without being properly configured and accounted for because it enables REMOTE management of the PC through an out of band network communication. That is what I meant when I asked why I cannot disable it, sorry if my wording was not clear but I am really tired.

I have also noticed that some of those components do not uninstall properly (errors in the event log keep showing even after uninstall).

I would really appreciate to be able to install just the driver for MEI (no services, no applications) like I was doing with Z68 and also drivers only for AMDA00 (ACPI\PNP0A0A device) to remove the "Unknown device" from the Device Management because I am not using any of the Asus provided applications for on the fly tweaking.

---

Too many custom needs for me to get involved in. Not going to suggest this kind of stuff sorry. Would rather focus our resources on making sure things work rather than getting into the nitty gritty of individual installation needs.


AS for your buffer suggestion I am just going to chock that up to you being overly tired. You didn't even know the file prompts twice and it doesn't happen that fast. You are getting overly worried about nothing.


Any more suggestions for improvements or your personal needs, its up to your local support. You can tell them whatever you need - it's their job to help you. I have enough to cover without taking on everybody else's work for them so it's my last response about all of this. There's only so much time I have on my hands for work outside our region. Thanks

Enjoy your board. Take a rest if you're tired. Hope everything goes well for you. :)

-Raja

Any news when memtweakit will be able to change timings real-time?

Not sure. It's been like that for a while and I thought they'd have opened it by now. Only Intel knows.

Guess the change comes with updated MEI firmware :(

Raja, what cooling setup was used in the stability testing shown? Thank you.

@ Raja

The ASUS Mini Bar...

Is it supposed to do something? There seems to be no user functionality other then to remind myself that I'm currently "flying" with the high performance plane (icon) setting in AI Suite III. :shrug: When I try to click on it nothing happens? I can click on the little white triangle and the ribbon will shrink over and hide to the right side of the screen. It seems pretty pointless unless I'm missing something? I can't even find a way to permanently disable it from loading... I have click the little check mark every time I reboot?

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Chickenfeed

Raja, what cooling setup was used in the stability testing shown? Thank you.

---

Koolance aio water cooler. Ex2-1055

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by PolRoger

@ Raja

The ASUS Mini Bar...

Is it supposed to do something? There seems to be no user functionality other then to remind myself that I'm currently "flying" with the high performance plane (icon) setting in AI Suite III. :shrug: When I try to click on it nothing happens? I can click on the little white triangle and the ribbon will shrink over and hide to the right side of the screen. It seems pretty pointless unless I'm missing something? I can't even find a way to permanently disable it from loading... I have click the little check mark every time I reboot?

---

Those are power saving and oc profiles. If you are oc already probably won't work. Not sure on why it's not holding your settings. Will ask hq

Mem clocking of PSC and BBSE kits seems to be hard on MVIE or IMC

PSC @ 2400 7-11-7-1T @ 1.9v, 2500 or 2600 8-12-8 no POST
http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/9479/24007117.jpg

3770K + MVE could do 2500 7-11-7 and 2600 8-12-8

BBSE @ 2400 8-11-7-2T @ 1.9v, 1T or 2500 not POST
http://img844.imageshack.us/img844/3...008117212t.jpg

3770K + MVE could do 2500 8-11-7

Also, noticed that ASUS doesn't included LucidLogix Virtu app in their MVIE package and no Thunderbolt port as compared to MVE. You have to pay for the latest Lucid app or use the older available at MVE download support website

Looks like they change the TB port to header/connector at the bottom of the board.
On MVE:
http://www.guru3d.com/miraserver/ima...r/IMG_6654.jpg

The MVIE is a smaller board as compared to previous Extreme's.

MVIE-Z: Extended ATX: 12 inch x 10.6 inch ( 30.5 cm x 26.9 cm )
MVE: Extended ATX: 12.0 inch x 10.7 inch ( 30.5 cm x 27.2 cm )
MVIE: ATX: 12 inch x 9.6 inch ( 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm )

Smaller width means on multi graphics cards setup it is gonna be harder to push in and pull out the SATA cables since the cards will cover SATA ports.

M6E air mem

BBSE

http://img546.imageshack.us/img546/5455/4770kbbse1.png


Samsung

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/7...nshot006nn.png


MFR SS

http://img109.imageshack.us/img109/9329/z3000mfr32m.png


MFR 3100

http://img546.imageshack.us/img546/993/3100z.png

I think, it could be IMC...I tested 2 chips, one ES and one retail. Reatils is worse at IMC with the same kits (around 100-120 MHz).

@Raja@ASUS:

Asus Z87-Pro BIOS 1007 BUG

When you have Gemalto USB smart card reader connected to USB 3.0 port on the board backplate and a Gemalto .NET smart card inserted the system hangs at POST and won't continue until smart card is removed from the reader. If you remove the card it continues with booting.

Please fix.

@Raja@ASUS:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Intel Corporation

Intel? Active Management Technology
Intel Active Management Technology is included with desktop boards intended for corporate environments. This technology is a hardware-based solution that uses out-of-band communication for system management access to client systems. Even with a crashed hard drive, a locked operating system, or if a system is turned off, access is still available to the client system to perform basic management tasks.

To disable Intel Active Management Technology:

Enter BIOS Setup by pressing [F2] during boot.
Go to the Intel ME menu.
Set Manageability Feature to None.
Exit and save changes [F10].

---

Other board manufacturers allow disabling Intel AMT in BIOS.

Please provide a BIOS option to disable Intel AMT on Z87 boards.

Such feature doesn't make sense on an enthusiast/overclocker board anyway.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by FlanK3r

I think, it could be IMC...I tested 2 chips, one ES and one retail. Reatils is worse at IMC with the same kits (around 100-120 MHz).

---

Yes, IMC or settings issue.

Pretty pleased with the Z87 Pro (nice bios )-can someone point me to latest ,greatest betas ,Thank you
I was having trouble installing XP on previous-original bioses the board came with ,any idea (IDE native or legacy same results) ?

Latest greatest beats? 1007 is the latest UEFI build if that's what you mean..

@ Raja,sorry ..I meant beta bioses ,probably jumped the gun since this motherboards just came out,I figured you would post them here in "Official Support" thread
I apologize for the typo

You are correct, if I have new builds I will post them here. I don't have any yet, which is why nothing has been posted yet :)

latest build is 3009

Same as 1007 but with multi core enhanced enabled by default. :-)

no Problem but tell the users that 3009 is the latest NOT 1007

thx

Nope they both came out cos some people wanted MCE enabled by default and some didnt. So nothing to tell on what is latest. This has nothing to do with release date and everything to do with the difference between the two builds being MCE only at stock. Going by the word latest implies the timeline is relevant when its not.Thanks.

thats not my mind sorry Raja
when a user asking me whats the latest bios i tell 3009
you have the great Option to work by asus and see your internal bios changelogs i see them NOT
so i see a upper build then 1007 nothing more


the the latest bios for me and all others are 3009


THX

This Gryphon Z87 looks like it was made for me. I love high quality parts and mATX. However, I would like to have the upgraded sound. Hoping for that next time. I'm currently running the V Gene because of this.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Fire4Wire

thats not my mind sorry Raja
when a user asking me whats the latest bios i tell 3009
you have the great Option to work by asus and see your internal bios changelogs i see them NOT
so i see a upper build then 1007 nothing more


the the latest bios for me and all others are 3009


THX

---

You were the one that asked me to say latest and I told you what it was. If you choose to say latest regardless that's up to you :-)


To clarify my position:I'm not going to tell users to flash a build just for MCE at default. Thanks for the feedback anyway. Take care.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Raja@ASUS

I'm not going to tell users to flash a build just for MCE at default.

---

+1.


MCE = Multi-Core Enhancement. That's all the BIOS was for. Just change option in BIOS, you get the same thing. No reason for it to be released, even.

once again

for me as an non asus worker the latest bios is 3009

why??

the build date is newer then 1007 and the build number is higher then 1007

Point!!

what changes bios 3009 has only ASUS knows and for me as an normal user 3009 is latest

Point


hope you understand my mind

I don't, but let's move on from this. Thanks.

Raja - my asus utility says my 4670K is priming at 30 degrees .... is this monitoring the wrong temp? Or is it a temp sensor in the socket?

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Fire4Wire

once again

for me as an non asus worker the latest bios is 3009

why??

the build date is newer then 1007 and the build number is higher then 1007

Point!!

what changes bios 3009 has only ASUS knows and for me as an normal user 3009 is latest

Point


hope you understand my mind

---

I think you should take note of the previous post just above your last post - this really seems to be a non issue.
On the other side of the coin it would be nice if Asus always posted a complete changelog for each bios release so that we all know
relevant info. Keep pestering Raja on this issue is pointless - he is a busy person, who no doubt has more people to help than time available.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by aussie-revhead

Raja - my asus utility says my 4670K is priming at 30 degrees .... is this monitoring the wrong temp? Or is it a temp sensor in the socket?

---

That's the temp reported to PECI for fan control. Ignore that. The third part tools are a better idea for core temp monitoring. If you do use them though, just disable all the AI SUite III sensors to avoid polling errors if you use both at the same time.

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