990FX Extreme9: User Manual

990FX Extreme9
User Manual
Version 1.0
Published July 2013
Copyright©2013 ASRock INC. All rights reserved.
1
Copyright Notice:
No part of this manual may be reproduced, transcribed, transmitted, or translated in
any language, in any form or by any means, except duplication of documentation by
the purchaser for backup purpose, without written consent of ASRock Inc.
Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be regis-
tered trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for
identification or explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.
Disclaimer:
Specifications and information contained in this manual are furnished for informa-
tional use only and subject to change without notice, and should not be constructed
as a commitment by ASRock. ASRock assumes no responsibility for any errors or
omissions that may appear in this manual.
With respect to the contents of this manual, ASRock does not provide warranty of
any kind, either expressed or implied, including but not limited to the implied warran-
ties or conditions of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
In no event shall ASRock, its directors, officers, employees, or agents be liable for
any indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages (including damages for
loss of profits, loss of business, loss of data, interruption of business and the like),
even if ASRock has been advised of the possibility of such damages arising from
any defect or error in the manual or product.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the fol-
lowing two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
CALIFORNIA, USA ONLY

The Lithium battery adopted on this motherboard contains Perchlorate, a toxic
substance controlled in Perchlorate Best Management Practices (BMP) regulations
passed by the California Legislature. When you discard the Lithium battery in Cali-
fornia, USA, please follow the related regulations in advance.
“Perchlorate Material-special handling may apply, see
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate”
ASRock Website: http://www.asrock.com
2
Contents
1. Introduction................................................................. 5
1.1 Package Contents...................................................................... 6
1.2 Specifications.............................................................................. 6
1.3 Unique Features......................................................................... 10
1.4 Motherboard Layout ................................................................. 14
1.5 I/O Panel . ................................................................................. 15
2. Installation................................................................... 17
Pre-installation Precautions................................................................. 17
2.1 CPU Installation.......................................................................... 18
2.2 Installation of CPU Fan and Heatsink . ..................................... 18
2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)..................................... 19
2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)............................ 21
2.5 SLITM, 3-Way SLITM, and Quad SLITM Operation Guide .............. 23
2.6 CrossFireXTM, 3-Way CrossFireXTM and Quad CrossFireXTM
Operation Guide......................................................................... 29
2.7 Surround Display Information..................................................... 33
2.8 ASRock Smart Remote Installation Guide.................................. 34
2.9 Jumpers Setup............................................................................ 36
2.10 Onboard Headers and Connectors . ...................................... 37
2.11 Smart Switches........................................................................... 44
2.12 Dr. Debug . ............................................................................. 45
2.13 Serial ATA3 (SATA3) Hard Disks Installation .......................... 46
2.14 Hot Plug and Hot Swap Functions for SATA3 HDDs.................. 46
2.15 SATA3 HDD Hot Plug Feature and Operation Operation Guide. 47
2.16 Driver Installation Guide............................................................. 49
2.17 Installing Windows® 8 / 8 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM

64-bit / XP / XP 64-bit With RAID Functions............................... 49
2.17.1 Installing Windows® XP / XP 64-bit With RAID
Functions........................................................................ 49
2.17.2 Installing Windows® 8 / 8 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM /
VistaTM 64-bit With RAID Functions................................. 50
2.18 Installing Windows® 8 / 8 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM

64-bit / XP / XP 64-bit Without RAID Functions.......................... 51
2.18.1 Installing Windows® XP / XP 64-bit Without RAID
Functions........................................................................ 51
VistaTM 64-bit Without RAID Functions............................ 52
2.19 Untied Overclocking Technology ............................................ 52
3
3. UEFI SETUP UTILITY................................................... 53
3.1 Introduction................................................................................. 53
3.1.1 UEFI Menu Bar................................................................. 53
3.1.2 Navigation Keys................................................................ 54
3.2 Main Screen................................................................................ 54
3.3 OC Tweaker Screen................................................................... 55
3.4 Advanced Screen....................................................................... 59
3.4.1 CPU Configuration............................................................ 60
3.4.2 North Bridge Configuration............................................... 61
3.4.3 South Bridge Configuration.............................................. 62
3.4.4 Storage Configuration....................................................... 63
3.4.5 Super IO Configuration..................................................... 65
3.4.6 ACPI Configuration........................................................... 66
3.4.7 USB Configuration............................................................ 68
3.5 Tool ............................................................................................ 69
3.6 Hardware Health Event Monitoring Screen................................ 72
3.7 Boot Screen................................................................................ 73
3.8 Security Screen.......................................................................... 75
3.9 Exit Screen................................................................................. 76
4. Software Support........................................................ 77
4.1 Install Operating System............................................................. 77
4.2 Support CD Information.............................................................. 77
4.2.1 Running Support CD........................................................ 77
4.2.2 Drivers Menu.................................................................... 77
4.2.3 Utilities Menu.................................................................... 77
4.2.4 Contact Information.......................................................... 77
4
1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing ASRock 990FX Extreme9 motherboard, a reliable moth-
erboard produced under ASRock’s consistently stringent quality control. It delivers
excellent performance with robust design conforming to ASRock’s commitment to
quality and endurance.
In this manual, chapter 1 and 2 contain introduction of the motherboard and step-
by-step guide to the hardware installation. Chapter 3 and 4 contain the configuration
guide to BIOS setup and information of the Support CD.
Because the motherboard specifications and the BIOS software might

be updated, the content of this manual will be subject to change without
notice. In case any modifications of this manual occur, the updated ver-
sion will be available on ASRock website without further notice. You may
find the latest VGA cards and CPU support lists on ASRock website as
well. ASRock website http://www.asrock.com
If you require technical support related to this motherboard, please visit
our website for specific information about the model you are using.
www.asrock.com/support/index.asp
1.1 Package Contents

ASRock 990FX Extreme9 Motherboard (ATX Form Factor)
ASRock 990FX Extreme9 Quick Installation Guide
ASRock 990FX Extreme9 Support CD
1 x ASRock SLI_Bridge_2S Card
1 x ASRock 3-Way SLI-2S1S Bridge Card
6 x Serial ATA (SATA) Data Cables (Optional)
2 x Serial ATA (SATA) HDD Power Cables (Optional)
1 x I/O Panel Shield
1 x Front USB 3.0 Panel with 2.5” HDD/SSD Rack
4 x HDD Screws
6 x Chassis Screws
1 x Rear USB 3.0 Bracket
ASRock Reminds You...

To get better performance in Windows® 8 / 8 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM
/ VistaTM 64-bit, it is recommended to set the BIOS option in Storage
Configuration to AHCI mode.
5
1.2 Specifications
Platform - ATX Form Factor

- Premium Gold Capacitor design (100% Japan-made
high-quality Conductive Polymer Capacitors)
- Multiple Filter Cap (MFC) (Filter different noise by 3 different
capacitors: DIP solid cap, POSCAP and MLCC)
CPU - Support for Socket AM3+ processors
- Support for Socket AM3 processors: AMD PhenomTM II X6 /
X4 / X3 / X2 (except 920 / 940) / Athlon II X4 / X3 / X2 /
Sempron processors
- Supports 8-Core CPU
- Supports UCC feature (Unlock CPU Core) (see CAUTION 1)
- Digi Power Design
- Advanced 12 + 2 Power Phase Design
- Dual-Stack MOSFET (DSM)
- Supports CPU up to 140W
- Supports AMD’s Cool ‘n’ QuietTM Technology
- FSB 2600 MHz (5.2 GT/s)
- Supports Untied Overclocking Technology
- Supports Hyper-Transport 3.0 (HT 3.0) Technology
Chipset - Northbridge: AMD 990FX
- Southbridge: AMD SB950
Memory - Dual Channel DDR3 Memory Technology
- 4 x DDR3 DIMM slots
- Supports DDR3 2450(OC)/2100(OC)/1600/1333/1066
non-ECC, un-buffered memory (see CAUTION 2)
- Max. capacity of system memory: 64GB (see CAUTION 3)
- Supports Intel® Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) 1.3 / 1.2
- Supports AMD Memory Profile (AMP)
Expansion Slot - 4 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots (PCIE1 @ x16 mode; PCIE3
@ x4 mode; PCIE4/PCIE5: single at x16 (PCIE4) / x8 (PCIE5)
or dual at x8/x8 mode)
- 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot
- 1 x PCI slot
- Supports AMD Quad CrossFireXTM, 3-Way CrossFireXTM
and CrossFireXTM
- Supports NVIDIA® Quad SLITM, 3-Way SLITM and SLITM
Audio - 7.1 CH HD Audio with Content Protection
(Realtek ALC898 Audio Codec)
- Premium Blu-ray audio support
6
LAN - PCIE x1 Gigabit LAN 10/100/1000 Mb/s
- Intel® 82583V
- Supports Wake-On-LAN
- Supports PXE
Rear Panel I/O I/O Panel
- 1 x PS/2 Mouse Port
- 1 x PS/2 Keyboard Port
- 1 x Coaxial SPDIF Out Port
- 1 x Optical SPDIF Out Port
- 4 x Ready-to-Use USB 2.0 Ports
- 4 x Ready-to-Use USB 3.0 Ports
- 2 x eSATA3 Connectors
- 1 x RJ-45 LAN Port with LED (ACT/LINK LED and SPEED
LED)
- 1 x IEEE 1394 Port
- 1 x Clear CMOS Switch with LED
- HD Audio Jack: Side Speaker/Rear Speaker/Central/Bass/
Line in/Front Speaker/Microphone
SATA3 - 6 x SATA3 6.0 Gb/s connectors by AMD SB950, support
RAID (RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, JBOD and RAID 5),
NCQ, AHCI and “Hot Plug” functions
- 2 x SATA3 6.0 Gb/s connectors by ASMedia ASM1061,
support NCQ, AHCI and “Hot Plug” functions
USB 3.0 - 4 x Rear USB 3.0 ports by Etron EJ188H, support
USB 1.1/2.0/3.0 up to 5Gb/s
- 2 x Front USB 3.0 headers (support 4 USB 3.0 ports) by
Etron EJ188H, support USB 1.1/2.0/3.0 up to 5Gb/s
Connector - 8 x SATA3 6.0Gb/s connectors
- 1 x IR header
- 1 x CIR header
- 1 x COM port header
- 1 x IEEE 1394 header
- 1 x Power LED header
- 2 x CPU Fan connectors (1 x 4-pin, 1 x 3-pin)
- 3 x Chassis Fan connectors (1 x 4-pin, 2 x 3-pin)
- 1 x Power Fan connector (3-pin)
- 24 pin ATX power connector
- 8 pin 12V power connector (Hi-Density Power Connector)
- Front panel audio connector
- 2 x USB 2.0 headers (support 4 USB 2.0 ports)
7
- 2 x USB 3.0 headers (support 4 USB 3.0 ports)
- 1 x Dr. Debug (7-Segment Debug LED)
- 1 x Power Switch with LED
- 1 x Reset Switch with LED
BIOS Feature - 32Mb AMI UEFI Legal BIOS with GUI support
- Supports “Plug and Play”
- ACPI 1.1 Compliance Wake Up Events
- Supports jumperfree
- SMBIOS 2.3.1 Support
- CPU, VCCM, NB, SB Voltage Multi-adjustment
Support CD - Drivers, Utilities, AntiVirus Software (Trial Version),
CyberLink MediaEspresso 6.5 Trial, Google Chrome
Browser and Toolbar
Hardware - CPU Temperature Sensing
Monitor - Chassis Temperature Sensing
- CPU/Chassis/Power Fan Tachometer
- CPU/Chassis Quiet Fan
- CPU/Chassis/Power Fan Multi-Speed Control
- Voltage Monitoring: +12V, +5V, +3.3V, Vcore
OS - Microsoft® Windows® 8 / 8 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM /
VistaTM 64-bit / XP / XP 64-bit compliant
Certifications - FCC, CE, WHQL
- ErP/EuP Ready (ErP/EuP ready power supply is required)
* For detailed product information, please visit our website: http://www.asrock.com
WARNING
Please realize that there is a certain risk involved with overclocking,
including adjusting the setting in the BIOS, applying Untied Overclocking
Technology, or using third-party overclocking tools. Overclocking may
affect your system’s stability, or even cause damage to the components
and devices of your system. It should be done at your own risk and
expense. We are not responsible for possible damage caused by
overclocking.
8
CAUTION!
1. ASRock UCC (Unlock CPU Core) feature simplifies AMD CPU
activation. As long as a simple switch of the UEFI option “AS-
Rock UCC”, you can unlock the extra CPU core to enjoy an
instant performance boost. When UCC feature is enabled, the
dual-core or triple-core CPU will boost to the quad-core CPU,
and some CPU, including quad-core CPU, can also increase L3
cache size up to 6MB, which means you can enjoy the upgrade
CPU performance with a better price. Please be noted that UCC
feature is supported with AM3/AM3+ CPU only, and in addition,
not every AM3/AM3+ CPU can support this function because
some CPU’s hidden core may be malfunctioned.
2. Whether 2450/2100MHz memory speed is supported depends
on the AM3/AM3+ CPU you adopt. If you want to adopt DDR3
2450/2100 memory module on this motherboard, please refer
to the memory support list on our website for the compatible
memory modules.
ASRock website: http://www.asrock.com
3. Due to the operating system limitation, the actual memory size
may be less than 4GB for the reservation for system usage un-
der Windows® 8 / 7 / VistaTM. For Windows® 64-bit OS with 64-
bit CPU, there is no such limitation. You can use ASRock XFast
RAM to utilize the memory that Windows® cannot use.
9
1.3 Unique Features
ASRock Extreme Tuning Utility (AXTU)

ASRock Extreme Tuning Utility (AXTU) is an all-in-one tool to
ne-tune different system functions in a user-friendly interface,
which includes Hardware Monitor, Fan Control, Overclocking,
OC DNA, IES and XFast RAM. In Hardware Monitor, it shows
the major readings of your system. In Fan Control, it shows the
fan speed and temperature for you to adjust. In Overclocking,
you are allowed to overclock CPU frequency for optimal system
performance. In OC DNA, you can save your OC settings as
a profile and share it with your friends. Your friends then can
load the OC profile to their own system to get the same OC set-
tings. In IES (Intelligent Energy Saver), the voltage regulator
can reduce the number of output phases to improve efficiency
when the CPU cores are idle without sacrificing computing per-
formance. In XFast RAM, it fully utilizes the memory space that
cannot be used under Windows® OS 32-bit CPU.
ASRock Instant Boot

ASRock Instant Boot allows you to turn on your PC in just a few
seconds, provides a much more efficient way to save energy,
time, money, and improves system running speed for your sys-
tem. It leverages the S3 and S4 ACPI features which normally
enable the Sleep/Standby and Hibernation modes in Windows®
to shorten boot up time. By calling S3 and S4 at specific timing
during the shutdown and startup process, Instant Boot allows
you to enter your Windows® desktop in a few seconds.
ASRock Instant Flash

ASRock Instant Flash is a BIOS flash utility embedded in Flash
ROM. This convenient BIOS update tool allows you to update
system BIOS without entering operating systems first like MS-
DOS or Windows®. With this utility, you can press the <F6> key
during the POST or the <F2> key to enter into the BIOS setup
menu to access ASRock Instant Flash. Just launch this tool and
save the new BIOS file to your USB flash drive, floppy disk or
hard drive, then you can update your BIOS only in a few clicks
without preparing an additional floppy diskette or other compli-
cated flash utility. Please be noted that the USB flash drive or
hard drive must use FAT32/16/12 file system.
10
ASRock APP Charger
If you desire a faster, less restricted way of charging your
Apple devices, such as iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch, ASRock has
prepared a wonderful solution for you - ASRock APP Charger.
Simply install the APP Charger driver, it makes your iPhone
charge much quickly from your computer and up to 40% faster
than before. ASRock APP Charger allows you to quickly charge
many Apple devices simultaneously and even supports continu-
ous charging when your PC enters into Standby mode (S1),
Suspend to RAM (S3), hibernation mode (S4) or power off (S5).
With APP Charger driver installed, you can easily enjoy the mar-
velous charging experience.
ASRock XFast USB

ASRock XFast USB can boost USB storage device perfor-
mance. The performance may depend on the properties of the
device.
ASRock XFast LAN

ASRock XFast LAN provides a faster internet access, which in-
cludes the benefits listed below. LAN Application Prioritization:
You can configure your application’s priority ideally and/or add
new programs. Lower Latency in Game: After setting online
game’s priority higher, it can lower the latency in games. Traffic
Shaping: You can watch Youtube HD videos and download si-
multaneously. Real-Time Analysis of Your Data: With the status
window, you can easily recognize which data streams you are
transferring currently.
ASRock XFast RAM

ASRock XFast RAM is a new function that is included into AS-
Rock Extreme Tuning Utility (AXTU). It fully utilizes the memory
space that cannot be used under Windows® OS 32-bit CPU.
ASRock XFast RAM shortens the loading time of previously
visited websites, making web surfing faster than ever. And it
also boosts the speed of Adobe Photoshop 5 times faster. An-
other advantage of ASRock XFast RAM is that it reduces the
frequency of accessing your SSDs or HDDs in order to extend
their lifespan.
11
ASRock Crashless BIOS
ASRock Crashless BIOS allows users to update their BIOS
without fear of failing. If power loss occurs during the BIOS up-
date process, ASRock Crashless BIOS will automatically finish
the BIOS update procedure after regaining power. Please note
that BIOS files need to be placed in the root directory of your
USB disk. Only USB2.0 ports support this feature.
ASRock OMG (Online Management Guard)

Administrators are able to establish an internet curfew or restrict
internet access at specified times via OMG. You may schedule
the starting and ending hours of internet access granted to other
users. In order to prevent users from bypassing OMG, guest
accounts without permission to modify the system time are re-
quired.
ASRock Internet Flash

ASRock Internet Flash searches for available UEFI firmware
updates from our servers. In other words, the system can auto-
detect the latest UEFI from our servers and flash them without
entering Windows® OS.
ASRock UEFI System Browser

ASRock UEFI system browser is a useful tool included in
graphical UEFI. It can detect the devices and configurations
that users are currently using in their PC. With the UEFI system
browser, you can easily examine the current system configura-
tion in UEFI setup.
ASRock Dehumidifier Function

Users may prevent motherboard damages due to dampness by
enabling “Dehumidifier Function”. When enabling Dehumidifier
Function, the computer will power on automatically to dehumidi-
fy the system after entering S4/S5 state.
ASRock Easy RAID Installer

ASRock Easy RAID Installer can help you to copy the RAID
driver from a support CD to your USB storage device. After
copying the RAID driver to your USB storage device, please
change “SATA Mode” to “RAID”, then you can start installing the
OS in RAID mode.
12
ASRock Fast Boot
With ASRock’s exclusive Fast Boot technology, it takes less
than 1.5 seconds to logon to Windows® 8 from a cold boot. No
more waiting! The speedy boot will completely change your user
experience and behavior.
ASRock X-Boost
ASRock’s X-Boost Technology is a smart auto-overclocking
function and is brilliantly designed to unlock the hidden power of
your CPUs. Simply press “X” when turning on the PC, X-Boost
will automatically overclock the relative components to get up to
15.77% performance boost! With the smart X-Boost, overclock-
ing CPU can become a near one-button process.
* The functionality of “Unlock CPU Cores” feature might vary by
different processors.
ASRock Restart to UEFI

Windows® 8 brings the ultimate boot up experience. The light-
ning boot up speed makes it hard to access the UEFI setup. AS-
Rock Restart to UEFI technology is designed for those requiring
frequent UEFI access. It allows users to easily enter the UEFI
automatically when turning on the PC next time. Just simply
enable this function; the PC will be assured to access the UEFI
directly in the very beginning.
Turbo 50 / Turbo 60 Overclocking

Simply click the Turbo 50 / Turbo 60 button in UEFI, the system
performance will boost up to 50% or 60% increase by automati-
cally overclocking CPU, Memory frequency and all related volt-
age settings.
ASRock Good Night LED

ASRock Good Night LED technology can offer you a better en-
vironment by extinguishing the unessential LED. By enabling
Good Night LED in BIOS, the Power / HDD / LAN LED will be
switched off when system is on. Not only this, Good night LED
will automatically switch off Power and Keyboard LED when the
system enters into Standby / Hibernation mode as well.
13
1.4 Motherboard Layout
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Keyboard
Mouse
PS2
PS2
PWR_FAN1
CPU_FAN1 CPU_FAN2 CHA_FAN2
ATX12V1
CMOS
Clr
SPDIF
Coaxial
SPDIF
Optical
DDR3_A2 (64 bit, 240-pin module)
DDR3_B2 (64 bit, 240-pin module)

DDR3_A1 (64 bit, 240-pin module)
DDR3_B1 (64 bit, 240-pin module)

FSB800
FSB800
USB 3.0
T: USB0
B: USB1
SOCKET AM3b
USB 2.0
eSATA
T: USB0
B: USB1
10
IEEE 1394
USB 2.0
eSATA
T: USB2
B: USB3
USB 3.0
T: USB2 Top:
RJ-45
B: USB3
11
SIDE SPK
Top:
CTR BASS
Bottom:
REAR SPK
Center:
12
USB3_4_5
USB3_6_7
LAN
AMD
MIC IN
Bottom:
LINE IN
Top:
FRONT
Center:
CMOS
990FX 13
BATTERY
Chipset
AUDIO
CODEC PCIE1
41 14
40 PCIE2
990FX Extreme9
AMD
SATA3_A1_A2
39 PCIE3 SB950 15
Super Chipset
SATA3_5_6
I/O
PCIE4
16
38
SATA3_3_4
17
37 PCI1
RoHS
SATA3_1_2
36 32Mb
BIOS 18
CHA_FAN3
35
SPEAKER1
PCIE5
FRONT_1394 COM1 USB4_5 Dr.
1
CHA_FAN1
19
PLED1 PANEL 1
HD_AUDIO1 IR1
USB6_7
1
PLED PWRBTN
11
Debug RSTBTN PWRBTN
1 11 1 1
1
CLRCMOS1
1
HDLED RESET
1
CIR1
11
34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20
1 ATX 12V Power Connector (ATX12V1) 21 Power Switch (PWRBTN)

2 CPU Heatsink Retention Module 22 Reset Switch (RSTBTN)
3 AM3+ CPU Socket 23 Dr. Debug (LED)
4 CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN1) 24 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN3)
5 CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN2) 25 USB 2.0 Header (USB6_7)
6 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN2) 26 USB 2.0 Header (USB4_5)
7 2 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM Slots 27 Consumer Infrared Module Header (CIR1)
(Dual Channel A: DDR3_A1, DDR3_B1) 28 System Panel Header (PANEL1)
8 2 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM Slots 29 Clear CMOS Jumper (CLRCMOS1)
(Dual Channel B: DDR3_A2, DDR3_B2) 30 Power LED Header (PLED1)
9 Power Fan Connector (PWR_FAN1) 31 Serial Port Connector (COM1)
10 ATX Power Connector (ATXPWR1) 32 Infrared Module Header (IR1)
11 USB 3.0 Header (USB3_6_7) 33 Front Panel IEEE 1394 Header
12 USB 3.0 Header (USB3_4_5) (FRONT_1394)
13 Northbridge Controller 34 Front Panel Audio Header (HD_AUDIO1)
14 Southbridge Controller 35 PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot (PCIE5)
15 SATA3 Connector (SATA3_A1_A2) 36 SPI Flash Memory (32Mb)
16 SATA3 Connector (SATA3_5_6) 37 PCI Slot (PCI1)
17 SATA3 Connector (SATA3_3_4) 38 PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot (PCIE4)
18 SATA3 Connector (SATA3_1_2) 39 PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot (PCIE3)
19 Chassis Speaker Header (SPEAKER1) 40 PCI Express 2.0 x1 Slot (PCIE2)
20 Chassis Fan Connector (CHA_FAN1) 41 PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot (PCIE1)
14
1.5 I/O Panel
1 2 3 4 5
6 9
7 10
8 11
19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12
1 PS/2 Mouse Port (Green) 11 Microphone (Pink)

2 Coaxial SPDIF Out Port 12 USB 3.0 Ports (USB3_2_3)
3 USB 2.0 Ports (USB01) 13 IEEE 1394 Port (IEEE 1394)
4 USB 2.0 Port (USB23) *** 14 eSATA3 Connector (ESATA1)
* 5 LAN RJ-45 Port *** 15 eSATA3 Connector (ESATA2)
6 Side Speaker (Gray) 16 USB 3.0 Ports (USB3_0_1)
7 Rear Speaker (Black) 17 Optical SPDIF Out Port
8 Central / Bass (Orange) 18 Clear CMOS Switch (CLRCBTN)
9 Line In (Light Blue) 19 PS/2 Keyboard Port (Purple)
** 10 Front Speaker (Lime)
* There are two LED next to the LAN port. Please refer to the table below for the LAN port LED
indications.
LAN Port LED Indications ACT/LINK SPEED
Activity/Link LED SPEED LED LED LED
Status Description Status Description
Off No Link Off 10Mbps connection
Blinking Data Activity Orange 100Mbps connection
On Link Green 1Gbps connection LAN Port
** If you use 2-channel speaker, please connect the speaker’s plug into “Front Speaker Jack”.
See the table below for connection details in accordance with the type of speaker you use.
TABLE for Audio Output Connection
Audio Output Channels Front Speaker Rear Speaker Central / Bass Side Speaker
(No. 10) (No. 7) (No. 8) (No. 6)
2 V -- -- --
4 V V -- --
6 V V V --
8 V V V V
15
To enable Multi-Streaming function, you need to connect a front panel audio cable to the front
panel audio header. After restarting your computer, you will find “Mixer” tool on your system.
Please select “Mixer ToolBox” , click “Enable playback multi-streaming”, and click “ok”.
Choose “2CH”, “4CH”, “6CH”, or “8CH” and then you are allowed to select “Realtek HDA Pri-
mary output” to use Rear Speaker, Central/Bass, and Front Speaker, or select “Realtek HDA
Audio 2nd output” to use front panel audio.
*** eSATA3 connector supports SATA Gen3 in cable 1M.
16
2. Installation
This is an ATX form factor motherboard. Before you install the motherboard, study
the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits into it.
Pre-installation Precautions
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard
components or change any motherboard settings.
Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the

power is switched off or the power cord is detached from the
power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the
motherboard, peripherals, and/or components.
1. Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any
component.
2. To avoid damaging the motherboard components due to static elec-
tricity, NEVER place your motherboard directly on the carpet or the
like. Also remember to use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safety
grounded object before you handle components.
3. Hold components by the edges and do not touch the ICs.
4. Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded anti-
static pad or in the bag that comes with the component.
5. When placing screws into the screw holes to secure the mother-
board to the chassis, please do not over-tighten the screws! Doing
so may damage the motherboard.
17
2.1 CPU Installation
o
Step 1. Unlock the socket by lifting the lever up to a 90 angle.
Step 2. Position the CPU directly above the socket such that the CPU corner with
the golden triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle.
Step 3. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place.

The CPU fits only in one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU
into the socket to avoid bending of the pins.
Step 4. When the CPU is in place, press it firmly on the socket while you push
down the socket lever to secure the CPU. The lever clicks on the side tab
to indicate that it is locked.
Lever 90° Up
CPU Golden Triangle
Socker Corner
Small Triangle
STEP 1: STEP 2 / STEP 3: STEP 4:

Lift Up The Socket Lever Match The CPU Golden Triangle Push Down And Lock
To The Socket Corner Small The Socket Lever
Triangle
2.2 Installation of CPU Fan and Heatsink
After you install the CPU into this motherboard, it is necessary to install a
larger heatsink and cooling fan to dissipate heat. You also need to spray
thermal grease between the CPU and the heatsink to improve heat dis-
sipation. Make sure that the CPU and the heatsink are securely fastened
and in good contact with each other. Then connect the CPU fan to the
CPU FAN connector (CPU_FAN1, see Page 14, No. 4 or CPU_FAN2,
see Page 14, No. 5). For proper installation, please kindly refer to the
instruction manuals of the CPU fan and the heatsink.
18
2.3 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)
This motherboard provides four 240-pin DDR3 (Double Data Rate 3) DIMM slots,
and supports Dual Channel Memory Technology. For dual channel configuration,
you always need to install identical (the same brand, speed, size and chip-type)
DDR3 DIMM pair in the slots. In other words, you have to install identical DDR3
DIMM pair in Dual Channel (DDR3_A1 and DDR3_B1; see p.14 No.7) or identical
DDR3 DIMM pair in Dual Channel (DDR3_A2 and DDR3_B2; see p.14 No.8), so
that Dual Channel Memory Technology can be activated. This motherboard also
allows you to install four DDR3 DIMMs for dual channel configuration, and please
install identical DDR3 DIMMs in all four slots. You may refer to the Dual Channel
Memory Configuration Table below.
Dual Channel Memory Configurations
DDR3_A1 DDR3_A2 DDR3_B1 DDR3_B2

(Black Slot) (Black Slot) (Black Slot) (Black Slot)
(1) - Populated - Populated
(2) Populated - Populated -
(3)* Populated Populated Populated Populated
* For the configuration (3), please install identical DDR3 DIMMs in all four
slots.
1. Please install the memory module into DDR3_A2 and DDR3_B2

slots for the first priority.
2. If you want to install two memory modules, for optimal compatibility
and reliability, it is recommended to install them either in the set
of DDR3_A1 and DDR3_B1 slots, or in the set of DDR3_A2 and
DDR3_B2 slots.
3. If only one memory module or three memory modules are installed
in the DDR3 DIMM slots on this motherboard, it is unable to activate
the Dual Channel Memory Technology.
4. If a pair of memory modules is NOT installed in the same Dual
Channel, for example, installing a pair of memory modules in
DDR3_A1 and DDR3_A2, it is unable to activate the Dual Channel
Memory Technology .
5. It is not allowed to install a DDR or DDR2 memory module into
DDR3 slot; otherwise, this motherboard and DIMM may be dam-
aged.
6. If you adopt DDR3 2450/2100 memory modules on this mother-
board, it is recommended to install them on DDR3_A2 and DDR3_
B2 slots.
19
Installing a DIMM
Please make sure to disconnect power supply before adding or

removing DIMMs or the system components.
Step 1. Unlock a DIMM slot by pressing the retaining clips outward.

Step 2. Align a DIMM on the slot such that the notch on the DIMM matches the
break on the slot.
notch
break
notch
break
The DIMM only fits in one correct orientation. It will cause permanent
damage to the motherboard and the DIMM if you force the DIMM into
the slot at incorrect orientation.
Step 3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the slot until the retaining clips at both ends
fully snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated.
20
2.4 Expansion Slots (PCI and PCI Express Slots)
There is 1 PCI slot and 5 PCI Express slots on this motherboard.
PCI Slot: PCI slot is used to install expansion cards that have the 32-bit PCI
interface.
PCIE Slots:
PCIE1 (PCIE x16 slot) is used for PCI Express x16 lane width graphics
cards.
PCIE2 (PCIE x1 slot) is used for PCI Express cards with x1 lane width
cards, such as ASRock Game Blaster, Gigabit LAN card, SATA card.
cards.
cards.
cards.
PCIE Slot Configurations

PCIE1 PCIE2 PCIE3 PCIE4 PCIE5
Single Graphics Card x16 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Two Graphics Cards in x16 N/A N/A x16 N/A
CrossFireXTM or SLITM Mode
Three Graphics Cards in x16 N/A N/A x8 x8
3-Way CrossFireXTM or
3-Way SLITM Mode
1. In single VGA card mode, it is recommended to install a PCI Express

x16 graphics card in the PCIE1 slot.
2. In CrossFireXTM mode or SLITM mode, please install the PCI Express
x16 graphics cards in PCIE1 and PCIE4 slots. Both these two slots
will work at x16 bandwidth.
3. In 3-Way CrossFireXTM mode or 3-Way SLITM mode, please install the
PCI Express x16 graphics cards in PCIE1, PCIE4 and PCIE5 slots.
PCIE1 will work at x16 bandwidth, while PCIE4 and PCIE5 slots will
work at x8 bandwidth.
4. Please connect a chassis fan to the motherboard’s chassis fan
connector (CHA_FAN1, CHA_FAN2 or CHA_FAN3) when using
multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.
21
Installing an expansion card
Step 1. Before installing the expansion card, please make sure that the power
supply is switched off or the power cord is unplugged. Please read the
documentation of the expansion card and make necessary hardware
settings for the card before you start the installation.
Step 2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed
in a chassis).
Step 3. Remove the bracket facing the slot that you intend to use. Keep the
screws for later use.
Step 4. Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is
completely seated on the slot.
Step 5. Fasten the card to the chassis with screws.
Step 6. Replace the system cover.
22
2.5 SLITM, 3-Way SLITM and Quad SLITM Operation Guide
This motherboard supports NVIDIA® SLITM, 3-Way SLITM and Quad SLITM (Scalable
Link Interface) technology that allows you to install up to three identical PCI Express
x16 graphics cards. Currently, NVIDIA® SLITM technology supports Windows® XP
/ XP 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / 8 / 8 64-bit OS. NVIDIA® 3-Way
SLITM and Quad SLITM technology support Windows® VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / 7 / 7
64-bit / 8 / 8 64-bit OS only. Please follow the installation procedures in this section.
Requirements
1. For SLITM technology, you should have two identical SLITM-ready graphics
cards that are NVIDIA® certified. For 3-Way SLITM technology, you should
have three identical 3-Way SLITM-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA®
certified. For Quad SLITM technology, you should have two identical Quad
SLITM-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA® certified.
2. Make sure that your graphics card driver supports NVIDIA® SLITM technology.
Download the driver from NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com).
3. Make sure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the
minimum power required by your system. It is recommended to use
NVIDIA® certified PSU. Please refer to NVIDIA® website for details.
2.5.1 Graphics Card Setup
2.5.1.1 Installing Two SLITM-Ready Graphics Cards

Step 1. Install the identical SLITM-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA® certified
because different types of graphics cards will not work together properly.
(Even the GPU chips version shall be the same.) Insert one graphics card
into PCIE1 slot and the other graphics card to PCIE4 slot. Make sure that
the cards are properly seated on the slots.
Step2. If required, connect the auxiliary power source to the PCI Express graph-
ics cards.
23
Step3. Align and insert the ASRock SLI_Bridge_2S Card to the goldfingers on
each graphics card. Make sure the ASRock SLI_Bridge_2S Card is firmly
in place.
ASRock SLI_Bridge_2S Card
Step4. Connect a VGA cable or a DVI cable to the monitor connector or the DVI
connector of the graphics card that is inserted to PCIE1 slot.
24
2.5.1.2 Installing Three SLITM-Ready Graphics Cards
Step 1. Install the identical 3-Way SLITM-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA®
certified because different types of graphics cards will not work together
properly. (Even the GPU chips version shall be the same.) Each graph-
ics card should have two goldfingers for ASRock 3-Way SLI-2S1S Bridge
Card connector. Insert one graphics card into PCIE1 slot, another graphics
card to PCIE4 slot, and the other graphics card to PCIE5 slot. Make sure
that the cards are properly seated on the slots.
Two Goldfingers
Step2. Connect the auxiliary power source to the PCI Express graphics card.
Please make sure that both power connectors on the PCI Express graph-
ics card are connected. Repeat this step on the three graphics cards.
Step3. Align and insert ASRock 3-Way SLI-2S1S Bridge Card to the goldfingers
on each graphics card. Make sure ASRock 3-Way SLI-2S1S Bridge Card
is firmly in place.
ASRock 3-Way SLI-2S1S Bridge Card
Step4. Connect a VGA cable or a DVI cable to the monitor connector or the DVI
connector of the graphics card that is inserted to PCIE1 slot.
25
2.5.2 Driver Installation and Setup
Install the graphics card drivers to your system. After that, you can enable the Multi-
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) feature in the NVIDIA® nView system tray utility.
Please follow the below procedures to enable the multi-GPU feature.
For Windows® XP / XP 64-bit OS:

(For SLITM mode only)
A. Double-click NVIDIA Settings icon on your Windows® taskbar.
B. From the pop-up menu, select Set SLI and PhysX configuration. In
Set PhysX GPU acceleration item, please select Enabled. In Select
an SLI configuration item, please select Enable SLI. And click Apply.
C. Reboot your system.

D. You can freely enjoy the benefit of SLITM feature.
26
For Windows® VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / 8 / 8 64-bit OS:
(For SLITM and Quad SLITM mode)
A. Click the Start icon on your Windows taskbar.

B. From the pop-up menu, select All Programs, and then click NVIDIA
Corporation.
C. Select NVIDIA Control Panel tab.
D. Select Control Panel tab.
E. From the pop-up menu, select Set SLI and PhysX configuration. In
Set PhysX GPU acceleration item, please select Enabled. In Select
an SLI configuration item, please select Enable SLI. And click Apply.
F. Reboot your system.

G. You can freely enjoy the benefit of SLITM or Quad SLITM feature.
27
For Windows® VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / 8 / 8 64-bit OS:
(For 3-Way SLITM mode)
A. Follow steps A to D on page 27.

B. From the pop-up menu, select Set SLI and PhysX configuration. In
Select a hardware acceleration setting for PhysX item, please
select Enabled. In Select an SLI configuration item, please select
Enable 3-way SLI. And click Apply.
C. Reboot your system.

D. You can freely enjoy the benefit of 3-Way SLITM feature.
* SLITM appearing here is a registered trademark of NVIDIA® Technologies Inc., and is used
only for identification or explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.
28
2.6 CrossFireXTM, 3-Way CrossFireXTM and Quad CrossFireXTM
Operation Guide
This motherboard supports CrossFireX TM , 3-way CrossFireX TM and Quad
CrossFireX TM feature. CrossFireX TM technology offers the most advantageous
means available of combining multiple high performance Graphics Processing
Units (GPU) in a single PC. Combining a range of different operating modes with
intelligent software design and an innovative interconnect mechanism, CrossFireXTM
enables the highest possible level of performance and image quality in any 3D
application. Currently CrossFireXTM feature is supported with Windows® XP with
Service Pack 2 / VistaTM / 7 / 8 OS. 3-way CrossFireXTM and Quad CrossFireXTM
feature are supported with Windows® VistaTM / 7 / 8 OS only. Please check AMD
website for AMD CrossFireXTM driver updates.
1. If a customer incorrectly configures their system they will not see the
performance benefits of CrossFireXTM. All three CrossFireXTM components, a
CrossFireXTM Ready graphics card, a CrossFireXTM Ready motherboard and a
CrossFireXTM Edition co-processor graphics card, must be installed correctly
to benefit from the CrossFireXTM multi-GPU platform.
2. If you pair a 12-pipe CrossFireXTM Edition card with a 16-pipe card, both
cards will operate as 12-pipe cards while in CrossFireXTM mode.
2.6.1 Graphics Card Setup
2.6.1.1 Installing Two CrossFireXTM-Ready Graphics Cards
Different CrossFireXTM cards may require different methods to enable CrossFi-

reXTM feature. Please refer to AMD graphics card manuals for detailed installation
guide.
Step 1. Insert one Radeon graphics card into PCIE1 slot and the other Radeon
graphics card to PCIE4 slot. Make sure that the cards are properly seated
on the slots.
29
Step 2. Connect two Radeon graphics cards by installing CrossFire Bridge on
CrossFire Bridge Interconnects on the top of Radeon graphics cards.
(CrossFire Bridge is provided with the graphics card you purchase, not
bundled with this motherboard. Please refer to your graphics card vendor
for details.)
CrossFire Bridge
or
Step 3. Connect the DVI monitor cable to the DVI connector on the Radeon graph-
ics card on PCIE1 slot. (You may use the DVI to D-Sub adapter to convert
the DVI connector to D-Sub interface, and then connect the D-Sub monitor
cable to the DVI to D-Sub adapter.)
30
2.6.1.2 Installing Three CrossFireXTM-Ready Graphics Cards
Step 1. Install the identical 3-Way CrossFireXTM-ready graphics cards that are
AMD certified because different types of graphics cards will not work to-
gether properly. (Even the GPU chips version shall be the same.) Insert
one graphics card into PCIE1 slot, another graphics card to PCIE4 slot,
and the other graphics card to PCIE5 slot. Make sure that the cards are
properly seated on the slots.
Step 2. Use one CrossFireTM Bridge to connect Radeon graphics cards on PCIE1
and PCIE4 slots, and use the other CrossFireTM Bridge to connect Radeon
graphics cards on PCIE4 and PCIE5 slots. (CrossFireTM Bridge is provided
with the graphics card you purchase, not bundled with this motherboard.
Please refer to your graphics card vendor for details.)
CrossFireTM Bridge
Step 3. Connect the DVI monitor cable to the DVI connector on the Radeon graph-
ics card on PCIE1 slot. (You may use the DVI to D-Sub adapter to convert
the DVI connector to D-Sub interface, and then connect the D-Sub monitor
cable to the DVI to D-Sub adapter.)
31
2.6.2 Driver Installation and Setup
Step 1. Power on your computer and boot into OS.
Step 2. Remove the ATITM driver if you have any VGA driver installed in your sys-
tem.
The Catalyst Uninstaller is an optional download. We recommend using this

utility to uninstall any previously installed Catalyst drivers prior to installation.
Please check AMD website for ATITM driver updates.
Step 3. Install the required drivers to your system.

For Windows® XP OS:
A. AMD recommends Windows® XP Service Pack 2 or higher to be
installed (If you have Windows® XP Service Pack 2 or higher installed
in your system, there is no need to download it again):
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/sp2/default.mspx
B. You must have Microsoft .NET Framework installed prior to
downloading and installing the CATALYST Control Center. Please
check Microsoft website for details.
For Windows® 8 / 7 / VistaTM OS:
Install the CATALYST Control Center. Please check AMD website for de-
tails.
Step 4. Restart your computer.
Step 5. Install the VGA card drivers to your system, and restart your computer.
Then you will find “ATI Catalyst Control Center” on your Windows® taskbar.
ATI Catalyst Control Center
Step 6. Double-click “ATI Catalyst Control Center”. Click “View”, select “CrossFi-
reXTM”, and then check the item “Enable CrossFireXTM”. Select “2 GPUs”
and click “Apply” (if you install two Radeon graphics cards). Select “3
GPUs” and click “OK” (if you install three Radeon graphics cards).
32
Although you have selected the option “Enable CrossFireTM”, the Cross-
FireXTM function may not work actually. Your computer will automatically
reboot. After restarting your computer, please confirm whether the option
“Enable CrossFireTM” in “ATI Catalyst Control Center” is selected or not;
if not, please select it again, and then you are able to enjoy the benefit of
CrossFireXTM feature.
Step 7. You can freely enjoy the benefit of CrossFireXTM, 3-Way CrossFireXTM or
Quad CrossFireXTM feature.
* CrossFireXTM appearing here is a registered trademark of AMD Technologies Inc., and is

used only for identification or explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.
* For further information of AMD CrossFireXTM technology, please check AMD website for
updates and details.
2.7 Surround Display Feature

This motherboard supports Surround Display upgrade. With the external add-on PCI
Express VGA cards, you can easily enjoy the benefits of Surround Display feature.
For the detailed instruction, please refer to the document at the following path in the
Support CD:
..\ Surround Display Information
33
2.8 ASRock Smart Remote Installation Guide
ASRock Smart Remote is only used for ASRock motherboard with CIR header.
Please refer to below procedures for the quick installation and usage of ASRock
Smart Remote.
Step1. Find the CIR header located next

to the USB 2.0 header on ASRock
USB 2.0 header (9-pin, black)
motherboard.
CIR header (4-pin, gray)
Step2. Connect the front USB cable to the USB_PWR

P-
USB 2.0 header (as below, pin 1-5)
P+
and the CIR header. Please make GND
DUMMY
sure the wire assignments and the
pin assignments are matched
correctly. 1 2 3 4 5
GND
IRTX
IRRX
ATX+5VSB
Step3. Install Multi-Angle CIR Receiver to the front USB port.
Step4. Boot up your system. Press <F2> or <Del> to enter BIOS Setup Utility.
Make sure the option "CIR Controller" is setting at [Enabled].
(Advanced -> Super IO Configuration -> CIR Controller -> [Enabled])
If you cannot find this option, please shut down your system and install
Multi-Angle CIR Receiver to the other front USB port then try again.
Step5. Enter Windows. Execute ASRock support CD and install CIR Driver. (It is
listed at the bottom of driver list.)
34
3 CIR sensors in different angles
1. Only one of the front USB port can support CIR function. When
the CIR function is enabled, the other port will remain USB
function.
2. Multi-Angle CIR Receiver is used for front USB only. Please do
not use the rear USB bracket to connect it on the rear panel.
Multi-Angle CIR Receiver can receive the multi-direction infrared
signals (top, down and front), which is compatible with most of
the chassis on the market.
3. The Multi-Angle CIR Receiver does not support Hot-Plug
function. Please install it before you boot the system.
* ASRock Smart Remote is only supported by some of ASRock motherboards. Please refer to
ASRock website for the motherboard support list: http://www.asrock.com
35
2.9 Jumpers Setup
The illustration shows how jumpers are
setup. When the jumper cap is placed on
pins, the jumper is “Short”. If no jumper cap
is placed on pins, the jumper is “Open”. The
illustration shows a 3-pin jumper whose
pin1 and pin2 are “Short” when jumper cap
is placed on these 2 pins.
Jumper Setting
Clear CMOS Jumper
(CLRCMOS1)
(see p.14, No. 29)
Default Clear CMOS
Note: CLRCMOS1 allows you to clear the data in CMOS. The data in CMOS in-
cludes system setup information such as system password, date, time, and
system setup parameters. To clear and reset the system parameters to de-
fault setup, please turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the
power supply. After waiting for 15 seconds, use a jumper cap to short pin2
and pin3 on CLRCMOS1 for 5 seconds. However, please do not clear the
CMOS right after you update the BIOS. If you need to clear the CMOS when
you just finish updating the BIOS, you must boot up the system first, and then
shut it down before you do the clear-CMOS action.
The Clear CMOS Switch has the same function as the Clear CMOS
jumper.
36
2.10 Onboard Headers and Connectors
Onboard headers and connectors are NOT jumpers. Do NOT place

jumper caps over these headers and connectors. Placing jumper caps
over the headers and connectors will cause permanent damage of the
motherboard!
Serial ATA3 Connectors These eight Serial ATA3
SATA3_A2
SATA3_A1
(SATA3_1_2: see p.14, No. 18) (SATA3) connectors support
(SATA3_3_4: see p.14, No. 17) SATA data cables for internal
(SATA3_5_6: see p.14, No. 16) storage devices. The current
SATA3_6
SATA3_5
(SATA3_A1_A2: see p.14, No. 15) SATA3 interface allows up to

6.0 Gb/s data transfer rate.
SATA3_4
SATA3_3
SATA3_2
SATA3_1
Serial ATA (SATA) Either end of the SATA data

Data Cable cable can be connected to the
(Optional) SATA3 hard disk or the SATA3
connector on this motherboard.
Serial ATA (SATA) Please connect the black end

Power Cable of SATA power cable to the
(Optional) power connector on each drive.
connect to the SATA
HDD power connector Then connect the white end of
connect to the SATA power cable to the power
power supply
connector of the power supply.
USB 2.0 Headers Besides four default USB 2.0

(9-pin USB4_5) ports on the I/O panel, there
(see p.14 No. 26) are two USB 2.0 headers on
this motherboard. Each USB 2.0
header can support two USB
2.0 ports.
37
(9-pin USB6_7)
(see p.14 No. 25)
USB 3.0 Headers Besides four default USB 3.0

(19-pin USB3_4_5) ports on the I/O panel, there are
(see p.14 No. 12) two USB 3.0 headers on this
motherboard. Each USB 3.0
header can support two USB
3.0 ports.
(19-pin USB3_6_7)
(see p.14 No. 11)
Infrared Module Header This header supports an

(5-pin IR1) optional wireless transmitting
(see p.14 No. 32) and receiving infrared module.
Front Panel Audio Header GND This is an interface for the front
PRESENCE#
(9-pin HD_AUDIO1) MIC_RET panel audio cable that allows
OUT_RET
(see p.14 No. 34) convenient connection and
1 control of audio devices.
OUT2_L
J_SENSE
OUT2_R
MIC2_R
MIC2_L
1. High Definition Audio supports Jack Sensing, but the panel wire on
the chassis must support HDA to function correctly. Please follow the
instruction in our manual and chassis manual to install your system.
2. If you use AC’97 audio panel, please install it to the front panel audio
header as below:
A. Connect Mic_IN (MIC) to MIC2_L.
38
B. Connect Audio_R (RIN) to OUT2_R and Audio_L (LIN) to OUT2_L.
C. Connect Ground (GND) to Ground (GND).
D. MIC_RET and OUT_RET are for HD audio panel only. You don’t
need to connect them for AC’97 audio panel.
E. To activate the front mic.
For Windows® XP / XP 64-bit OS:
Select “Mixer”. Select “Recorder”. Then click “FrontMic”.
For Windows® 8 / 8 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS:
Go to the “FrontMic” Tab in the Realtek Control panel. Adjust
“Recording Volume”.
System Panel Header This header accommodates

(9-pin PANEL1) several system front panel
(see p.14 No. 28) functions.
Connect the power switch, reset switch and system status indicator
on the chassis to this header according to the pin assignments below.
Note the positive and negative pins before connecting the cables.
PWRBTN (Power Switch):

Connect to the power switch on the chassis front panel. You may con-
figure the way to turn off your system using the power switch.
RESET (Reset Switch):
Connect to the reset switch on the chassis front panel. Press the reset
switch to restart the computer if the computer freezes and fails to per-
form a normal restart.
PLED (System Power LED):
Connect to the power status indicator on the chassis front panel. The
LED is on when the system is operating. The LED keeps blinking
when the sys-tem is in S1 sleep state. The LED is off when the system
is in S3/S4 sleep state or powered off (S5).
HDLED (Hard Drive Activity LED):
Connect to the hard drive activity LED on the chassis front panel. The
LED is on when the hard drive is reading or writing data.
The front panel design may differ by chassis. A front panel module
mainly consists of power switch, reset switch, power LED, hard drive
activity LED, speaker and etc. When connecting your chassis front
panel module to this header, make sure the wire assignments and the
pin assign-ments are matched correctly.
39
Chassis Speaker Header Please connect the chassis
(4-pin SPEAKER 1) speaker to this header.
(see p.14 No. 19)
Power LED Header Please connect the chassis

(3-pin PLED1) power LED to this header to
(see p.14 No. 30) indicate system power status.
The LED is on when the system
is operating. The LED keeps
blinking in S1 state. The LED is
off in S3/S4 state or S5 state
(power off).
Chassis and Power Fan Connectors Please connect the fan cables
(4-pin CHA_FAN1) to the fan connectors and
(see p.14 No. 20) match the black wire to the
ground pin. CHA_FAN1/2/3 fan
speed can be controlled through
(3-pin CHA_FAN2) UEFI or AXTU.
(see p.14 No. 6)
(3-pin CHA_FAN3)
(see p.14 No. 24)
(3-pin PWR_FAN1)
(see p.14 No. 9)
CPU Fan Connectors FAN_SPEED_CONTROL Please connect the CPU fan

(4-pin CPU_FAN1) CPU_FAN_SPEED cable to the connector and
+12V
(see p.14 No. 4) GND
match the black wire to the
ground pin.
1 2 3 4
Though this motherboard provides 4-Pin CPU fan (Quiet Fan) support, the 3-Pin
CPU fan still can work successfully even without the fan speed control function.
If you plan to connect the 3-Pin CPU fan to the CPU fan connector on this
motherboard, please connect it to Pin 1-3.
Pin 1-3 Connected
3-Pin Fan Installation
40
(3-pin CPU_FAN2) GND
+12V
(see p.14 No. 5) CPU_FAN_SPEED
ATX Power Connector 12 24 Please connect an ATX power

(24-pin ATXPWR1) supply to this connector.
(see p.14 No. 10)
1 13
Though this motherboard provides 24-pin ATX power connector, 12 24

it can still work if you adopt a traditional 20-pin ATX power supply.
To use the 20-pin ATX power supply, please plug your
power supply along with Pin 1 and Pin 13.
20-Pin ATX Power Supply Installation 1 13
ATX 12V Power Connector 8 5

Please connect an ATX 12V
(8-pin ATX12V1) power supply to this connector.
(see p.14 No. 1) 4 1
Though this motherboard provides 8-pin ATX 12V power connector, it can still work
if you adopt a traditional 4-pin ATX 12V power supply. To use the 4-pin ATX power
supply, please plug your power supply along with Pin 1 and Pin 5.
8 5
4-Pin ATX 12V Power Supply Installation 4 1
IEEE 1394 Header RXTPAM_0 Besides one default IEEE 1394

GND
(9-pin FRONT_1394) RXTPBM_0 port on the I/O panel, there is
+12V
(see p.14 No. 33) GND
one IEEE 1394 header
1 (FRONT_1394) on this
+12V
RXTPBP_0
GND
motherboard. This IEEE 1394
RXTPAP_0
header can support one IEEE
1394 port.
41
Serial port Header This COM1 header supports a
(9-pin COM1) serial port module.
(see p.14 No. 31)
Consumer Infrared Module Header This header can be used to

(4-pin CIR1) connect the remote
(see p.14 No. 27) controller receiver.
42
The Installation Guide of Front USB 3.0 Panel
Step 1 Prepare the bundled Front USB 3.0 Panel, four Step 2 Screw the 2.5” HDD/SSD to the Front
HDD screws, and six chassis screws. USB 3.0 Panel with four HDD screws.
Step 3 Intall the Front USB 3.0 Panel into the 2.5” Step 4 Screw the Front USB 3.0 Panel to the
drive bay of the chassis. drive bay with six chassis screws.
Step 5 Plug the Front USB 3.0 cable into the USB Step 6 The Front USB 3.0 Panel is ready to use.
3.0 header (USB3_4_5 or USB3_6_7) on the
motherboard.
The Installation Guide of Rear USB 3.0 Bracket

Step 1 Unscrew the two screws from the Front USB 3.0 Step 2 Put the USB 3.0 cable and the rear
Panel. USB 3.0 bracket together.
Step 3 Screw the two screws into the rear USB 3.0 Step 4 Put the rear USB 3.0 bracket into the
bracket. chassis.
43
2.11 Smart Switches
The motherboard has three smart switches: power switch, reset switch and clear
CMOS switch, allowing users to quickly turn on/off or reset the sytem clear the
CMOS values.
Power Switch Power Switch is a smart switch,

(PWRBTN) Power allowing users to quickly turn
(see p.14 No. 21) on/off the system.
Reset Switch Reset Switch is a smart switch,

(RSTBTN) allowing users to quickly reset
Reset
(see p.14 No. 22) the system.
Clear CMOS Switch Clear CMOS Switch is a smart

(CLRCBTN) switch, allowing users to quickly
(see p.15 No. 18) clear the CMOS values.
44
2.12 Dr. Debug
Dr. Debug is used to provide code information, which makes troubleshooting even
easier. Please see the diagrams below for reading the Dr. Debug codes.
Status Code Description

00 Please check if CPU is installed correctly and then clear CMOS.
0d Problem related to memory, VGA card and other devices.
Please clear CMOS, re-install memory and VGA card, and remove other
USB, PCI devices.
01 - 54 Problem related to memory. Please re-install CPU and memory then clear
(except 0d), CMOS.
5A- 60 If the problem still exists, please install only one memory module or try using
other memory modules.
55 Memory could not be detected. Please re-install memory and CPU.
If the problem still exists, please install only one memory module or try using
61 - 91 Chipset initialization error. Please press reset or clear CMOS.
92 - 99 Problem related to PCI-E devices. Please re-install PCI-E devices or try
installing them in other slots.
If the problem still exists, please remove all PCI-E devices or try using
another VGA card.
A0 - A7 Problem related to IDE or SATA devices. Please re-install IDE and SATA
devices.
If the problem still exists, please clear CMOS and try removing all SATA
devices.
b0 Problem related to memory. Please re-install CPU and memory.
b4 Problem related to USB devices. Please try removing all USB devices.
b7 Problem related to memory. Please re-install CPU and memory then clear
CMOS.
d6 VGA could not be recognized. Please clear CMOS and try re-installing the
VGA card.
If the problem still exists, please try installing the VGA card in other slots or
using other VGA cards.
d7 Keyboard and mouse could not be recognized. Please try re-installing
keyboard and mouse.
d8 Invalid Password.
FF Please check if CPU is installed correctly and then clear CMOS.
45
2.13 Serial ATA3 (SATA3) Hard Disks Installation
This motherboard adopts AMD SB950 chipset that supports Serial ATA3 (SATA3)
hard disks and RAID (RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, JBOD and RAID 5) functions.
It also adopts ASMedia ASM1061 chipset that supports Serial ATA3 (SATA3) hard
disks. You may install SATA3 hard disks on this motherboard for internal storage
devices. This section will guide you to install the SATA3 hard disks.
STEP 1: Install the SATA3 hard disks into the drive bays of your chassis.
STEP 2: Connect the SATA power cable to the SATA3 hard disk.
STEP 3: Connect one end of the SATA data cable to the motherboard’s SATA3
connector.
STEP 4: Connect the other end of the SATA data cable to the SATA3 hard disk.
Please be noted that SATA3_A1 and SATA3_A2 do not support RAID

function. If you want to use RAID function on SATA3 connectors,
please use SATA3_0 to SATA3_6 connectors.
2.14 Hot Plug and Hot Swap Functions for SATA3 HDDs
This motherboard supports Hot Plug and Hot Swap functions for SATA3 in RAID
/ AHCI mode. AMD SB950 and ASMedia ASM1061 chipsets provide hardware
support for Advanced Host controller Interface (AHCI), a new programming interface
for SATA host controllers developed thru a joint industry effort.
NOTE
What is Hot Plug Function?
If the SATA3 HDDs are NOT set for RAID configuration, it is called “Hot
Plug” for the action to insert and remove the SATA3 HDDs while the system
is still power-on and in working condition.
However, please note that it cannot perform Hot Plug if the OS has been
installed into the SATA3 HDD.
What is Hot Swap Function?

If SATA3 HDDs are built as RAID 1 or RAID 5 then it is called “Hot Swap”
for the action to insert and remove the SATA3 HDDs while the system is still
power-on and in working condition.
46
2.15 SATA3 HDD Hot Plug Feature and Operation Guide
This motherboard supports Hot Plug feature for SATA3 HDD in RAID / AHCI
mode. Please read below operation guide of Hot Plug feature carefully. Before you
process the SATA3 HDD Hot Plug, please check below cable accessories from the
motherboard gift box pack.
A. 7-pin SATA data cable
B. SATA power cable with SATA 15-pin power connector interface
A. SATA data cable (Red) B. SATA power cable
SATA 7-pin The SATA 15-pin power 1x4-pin conventional

connector connector (Black) connect power connector (White)
to SATA3 HDD connect to power supply
Caution
1. Without SATA 15-pin power connector interface, the SATA3 Hot Plug cannot be
processed.
2. Even some SATA3 HDDs provide both SATA 15-pin power connector and IDE
1x4-pin conventional power connector interfaces, the IDE 1x4-pin conventional
power connector interface is definitely not able to support Hot Plug and will cause
the HDD damage and data loss.
Points of attention, before you process the Hot Plug:

1. Below operation procedure is designed only for our motherboard, which supports
SATA3 HDD Hot Plug.
* The SATA3 Hot Plug feature might not be supported by the chipset because of
its limitation, the SATA3 Hot Plug support information of our motherboard is
indicated in the product spec on our website: www.asrock.com
2. Make sure your SATA3 HDD can support Hot Plug function from your dealer or
HDD user manual. The SATA3 HDD, which cannot support Hot Plug function, will
be damaged under the Hot Plug operation.
3. Please make sure the SATA3 driver is installed into system properly. The latest
SATA3 driver is available on our support website: www.asrock.com
4. Make sure to use the SATA power cable & data cable, which are from our
motherboard package.
5. Please follow below instructions step by step to reduce the risk of HDD crash or
data loss.
47
How to Hot Plug a SATA3 HDD:
Points of attention, before you process the Hot Plug:
Please do follow below instruction sequence to process the Hot Plug, improper
procedure will cause the SATA3 HDD damage and data loss.
Step 1 Please connect SATA power cable 1x4-pin Step 2 Connect SATA data cable to
end (White) to the power supply 1x4-pin the motherboard’s SATA3
cable. connector.
SATA power cable 1x4-pin

power connector (White)
Step 3 Connect SATA 15-pin power cable Step 4 Connect SATA data cable to the
connector (Black) end to SATA3 HDD. SATA3 HDD.
How to Hot Unplug a SATA3 HDD:

Points of attention, before you process the Hot Unplug:
Please do follow below instruction sequence to process the Hot Unplug, improper
procedure will cause the SATA3 HDD damage and data loss.
Step 1 Unplug SATA data cable from SATA3 HDD side.
Step 2 Unplug SATA 15-pin power cable connector (Black) from SATA3 HDD side.
48
2.16 Driver Installation Guide
To install the drivers to your system, please insert the support CD to your optical
drive first. Then, the drivers compatible to your system can be auto-detected and
listed on the support CD driver page. Please follow the order from up to bottom side
to install those required drivers. Therefore, the drivers you install can work properly.
2.17 Installing Windows® 8 / 8 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM /

VistaTM 64-bit / XP / XP 64-bit With RAID Functions
If you want to install Windows® 8 / 8 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / XP /
XP 64-bit on a RAID disk composed of 2 or more SATA3 HDDs with RAID functions,
please follow below procedures according to the OS you install.
2.17.1 Installing Windows® XP / XP 64-bit With RAID Functions

If you want to install Windows® XP / XP 64-bit on a RAID disk composed of 2 or
more SATA3 HDDs with RAID functions, please follow below steps.
STEP 1: Set up UEFI.

A. Enter UEFI SETUP UTILITY Advanced screen Storage Configuration.
B. Set the “SATA Mode” option to [RAID]. (For SATA3_1 to SATA3_6 ports.)
STEP 2: Make a SATA3 Driver Diskette. (Please use an USB floppy or a floppy
disk.)
A. Insert the ASRock Support CD into your optical drive to boot your system.
B. During POST at the beginning of system boot-up, press <F11> key, and
then a window for boot devices selection appears. Please select CD-ROM as
the boot device.
C. When you see the message on the screen, “Generate Serial ATA driver diskette
[YN]?”, press <Y>.
D. Then you will see these messages,
Please insert a diskette into the floppy drive.
WARNING! Formatting the floppy diskette will
lose ALL data in it!
Start to format and copy files [YN]?
Please insert a floppy diskette into the floppy drive, and press any key.
E. The system will start to format the floppy diskette and copy SATA3 drivers into
the floppy diskette.
49
STEP 3: Use “RAID Installation Guide” to set RAID configuration.
Before you start to configure RAID function, you need to check the RAID installation
guide in the Support CD for proper configuration. Please refer to the BIOS RAID
installation guide part of the document in the following path in the Support CD:
.. \ RAID Installation Guide
STEP 4: Install Windows® XP / XP 64-bit OS on your system.
After step 1, 2, 3, you can start to install Windows® XP / XP 64-bit OS on your
system. At the beginning of Windows® setup, press F6 to install a third-party RAID
driver. When prompted, insert the SATA3 driver diskette containing the AMD RAID
driver. After reading the floppy disk, the driver will be presented. Select the driver to
install according to the OS you install.

VistaTM 64-bit With RAID Functions
If you want to install Windows® 8 / 8 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit on a
RAID disk composed of 2 or more SATA3 HDDs with RAID functions, please follow
below steps.

B. Set the “SATA Mode” option to [RAID]. (For SATA3_1 to SATA3_6 ports.)
STEP 2: Use “RAID Installation Guide” to set RAID configuration.
Before you start to configure RAID function, you need to check the RAID installation
guide in the Support CD for proper configuration. Please refer to the BIOS RAID
installation guide part of the document in the following path in the Support CD:
.. \ RAID Installation Guide
disk.)
Make a SATA3 driver diskette by following section 2.17.1 step 2 on page 49.
STEP 4: Install Windows® 8 / 8 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS on
your system.
50
2.18 Installing Windows® 8 / 8 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM /
VistaTM 64-bit / XP / XP 64-bit Without RAID Functions
If you want to install Windows® 8 / 8 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / XP
/ XP 64-bit OS on your SATA3 HDDs without RAID functions, please follow below
procedures according to the OS you install.
2.18.1 Installing Windows® XP / XP 64-bit Without RAID

Functions
If you want to install Windows® XP / XP 64-bit on your SATA3 HDDs without RAID
functions, please follow below steps.
Using SATA3 HDDs with NCQ and Hot Plug functions (AHCI mode)

B. Set the “SATA Mode” option to [AHCI]. (For SATA3_1 to SATA3_6 ports.)
Set the option “ASMedia SATA3 Mode” to [AHCI]. (For SATA3_A1 and SATA3_A2
ports.)
disk.)
Make a SATA3 driver diskette by following section 2.17.1 step 2 on page 49.
You can start to install Windows® XP / XP 64-bit OS on your system. At the begin-
ning of Windows® setup, press F6 to install a third-party AHCI driver. When prompt-
ed, insert the SATA3 driver diskette containing the AMD AHCI driver. After reading
the floppy disk, the driver will be presented. Select the driver to install according to
the OS you install.
Using SATA3 HDDs without NCQ and Hot Plug functions (IDE mode)

B. Set the “SATA Mode” option to [IDE]. (For SATA3_1 to SATA3_6 ports.)
Set the option “ASMedia SATA3 Mode” to [IDE]. (For SATA3_A1 and SATA3_A2
ports.)
51
VistaTM 64-bit Without RAID Functions
If you want to install Windows® 8 / 8 64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit on
your SATA3 HDDs without RAID functions, please follow below steps.
Using SATA3 HDDs with NCQ and Hot Plug functions (AHCI mode)

B. Set the “SATA Mode” option to [AHCI]. (For SATA3_1 to SATA3_6 ports.)
Set the option “ASMedia SATA3 Mode” to [AHCI]. (For SATA3_A1 and SATA3_A2
ports.)
your system.
Using SATA3 HDDs without NCQ and Hot Plug functions (IDE mode)

B. Set the “SATA Mode” option to [IDE]. (For SATA3_1 to SATA3_6 ports.)
Set the option “ASMedia SATA3 Mode” to [IDE]. (For SATA3_A1 and SATA3_A2
ports.)
your system.
2.19 Untied Overclocking Technology

This motherboard supports Untied Overclocking Technology, which means during
overclocking, FSB enjoys better margin due to fixed PCI / PCIE buses. Before you
enable Untied Overclocking function, please enter “Overclock Mode” option of UEFI
setup to set the selection from [Auto] to [Manual]. Therefore, CPU FSB is untied
during overclocking, but PCI / PCIE buses are in the fixed mode so that FSB can
operate under a more stable overclocking environment.
Please refer to the warning on page 8 for the possible overclocking risk before you
apply Untied Overclocking Technology.
52
3. UEFI SETUP UTILITY
3.1 Introduction
This section explains how to use the UEFI SETUP UTILITY to configure your
system. The UEFI chip on the motherboard stores the UEFI SETUP UTILITY. You
may run the UEFI SETUP UTILITY when you start up the computer. Please press
<F2> or <Del> during the Power-On-Self-Test (POST) to enter the UEFI SETUP
UTILITY, otherwise, POST will continue with its test routines.
If you wish to enter the UEFI SETUP UTILITY after POST, restart the system by
pressing <Ctl> + <Alt> + <Delete>, or by pressing the reset button on the system
chassis. You may also restart by turning the system off and then back on.
Because the UEFI software is constantly being updated, the

following UEFI setup screens and descriptions are for reference
purpose only, and they may not exactly match what you see on
your screen.
3.1.1 UEFI Menu Bar

The top of the screen has a menu bar with the following selections:
Main For setting system time/date information
OC Tweaker For overclocking configurations
Advanced For advanced system configurations
Tool Useful tools
H/W Monitor Displays current hardware status
Boot For configuring boot settings and boot priority
Security For security settings
Exit Exit the current screen or the UEFI SETUP UTILITY
Use < > key or < > key to choose among the selections on the menu
bar, and use < > key or < > key to move the cursor up or down to
select items, then press <Enter> to get into the sub screen. You can also
navigate with a mouse.
53
3.1.2 Navigation Keys
Please check the following table for the function description of each navigation
key.
Navigation Key(s) Function Description
/ Moves cursor left or right to select Screens
/ Moves cursor up or down to select items
+ / - To change option for the selected items
<Tab> Switch to next function
<Enter> To bring up the selected screen
<PGUP> Go to the previous page
<PGDN> Go to the next page
<HOME> Go to the top of the screen
<END> Go to the bottom of the screen
<F1> To display the General Help Screen
<F7> Discard changes and exit the UEFI SETUP UTILITY
<F9> Load optimal default values for all the settings
<F10> Save changes and exit the UEFI SETUP UTILITY
<F12> Print screen
<ESC> Jump to the Exit Screen or exit the current screen
3.2 Main Screen

When you enter the UEFI SETUP UTILITY, the Main screen will appear and display
the system overview.
Active Page on Entry

This allows you to select the default page when entering UEFI setup utility.
54
3.3 OC Tweaker Screen
In the OC Tweaker screen, you can set up overclocking features.
OC Mode
Use this to select Overclock Mode. Please note that overclocing may
cause damage to your components and motherboard. It should be done at
your own risk and expense.
Turbo Mode
This item appears only when you set the item “OC Mode“ to [Turbo Mode].
You can use this option to increase your system performance. Configura-
tion options: [System Performance Increases 50%] and [System Perfor-
mance Increases 60%].
CPU Configuration
Overclock Mode
Use this to select Overclock Mode. Configuration options: [Auto] and
[Manual]. The default value is [Auto].
Spread Spectrum
This item should always be [Auto] for better system stability.
ASRock UCC
ASRock UCC (Unlock CPU Core) feature simplifies AMD CPU activation.
As long as a simple switch of the UEFI option “ASRock UCC”, you can
unlock the extra CPU core to enjoy an instant performance boost. When
UCC feature is enabled, the dual-core or triple-core CPU will boost to the
quad-core CPU, and some CPU, including quad-core CPU, can also in-
crease L3 cache size up to 6MB, which means you can enjoy the upgrade
CPU performance with a better price. Please be noted that UCC feature is
supported with AM3/AM3+ CPU only, and in addition, not every AM3/AM3+
CPU can support this function because some CPU’s hidden core may be
malfunctioned.
55
CPU Active Core Control
This allows you to adjust CPU Active Core Control feature. The configura-
tion options depend on the CPU core you adopt. The default value is [Dis-
abled].
AMD Turbo Core Technology
This item appears only when the processor you adopt supports this fea-
ture. Use this to select enable or disable AMD Turbo Core Technology.
Configuration options: [Enabled] and [Disabled]. The default value is
[Enabled].
AMD Application Power Management
Application Power Management (APM) ensures that average power con-
sumption over a thermally significant time period remains at or below
the TDP for the CPU mode being used. If [Enabled] is selected, the power
consumption is reduced when overclocking.
Processor Maximum Frequency

It will display Processor Maximum Frequency for reference.
North Bridge Maximum Frequency
It will display North Bridge Maximum Frequency for reference.
Processor Maximum Voltage
It will display Processor Maximum Voltage for reference.
Multiplier/Voltage Change
This item is set to [Auto] by default. If it is set to [Manual], you may adjust
the value of Processor Frequency and Processor Voltage. However, it is
recommended to keep the default value for system stability.
CPU Frequency Multiplier
For safety and system stability, it is not recommended to adjust the value
of this item.
CPU Voltage
It allows you to adjust the value of CPU voltage. However, for safety and
system stability, it is not recommended to adjust the value of this item.
NB Frequency Multiplier
For safety and system stability, it is not recommended to adjust the value
of this item.
CPU NB Voltage
It allows you to adjust the value of CPU NB voltage. However, for safety
and system stability, it is not recommended to adjust the value of this item.
56
HT Bus Speed
This feature allows you selecting Hyper-Transport bus speed. Configura-
tion options: [200MHz] to [2000MHz].
HT Bus Width
This feature allows you selecting Hyper-Transport bus width. Configuration
options: [8 Bit] and [16 Bit].
DRAM Timing Configuration

DRAM Frequency
If [Auto] is selected, the motherboard will detect the memory module(s)
inserted and assigns appropriate frequency automatically.
DRAM Timing Control

DRAM Slot
Use this item to view SPD data.
DRAM Timing Control

Use this item to control DRAM timing.
Power Down Enable

Use this item to enable or disable DDR power down mode.
Bank Interleaving
Interleaving allows memory accesses to be spread out over banks on the
same node, or accross nodes, decreasing access contention.
Channel Interleaving
It allows you to enable Channel Memory Interleaving. Configuration op-
tions: [Disabled], [Auto]. The default value is [Auto].
57
Voltage Configuration
CPU Load-line calibration
Use this to select CPU Load-line calibration. The default value is [Auto].
DRAM Voltage
Use this to select DRAM Voltage. The default value is [Auto].
NB Voltage
Use this to select NB Voltage. The default value is [Auto].
HT Voltage
Use this to select HT Voltage. The default value is [Auto].
CPU VDDA Voltage
Use this to select CPU VDDA Voltage. The default value is [Auto].
PCIE VDDA Voltage
Use this to select PCIE VDDA Voltage. The default value is [Auto].
58
3.4 Advanced Screen
In this section, you may set the configurations for the following items: CPU Configu-
ration, Nouth Bridge Configuration, South Bridge Configuration, Storage Configura-
tion, Super IO Configuration, ACPI Configuration and USB Configuration.
Setting wrong values in this section may cause

the system to malfunction.
59
3.4.1 CPU Configuration
Cool ‘n’ Quiet

Use this item to enable or disable AMD’s Cool ‘n’ QuietTM technology. The
default value is [Enabled]. Configuration options: [Enabled] and [Disabled].
If you install Windows® 8 / 7 / VistaTM and want to enable this function,
please set this item to [Enabled]. Please note that enabling this function
may reduce CPU voltage and memory frequency, and lead to system sta-
bility or compatibility issue with some memory modules or power supplies.
Please set this item to [Disable] if above issue occurs.
Enhance Halt State (C1E)
All processors support the Halt State (C1). The C1 state is supported
through the native processor instructions HLT and MWAIT and requires no
hardware support from the chipset. In the C1 power state, the processor
maintains the context of the system caches.
Secure Virtual Machine
When this option is set to [Enabled], a VMM (Virtual Machine Architecture)
can utilize the additional hardware capabilities provided by AMD-V. The
default value is [Enabled]. Configuration options: [Enabled] and [Disabled].
Core C6 Mode
Use this item to enable or disable Core C6 mode. The default value is
[Enabled].
CPU Thermal Throttle
Use this item to enable CPU internal thermal control mechanism to keep
the CPU from overheated. The default value is [Auto].
60
3.4.2 North Bridge Configuration
Primary Graphics Adapter

This item will switch the PCI Bus scanning order while searching for video
card. It allows you to select the type of Primary VGA in case of multiple
video controllers. The default value of this feature is [PCI Express]. Con-
figuration options: [PCI] and [PCI Express].
IOMMU
Use this to enable or disable IOMMU. The default value of this feature is
[Disabled].
61
3.4.3 South Bridge Configuration
Onboard HD Audio
Select [Auto], [Enabled] or [Disabled] for the onboard HD Audio feature. If
you select [Auto], the onboard HD Audio will be disabled when PCI Sound
Card is plugged.
Front Panel
Select [Auto] or [Disabled] for the onboard HD Audio Front Panel.
Onboard LAN
This allows you to enable or disable the onboard LAN feature.
Onboard IEEE 1394
This allows you to enable or disable the onboard IEEE 1394.
Onboard Debug Port LED
This allows you to enable or disable the onboard Debug Port LED.
Good Night LED
This allows you to enable to turn off Power LED, Lan LED at power on.
62
3.4.4 Storage Configuration
SATA Controller
This item is for SATA3_1 to SATA3_6 ports. Use this item to enable or dis-
able the “SATA Controller” feature.
SATA Mode
This item is for SATA3_1 to SATA3_6 ports.Use this item to adjust SATA
Mode. The default value of this option is [AHCI Mode]. Configuration op-
tions: [AHCI Mode], [RAID Mode] and [IDE Mode].
If you set this item to RAID mode, it is suggested to install SATA

ODD driver on SATA3_5 or SATA3_6 port.
AMD AHCI BIOS ROM

Use this item to enable or disable AMD AHCI BIOS ROM. The default
value of this option is [Disabled].
SATA IDE Combined Mode
This item is for SATA3_5 and SATA3_6 ports. Use this item to enable or
disable SATA IDE combined mode. The default value is [Enabled].
If you want to build RAID on SATA3_5 and SATA3_6 ports,

please disable this item.
Aggressive Link Power Management

Use this item to configure Aggressive Link Power Management.
Hard Disk S.M.A.R.T.
Use this item to enable or disable the S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analy-
sis, and Reporting Technology) feature. Configuration options: [Disabled],
[Auto] and [Enabled].
63
ASMedia SATA3 Mode
This item is for SATA3_A1 and SATA3_A2 ports. Use this item to adjust
the “ASMedia SATA3 Mode” feature. Configuration options: [Disabled], [IDE
Mode] and [AHCI Mode]. The default value is [AHCI Mode].
SATA Boot ROM
Use this to enable or disable Onboard ASMedia SATA3 Option ROM. If
Option ROM is disabled, UEFI cannot use the SATA device to connect to
ASMedia SATA3 controller as Boot Device.
We recommend to use SATA3_1 to SATA3_6 ports for your

bootable device. This will minimum your boot time and get the
best performance. But if you still want to boot from ASMedia
SATA3 controller, please set this item to [Yes].
64
3.4.5 Super IO Configuration
Serial Port
Use this item to enable or disable the onboard serial port.
Serial Port Address
Use this item to set the address for the onboard serial port. Configuration
options: [3F8h / IRQ4] and [3E8h / IRQ4].
Infrared Port
Use this item to enable or disable the onboard infrared port.
Infrared Port Address
Use this item to set the address for the onboard infrared port.Configuration
options: [2F8h / IRQ3] and [2E8h / IRQ3].
65
3.4.6 ACPI Configuration
Suspend to RAM
Use this item to select whether to auto-detect or disable the Suspend-to-
RAM feature. Select [Auto] will enable this feature if the OS supports it.
Check Ready Bit
Use this item to enable or disable the feature Check Ready Bit.
ACPI HPET table
Use this item to enable or disable ACPI HPET Table. The default value is
[Enabled]. Please set this option to [Enabled] if you plan to use this moth-
erboard to submit Windows® certification.
Restore on AC/Power Loss

This allows you to set the power state after an unexpected AC/power loss.
If [Power Off] is selected, the AC/power remains off when the power re-
covers. If [Power On] is selected, the AC/power resumes and the system
starts to boot up when the power recovers.
PS/2 Keyboard Power On
Use this item to enable or disable PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system
from the power-soft-off mode.
PCI Devices Power On
Use this item to enable or disable PCI devices to turn on the system from
the power-soft-off mode.
Ring-In Power On
Use this item to enable or disable Ring-In signals to turn on the system
from the power-soft-off mode.
RTC Alarm Power On
Use this item to enable or disable RTC (Real Time Clock) to power on the
system.
66
USB Phy Power Down
Use this item to enable the USB PHY to power down in S4/S5 state.
USB Keyboard/Remote Power On
Use this item to enable or disable the system to wake from S5 using USB
Keyboard/Remote.
USB Mouse Power On
Use this item to enable or disable the system to wake from S5 using USB
Mouse.
CSM
Please disable CSM when you enable Fast Boot option. The default value
is [Enabled].
67
3.4.7 USB Configuration
USB 2.0 Controller

Use this item to enable or disable the use of USB 2.0 controller.
USB 3.0 Controller
Use this item to enable or disable the use of USB 3.0 controller.
Legacy USB Support
Use this option to select legacy support for USB devices. There are four
confi guration options: [Enabled], [Disabled], [Auto] and [UEFI Setup Only].
The default value is [Enabled]. Please refer to below descriptions for the
details of these four options:
[Enabled] - Enables support for legacy USB.
[Disabled] - USB devices are not allowed to use under legacy OS and
UEFI setup when [Disabled] is selected. If you have USB compatibility is-
sue, it is recommended to select [Disabled] to enter OS.
[Auto] - Enables legacy support if USB devices are connected.
[UEFI Setup Only] - USB devices are allowed to use only under UEFI
setup and Windows / Linux OS.
Legacy USB 3.0 Support
Use this option to enable or disable legacy support for USB 3.0 devices.
The default value is [Disabled].
68
3.5 Tool
System Browser
System Browser can let you easily check your current system configura-
tion in UEFI setup.
OMG (Online Management Guard)
Administrators are able to establish an internet curfew or restrict internet
access at specified times via OMG. You may schedule the starting and
ending hours of internet access granted to other users. In order to prevent
users from bypassing OMG, guest accounts without permission to modify
the system time are required.
Easy RAID Installer
Easy RAID Installer can help you to copy the RAID driver from a support
CD to your USB storage device. After copying the RAID driver to your
USB storage device, please change “SATA Mode” to “RAID”, then you
can start installing the OS in RAID mode.
UEFI Update Utility

Instant Flash
Instant Flash is a UEFI flash utility embedded in Flash ROM. This conve-
nient UEFI update tool allows you to update system UEFI without enter-
ing operating systems first like MS-DOS or Windows®. Just save the new
UEFI file to your USB flash drive, floppy disk or hard drive and launch this
tool, then you can update your UEFI only in a few clicks without prepar-
ing an additional floppy diskette or other complicated flash utility. Please
be noted that the USB flash drive or hard drive must use FAT32/16/12 file
system. If you execute Instant Flash utility, the utility will show the UEFI
files and their respective information. Select the proper UEFI file to up-
date your UEFI, and reboot your system after the UEFI update process is
completed.
69
Internet Flash
Internet Flash searches for available UEFI firmware updates from our
servers. In other words, the system can auto-detect the latest UEFI from
our servers and flash them without entering Windows OS.
Network Configuration
Internet Setting
Use this item to set up the internet connection mode. Configuration
options: [DHCP (Auto IP)] and [PPPOE].
UEFI Download Server
Use this item to select UEFI firmware download server for Internet Flash.
Configuration options: [Asia], [Europe], [USA] and [China].
Dehumidifier Function
Users may prevent motherboard damages due to dampness by enabling
“Dehumidifier Function”. When enabling Dehumidifier Function, the com-
puter will power on automatically to dehumidify the system after entering
S4/S5 state.
Dehumidifier Period
This allows users to configure the period of time until the computer powers
on and enables “Dehumidifier” after entering S4/S5 state.
Dehumidifier Duration
This allows users to configure the duration of the dehumidifying process
before it returns to S4/S5 state.
Dehumidifier CPU Fan Setting
Use this setting to configure CPU fan speed while “Dehumidifier” is en-
abled.
70
Would you like to save current setting user defaults?
In this option, you are allowed to load and save three user defaults
according to your own requirements.
71
3.6 Hardware Health Event Monitoring Screen
In this section, it allows you to monitor the status of the hardware on your system,
including the parameters of the CPU temperature, motherboard temperature, CPU
fan speed, chassis fan speed, and the critical voltage.
CPU Fan 1 & 2 Setting

This allows you to set the CPU fan 1 & 2 speed. Confi guration options: [Full
On] and [Automatic Mode]. The default is value [Full On].
Chassis Fan 1 Setting
This allows you to set the chassis fan 1 speed. Confi guration options: [Full
On] and [Automatic Mode]. The default is value [Full On].
On] and [Manual]. The default is value [Full On].
On] and [Manual]. The default is value [Full On].
72
3.7 Boot Screen
In this section, it will display the available devices on your system for you to config-
ure the boot settings and the boot priority.
Fast Boot
Fast Boot minimizes your computer’s boot time. There are three con-
figuration options: [Disabled], [Fast] and [Ultra Fast]. The default value is
[Disabled]. Please refer to below descriptions for the details of these three
options:
[Disabled] - Disable Fast Boot.
[Fast] - The only restriction is you may not boot by using an USB flash
drive.
[Ultra Fast] - There are a few restrictions.
1. Only supports Windows® 8 UEFI operating system.
2. You will not be able to enter BIOS Setup (Clear CMOS or run utility
in Widows® to enter BIOS Setup).
3. If you are using an external graphics card, the VBIOS must support
UEFI GOP in order to boot.
Boot From Onboard LAN

Use this item to enable or disable the Boot From Onboard LAN feature.
Setup Prompt Timeout
This shows the number of seconds to wait for setup activation key.
Bootup Num-Lock
If this item is set to [On], it will automatically activate the Numeric Lock
function after boot-up.
73
Full Screen Logo
Use this item to enable or disable OEM Logo. The default value is [En-
abled].
AddOn ROM Display
Use this option to adjust AddOn ROM Display. If you enable the option “Full
Screen Logo” but you want to see the AddOn ROM information when the
system boots, please select [Enabled]. Configuration options: [Enabled]
and [Disabled]. The default value is [Enabled].
Boot Failure Guard

Enable or disable the feature of Boot Failure Guard.
Boot Failure Guard Count
Enable or disable the feature of Boot Failure Guard Count.
74
3.8 Security Screen
In this section, you may set or change the supervisor/user password for the system.
For the user password, you may also clear it.
Secure Boot
Use this to enable or disable Secure Boot. The default value is [Disabled].
75
3.9 Exit Screen
Save Changes and Exit

When you select this option, it will pop-out the following message, “Save
configuration changes and exit setup?” Select [OK] to save the changes
and exit the UEFI SETUP UTILITY.
Discard Changes and Exit
When you select this option, it will pop-out the following message, “Discard
changes and exit setup?” Select [OK] to exit the UEFI SETUP UTILITY
without saving any changes.
Discard Changes
When you select this option, it will pop-out the following message, “Discard
changes?” Select [OK] to discard all changes.
Load UEFI Defaults
Load UEFI default values for all the setup questions. F9 key can be used
for this operation.
76
4. Software Support
4.1 Install Operating System
This motherboard supports various Microsoft® Windows® operating systems: 8 / 8
64-bit / 7 / 7 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit / XP / XP 64-bit. Because motherboard
settings and hardware options vary, use the setup procedures in this chapter for
general reference only. Refer to your OS documentation for more information.
4.2 Support CD Information

The Support CD that came with the motherboard contains necessary drivers and
useful utilities that enhance the motherboard features.
4.2.1 Running The Support CD

To begin using the support CD, insert the CD into your CD-ROM drive. The CD
automatically displays the Main Menu if “AUTORUN” is enabled in your com-
puter. If the Main Menu did not appear automatically, locate and double click
on the file “ASRSetup.exe” from the BIN folder in the Support CD to display the
menus.
4.2.2 Drivers Menu

The Drivers Menu shows the available devices drivers if the system detects the
installed devices. Please install the necessary drivers to activate the devices.

4.2.3 Utilities Menu
The Utilities Menu shows the applications software that the motherboard sup-
ports. Click on a specific item then follow the installation wizard to install it.
4.2.4 Contact Information

If you need to contact ASRock or want to know more about ASRock, welcome
to visit ASRock’s website at http://www.asrock.com; or you may contact your
dealer for further information.
77
Installing OS on a HDD Larger Than 2TB
This motherboard is adopting UEFI BIOS that allows Windows® OS to be installed
on a large size HDD (>2TB). Please follow below procedure to install the operating
system.
1. Please make sure to use Windows® VistaTM 64-bit (with SP1 or above),
Windows® 7 64-bit or Windows® 8 64-bit.
2. Press <F2> or <Delete> at system POST. Set AHCI Mode in UEFI Setup Utility >
Advanced > Storage Configuration > SATA Mode.
3. Choose the item “UEFI:xxx“ to boot in UEFI Setup Utility > Boot > Boot Option #1.
(“xxx” is the device which contains your Windows® installation files. Normally it is
an optical drive.) You can also press <F11> to launch boot menu at system POST
and choose the item “UEFI:xxx“ to boot.
4. Start Windows® installation.
78

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990FX Extreme9

CALIFORNIA, USA ONLY

ASRock Website: http://www.asrock.com

Because the motherboard specifications and the BIOS software might

1.1 Package Contents

ASRock Reminds You...

Platform - ATX Form Factor

ASRock Extreme Tuning Utility (AXTU)

ASRock Instant Boot

ASRock Instant Flash

ASRock XFast USB

ASRock XFast LAN

ASRock XFast RAM

ASRock OMG (Online Management Guard)

ASRock Internet Flash

ASRock UEFI System Browser

ASRock Dehumidifier Function

ASRock Easy RAID Installer

ASRock Restart to UEFI

Turbo 50 / Turbo 60 Overclocking

ASRock Good Night LED

DDR3_A2 (64 bit, 240-pin module)

DDR3_B2 (64 bit, 240-pin module)

DDR3_B1 (64 bit, 240-pin module)

1 ATX 12V Power Connector (ATX12V1) 21 Power Switch (PWRBTN)

1 PS/2 Mouse Port (Green) 11 Microphone (Pink)

*** eSATA3 connector supports SATA Gen3 in cable 1M.

Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the

CPU Golden Triangle

STEP 1: STEP 2 / STEP 3: STEP 4:

2.2 Installation of CPU Fan and Heatsink

Dual Channel Memory Configurations

DDR3_A1 DDR3_A2 DDR3_B1 DDR3_B2

1. Please install the memory module into DDR3_A2 and DDR3_B2

Please make sure to disconnect power supply before adding or

Step 1. Unlock a DIMM slot by pressing the retaining clips outward.

PCIE Slot Configurations

1. In single VGA card mode, it is recommended to install a PCI Express

2.5.1 Graphics Card Setup

2.5.1.1 Installing Two SLITM-Ready Graphics Cards

ASRock SLI_Bridge_2S Card

ASRock 3-Way SLI-2S1S Bridge Card

For Windows® XP / XP 64-bit OS:

A. Double-click NVIDIA Settings icon on your Windows® taskbar.

C. Reboot your system.

A. Click the Start icon on your Windows taskbar.

F. Reboot your system.

A. Follow steps A to D on page 27.

C. Reboot your system.

2.6.1 Graphics Card Setup

2.6.1.1 Installing Two CrossFireXTM-Ready Graphics Cards

Different CrossFireXTM cards may require different methods to enable CrossFi-

The Catalyst Uninstaller is an optional download. We recommend using this

Step 3. Install the required drivers to your system.

ATI Catalyst Control Center

* CrossFireXTM appearing here is a registered trademark of AMD Technologies Inc., and is

2.7 Surround Display Feature

Step1. Find the CIR header located next

Step2. Connect the front USB cable to the USB_PWR