Motherboard Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA
E11776 First Edition June 2016 Copyright © 2016 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).
Contents Safety information....................................................................................... iv About this guide.......................................................................................... iv Package contents........................................................................................ vi Z170 PRO GAMING / AURA specifications summary............................... vi Chapter 1 Product introduction 1.1 Before you proceed.......................................
Safety information Electrical safety • To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system. • When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
Where to find more information Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates. 1. ASUS websites The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information. 2. Optional documentation Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.
Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items. Motherboard ASUS Gaming Motherboard – Z170 PRO GAMING / AURA Cables 4 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables Accessories 1 x I/O Shield 1 x ROG SLI bridge connector 1 x PRO GAMING cable labels 1 x M.2 screw package 1 x CPU installation tool 1 x pack of cable tie 1 x 3D printing mount package Application DVD Support DVD Documentation User Guide If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
Z170 PRO GAMING / AURA specifications summary Multi-GPU Support Supports NVIDIA® 2-Way/Quad-GPU SLI™ Technology Supports AMD® 3-Way/Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology SupremeFX 8-Channel High Definition Audio CODEC - Supports Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, and Front Panel MIC Jack-retasking - High quality 115dB SNR stereo playback output Audio Audio Features: - SupremeFX Shielding™ Technology - Headphone AMP - Sonic Radar II - Optical S/PDIF out port at back panel Storage Intel® Z170 Chipset with RAID 0
Z170 PRO GAMING / AURA specifications summary EPU - EPU TPU - Auto Tuning, TurboV, GPU Boost Fan Xpert 3 featuring Fan Auto Tuning function and multiple thermistors selection for optimized system cooling control RAMCache Media Streamer - Pipe music or movies from your PC to a smart TV, your entertainment goes wherever you go! - Media Streamer app for portable smartphone/tablet, supporting iOS 7 & Android 4.
Z170 PRO GAMING / AURA specifications summary 1 x 19-pin USB 3.0 / 2.0 connector support additional 2 USB 3.0 / 2.0 ports 3 x USB 2.0 / 1.1 connectors support additional 6 USB 2.0 / 1.1 ports (One connector shares with the ROG_EXT connector) 1 x System panel connector 1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP) 6 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (gray) 1 x M.
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Product introduction 1.1 Before you proceed 1 Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. 1.2 • Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. • Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due to static electricity. • Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
Place this side towards the rear of the chassis 1.2.3 Motherboard layout 1 2 3 2 4 5 24.4cm(9.6in) KBMS _USB1314 CPU_FAN EATX12V 6 RGBLED CPU_OPT DP HDMI DIGI +VRM BOOT_DEVICE_LED VGA_LED AUDIO CHA_FAN1 23 30.5cm(12in) EATXPWR 1 2 USB3_12 ASM 1142 CPU_LED CHA_FAN3 ASM 1542 DDR4 DIMM_B2 (64bit, 288-pin module) USB3.1_EC1 LAN_USB3.
1.2.4 Layout contents Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED 1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin ATX12V) 2. CPU, CPU optional, extension, and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CPU_OPT, 5-pin EXT_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN1~3) 3. Intel® LGA1151 CPU socket 4. DDR4 DIMM slots 5. Q LEDs (BOOT_DEVICE_LED, VGA_LED, DRAM_LED, CPU_LED) 6. RGB LED 7. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_12) 8. Intel® Z170 Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connector (7-pin SATA6G_1~6) 9. M.2 Socket 3 10.
Unplug all power cables before installing the CPU. 1.3.1 • Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for the LGA1151 socket only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA1150, LGA1155 and LGA1156 sockets on the LGA1151 socket. • Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on the socket and the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard components.
Bottom of CPU Bottom of CPU Top of CPU ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-5
WARNING! 1.3.2 • Ensure that the CPU is firmly clicked into place before installing it onto the CPU socket on the motherboard. • Use the CPU Installation Tool for installing the CPU only. DO NOT damage or bend the CPU Installation Tool. • Always firmly hold both sides of the CPU Installation Tool when installing, removing, or picking up the CPU Installation Tool.
3 4 To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly 1 2 A B B A ASUS Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-7
1.4 System memory 1.4.1 Overview This motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 4 (DDR4) Dual Inline Memory Module (DIMM) sockets. A DDR4 module is notched differently from a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 module. DO NOT install a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 memory module to the DDR4 slot. DIMM_B1 DIMM_B2 DIMM_A1 DIMM_A2 According to Intel® CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65 V is recommended to protect the CPU. Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA 288-pin DDR4 DIMM sockets 1.4.
• You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation. • According to Intel® CPU spec, DIMM voltage below 1.65V is recommended to protect the CPU.
1.4.
1.5 Expansion slots In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub‑sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support. Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. 1.5.1 Installing an expansion card To install an expansion card: 1.
VGA configuration PCI Express operating mode PCIe 3.0 x16_1 PCIe 3.0 x16_2 PCIe 3.0 x16_3 Single VGA/PCIe card x16 (Recommended for single VGA card) N/A N/A Dual VGA/PCIe cards x8 x8 N/A Triple VGA/PCIe cards x8 x8 x4 • In single VGA card mode, use the PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot for a PCI Express x16 graphics card to get better performance. • We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running SLI™ or CrossFireX™ mode. See page 1-19 for details.
1.6 1. Headers / Jumpers / Holes Clear RTC RAM (2-pin CLRTC) This header allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords. +3V_BAT GND CLRTC PIN 1 Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA Clear RTC RAM To erase the RTC RAM: 1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2.
2. CPU Over Voltage jumper (3-pin CPU_OV) The CPU Over Voltage jumper allows you to set a higher CPU voltage for a flexible overclocking system, depending on the type of the installed CPU. To gain more CPU voltage setting, insert the jumper to pins 2-3. To go back to its default CPU voltage setting, insert the jumper to pins 1-2. 1 2 CPU_OV Disable (default setting) 2 3 Enable Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA CPU_OV setting 3.
1.7 Connectors 1.7.1 Rear panel connectors 1 2 3 16 15 14 4 13 5 6 7 8 12 11 10 9 1. PS/2 Mouse/Keyboard combo port. This port connects to a PS/2 mouse or PS/2 keyboard. 2. DisplayPort. This port is for a DisplayPort-compatible devices. 3. Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port. This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor or other VGA-compatible devices. 4. LAN (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub.
Audio 2, 4.1, 5.1, or 7.1-channel configuration Headset 2-channel Line In Line Out Mic In – – Port Light Blue Lime Pink Orange Black 4.1-channel 5.1-channel 7.1-channel Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In – Rear Speaker Out Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In Center/Subwoofer Rear Speaker Out Side Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Mic In Center/Subwoofer Rear Speaker Out 10. Optical S/PDIF out port.
1.7.2 1. Internal connectors Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM) This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. PIN 1 DCD TXD GND RTS RI RXD DTR DSR CTS COM Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA Serial port (COM) connector The COM module is purchased separately. 2.
3. CPU, CPU optional, extension, and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 5-pin EXT_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN1~3) Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.
4. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin ATX12V) These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.
6. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) NC AGND NC NC SENSE2_RETUR AGND NC SENSE1_RETUR This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector.
8. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_12) This connector allows you to connect a USB 3.0 module for additional USB 3.0 front or rear panel ports. With an installed USB 3.0 module, you can enjoy all the benefits of USB 3.0 including faster data transfer speeds of up to 5 Gbps, faster charging time for USB-chargeable devices, optimized power efficiency, and backward compatibility with USB 2.0.
9. Intel® Z170 Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s connector (7-pin SATA6G_1~6) This connector connects to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s signal cables. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configuration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® Z170 chipset.
10. System panel connector (20-5 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. PANEL +HDD_LED- RESET PLED- HDD_LED+ HDD_LEDGND RSTCON# NC PLED+ PIN 1 SPEAKER +5V GND GND Speaker PWR_SW PLED+ PLEDPWRBTN# GND +PWR_LED- +PWR_LED- * Requires an ATX power supply Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA System panel connector • System power LED (2-pin +PWR_LED-) This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector.
11. M.2 socket 3 This socket allows you to install an M.2 (NGFF) SSD module. M.2(SOCKET3) 22110 2280 2260 2242 Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA M.2(SOCKET3) 12. • This socket supports M Key and type 2242/2260/2280/22110 storage devices. • The M.2 (NGFF) SSD module is purchased separately. • When the M.2 Socket 3 is operating in SATA mode, SATA port 1 will be disabled. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112) These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports.
1.8 1. Onboard LED Standby Power LED (SB_PWR) The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED. SB_PWR ON Standby Power OFF Powered Off Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA Onboard LED 2.
3. Q LEDs (BOOT_DEVICE_LED, VGA_LED, DRAM_LED, CPU_LED) Q LEDs check key components (CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and booting devices) in sequence during motherboard booting process. If an error is found, the corresponding LED remains lit until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitive way to locate the root problem within seconds. BOOT_DEVICE_LED VGA_LED DRAM_LED CPU_LED Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA CPU/DRAM/ BOOT_DEVICE/VGA LED 4.
1.9 1.9.1 Software support Installing an operating system This motherboard supports Windows® 7 (32-bit / 64-bit), Windows® 8.1 (64-bit) and Windows® 10 (64-bit) Operating Systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware. Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Refer to your OS documentation for detailed information. 1.9.
1-28 Chapter 1: Product introduction
BIOS information 2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS 2 Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a USB flash disk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update utility. 2.1.1 EZ Update EZ Update is a utility that allows you to automatically update your motherboard’s softwares, drivers and the BIOS version easily. With this utlity, you can also manually update the saved BIOS and select a boot logo when the system goes into POST.
2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 3 The ASUS EZ Flash 3 feature allows you to update the BIOS without using an OS‑based utility. • Ensure that you load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 2.10 Exit Menu for details. • Check your Internet connection before updating the BIOS via the Internet. To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 3: 1. Enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS setup program.
2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive that contains the updated BIOS file. • Before using this utility, rename the BIOS file in the removable device into Z17PGAUR.CAP. • The BIOS file in the support DVD may not be the latest version.
Booting the system in DOS environment To boot the system in DOS: 1. Insert the USB flash drive with the latest BIOS file and BIOS Updater to the USB port. 2. Boot your computer then press to launch the select boot device screen. 3. When the select boot device screen appears, insert the Support DVD into the optical drive then select the optical drive as the boot device.
ASUSTeK BIOS Updater for DOS V1.30 [2014/01/01] Current ROM BOARD: Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA VER: 0306 (H :00 B :00) DATE: 06/08/2016 PATH: Drives panel Update ROM BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown C:\ C: D: FORMAN~1 Z17PGAUR.CAP
16779264 2016-06-08 21:14:34 Files panel Note [Enter] Select or Load [Up/Down/Home/End] Move [Tab] Switch [Esc] Exit [V] Drive Info 3.2.2 BIOS setup program Use the BIOS Setup program to update the BIOS or configure its parameters. The BIOS screens include navigation keys and brief online help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup program. Entering BIOS Setup at startup To enter BIOS Setup at startup: Press or during the Power-On Self Test (POST). If you do not press or , POST continues with its routines. Entering BIOS Setup after POST To enter BIOS Setup after POST: Press ++ simultaneously.
2.2.1 EZ Mode By default, the EZ Mode screen appears when you enter the BIOS setup program. The EZ Mode provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to select the display language, system performance mode, fan profile and boot device priority. To access the Advanced Mode, click Advanced Mode(F7) or press . The default screen for entering the BIOS setup program can be changed. Refer to the Setup Mode item in section 2.8 Boot menu for details.
2.2.2 Advanced Mode The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to configure the BIOS settings. The figure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the following sections for the detailed configurations. To access the EZ Mode, click EzMode(F7) or press .
Menu bar The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items: My Favorites For saving the frequently-used system settings and configuration Main For changing the basic system configuration Ai Tweaker For changing the overclocking settings Advanced For changing the advanced system settings Monitor For displaying the system temperature, power status, and changing the fan settings Boot For changing the system boot configuration Tool For configuring options for special functions Exit F
Quick Note (F9) This button above the menu bar allows you to key in notes of the activities that you have done in BIOS. • The Quick Note function does not support the following keyboard functions: delete, cut, copy and paste. • You can only use the alphanumeric characters to enter your notes. Hot keys This button above the menu bar contains the navigation keys for the BIOS setup program. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings.
2.2.3 QFan Control The QFan Control allows you to set a fan profile or manually configure the operating speed of your CPU and chassis fans.
Configuring fans manually Select Manual from the list of profiles to manually configure your fans’ operating speed. Speed points Click to manually configure your fans To configure your fans: 2-12 1. Select the fan that you want to configure and to view its current status. 2. Click and drag the speed points to adjust the fans’ operating speed. 3. Click Apply to save the changes then click Exit (ESC).
2.2.4 EZ Tuning Wizard EZ Tuning Wizard allows you to overclock your CPU and DRAM, computer usage, and CPU fan to their best settings. You can also easily set RAID in your system using this feature. System OC setup RAID setup Tuning your system settings To tune your settings: from the BIOS screen to open 1. Press on your keyboard or click EZ Tuning Wizard screen, then click Next. 2. Select a PC scenario Daily Computing or Gaming/Media Editing, then click Next. 3.
Creating RAID To create RAID: 2-14 1. Press on your keyboard or click EZ Tuning Wizard screen. 2. Click RAID then click Yes to enable RAID. from the BIOS screen to open • Ensure that your HDDs have no existing RAID volumes. • Ensure to connect your HDDs to Intel® SATA connectors. 3. The available HDDs display. Click Next to continue. 4. Select the type of storage for your RAID Easy Backup or Super Speed, then click Next.
a. For Easy Backup, select from Easy Backup (RAID1) or Easy Backup (RAID10) then click Next. You can only select Easy Backup (RAID 10) if you connect four (4) HDDs. b. For Super Speed, select from Super Speed (RAID0) or Super Speed (RAID5) then click Next. 5. After selecting the type of RAID, click Yes to continue the RAID setup. 6. After the RAID setup is done, click Yes to exit the setup then click OK to reset your system.
2.3 My Favorites MyFavorites is your personal space where you can easily save and access your favorite BIOS items. My Favorites comes with several performance, power saving, and fast boot related items by default. You can personalize this screen by adding or removing items. Adding items to My Favorites To add BIOS items: from the BIOS screen to open 1. Press on your keyboard or click Setup Tree Map screen. 2.
3. Select an item from main menu panel, then click the submenu that you want to save as . favorite from the submenu panel and click You cannot add the following items to My Favorite items: • User-managed items such as language and boot order 4. Click Exit (ESC) or press key to close Setup Tree Map screen. 5. Go to My Favorites menu to view the saved BIOS items. 2.4 Main menu The Main menu screen appears when you enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS Setup program.
Administrator Password If you have set an administrator password, we recommend that you enter the administrator password for accessing the system. To set an administrator password: 1. Select the Administrator Password item and press . 2. From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press . 3. From the Confirm New Password box, key in your password again to confirm the password, then click OK. To change an administrator password: 1.
2.5 Ai Tweaker menu The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related items. Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. The configuration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you installed on the motherboard. Scroll down to display other BIOS items. 2.5.
BCLK Frequency [100.00] This item allows you to set the BCLK (base clock) frequency to enhance the system performance. Use the <+> or <-> to adjust the value. The values range from 40.0 MHz to 500.0 MHz. We recommend you to set the value based on the CPU specification, as high BCLK frequencies may damage the CPU permanently. 2.5.2 FLCK Frequency [Auto] This item allows you to set the FLCK frequency. Configuration options: [Auto] [Normal(800MHz)] [1GHz] [400MHz] 2.5.
4-Core Ratio Limit [Auto] Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually assign a 4-Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 3-Core Ratio Limit. If you assign a value for 4-Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1-Core Ratio Limit, 2-Core Ratio Limit, and 3-Core Ratio to [Auto]. 2.5.5 DRAM Odd Ratio Mode [Enabled] Enable the odd ratio mode for better granularity. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 2.5.
2.5.10 DRAM Timing Control The subitems in this menu allow you to set the DRAM timing control features. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press the key. Changing the values in this menu may cause the system to become unstable! If this happens, revert to the default settings. 2.5.11 DIGI+ VRM CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto] Load-line is defined by Intel VRM specification and affects the CPU power voltage.
CPU Power Duty Control [T.Probe] DIGI + VRM Duty control adjusts the current and thermal conditions of every component’s phase. [T. Probe] Select to maintain the VRM thermal balance. [Extreme] Select to maintain the current VRM balance. CPU Power Phase Control [Auto] This item allows you to set the power phase control of the CPU.
2.5.12 Internal CPU Power Management The subitems in this menu allow you to set the CPU ratio and their features. Intel® SpeedStepTM [Auto] This item allows the operating system to dynamically adjust the processor voltage and cores frequency, resulting to a decreased average power consumption and decreased average heat production.
2.5.15 Min. CPU Cache Ratio [Auto] Allows you to set the minimum possible CPU cache ratio. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 8 to 83 with a 1 interval. 2.5.16 Max. CPU Cache Ratio [Auto] Allows you to set the maximum possible CPU cache ratio. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 8 to 83 with a 1 interval. 2.5.17 Max. CPU Graphics Ratio [Auto] Allows you to set the maximum possible CPU graphics ratio.
Offset Mode Sign [+] [+] To offset the voltage by a positive value. [–] To offset the voltage by a negative value. Additional Turbo Mode CPU Core Voltage [Auto] This item allows you to set the amount of voltage fed to the CPU cores when running in turbo mode. Increase the voltage when configuring a high CPU core frequency. The voltage you set is affected by the offset value. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.25V to 1.920 V with a 0.001 V interval.
Offset Mode Sign [+] [+] To offset the voltage by a positive value. [–] To offset the voltage by a negative value. CPU Graphics Voltage Offset [Auto] This item allows you to configure the CPU Graphics Voltage Offset. Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.001V to 0.635V with a 0.005V interval. 2.5.25 PCH Core Voltage [Auto] This item allows you to set the PCH core voltage. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.800V to 1.635V with a 0.
2.6 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. 2.6.1 CPU Configuration The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically detects. The items shown in submenu may be different due to the CPU you installed.
Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch [Enabled] This item allows the mid level cache (L2) to prefetch adjacent cache lines, reducing the DRAM loading time and improves the system performance. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] CPU Power Managerment Configuration This item allows you to manage and configure the CPU’s power.
2.6.2 Platform Misc Configuration The items in this menu allow you to configure the platform-related features. PCI Express Native Power Management [Disabled] This item allows you to enhance the power saving feature of PCI Express and perform ASPM operations in the operating system. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] The following item appears only when you set the PCI Express Native Power Management to [Enabled].
2.6.4 System Agent (SA) Configuration VT-d [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable VT-d function on MCH. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Graphics Configuration Allows you to select a primary display from CPU, PCIE and PCI graphical devices. Primary Display [Auto] Allows you to select the primary display from CPU, PCIE and PCI graphics devices.
2.6.5 PCH Configuration This item allows you to configure the PCI Express configuration settings. PCI Express Configuration PCIe Speed [Auto] Allows you to configure the PCIe speed. Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] [Gen3] IOAPIC 24-119 Entries [Enabled] This item allows you to enable/disable IOAPIC 24-199 Entries to expand to PIRQI-PIRQX. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] 2.6.
Aggressive LPM Support [Disabled] This item is designed for LPM (link power management) support with a better energy saving conditions. When disabled, the hot plug function of SATA ports are disabled. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] SMART Self Test [On] S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) is a monitoring system that shows a warning message during POST (Power-on Self Test) when an error occurs in the hard disks.
The following two items appear only when you set the HD Audio Controller item to [Enabled]. Front Panel Type [HD Audio] Allows you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97 or high-definition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio module supports. [HD] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high definition audio.
Intel LAN Controller [Enabled] [Enabled] Enables the Intel LAN controller. [Disabled] Disables the controller. Intel PXE Option ROM [Off] This item appears only when you set the previous item to [On] and allows you to enable or disable the PXE OptionRom of the Intel LAN controller. Configuration options: [On] [Off] USB Type C Power Switch [Auto] [Auto] Turns off power to the Type C port when the device is not supported. [Enabled] Turns on power to the Type C port.
2.6.10 Network Stack Configuration Network Stack [Disabled] This item allows user to disable or enable the UEFI network stack. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] The following two items appear only when you set the previous item to [Enabled]. Ipv4 / Ipv6 PXE Support [Enabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the Ipv4/Ipv6 PXE wake event. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 2.6.11 HDD/SSD SMART Information This menu displays the SMART information of the connected devices.
2.7 Monitor menu The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change the fan settings. Scroll down to display the other BIOS items. 2.7.1 CPU Temperature, MotherBoard Temperature, VRM Temperature, PCH Temperature, T_Sensor Temperature, EXT_Sensor 1/2/3 Temperature [xxx°C/ xxx°F] or [Ignore] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU and motherboard temperatures. Select [Ignore] if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures. 2.
2.7.4 Q-Fan Configuration The subitems in this menu allows you to configure the Q-Fan features. Qfan Tuning Click this item to automatically detect the lowest speed and configure the minimum duty cycle for each fan. CPU Q-Fan Control [Auto] [Auto] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control for 4-pin CPU fan. [Disabled] Disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature. [PWM Mode] Enable the CPU Q-Fan control in PWM mode for 4-pin CPU fan. [DC Mode] Enable the CPU Q-Fan control in DC mode for 3-pin CPU fan.
CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [20] Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from 20% to 100%. When the CPU temperature is under the lower limit, the CPU fan will operate at the minimum duty cycle. 2.7.5 Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Q-Fan Control [DC Mode] [PWM mode] Enables the chassis Q-Fan control in PWM mode for 4-pin chassis fan. [DC mode] Enables the chassis Q-Fan control in DC mode for 3-pin chassis fan. [Disabled] Disables the chassis Q-Fan control feature.
Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Lower Temperature [40] Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the chassis fans’ lower temperature. The values range from 0°C to 75°C. Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Min. Duty Cycle(%) [60] Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the minimum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range from 0% to 100%. When the CPU temperature is under the lower limit, the chassis fan operates at the minimum duty cycle.
Extension Fan 1/2/3 Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100] Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the maximum extension fan duty cycle. The values range from 60% to 100%. When the chassis temperature reaches the upper limit, the extension fan will operate at the maximum duty cycle. Extension Fan 1/2/3 Middle Temperature [45] Use the <+> or <-> keys to set the value for Extension Fan Middle Temperature. Extension Fan 1/2/3 Middle Duty Cycle(%) [60] Use the <+> or <-> keys to adjust the extension fan middle duty cycle.
2.8 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Scroll down to display the other BIOS items. 2.8.1 Fast Boot [Enabled] [Enabled] Select to accelerate the boot speed. [Disabled] Select to go back to normal boot speed. The following five items appear when you set Fast Boot to [Enabled]. 2.8.2 Next Boot after AC Power Loss [Normal Boot] [Normal Boot] Returns to normal boot on the next boot after AC power loss.
Post Report [5 sec] This item appears only when you set Boot Logo Display to [Disabled]. This item allows you to select a desired post report waiting time. Configuration options: [1 sec] ~ [10 sec] [Until Press ESC]. 2.8.4 Boot up NumLock State [Enabled] This item allows you to enable or disable power-on state of the NumLock. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 2.8.
Boot from Storage Devices [Legacy Only] Allows you to select the type of storage devices that you want to launch. Configuration options: [Ignore] [Legacy only] [UEFI driver first] Boot from PCI-E Expansion Devices [Legacy Only] Allows you to select the type of PCIe/PCI expansion devices that you want to launch. Configuration options: [Legacy only] [UEFI driver first] 2.8.
Set New Key Allows you to load the downloaded KEK from a USB storage device. Append Key Allows you to load the additional KEK from a storage device for an additional db and dbx loaded management. The KEK file must be formatted as a public key certificate or UEFI variable structure with time-based authenticated variable. Delete key Allows you to delete the Key from your system.
2.8.12 • To access Windows® OS in Safe Mode, press after POST (Windows® 8 not supported). • To select the boot device during system startup, press when ASUS Logo appears. Boot Override These items displays the available devices. The number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system. Click an item to start booting from the selected device.
2.9 Tool menu The Tool menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item then press to display the submenu. 2.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 3. Press [Enter] to launch the ASUS EZ Flash 3 screen. For more details, see section 2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 3. 2.9.2 Secure Erase SSD speeds may lower over time as with any storage medium due to data processing.
2.9.3 Setup Animator [Disabled] Enables or disables the Setup animator. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 2.9.4 ASUS Overclocking Profile This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. The Overclocking Profile items show Not assigned if no profile is created. Load from Profile Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Key in the profile number that saved your CMOS settings, press , and then select Yes.
2.10 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. Load Optimized Defaults This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup menus. When you select this option or if you press , a confirmation window appears. Select OK to load the default values.
2.11 Installing an operating system Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. The setup procedures presented in this chapter are for reference only. Refer to Windows® operating system documentation for detailed information. 2.11.1 Windows® 7 and USB 3.0 driver for 100 Series Based on the chipset specification, the 100 series requires USB 3.0 drivers to be preloaded in order to use USB keyboard/mouse during Windows® 7 installation. This section is a guide on preloading USB 3.
5. Select the USB ODD or USB storage device as the boot device. 6. The USB 3.0 driver will be loaded automatically during installation startup. The “Setup is starting...” screen will show up if the USB 3.0 driver is loaded correctly. 7. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the Windows® 7 installation.
Method 2: Using a modified Windows® 7 ISO Load USB 3.0 drivers and install Windows® 7 using a modified Windows® 7 installation DVD. Requirement: • 1 x ASUS support DVD • 1 x Windows® 7 installation source • 1 x Working system (PC or notebook) • 1 x SATA ODD 1. On your working system, create an ISO image file of the Windows® 7 installation source using a third-party ISO software. 2. Copy both “Auto_Unattend.
Method 3: Using ASUS EZ Installer Use the ASUS EZ Installer to create a modified Windows® 7 installation source. Requirement: • 1 x ASUS support DVD • 1 x Windows® 7 installation DVD • 1 x Working system (PC or notebook) • 1 x SATA ODD • 1 x USB storage device (8 GB or more) 1. Insert the Windows® 7 installation DVD. 2. Launch the ASUS EZ Installer located on the ASUS support DVD. 3.
- Select the source of the Windows® 7 installation disk then click Next. - Select the USB storage device and click next. Click the refresh icon if the USB storage device is not displayed. - Click Yes to clear the contents on the USB storage device and create a bootable USB device. Make sure to backup contents on the USB storage device, as it will be formatted. - Once completed, click OK to finish.
• Windows® 7 OS disk to ISO file - Select Windows 7 OS disk to ISO file then click Next. - Check I agree and then click Next. - Select the source of the Windows® 7 installation disk then click Next.
- Select the folder to save the modified Windows® 7 installation ISO file and click Next. - Once completed, click OK to finish. - Burn this ISO file onto an empty DVD to create a modified Windows® 7 installation DVD. 4. Insert the modified Windows® 7 installation DVD into an ODD or connect the USB storage device with modified Windows® 7 installation files onto your 100 series platform. 5. Power on your system and press F8 during POST (Power-On Self Test) to enter the boot screen. 6.
Appendix Appendix Notices Federal Communications Commission Statement This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: • This device may not cause harmful interference. • This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
IC: Canadian Compliance Statement Complies with the Canadian ICES-003 Class B specifications. This device complies with RSS 210 of Industry Canada. This Class B device meets all the requirements of the Canadian interference-causing equipment regulations. This device complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standard(s).
REACH Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at ASUS REACH website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm. DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to enable proper reuse of parts and recycling.
English ASUSTeK Computer Inc. hereby declares that this device is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of related Directives. Full text of EU declaration of conformity is available at: www.asus.com/support Français AsusTek Computer Inc. déclare par la présente que cet appareil est conforme aux critères essentiels et autres clauses pertinentes des directives concernées. La déclaration de conformité de l’UE peut être téléchargée à partir du site Internet suivant : www.
ASUS contact information ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. Address Telephone Fax Web site Technical Support Telephone Fax Online support 4F, No. 150, Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei 112, Taiwan +886-2-2894-3447 +886-2-2890-7798 www.asus.com +86-21-38429911 +86-21-5866-8722, ext. 9101# http://qr.asus.com/techserv ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America) Address 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA Telephone +1-510-739-3777 Fax +1-510-608-4555 Web site http://www.asus.
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Per FCC Part 2 Section 2. 1077(a) Asus Computer International Responsible Party Name: 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539. Address: Phone/Fax No: (510)739-3777/(510)608-4555 hereby declares that the product Product Name : Motherboard Model Number : Z170 PRO GAMING/AURA Conforms to the following specifications: FCC Part 15, Subpart B, Unintentional Radiators Supplementary Information: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules.