Asus P8H61 Evo Owner S Manual

2014-07-05

: Asus Asus-P8H61-Evo-Owner-S-Manual asus-p8h61-evo-owner-s-manual asus pdf

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Notices
Chapter 1
Product introduction
Chapter 2
BIOS information

Motherboard

P8H61 EVO

E6571

First Edition (V1)

April 2011

No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced,

transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any

means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written

permission of ASUSTeK Computer Inc. (“ASUS”).

Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modied or altered, unless

such repair, modication of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the

product is defaced or missing.

ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS

OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF

MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, 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 USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE),

EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY

DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.

SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR

INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE,

AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO

RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS

MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.

Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or

copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identication or explanation and to the

owners’ benet, without intent to infringe.

Offer to Provide Source Code of Certain Software

This product may contain copyrighted software that is licensed under the General Public License (“GPL”)

and under the Lesser General Public License Version (“LGPL”). The GPL and LGPL licensed code in this

product is distributed without any warranty. Copies of these licenses are included in this product.

You may obtain the complete corresponding source code (as dened in the GPL) for the GPL Software,

and/or the complete corresponding source code of the LGPL Software (with the complete machine-

readable “work that uses the Library”) for a period of three years after our last shipment of the product

including the GPL Software and/or LGPL Software, which will be no earlier than December 1, 2011, either

(1) for free by downloading it from http://support.asus.com/download;

(2) for the cost of reproduction and shipment, which is dependent on the preferred carrier and the location

where you want to have it shipped to, by sending a request to:

ASUSTeK Computer Inc.

Legal Compliance Dept.

15 Li Te Rd.,

Beitou, Taipei 112

Taiwan

In your request please provide the name, model number and version, as stated in the About Box of the

product for which you wish to obtain the corresponding source code and your contact details so that we

can coordinate the terms and cost of shipment with you.

The source code will be distributed WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY and licensed under the same license as

the corresponding binary/object code.

This offer is valid to anyone in receipt of this information.

ASUSTeK is eager to duly provide complete source code as required under various Free Open Source

Software licenses. If however you encounter any problems in obtaining the full corresponding source code

we would be much obliged if you give us a notication to the email address gpl@asus.com, stating the

product and describing the problem (please do NOT send large attachments such as source code archives

etc to this email address).

iii

Contents

Notices ......................................................................................................... vi

Safety information ..................................................................................... vii

About this guide ........................................................................................ vii

P8H61 EVO specications summary ........................................................ ix

Chapter 1

Product introduction

1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1

1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1

1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-1

1.3.1 Product highlights ........................................................... 1-1

1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features ............................................... 1-3

1.4 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 1-5

1.5 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 1-6

1.5.1 Placement direction ........................................................ 1-6

1.5.2 Screw holes .................................................................... 1-6

1.5.3 Motherboard layout ......................................................... 1-7

1.5.4 Layout contents ............................................................... 1-7

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 1-8

1.6.1 Installing the CPU ........................................................... 1-8

1.6.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan ...............................1-11

1.6.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan ......................... 1-12

1.7 System memory ......................................................................... 1-13

1.7.1 Overview ....................................................................... 1-13

1.7.2 Memory congurations .................................................. 1-15

1.7.3 Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 1-18

1.7.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 1-18

1.8 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 1-19

1.8.1 Installing an expansion card ......................................... 1-19

1.8.2 Conguring an expansion card ..................................... 1-19

1.8.3 PCI slots ........................................................................ 1-19

1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slots ..................................................... 1-19

1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot ..................................................... 1-19

1.9 Jumpers ...................................................................................... 1-20

1.10 Connectors ................................................................................. 1-21

Contents

1.10.1 Rear panel connectors .................................................. 1-21

1.10.2 Internal connectors ....................................................... 1-23

1.11 Onboard switches ...................................................................... 1-29

1.12 Onboard LEDs ............................................................................ 1-31

1.13 Software support ........................................................................ 1-32

1.13.1 Installing an operating system ...................................... 1-32

1.13.2 Support DVD information .............................................. 1-32

Chapter 2

BIOS information

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 2-1

2.1.1 ASUS Update utility ........................................................ 2-1

2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ............................................................ 2-2

2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ...................................... 2-3

2.1.4 ASUS BIOS Updater ....................................................... 2-4

2.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 2-7

2.3 Main menu .................................................................................. 2-11

2.3.1 System Language ..........................................................2-11

2.3.2 System Date ..................................................................2-11

2.3.3 System Time ..................................................................2-11

2.3.4 Security ..........................................................................2-11

2.4 Ai Tweaker menu ........................................................................ 2-13

2.4.1 Ai Overclock Tuner ........................................................ 2-13

2.4.2 Memory Frequency ....................................................... 2-14

2.4.3 EPU Power Saving Mode ............................................. 2-14

2.4.4 OC Tuner ...................................................................... 2-14

2.4.5 DRAM Timing Control ................................................... 2-14

2.4.6 CPU Power Management ............................................. 2-14

2.4.7 CPU Offset Mode Sign .................................................. 2-15

2.4.8 DRAM Voltage .............................................................. 2-16

2.4.9 VCCIO Voltage .............................................................. 2-16

2.4.10 CPU PLL Voltage .......................................................... 2-16

2.4.11 PCH Voltage ................................................................ 2-16

2.4.12 Load-Line Calibration ................................................... 2-16

2.4.13 CPU Spread Spectrum ................................................ 2-16

Contents

2.5 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 2-17

2.5.1 CPU Conguration ........................................................ 2-17

2.5.2 System Agent Conguration ......................................... 2-19

2.5.3 PCH Conguration ........................................................ 2-19

2.5.4 SATA Conguration ....................................................... 2-19

2.5.5 USB Conguration ........................................................ 2-20

2.5.6 Onboard Devices Conguration .................................... 2-20

2.5.7 APM .............................................................................. 2-22

2.6 Monitor menu ............................................................................. 2-23

2.6.1 CPU Temperature / MB Temperature ............................ 2-23

2.6.2 CPU / Chassis Fan 1/2 Speed ...................................... 2-23

2.6.3 CPU Q-Fan Control ...................................................... 2-23

2.6.4 Chassis Q-Fan Control ................................................ 2-24

2.6.5 CPU Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage .. 2-25

2.6.6 Anti Surge Support ....................................................... 2-25

2.7 Boot menu .................................................................................. 2-26

2.7.1 Bootup NumLock State ................................................. 2-26

2.7.2 Full Screen Logo .......................................................... 2-26

2.7.3 Wait For ‘F1’ If Error ..................................................... 2-26

2.7.4 Option ROM Messages ................................................. 2-27

2.7.5 Setup Mode ................................................................... 2-27

2.7.6 Boot Option Priorities .................................................... 2-27

2.7.7 Boot Override ................................................................ 2-27

2.8 Tools menu ................................................................................. 2-28

2.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility ................................................ 2-28

2.8.2 ASUS SPD Information ................................................. 2-28

2.8.3 ASUS O.C. Prole ......................................................... 2-28

2.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 2-29

Notices

Federal Communications Commission Statement

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two

conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference, and

• This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause

undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital

device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide

reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This

equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed

and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference

to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur

in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or

television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user

is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

•

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

•

Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

•

Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is

connected.

•

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required

to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modications to this unit not

expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority

to operate this equipment.

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from

digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department

of Communications.

This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to

enable proper reuse of parts and recycling. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin

indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in

municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.

DO NOT throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste. This symbol

of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal

waste.

REACH

Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of

Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at

ASUS REACH website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.

vii

Safety information

Electrical safety

• To prevent electric shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electric outlet

before relocating the system.

• When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables

for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible,

disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.

• Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all

power cables are unplugged.

• Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices

could interrupt the grounding circuit.

• Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not

sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power

company.

• If the power supply is broken, do not try to x it by yourself. Contact a qualied service

technician or your retailer.

Operation safety

•

Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals

that came with the package.

•

Before using the product, ensure that all cables are correctly connected and the power

cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.

•

To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors,

slots, sockets and circuitry.

•

Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area

where it may become wet.

•

Place the product on a stable surface.

•

If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualied service

technician or your retailer.

About this guide

This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring the

motherboard.

How this guide is organized

This guide contains the following parts:

• Chapter 1: Product introduction

This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it

supports.

• Chapter 2: BIOS information

This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.

Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.

viii

Conventions used in this guide

To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used

throughout this manual.

DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to

complete a task.

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to

complete a task.

NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.

IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.

Where to nd more information

Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software

updates.

1. ASUS websites

The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software

products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.

2. Optional documentation

Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty yers,

that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the

standard package.

Typography

Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.

Italics

Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.

<Key> Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign means

that you must press the enclosed key.

Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or

Return key.

<Key1>+<Key2>+<Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key

names are linked with a plus sign (+).

Example: <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del>

P8H61 EVO specications summary

(continued on the next page)

CPU LGA1155 socket for Intel® Second Generation Core™ i7 /

Core™ i5 / Core™ i3 Processors

Supports 32nm CPU

Supports Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0

* The Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on the

CPU types.

** Refer to www.asus.com for Intel® CPU support list.

Chipset Intel® H61 Express Chipset

Memory 4 x 240-pin DIMM sockets support maximum 16GB unbuffered

non-ECC DDR3 1333 / 1066MHz memory modules

Dual-channel memory architecture

Support Intel® Extreme Memory Prole (XMP)

* Refer to www.asus.com for the Memory QVL (Qualied

Vendors Lists).

** When you install a total memory of 4GB capacity or more,

Windows® 32-bit operating system may only recognize less

than 3GB. We recommend a maximum of 3GB system

memory if you are using a Windows® 32-bit operating system.

Expansion slots 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot

2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots

3 x PCI slots

Storage Intel® H61 Express Chipset:

- 4 x Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s connectors

ASMedia SATA 6.0Gb/s controller:

- 2 x Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s connectors

LAN Realtek® 8111E Gigabit LAN controller

Audio ALC887 8-channel High Denition Audio CODEC supports:

- Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, and Front Panel Jack-

Retasking

- Optical S/PDIF out ports at mid-board and back I/O

USB ASMedia® 1042 USB 3.0 controller:

- 4 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (2 ports at mid-board, 2 ports at the back

panel [blue])

Intel® H61(B3) Express Chipset:

- 10 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports at mid-board, 6 ports at the

back panel)

P8H61 EVO specications summary

(continued on the next page)

ASUS Special

features

100% All High-quality Conductive Polymer Capacitors

ASUS Exclusive Overclocking Features:

- Turbo V

ASUS Hybrid Switches

- MemOK!

- Turbo Key II

ASUS Protect 3.0 technology

- ASUS EPU

- Anti-Surge protection

- LOW EMI solution

- ESD

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution

- ASUS Fanless Design: Stylish Heatsink Solution and MOS

Heatsink

- ASUS Fan Xpert

ASUS EZ DIY

- ASUS EFI BIOS

- ASUS AI Suite II

- ASUS AI Charger

- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

- ASUS EZ Flash 2

- ASUS MyLogo 2

ASUS Exclusive

Overclocking

features

Precision Tweaker:

- vCore: adjustable CPU voltage at 0.010V increment

- vCCIO: adjustable I/O voltage at 0.005V increment

- vDRAM Bus: 190-step DRAM voltage control

- vPCH: 190-step chipset voltage control

SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection)

- BCLK/PEG frequency tuning from 80MHz up to 300MHz at

a 1MHz increment

Overclocking Protection:

- ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

Rear panel ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard port

1 x PS/2 Mouse port

1 x Optical S/PDIF out port

1 x LAN (RJ-45) port

6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports

2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue)

8-channel audio ports

P8H61 EVO specications summary

* Specications are subject to change without notice.

Internal connectors /

switches

1 x USB 3.0/2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB 3.0/2.0 ports

2 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 4 USB 2.0/1.1 ports

1 x System panel connector

1 x S/PDIF Out connector

4 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors

2 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors

1 x Front panel audio connector

1 x CPU fan connector

2 x Chassis fan connectors

1 x COM connector

1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector

1 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector

1 x Turbo Key II switch

1 x MemOK! switch

BIOS features 32 Mb Flash ROM, EFI BIOS, PnP, DMI v2.0, WfM2.0, SMBIOS

v2.6, ACPI v2.0a, Multi-language BIOS

Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE

Accessories 2 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables

1 x I/O shield

1 x Support DVD

1 x User Manual

Support DVD Drivers

ASUS Update

ASUS Utilities

Anti-virus software (OEM version)

Form factor ATX form factor: 12.0 in x 8.4 in (30.5 cm x 21.3 cm)

xii

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-1

Chapter 1

Product introduction

Motherboard ASUS P8H61 EVO motherboard

Cables 2 x Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s cables

Accessories 1 x I/O shield

Application DVD ASUS motherboard support DVD

Documentation User Manual

If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

LGA1155 socket for Intel® Second Generation Core™ i7/

Core™ i5/ Core™ i3 Processors

This motherboard supports the Intel® Second Generation Core™ i7/

Core™ i5/ Core™ i3 processors in LGA1155 package with memory and

PCI Express controllers integrated to support 2-channel DDR3 memory

and 16 PCI Express 2.0 lanes. This provides great graphics performance.

Intel® Second Generation Core™ i7/ Core™ i5/ Core™ i3 processors are

among the most powerful and energy efcient CPUs in the world.

1.1 Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ASUS® P8H61 EVO motherboard!

The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another

standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!

Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in

your package with the list below.

1.2 Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

1-2 Chapter 1: Product introduction

Intel® H61 Express Chipset

The Intel® H61 Express Chipset is the latest single-chipset design to

support the new 1155 socket Intel® Core™ i7 / Core™ i5 / Core™ i3 2nd

generation processors. It provides improved performance by utilizing

serial point-to-point links, allowing increased bandwidth and stability.

Dual-Channel DDR3 1333 / 1066MHz support

The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer

rates of 1333 / 1066 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements

of the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The

dual-channel DDR3 architecture enlarges the bandwidth of your system

memory to boost system performance.

True Serial ATA 6Gb/s support

ASUS provides extra SATA 6.0Gb/s ports with enhanced scalability, faster

data retrieval, and double the bandwidth of current bus systems.

USB 3.0 support

Experience ultra-fast data transfer at 4.8Gbps with USB 3.0 – the latest

connectivity standard. Built to connect easily with next-generation

components and peripherals, USB 3.0 transfers data 10x faster and is

also backward compatible with USB 2.0 components.

PCI Express 2.0 support

This motherboard supports PCI Express 2.0 devices for double speed

and bandwidth which enhances system performance.

S/PDIF out connector at the back I/O

This motherboard provides convenient connectivity to external home

theater audio systems via the optical S/PDIF (SONY-PHILIPS Digital

Interface) out connecor at the back I/O. The S/PDIF transfers digital audio

without converting it to analog format and keeps the best signal quality.

8-channel high denition audio

The onboard 8-channel HD audio (High Denition Audio, previously

codenamed Azalia) CODEC enables high-quality 192KHz/24-bit audio

output and jack-detect feature that automatically detects and identies

what types of peripherals are plugged into the audio I/O jacks and noties

users of inappropriate connection, which means there will be no more

confusion of Line-in, Line-out, and Mic jacks.

Gigabit LAN solution

The onboard LAN controller is a highly integrated Gb LAN controller. It is

enhanced with an ACPI management function to provide efcient power

management for advanced operating systems.

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-3

100% All High-quality Conductive Polymer Capacitors

This motherboard uses all high-quality conductive polymer capacitors for

durability, improved lifespan, and enhanced thermal capacity.

1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features

ASUS EFI BIOS (EZ Mode)

ASUS brand new EFI BIOS offers a user-friendly interface that goes

beyond traditional keyboard BIOS input to enable more exible and

convenient mouse controls. You can easily navigate the new EFI BIOS

with the same smoothness as their operating system, while the exclusive

EZ Mode displays frequently-accessed setup info, while the Advanced

Mode is for experienced performance enthusiasts that demand far more

intricate system settings.

MemOK!

MemOK! quickly ensures memory boot compatibility. This remarkable

memory rescue tool requires a mere push of the button to patch memory

issues. MemOK! determines failsafe settings and dramatically improves

your system boot success. Get your system up and running in no time.

ASUS TurboV

Feel the adrenaline rush of real-time OC-now a reality with the ASUS

TurboV. This easy OC tool allows you to overclock without exiting or

rebooting the OS; and its user-friendly interface makes overclock with just

a few clicks away. Moreover, the ASUS OC proles in TurboV provides

the best O.C. settings in different scenarios.

ASUS Anti-Surge Protection

This special design prevents expensive devices and the motherboard

from damage caused by power surges from switching power supply

(PSU).

AI Suite II

With its fast user-friendly interface, ASUS AI Suite II consolidates all the

exclusive ASUS features into one simple to use software package. It

allows you to supervise overclocking, energy management, fan speed

control, and voltage and sensor readings. This all-in-one software offers

diverse and ease to use functions, with no need to switch back and forth

between different utilities.

Fanless Design: stylish heatsink solution

The stylish heatsink features a 0-dB thermal solution that offers users a

noiseless PC environment. Not only the beautiful shape upgrades the

visual enjoyment for motherboard users, but also the heatsink design

lowers the temperature of the chipset and power phase area through

high efcient heat-exchange. Combined with usability and aesthetics,

the ASUS stylish heatsink will give users an extremely silent and cooling

experience with the elegant appearance!

1-4 Chapter 1: Product introduction

Fan Xpert

ASUS Fan Xpert intelligently allows you to adjust the CPU and chassis

fan speeds according to different ambient temperatures caused by

different climate conditions in different geographic regions and your PC’s

loading. The built-in variety of useful proles offer exible controls of fan

speed to achieve a quiet and cool environment.

ASUS MyLogo2™

This feature allows you to convert your favorite photo into a 256-color

boot logo for a more colorful and vivid image on your screen.

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto-recovery tool that allows you to

restore a corrupted BIOS le using the bundled support DVD or USB

ash disk that contains the latest BIOS le.

ASUS EZ Flash 2

ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a utility that allows you to update the BIOS without

using an OS-based utility.

C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

The BIOS C.P.R. feature automatically restores the CPU default settings

when the system hangs due to overclocking failure. C.P.R. eliminates the

need to open the system chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut

down and reboot the system, and the BIOS automatically restores the

CPU parameters to their default settings.

ErP ready

The motherboard is European Union´s Energy-related Products (ErP)

ready, and ErP requires products to meet certain energy efciency

requirements in regards to energy consumptions. This is in line with

ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and energy-efcient

products through product design and innovation to reduce carbon

footprint of the product and thus mitigate environmental impacts.

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-5

1.4 Before you proceed

Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change

any motherboard settings.

• Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.

• Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded

object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due to

static electricity.

• Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.

• Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the

bag that came with the component.

• Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply 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, or components.

1-6 Chapter 1: Product introduction

P8H61 EVO

1.5 Motherboard overview

Before you install the motherboard, study the conguration of your chassis to ensure that the

motherboard ts into it.

Ensure that you unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard.

Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

1.5.1 Placement direction

When installing the motherboard, ensure that you place it into the chassis in the correct

orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis as indicated in

the image below.

1.5.2 Screw holes

Place six screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.

Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.

Place this side towards

the rear of the chassis

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-7

1.5.3 Motherboard layout

1.5.4 Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page

1. CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN,

4-pin CHA_FAN1, 4-pin CHA_FAN2) 1-27 10. ASMedia Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s connectors (7-pin

SATA6G_E1/E2 [navy blue]) 1-24

2. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin

EATX12V) 1-25 11. Intel® H61 Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s connectors

(7-pin SATA3G_1~4 [blue]) 1-24

3. Turbo Key II LED (O2LED2) 1-31 12. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) 1-20

4. Turbo Key II switch 1-30 13. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) 1-28

5. Intel® LGA1155 CPU socket 1-8 14. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910) 1-26

6. DDR3 DIMM sockets 1-13 15. Standy Power LED (SB_PWR) 1-30

7. MemOK! switch 1-29 16. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) 1-27

8. DRAM LED 1-31 17. Serial port connectors (10-1 pin COM1) 1-23

9. ASMedia USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_34) 1-26 18. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-23

P8H61 EVO

PCIEX16_1

PCIEX1_2

PCIEX1_1

PCI1

PCI2

PCI3

MemOK!

DRAM_LED

PANEL

SPDIF_OUT

AAFP

EATX12V EPU

ASM

1042

ASM

1042

EATXPWR

CPU_FAN

CHA_FAN2

CHA_FAN1

Lithium Cell

CMOS Power

Super

I/O ASM

1083

AUDIO

ALC

887

RTL

8111E

COM1

KBMS

4Mb

BIOS

SB_PWR

02LED2

TURBO_KEY_II

CLRTC

21.3cm(8.4in)

30.5cm(12.0in)

USB3_34

Intel®

H61

DDR3 DIMM_A1 (64bit, 240-pin module)

DDR3 DIMM_A2 (64bit, 240-pin module)

DDR3 DIMM_B1 (64bit, 240-pin module)

DDR3 DIMM_B2 (64bit, 240-pin module)

LAN1_USB12

USB34

USB56

USB3_12

SPDIF_O2

SATA3G_2 SATA3G_1 SATA6G_E1

SATA3G_4 SATA3G_3 SATA6G_E2

LGA1155

USB78 USB910

21 3 6 71 5

12 11161718 14 1315

1-8 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1155 socket designed for the Intel® 2nd

Generation Core™ i7 / Core™ i5 / Core™ i3 processors.

• Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on the socket and the

socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap is missing,

or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard components.

ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is shipment/transit-related.

• Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise

Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the

LGA1155 socket.

• The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts resulting from

incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/incorrect removal of the PnP

cap.

1.6.1 Installing the CPU

To install a CPU:

1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.

To prevent damage to the socket pins,

do not remove the PnP cap unless

you are installing a CPU.

2. Press the load lever with your thumb (A),

and then move it to the right (B) until it is

released from the retention tab.

Load lever

Retention tab

P8H61 EVO

P8H61 EVO CPU socket LGA1155

Unplug all power cables before installing the CPU.

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-9

3. Lift the load lever in the direction of the

arrow until the load plate is completely

lifted.

Load plate

4. Remove the PnP cap from the CPU

socket by lifting the tab only.

The CPU ts in only one correct

orientation. DO NOT force the CPU

into the socket to prevent bending

the connectors on the socket and

damaging the CPU!

Gold

triangle

mark

Alignment keys

CPU notches

5. Position the CPU over the socket,

ensuring that the gold triangle is on the

bottom-left corner of the socket, and

then t the socket alignment keys into

the CPU notches.

PnP cap

1-10 Chapter 1: Product introduction

7. Close the load plate (A), and then push

down the load lever (B), ensuring that

the front edge of the load plate slides

under the retention knob (C).

8. Insert the load lever under the retention

tab.

6. Apply some Thermal Interface Material

to the exposed area of the CPU that the

heatsink will be in contact with, ensuring

that it is spread in an even thin layer.

Some heatsinks come with pre-

applied thermal paste. If so, skip this

step.

The Thermal Interface Material is

toxic and inedible. DO NOT eat it. If

it gets into your eyes or touches your

skin, wash it off immediately, and seek

professional medical help.

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-11

1.6.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan

The Intel® LGA1155 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to

ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.

•

When you buy a boxed Intel® processor, the package includes the CPU fan and

heatsink assembly. If you buy a CPU separately, ensure that you use only Intel®-certied

multi-directional heatsink and fan.

• Your Intel® LGA1155 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design and

requires no tool to install.

• Use an LGA1155-compatible CPU heatsink and fan assembly only. The LGA1155 socket

is incompatible with the LGA775 and LGA1366 sockets in size and dimension.

Ensure that you have installed the motherboard to the chassis before you install the CPU

fan and heatsink assembly.

To install the CPU heatsink and fan:

1. Place the heatsink on top of the installed

CPU, ensuring that the four fasteners match

the holes on the motherboard.

2. Push down two fasteners at a time in a

diagonal sequence to secure the heatsink

and fan assembly in place.

Orient the heatsink and fan assembly

such that the CPU fan cable is closest to

the CPU fan connector.

The type of CPU heatsink and fan assembly may differ, but the installation steps and

functions should remain the same. The illustration above is for reference only.

If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, ensure that you have

properly applied Thermal Interface Material to the CPU heatsink or CPU before you install

the heatsink and fan assembly.

1-12 Chapter 1: Product introduction

3. Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN.

Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if

you fail to plug this connector.

1.6.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan

To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan:

1. Disconnect the CPU fan cable from the connector on the motherboard.

2. Rotate each fastener counterclockwise.

3. Pull up two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to disengage the heatsink and

fan assembly from the motherboard.

CPU_FAN

CPU FAN PWM

CPU FAN IN

CPU FAN PWR

GND

P8H61 EVO

P8H61 EVO CPU fan connector

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-13

1.7 System memory

1.7.1 Overview

The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules

(DIMM) sockets.

A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR2 DIMM but is notched

differently to prevent installation on a DDR2 DIMM socket. DDR3 modules are developed for

better performance with less power consumption.

The gure illustrates the location of the DDR3 DIMM sockets:

4. Carefully remove the heatsink and fan

assembly from the motherboard.

5. Rotate each fastener clockwise to ensure

correct orientation when reinstalling.

P8H61 EVO

P8H61 EVO 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets

DIMM_A1

DIMM_A2

DIMM_B1

DIMM_B2

1-14 Chapter 1: Product introduction

Recommended memory congurations

One DIMM:

We recommend you install one memory module in the blue slots (DIMM_A2 or DIMM_B2) to

get better performance.

Two DIMMs (dual-channel operation):

Four DIMMs (dual-channel operation, single-sided DIMMs only):

Due to Intel H61 regulation, when install four DIMMs to form a dual-channel operation, only

DIMMs of single-sided are supported.

Dual Channel Memory Conguration Table

DIMM A1 (Black) DIMM A2 (Blue) DIMM B1 (Black) DIMM B2 (Blue)

Two DIMMs SS SS – –

– – SS SS

– DS/SS – DS/SS

Four DIMMs SS SS SS SS

*“SS” = Single-Sided, “DS” = Double-Sided, “–”=No Memory

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-15

1.7.2 Memory congurations

You may install 512MB, 1GB, 2GB, and 4GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the

DIMM sockets.

P8H61 EVO Motherboard Qualied Vendors List (QVL)

DDR3-1066MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/

Chip

Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support

(Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM

Crucial CT12864BA1067.8FF 1GB SS Micron 9GF22D9KPT 7 - • • •

Crucial CT25664BA1067.16FF 2GB DS Micron 9HF22D9KPT 7 - • •

ELPIDA EBJ10UE8EDF0-AE-F 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F - 1.35V(low voltage) • • •

ELPIDA EBJ21UE8EDF0-AE-F 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F - 1.35V(low voltage) • •

KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/1G 1GB SS KTC D1288JPNDPLD9U 7 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/2G 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BDSE-DJ-F 7 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/4G 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83AFR 7 1.5V • •

Micron MT8JTF12864AZ-1G1F1 1GB SS Micron 9GF22D9KPT 7 - • • •

Micron MT16JTF25664AZ-1G1F1 2GB DS Micron 9HF22D9KPT 7 - • •

OCZ OCZ3G1066LV4GK 4GB

(2 x 2GB) DS Micron 9BF27D9KPV 7-7-7-20 1.65V • •

Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HC5N-BE 2GB DS Elixir N2CB1G80CN-BE - - • •

Elixir M2Y2G64CBHA9N-BE 2GB DS - - 7-7-7-20 - • •

Elixir M2Y2G64CBHC9N-BE 2GB DS Elixir - - - •

Kingtiger 2GB DIMM PC3-8500 2GB DS Hynix H5TQ1G83AFP G7C - - • •

• The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect

(SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module.

Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a

lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. To operate at the vendor-marked or at a

higher frequency, refer to section 2.4 Ai Tweaker menu for manual memory frequency

adjustment.

• For system stability, use a more efcient memory cooling system to support a full

memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.

• You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps

the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel conguration. Any excess

memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation.

• Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, we

recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.

• Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows® OS, when you install 4GB

or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be

about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the

following:

- Use a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows® OS.

- Install a 64-bit Windows® OS when you want to install 4GB or more on the

motherboard.

• This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512Mb (64MB) chips or less.

1-16 Chapter 1: Product introduction

DDR3-1333MHz capability

Vendors Part No. Size SS/

DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support

(Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM

A-Data AD31333001GOU 1GB SS A-Data AD30908C8D-151C E0906 - - • • •

A-Data AD31333G001GOU 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-

1.85V • •

A-Data AD31333002GOU 2GB DS A-Data AD30908C8D-151C E0903 - - • •

A-Data AD31333G002GMU 2GB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-

1.85V • •

Apacer 78.A1GC6.9L1 2GB DS APACER AM5D5808DEWSBG - - • •

Apacer 78.A1GC6.9L1 2GB DS Apacer AM5D5808FEQSBG 9 - • •

CORSAIR CM3X1024-1333C9 1GB SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.60V • •

CORSAIR TWIN3X2048-1333C9DHX G 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V • • •

CORSAIR TR3X3G1333C9 G 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V • •

CORSAIR TR3X3G1333C9 G 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V • • •

CORSAIR CMD24GX3M6A1333C9(XMP) 24GB(6x4GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.60V • •

CORSAIR TW3X4G1333C9D G 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V • •

CORSAIR TW3X4G1333C9DHX G 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V • •

CORSAIR CMX8GX3M4A1333C9 8GB(4 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V • •

Crucial CT12864BA1339.8FF 1GB SS Micron 9FF22D9KPT 9 - • • •

Crucial CT25664BA1339.16FF 2GB DS Micron 9KF27D9KPT 9 - • •

Crucial BL25664BN1337.16FF (XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.65V • •

ELPIDA EBJ10UE8EDF0-DJ-F 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F - 1.35V(low

voltage) • • •

ELPIDA EBJ21UE8EDF0-DJ-F 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F - 1.35V(low

voltage) • •

G.SKILL F3-10600CL8D-2GBHK(XMP) 1GB SS G.SKILL - - - • • •

G.SKILL F3-10666CL7T-3GBPK(XMP) 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 7-7-7-18 1.5~1.6V • • •

G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D-4GBECO(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-8-24 XMP

1.35V • •

G.SKILL F3-10666CL7T-6GBPK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-18 1.5~1.6V • •

G.SKILL F3-10666CL7D-8GBRH(XMP) 8GB(2 x 4GB) DS - - 7-7-7-21 1.5V • •

GEIL GET316GB1333C9QC 16GB ( 4x 4GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V • •

GEIL GV32GB1333C9DC 2GB(2 x 1GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V • •

GEIL GG34GB1333C9DC 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS GEIL GL1L128M88BA12N 9-9-9-24 1.3V(low

voltage) • •

GEIL GV34GB1333C9DC 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V • •

GEIL GVP34GB1333C7DC 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.5V • •

Hynix HMT112U6TFR8A-H9 1GB SS HYNIX H5TC1G83TFRH9A - 1.35V(low

voltage) • • •

HYNIX HMT325U6BFR8C-H9 2GB SS HYNIX H5TQ2G83BFRH9C - - • • •

Hynix HMT125U6TFR8A-H9 2GB DS HYNIX H5TC1G83TFRH9A - 1.35V(low

voltage) • •

HYNIX HMT351U6BFR8C-H9 4GB DS HYNIX H5TQ2G83BFRH9C - - • •

KINGMAX FLFD45F-B8KL9 NAES 1GB SS KINGMAX KKB8FNWBFGNX-27A - - • • •

KINGMAX FLFE85F-C8KF9 CAES 2GB SS KINGMAX KFC8FMFXF-DXX-15A - - • • •

KINGMAX FLFE85F-C8KM9 NAES 2GB SS KINGMAX KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A - - • • •

KINGMAX FLFE85F-B8KL9 NEES 2GB DS KINGMAX KKB8FNWBFGNX-26A - - • •

KINGMAX FLFF65F-C8KM9 NEES 4GB DS KINGMAX KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A - - • •

Kingston KVR1333D3N9/1G 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108BDBG-DJ-F 9 1.5V • • •

KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/2G(矮矮) 2GB SS HYNIX H5TQ2G83AFRH9C 9 - • • •

KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/2G(矮矮) 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BDBG-DJ-F 9 1.5V • •

Kingston KVR1333D3N9/2G 2GB DS KTC D1288JPNDPLD9U 9 1.5V • •

Kingston KVR1333D3N9/2G 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BDSE-DJ-F 9 1.5V • •

Kingston KHX1333C7D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7 1.65V • •

Kingston KHX1333C9D3UK2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9 XMP

1.25V • •

KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/4G(矮矮) 4GB DS HYNIX H5TQ2G83AFRH9C 9 1.5V • •

KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/4G 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83AFR - - • •

MICRON MT4JTF12864AZ-1G4D1 1GB SS MICRON OJD12D9LGQ - - • • •

Micron MT8JTF12864AZ-1G4F1 1GB SS Micron 9FF22D9KPT 9 - • • •

MICRON MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4D1 2GB SS MICRON OJD12D9LGK - - • • •

Micron MT16JTF25664AZ-1G4F1 2GB DS Micron 9KF27D9KPT 9 - • •

MICRON MT16JTF51264AZ-1G4D1 4GB DS MICRON OLD22D9LGK - - • •

OCZ OCZ3F13334GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-20 1.7V • •

OCZ OCZ3G1333LV4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-20 1.65V • •

OCZ OCZ3P1333LV4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65V • •

OCZ OCZ3X13334GK(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.75V • •

OCZ OCZ3G1333LV6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-20 1.65V • •

OCZ OCZ3P1333LV6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65V • •

OCZ OCZ3X1333LV6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-20 1.60V • •

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-17

Vendors Part No. Size SS/

DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage

DIMM socket support

(Optional)

1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM

OCZ OCZ3G1333LV8GK 8GB ( 2x 4GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-20 1.65V • •

OCZ OCZ3RPR1333C9LV8GK 8GB ( 2x 4GB ) DS - - 9-9-9-20 1.65V • •

PSC AL7F8G73D-DG1 1GB SS PSC A3P1GF3DGF 8-8-8-24 1.5V • • •

PSC AL7F8G73F-DJ2 1GB SS PSC A3P1GF3FGF - - • • •

PSC AL8F8G73D-DG1 2GB DS PSC A3P1GF3DGF 8-8-8-24 1.5V • •

PSC AL8F8G73F-DJ2 2GB DS PSC A3P1GF3FGF - - • •

SAMSUNG M378B2873FHS-CH9 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F - - • • •

SAMSUNG M378B5673FH0-CH9 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F - - • •

SAMSUNG M378B5273CH0-CH9 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C - - • •

Super Talent W1333UA1GH 1GB SS HYNIX H5TQ1G83TFR 9 - • • •

Super Talent W1333X2G8(XMP) 1GB SS - - 8 - •

Super Talent W1333UB2GS 2GB DS Samsung K4B1G0846F 9 - • •

Super Talent W1333UB4GS 4GB DS Samsung K4B2G0846C - - • •

Super Talent W1333UX6GM 6GB(3x 2GB) DS Micron 0BF27D9KPT 9-9-9-24 1.5V • •

Transcend TS256MLK64V3U 2GB DS Micron 9GF27D9KPT - - • •

Elixir M2F2G64CB88B7N-CG 2GB SS Elixir N2CB2G80BN-CG - - • •

Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HA9N-CG 2GB DS - - 7-7-7-20 - • •

Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HC9N-CG 2GB DS Elixir - - - • •

Elixir M2F4G64CB8HB5N-CG 4GB DS Elixir N2CB2G80BN-CG - - •

KINGSHARE KSRPCD313332G 2GB DS PATRIOT PM128M8D385-15 - - • •

Kingtiger 2GB DIMM PC3-10666 2GB DS Samsung SEC 904 HCH9

K4B1G0846D - - • •

Kingtiger KTG2G1333PG3 2GB DS - - - - • •

PATRIOT PSD31G13332H 1GB DS - - 9 - • •

PATRIOT PSD31G13332 1GB DS Patriot PM64M8D38U-15 - - • •

PATRIOT PSD32G13332H 2GB DS - - - - • •

RAMAXEL RMR1870ED48E8F-1333 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BDBG-DJ-F - - • •

SILICON

POWER SP001GBLTU133S01 1GB SS NANYA NT5CB128M8AN-CG 9 - • • •

SILICON

POWER SP001GBLTU133S02 1GB SS elixir N2CB1680AN-C6 9 - • • •

SILICON

POWER SP002GBLTU133S02 2GB DS elixir N2CB1680AN-C6 9 - • •

TAKEMS TMS1GB364D081-107EY 1GB SS - - 7-7-7-20 1.5V • • •

TAKEMS TMS1GB364D081-138EY 1GB SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.5V • •

TAKEMS TMS2GB364D081-107EY 2GB DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.5V • •

TAKEMS TMS2GB364D081-138EY 2GB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.5V • •

TAKEMS TMS2GB364D082-138EW 2GB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.5V • •

UMAX E41302GP0-73BDB 2GB DS UMAX U2S24D30TP-13 - - • •

WINTEC 3WVS31333-2G-CNR 2GB DS AMPO AM3420803-13H - - • •

Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for the latest QVL.

DDR3-1333MHz capability (continued)

Dual Channel Memory Conguration Table

DIMM A1 (Black) DIMM A2 (Blue) DIMM B1 (Black) DIMM B2 (Blue)

Two DIMMs SS SS – –

– – SS SS

– DS/SS – DS/SS

Four DIMMs SS SS SS SS

*“SS” = Single-Sided, “DS” = Double-Sided, “–”=No Memory

1-18 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.7.4 Removing a DIMM

1. Simultaneously press the retaining

clips outward to unlock the DIMM.

2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.

1.7.3 Installing a DIMM

3. Hold the DIMM by both of its ends,

then insert the DIMM vertically into

the socket. Apply force to both ends

of the DIMM simultaneously until the

retaining clips snap back into place,

and the DIMM cannot be pushed in

any further to ensure proper sitting of

the DIMM.

Ensure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system

components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the

components.

1. Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing

the retaining clips outward.

2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that

the notch on the DIMM matches the

DIMM slot key on the socket.

A DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it ts in only one direction. DO NOT force a DIMM into

a socket in the wrong direction to avoid damaging the DIMM.

Support the DIMM lightly with your ngers when pressing the retaining clips. The DIMM

might get damaged when it ips out with extra force.

Always insert the DIMM into the socket VERTICALLY to prevent DIMM notch damage.

Unlocked retaining clip

DIMM notch

DIMM slot key

Locked Retaining Clip

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-19

1.8 Expansion slots

In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections describe

the slots and the expansion cards that they support.

Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may

cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

1.8.1 Installing an expansion card

To install an expansion card:

1. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with it and

make the necessary hardware settings for the card.

2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a chassis).

3. Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later

use.

4. Align the card connector with the slot and press rmly until the card is completely

seated on the slot.

5. Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.

6. Replace the system cover.

1.8.2 Conguring an expansion card

After installing the expansion card, congure it by adjusting the software settings.

1. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See Chapter 2 for

information on BIOS setup.

2. Assign an IRQ to the card.

3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.

When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that

the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conicts will arise between the two PCI

groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable.

1.8.3 PCI slots

The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that

comply with PCI specications.

1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slots

This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards, and other cards that

comply with the PCI Express specications.

1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot

This motherboard has a PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot that supports PCI Express x16 2.0 graphic

cards complying with the PCI Express specications.

1-20 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.9 Jumpers

Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)

This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can

clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing

the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in

CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords.

Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default

position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!

• If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the jumper again

to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After clearing the CMOS, reinstall the battery.

• You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For

system failure due to overclocking, use the CPU Parameter Recall (C.P.R.) feature. Shut

down and reboot the system, then the BIOS automatically resets parameter settings to

default values.

To erase the RTC RAM:

1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.

2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3

for about 5-10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.

3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.

4. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter

data.

P8H61 EVO

P8H61 EVO Clear RTC RAM

1 2 2 3

Normal

(Default)

Clear RTC

CLRTC

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-21

1.10 Connectors

1.10.1 Rear panel connectors

101113 12

3 4 5 6

1. PS/2 Mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse.

2. LAN (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN)

through a network hub. Refer to the table on the next page for the LAN port LED

indicators.

ACT/LINK LED SPEED LED

Status Description Status Description

OFF No link OFF 10 Mbps connection

ORANGE Linked ORANGE 100 Mbps connection

BLINKING Data activity GREEN 1 Gbps connection

LAN port LED indications

LAN port

SPEED

LED

ACT/LINK

LED

3. Center / Subwoofer port (orange). This port connects the center/subwoofer speakers.

4. Rear Speaker Out port (black). This port connects the rear speakers in a 4-channel,

6-channel, or 8-channel audio conguration.

5. Line In port (light blue). This port connects the tape, CD, DVD player, or other audio

sources.

6. Line Out port (lime). This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In 4-channel, 6-

channel, and 8-channel congurations, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker

Out.

7. Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone.

8. Side Speaker Out port (gray). This port connects the side speaker in an 8-channel

audio conguration.

Refer to the audio conguration table on the next page for the function of the audio ports in

the 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conguration.

1-22 Chapter 1: Product introduction

9. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports connect to

USB 2.0/1.1 devices.

10. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports connect to

USB 2.0/1.1 devices.

11. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports connect to

USB 2.0/1.1 devices.

12. Optical S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device via an

optical S/PDIF cable.

13. USB 3.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 9-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports connect to

USB 3.0/2.0 devices.

Audio 2, 4, 6, and 8-channel conguration

Port Headset 2-channel 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel

Light Blue Line In Line in Line in Line in

Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out

Pink Mic In Mic In Mic in Mic in

Orange - - Center/Subwoofer Center/Subwoofer

Black - Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out

Gray - - - Side Speaker Out

• DO NOT connect a keyboard / mouse to any USB 3.0 port when installing Windows®

operating system.

• Due to USB 3.0 controller limitation, USB 3.0 devices can only be used under Windows®

OS environment and after the USB 3.0 driver installation.

• USB 3.0 devices can only be used as data storage only.

• We strongly recommend that you connect USB 3.0 devices to USB 3.0 ports for faster

and better performance for your USB 3.0 devices.

14. PS/2 Keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-23

1.10.2 Internal connectors

1. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)

This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports

either High Denition Audio or AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front

panel audio I/O module cable to this connector.

P8H61 EVO

P8H61 EVO Front panel audio connector

AAFP

PIN 1 PIN 1

SENSE2_RETUR

SENSE1_RETUR

PRESENCE#

GND

PORT2 L

SENSE_SEND

PORT2 R

PORT1 R

PORT1 L

HD-audio-compliant

pin definition

AGND

Line out_L

Line out_R

MICPWR

MIC2

Legacy AC’97

compliant definition

If you want to connect a high-denition front panel audio module to this connector, ensure

that the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS is set to [HD Audio]. If you want to connect an

AC97 front panel audio module to this connector, set the item to [AC97]. See section 2.5.6

Onboard Devices Conguration for details.

2. Serial port connectors (10-1 pin COM1)

The connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to the

connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.

The serial port bracket (COM1) is purchased separately.

P8H61 EVO

P8H61 EVO Serial port (COM1) connector

PIN 1

COM1

1-24 Chapter 1: Product introduction

3. ASMedia Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_E1/E2 [navy blue])

These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0

Gb/s signal cables.

• Install the Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later version before using Serial ATA.

• The SATA6G_E1/E2 (navy blue) connectors are for data drives only. ATAPI device is not

supported.

P8H61 EVO

GND

RSATA_TXP2

RSATA_TXN2

GND

RSATA_RXP2

RSATA_RXN2

GND

SATA6G_E2

SATA6G_E1

GND

RSATA_RXN1

RSATA_RXP1

GND

RSATA_TXN1

RSATA_TXP1

GND

P8H61 EVO Intel® SATA 6.0Gb/s connectors

4. Intel® H61 Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA3G_1~4 [blue])

These connectors connect to Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s hard disk drives and optical drives via

Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s signal cables.

Install the Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later version before using Serial ATA.

P8H61 EVO

GND

RSATA_TXP3

RSATA_TXN3

GND

RSATA_RXP3

RSATA_RXN3

GND

SATA3G_3

SATA3G_1

SATA3G_4

SATA3G_2

GND

RSATA_RXN1

RSATA_RXP1

GND

RSATA_TXN1

RSATA_TXP1

GND

RSATA_TXP4

RSATA_TXN4

GND

RSATA_RXP4

RSATA_RXN4

GND

RSATA_RXN2

RSATA_RXP2

GND

RSATA_TXN2

RSATA_TXP2

GND

P8H61 EVO Intel® SATA 3.0Gb/s connectors

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-25

5. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)

These connectors are for an ATX power supply. The plugs from the power supply are

designed to t these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and

push down rmly until the connectors completely t.

• For a fully congured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU)

that complies with ATX 12 V Specication 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum

power of 350 W.

•

DO NOT forget to connect the 4-pin / 8-pin ATX +12V power plug. Otherwise, the system

will not boot up.

• We recommend that you use a PSU with higher power output when conguring a

system with more power-consuming devices or when you intend to install additional

devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is

inadequate.

• If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system,

refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.

com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.

P8H61 EVO

P8H61 EVO ATX power connectors

EATXPWR

PIN 1

GND

+5 Volts

-5 Volts

GND

PSON#

GND

-12 Volts

+3 Volts

+12 Volts

+5V Standby

Power OK

GND

+5 Volts

GND

+5 Volts

GND

+3 Volts

EATX12V

PIN 1

+12V DC

GND

1-26 Chapter 1: Product introduction

6. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910)

These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of

these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system

chassis. These USB connectors comply with the USB 2.0 specication that supports up

to 480Mbps connection speed.

Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the

motherboard!

The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.

P8H61 EVO

USB+5V

USB_P10-

USB_P10+

GND

USB+5V

USB_P9-

USB_P9+

GND

USB910

PIN 1

USB+5V

USB_P8-

USB_P8+

GND

USB+5V

USB_P7-

USB_P7+

GND

USB78

PIN 1

P8H61 EVO USB2.0 connectors

7. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_34)

This connector is for the additional USB 3.0 ports, and complies with the USB 3.0

specication that supports up to 4.8GBps connection speed. If the USB 3.0 front panel

cable is available from your system chassis, with this USB 3.0 connector, you can have

a front panel USB 3.0 solution.

P8H61 EVO

P8H61 EVO USB3.0 Front panel connector

The USB 3.0 module is purchased separately.

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-27

8. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)

This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port.

P8H61 EVO

SPDIF_OUT

+5V

SPDIFOUT

GND

P8H61 EVO Digital audio connector

The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.

9. CPU and chassis fan connectors

(4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN1, 4-pin CHA_FAN2)

Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, making sure that the

black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.

DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufcient air ow inside

the system may damage the motherboard components. They are not jumpers! DO NOT

place jumper caps on the fan connectors.

CPU_FAN

CPU FAN PWM

CPU FAN IN

CPU FAN PWR

GND

CHA FAN PWM

CHA FAN IN

CHA FAN PWR

GND

CHA FAN PWR

CHA FAN IN

CHA FAN PWM

P8H61 EVO

P8H61 EVO fan connectors

CHA_FAN1

CHA_FAN2

The CPU_FAN connector supports a CPU fan of maximum 2A (24 W) fan power.

1-28 Chapter 1: Product introduction

10. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)

This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.

• System power LED (2-pin PLED)

This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED

cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system

power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.

•

Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED)

This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable

to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or ashes when data is read from or written to

the HDD.

•

System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)

This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker

allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.

•

ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW)

This 2-pin connector is for the system power button.

•

Reset button (2-pin RESET)

This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without

turning off the system power.

P8H61 EVO

P8H61 EVO System panel connector

PIN 1

* Requires an ATX power supply

PLED SPEAKER

PLED+

PLED-

+5V

Ground

Speaker

IDE_LED+

IDE_LED-

PWR

Ground

Reset

Ground

PANEL

IDE_LED PWRSW RESET

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-29

1.11 Onboard switches

Onboard switches allow you to ne-tune performance when working on a bare or open-case

system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to

enhance system performance.

1. MemOK! switch

Installing DIMMs that are incompatible with the motherboard may cause system

boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! switch lights continuously. Press

and hold the MemOK! switch until the DRAM_LED starts blinking to begin automatic

memory compatibility tuning for successful boot.

• Refer to section 1.12 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the DRAM_LED.

• The DRAM_LED also lights when the DIMM is not properly installed. Turn off the system

and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function.

• The MemOK! switch does not function under Windows® OS environment.

• During the tuning process, the system loads and tests failsafe memory settings. It takes

about 30 seconds for the system to test one set of failsafe settings. If the test fails,

the system reboots and test the next set of failsafe settings. The blinking speed of the

DRAM_LED increases, indicating different test processes.

• Due to memory tuning requirement, the system automatically reboots when each timing

set is tested. If the installed DIMMs still fail to boot after the whole tuning process, the

DRAM_LED lights continuously. Replace the DIMMs with ones recommended in the

Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors Lists) in this user manual or on the ASUS website at

www.asus.com.

• If you turn off the computer and replace DIMMs during the tuning process, the system

continues memory tuning after turning on the computer. To stop memory tuning, turn off

the computer and unplug the power cord for about 5–10 seconds.

• If your system fail to boot due to BIOS overclocking, press the MemOK! switch to boot

and load BIOS default settings. A message will appear during POST reminding you that

the BIOS has been restored to its default settings.

• We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from the

ASUS website at www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function.

P8H61 EVO

P8H61 EVO MemOK! switch

1-30 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.12 Onboard LEDs

1. Standby Power LED

The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate that the

system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should

shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any

motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED.

P8H61 EVO

SB_PWR

Standby Power Powered Of

OFF

P8H61 EVO Onboard LED

2. Turbo Key II switch

This switch allows you to enable or disable the Turbo Key II function.

P8H61 EVO

P8H61 EVO Turbo Key II switch

ASUS P8H61 EVO 1-31

2. DRAM LED

DRAM LED checks the DRAM in sequence during motherboard booting process. If an

error is found , the LED next to the error device will continue lighting until the problem

is solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitional way to locate the root

problem within a second.

P8H61 EVO

P8H61 EVO DRAM LED

DRAM LED

3. Turbo Key II LED

The Turbo Key II LED lights when the Turbo Key II switch is turned to Enable.

P8H61 EVO

O2LED2

P8H61 EVO Turbo Key II LED

1-32 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.13 Software support

1.13.1 Installing an operating system

This motherboard supports Windows® XP / Vista / 7 Operating Systems (OS). Always install

the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware.

• Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Refer to your OS documentation for

detailed information.

• Ensure that you install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions / Windows® Vista

Service Pack 1 or later versions before installing the drivers for better compatibility and

system stability.

1.13.2 Support DVD information

The Support DVD that comes with the motherboard package contains the drivers, software

applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard features.

If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the Support DVD to

locate the le ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the ASSETUP.EXE to run

the DVD.

The following screen is for reference only.

The contents of the Support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the

ASUS website at www.asus.com for updates.

To run the Support DVD

Place the Support DVD into the optical drive. If Autorun is enabled in your computer, the DVD

automatically displays the Specials screen. Click Drivers, Utilities, Make Disk, Manual, and

Contact tabs to display their respective menus.

Click an item to install

Click an icon to

display Support

DVD/motherboard

information

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-1

Chapter 2

BIOS information

Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS le to a USB ash disk in case you need to

restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update

utility.

• ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet

Service Provider (ISP).

• This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.

Updating the BIOS

To update the BIOS:

1. From the Windows® desktop, click Start > Programs > ASUS > AI Suite II > AI Suite

II X.XX.XX to launch the AI Suite II utility. The AI Suite II Quick Bar appears.

2. Click Update button from the Quick Bar, and then click ASUS Update from the popup

menu. The ASUS Update main screen appears. From the list, select either of the

following methods:

Updating from the Internet

a. Select Update BIOS from the Internet, then click Next.

b. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network trafc, then click Next.

c. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download then click

Next.

2.1.1 ASUS Update utility

The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard

BIOS in Windows® environment.

Installing ASUS Update

To install ASUS Update:

1. Place the support DVD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears.

2. Click the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite II.

3. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.

Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS

2-2 ASUS P8H61 EVO

The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update

the utility to avail all its features.

Updating from a BIOS file

a. Select Update BIOS from le, then click Next.

b. Locate the BIOS le from the Open window, then click Open.

3. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the updating process.

2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2

The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without using an OS-based

utility.

Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS le from the ASUS website at

www.asus.com.

To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:

1. Insert the USB ash disk that contains the latest BIOS le to the USB port.

2. Enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tool menu to select

ASUS EZ Flash Utility and press <Enter> to enable it.

Flash Info

MODEL: P8H61 EVO VER: 0304 DATE: 03/31/2011

Exit

[Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [Up/Down/PageUp/PageDown/Home/End] Move [Esc] Exit [F2] Backup

File Path: fs0:\

Drive Folder Info

fs0:\ 03/31/11 10:23p 4194304 P8H61EVO.ROM

ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility V01.02

File Info

MODEL: VER: DATE:

Help Info

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-3

DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause

system boot failure!

2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility

The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS le

when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a corrupted BIOS

le using the motherboard support DVD or a USB ash drive that contains the updated BIOS

le.

• Before using this utility, rename the BIOS le in the removable device into

P8H61EVO.ROM.

• The BIOS le in the support DVD may not be the latest version. Download the latest

BIOS le from the ASUS website at www.asus.com.

Recovering the BIOS

To recover the BIOS:

1. Turn on the system.

2. Insert the support DVD to the optical drive or the USB ash drive that contains the

BIOS le to the USB port.

3. The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS le. When found, the utility

reads the BIOS le and enters ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility automatically.

4. The system requires you to enter BIOS Setup to recover BIOS setting. To ensure

system compatibility and stability, we recommend that you press <F5> to load default

BIOS values.

3. Press <Tab> to switch to the Drive eld.

4. Press the Up/Down arrow keys to nd the USB ash disk that contains the latest BIOS,

and then press <Enter>.

5. Press <Tab> to switch to the Folder Info eld.

6. Press the Up/Down arrow keys to nd the BIOS le, and then press <Enter> to perform

the BIOS update process. Reboot the system when the update process is done.

• This function supports USB ash disks with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only.

• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot

failure!

2-4 ASUS P8H61 EVO

Welcome to FreeDOS (http://www.freedos.org)!

C:\>d:

D:\>

3. When the Make Disk menu appears, select the FreeDOS command prompt item by

pressing the item number.

4. At the FreeDOS prompt, type d: and press <Enter> to switch the disk from

Drive C (optical drive) to Drive D (USB ash drive).

Please select boot device:

SATA: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

USB XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

UEFI: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Enter Setup

 ↑and ↓ to move selection

ENTER to select boot device

ESC to boot using defaults

2.1.4 ASUS BIOS Updater

The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update BIOS in DOS environment. This utility also

allows you to copy the current BIOS le that you can use as a backup when the BIOS fails or

gets corrupted during the updating process.

The succeeding utility screens are for reference only. The actual utility screen displays may

not be same as shown.

Before updating BIOS

1. Prepare the motherboard support DVD and a USB ash drive in FAT32/16 format and

single partition.

2. Download the latest BIOS le and BIOS Updater from the ASUS website at

http://support.asus.com and save them on the USB ash drive.

NTFS is not supported under DOS environment. Do not save the BIOS le and BIOS

Updater to a hard disk drive or USB ash drive in NTFS format.

3. Turn off the computer and disconnect all SATA hard disk drives (optional).

Booting the system in DOS environment

1. Insert the USB ash drive with the latest BIOS le and BIOS Updater to the USB port.

2. Boot your computer. When the ASUS Logo appears, press <F8> to show the BIOS

Boot Device Select Menu. Insert the support DVD into the optical drive and select the

optical drive as the boot device.

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-5

2. The BIOS Updater backup screen appears indicating the BIOS backup process. When

BIOS backup is done, press any key to return to the DOS prompt.

D:\>bupdater /oOLDBIOS1.rom

Filename Extension

Backing up the current BIOS

To backup the current BIOS le using the BIOS Updater

Ensure that the USB ash drive is not write-protected and has at least 4096KB free space

to save the le.

1. At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /o[lename] and press <Enter>.

The [lename] is any user-assigned lename with no more than eight alphanumeric

characters for the lename and three alphanumeric characters for the extension.

ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.07

Current ROM Update ROM

Note

Saving BIOS:

PATH: A:\

BOARD: P8H61 EVO

VER: 0304

DATE: 03/31/2011

BOARD: Unknown

VER: Unknown

DATE: Unknown

BIOS backup is done! Press any key to continue.

2-6 ASUS P8H61 EVO

Updating the BIOS le

To update the BIOS le using BIOS Updater

1. At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /pc /g and press <Enter>.

ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.07

Current ROM Update ROM

Note

[Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info

[Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [Esc] Exit

P8H61EVO.ROM 4194304 2011-03-31 17:30:48

PATH: A:\

BOARD: P8H61 EVO

VER: 0304

DATE: 03/31/2011

BOARD: Unknown

VER: Unknown

DATE: Unknown

D:\>bupdater /pc /g

2. The BIOS Updater screen appears as below.

3. Press <Tab> to switch between screen elds and use the <Up/Down/Home/End> keys

to select the BIOS le and press <Enter>. BIOS Updater checks the selected BIOS le

and prompts you to conrm BIOS update.

Are you sure to update BIOS?

Yes No

4. Select Yes and press <Enter>. When BIOS update is done, press <ESC> to exit BIOS

Updater. Restart your computer.

DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot

failure!

• For BIOS Updater version 1.04 or later, the utility automatically exits to the DOS prompt

after updating BIOS.

• Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability.

Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu. Refer to section 2.9

Exit menu for details.

• Ensure to connect all SATA hard disk drives after updating the BIOS le if you have

disconnected them.

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-7

Using the power button, reset button, or the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> keys to force reset from

a running operating system can cause damage to your data or system. We recommend to

always shut down the system properly from the operating system.

2.2 BIOS setup program

Use the BIOS Setup program to update the BIOS or congure its parameters. The BIOS

screens include navigation keys and brief online help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup

program.

Entering BIOS Setup at startup

To enter BIOS Setup at startup:

• Press <Delete> during the Power-On Self Test (POST). If you do not press <Delete>,

POST continues with its routines.

Entering BIOS Setup after POST

To enter BIOS Setup after POST:

• Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> simultaneously.

• Press the reset button on the system chassis.

• Press the power button to turn the system off then back on. Do this option only if you

failed to enter BIOS Setup using the rst two options.

• The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and may

not exactly match what you see on your screen.

• Ensure that a USB mouse is connected to your motherboard if you want to use the

mouse to control the BIOS setup program.

• The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply for most conditions to ensure

optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS

settings, load the default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the

Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit Menu. See section 2.9 Exit Menu.

• If the system fails to boot after changing any BIOS setting, try to clear the CMOS and

reset the motherboard to the default value. Refer to section 1.9 Jumpers on how to

erase the RTC RAM.

• The BIOS setup program does not support the bluetooth devices.

2-8 ASUS P8H61 EVO

BIOS menu screen

The BIOS setup program can be used under two modes: EZ Mode and Advanced Mode.

You can change modes from the Exit menu or from the Exit/Advanced Mode button in the EZ

Mode/Advanced Mode screen.

EZ Mode

By default, the EZ Mode screen appears when you enter the BIOS setup program. The EZ

Mode provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to select

the display language, system performance mode and boot device priority. To access the

Advanced Mode, click Exit/Advanced Mode, then select Advanced Mode.

The default screen for entering the BIOS setup program can be changed. Refer to the

Setup Mode item in sectionsection 2.7 Boot menu for details.

P8H61 EVO

BIOS Version : 0304 Build Date : 03/31/2011

CPU Type : Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-2600K CPU @ 3.40GHz Speed : 3529 MHz

Total Memory : 4096 MB (DDR3 1372MHz)

Exit/Advanced Mode

Temperature Voltage Fan Speed

CPU +113.0ºF/+45.0ºC CPU 1.248V 5V 5.160V CPU_FAN 4485RPM CHA_FAN2 N/A

MB +75.2ºF/+40.0ºC 3.3V 3.344V 12V 12.248V CHA_FAN1 N/A

English

EFI BIOS Utility - EZ Mode

Thursday [04/07/2011]

Normal

Quiet

Performance Energy Saving

System Performance

Boot Menu(F8) Default(F5)

Use the mouse to drag or keyboard to navigate to decide the boot priority.

Boot Priority

Exits the BIOS setup program without saving

the changes, saves the changes and resets

the system, or enters the Advanced Mode

Selects the display language of

the BIOS setup program

Displays the CPU/motherboard

temperature, CPU/5V/3.3V/12V voltage

output, CPU/chassis fan speed

Power Saving mode

Normal mode ASUS Optimal mode

Loads optimized default

Selects the boot device priority

• The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system.

• The Boot Menu(F8) button is available only when the boot device is installed to the

system.

Displays the system properties of the

selected mode on the right hand side

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-9

Advanced Mode

The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to congure

the BIOS settings. The gure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the

following sections for the detailed congurations.

To access the EZ Mode, click Exit, then select ASUS EZ Mode.

Menu bar

The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:

Main For changing the basic system conguration

Ai Tweaker For changing the overclocking settings

Advanced For changing the advanced system settings

Monitor For displaying the system temperature, power status, and changing the fan settings

Boot For changing the system boot conguration

Tool For conguring options for special functions

Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default settings

Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Monitor Boot Tool

Exit

Enabled/Disabled Asmedia USB 3.0

→←: Select Screen

↑↓: Select Item

Enter: Select

+/-: Change Opt.

F1: General Help

F2: Previous Values

F5: Optimized Defaults

F10: Save ESC: Exit

Back Advanced\ Onboard Devices Conguration >

EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode

Navigation keys

General help

Menu bar

Submenu item

Conguration elds

Menu items

Scroll bar

Pop-up window

Back button

HD Audio Controller Enabled

Front Panel Type HD

ASM1061 Storage Controller AHCI Mode

ASM1061 Storage OPROM Enabled

Realtek LAN Controller Enabled

Realtek PXE OPROM Disabled

Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller Enabled

Asmedia USB 3.0 Battery Charging Support Disabled

> Serial Port Conguration

Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller

Disabled

Enabled

2-10 ASUS P8H61 EVO

Menu items

The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specic items for that menu. For example,

selecting Main shows the Main menu items.

The other items (Ai Tweaker, Advanced, Monitor, Boot, Tool, and Exit) on the menu bar have

their respective menu items.

Back button

This button appears when entering a submenu. Press <Esc> or use the USB mouse to click

this button to return to the previous menu screen.

Submenu items

A greater than sign (>) before each item on any menu screen means that the item has a

submenu. To display the submenu, select the item and press <Enter> or double-click the

item.

Pop-up window

Select a menu item and press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the conguration

options for that item.

Scroll bar

A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not t on

the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> / <Page Down> keys to display the

other items on the screen.

Navigation keys

At the bottom right corner of the menu screen are the navigation keys for the BIOS setup

program. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings.

General help

At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item.

Conguration elds

These elds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user-congurable, you can

change the value of the eld opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not

user-congurable.

A congurable eld is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a eld, select it and

press <Enter> or click on it to display a list of options.

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-11

2.3 Main menu

The Main menu screen appears when you enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS Setup

program. The Main menu provides you an overview of the basic system information, and

allows you to set the system date, time, language, and security settings.

2.3.1 System Language [English]

Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options. Conguration options:

[English]

2.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]

Allows you to set the system date.

2.3.3 System Time [xx:xx:xx]

Allows you to set the system time.

2.3.4 Security

The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.

• If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC)

RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 1.9 Jumpers for information on how to

erase the RTC RAM.

• The Administrator or User Password items on top of the screen show the default Not

Installed. After you set a password, these items show Installed.

Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Monitor Boot Tool

Exit

EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode

Choose the system default languageBIOS Information

BIOS Version 0304 x64

Build Date 03/31/2011

ME Version 7.0.1.1197

South Bridge Stepping B3 Stepping

CPU Information

Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-2600K CPU @ 3.40GHz

Speed 3529 MHz

Memory Information

Total Memory 4096 MB

Speed 1372 MHz

System Language English

System Date [Thursday 04/07/2011]

System Time [17:11:15]

Access Level Administrator

> Security

→←: Select Screen

↑↓: Select Item

Enter: Select

+/-: Change Opt.

2-12 ASUS P8H61 EVO

Administrator Password

If you have set an administrator password, we recommend that you enter the administrator

password for accessing the system. Otherwise, you might be able to see or change only

selected elds in the BIOS setup program.

To set an administrator password:

1. Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

To change an administrator password:

1. Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press

<Enter>.

3. From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.

4. Conrm the password when prompted.

To clear the administrator password, follow the same steps as in changing an administrator

password, but press <Enter> when prompted to create/conrm the password. After you clear

the password, the Administrator Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.

User Password

If you have set a user password, you must enter the user password for accessing the system.

The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set

a password, this item shows Installed.

To set a user password:

1. Select the User Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

To change a user password:

1. Select the User Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press

<Enter>.

3. From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>.

4. Conrm the password when prompted.

To clear the user password, follow the same steps as in changing a user password, but press

<Enter> when prompted to create/conrm the password. After you clear the password, the

User Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-13

2.4 Ai Tweaker menu

The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to congure overclocking-related items.

Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items. Incorrect eld

values can cause the system to malfunction.

The conguration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you

installed on the motherboard.

Target DRAM Speed : xxxxMHz

Displays the current DRAM speed.

2.4.1 Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto]

Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal

frequency. Select any of these preset overclocking conguration options:

[Auto] Loads the optimal settings for the system.

[Manual] Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.

Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Monitor Boot Tool

Exit

[X.M.P.] When XMP is enabled BCLK

frequency, CPU ratio and memory

parameters will be auto optimized.

→←: Select Screen

↑↓: Select Item

Enter: Select

+/-: Change Opt.

F1: General Help

F2: Previous Values

F5: Optimized Defaults

F10: Save ESC: Exit

EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode

Scroll down to display the following items:

Load-Line Calibration Auto

CPU Spread Spectrum Auto

Target DRAM Speed : xxxxMHz

Ai Overclock Tuner Auto

Memory Frequency Auto

EPU Power Saving Mode Disabled

> OC Tuner

> DRAM Timing Control

> CPU Power Management

Offset Mode Sign +

CPU Voltage 1.176V Auto

DRAM Voltage 1.500V Auto

VCCIO Voltage 1.050V Auto

CPU PLL Voltage 1.800V Auto

PCH Voltage 1.050V Auto

2-14 ASUS P8H61 EVO

BCLK/PEG Frequency [XXX]

Appears when you set the Ai Overclock Tuner item to [Manual] and allows you to adjust the

CPU and VGA frequency to enhance the system performance. Use the <+> and <-> keys to

adjust the value. You can also key in the desired value using the numeric keypad. The values

range from 80MHz to 300MHz.

2.4.2 Memory Frequency [Auto]

Allows you to set the memory operating frequency. Conguration options: [Auto]

[DDR3-800MHz] [DDR3-1066MHz] [DDR3-1333MHz]

Selecting a very high memory frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this

happens, revert to the default setting.

2.4.3 EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the EPU power saving function.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

EPU Setting [Auto]

This item appears only when The EPU Power Saving Mode is set to [Enabled] and allows

you to set power saving mode. Conguration options: [Auto] [Light Power Saving Mode]

[Medium Power Saving Mode] [Max Power Saving Mode]

2.4.4 OC Tuner

OC Tuner automatically overclocks the frequency and voltage of CPU and DRAM for

enhancing the system performance. Press <Enter> and select OK to start automatic

overclocking.

2.4.5 DRAM Timing Control

The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the DRAM timing control features. Use the <+>

and <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard

and press <Enter>.

Changing the values in this menu may cause the system to become unstable! If this

happens, revert to the default settings.

2.4.6 CPU Power Management

The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the CPU ratio and features.

CPU Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to manually adjust the maximum non-turbo CPU ratio. Use <+> and <->

keys or the numeric keypad to adjust the ratio. The valid value ranges vary according

to your CPU model.

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-15

Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology (EIST).

[Disabled] Disables this function.

[Enabled] The operating system dynamically adjusts the processor voltage and

core frequency which may result in increased average consumption

and decrease average heat production.

Turbo Mode [Enabled]

This item appears only when you set the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology item

to [Enabled].

[Enabled] Allows processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in specic

conditions.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

The following three items appear only when you set both the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep

Technology and Turbo Mode items to [Enabled].

Long Duration Power Limit [Auto]

Use <+>/<-> to adjust the value.

Long Duration Maintained [Auto]

Use <+>/<-> to adjust the value.

Short Duration Power Limit [Auto]

Use <+>/<-> to adjust the value.

Primary Plane Current Limit [Auto]

Use <+>/<-> to adjust the value.

Secondary Plane Current Limit [Auto]

Use <+>/<-> to adjust the value.

Some of the following items are adjusted by typing the desired values using the numeric

keypad and press <Enter>. You can also use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. To

restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press <Enter>.

2.4.7 CPU Offset Mode Sign [+]

This item appears only when the EPU Power Saving Mode item is set to [Disabled].

[+] To offset the voltage by a positive value.

[–] To offset the voltage by a negative value.

CPU Voltage [Auto]

This item appears only when the EPU Power Saving Mode item is set to [Disabled] and

allows you to set the Offset voltage. The values range from -0.630V to +0.630V with a

0.010V interval.

Refer to the CPU documentation before setting the CPU voltage. Setting a high voltage

may damage the CPU permanently, and setting a low voltage may make the system

unstable.

2-16 ASUS P8H61 EVO

2.4.8 DRAM Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. The values range from 1.185V to 2.135V with a 0.005V

interval.

According to Intel CPU specication, DIMMs with voltage requirement over 1.65V may

damage the CPU permanently. We recommend you install the DIMMs with the voltage

requirement below 1.65V.

2.4.9 VCCIO Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the VCCIO voltage. The values range from 0.735V to 1.685V with a 0.005V

interval.

2.4.10 CPU PLL Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU PLL voltage. The values range from 1.80V to 1.90V with a 0.1V

interval

2.4.11 PCH Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the Platform Controller Hub voltage. The values range from 0.735V to

1.685V with a 0.005V interval.

• The values of the CPU Voltage, DRAM Voltage, VCCIO Voltage, CPU PLL Voltage,

and PCH Voltage items are labeled in different color, indicating the risk levels of high

voltage settings.

• The system may need better cooling system to work stably under high voltage settings.

2.4.12 Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

Load-line is dened by Intel VRM specication and affects CPU voltage. The CPU working

voltage will decrease proportionally to CPU loading. Higher load-line calibration would get

higher voltage and better overclocking performance, but increase the CPU and VRM thermal.

This item allows you to set this function for better system performance.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU specication.

2.4.13 CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto]

[Auto] Automatic conguration.

[Disabled] Enhances the BCLK overclocking ability.

[Enabled] Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-17

Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect eld values

can cause the system to malfunction.

2.5 Advanced menu

The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system

devices.

Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Monitor Boot Tool

Exit

CPU Conguration Parameters

EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode

→←: Select Screen

↑↓: Select Item

Enter: Select

+/-: Change Opt.

F1: General Help

F2: Previous Values

F5: Optimized Defaults

F10: Save ESC: Exit

> CPU Conguration

> System Agent Conguration

> PCH Conguration

> SATA Conguration

> USB Conguration

> Onboard Devices Conguration

> APM

CPU Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to adjust the maximum non-turbo CPU ratio. Use <+> and <-> keys or the numeric

keypad to adjust the ratio. The valid value ranges vary according to your CPU model.

Intel Adaptive Thermal Monitor [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the overheated CPU to throttle its clock speed to cool down.

[Disabled] Disables the CPU thermal monitor function.

2.5.1 CPU Conguration

The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically

detects.

The items shown in submenu may be different due to the CPU you installed.

2-18 ASUS P8H61 EVO

Hyper-threading [Enabled]

The Intel Hyper-Threading Technology allows a hyper-threading processor to appear as two

logical processors to the operating system, allowing the operating system to schedule two

threads or processes simultaneously.

[Enabled] Two threads per activated core are enabled.

[Disabled] Only one thread per activated core is enabled.

Active Processor Cores [All]

Allows you to choose the number of CPU cores to activate in each processor package.

Conguration options: [All] [1] [2] [3]

Limit CPUID Maximum [Disabled]

[Enabled] Allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs

with extended CPUID functions.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the No-Execution Page Protection Technology.

[Disabled] Forces the XD feature ag to always return to zero (0).

Intel Virtualization Technology [Disabled]

[Enabled] Allows a hardware platform to run multiple operating systems separately

and simultaneously, enabling one system to virtually function as several

systems.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep Technology (EIST).

[Disabled] The CPU runs at its default speed.

[Enabled] The operating system controls the CPU speed.

Turbo Mode [Enabled]

This item appears only when you set the Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology item to

[Enabled] and allows you to enable or disable the Intel® Turbo Mode Technology.

[Enabled] Allows processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in specic

condition.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

CPU C1E [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the C1E support function. This item should be enabled in order to

enable the Enhanced Halt State.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

CPU C3 Report [Disabled]

Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C3 report to OS.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

CPU C6 Report [Enabled]

Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C6 report to OS.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-19

2.5.2 System Agent Conguration

The System Agent Conguration menu allows you to change the northbridge chipset settings.

Initiate Graphic Adapter [PEG/PCI]

Allows you to decide which graphics controller to use as the primary boot device.

Conguration options: [PCI/PEG] [PEG/PCI]

2.5.3 PCH Conguration

High Precision Timer [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the High Precision Event Timer.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

2.5.4 SATA Conguration

While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. The

SATA Port items show Not Present if no SATA device is installed to the corresponding SATA

port.

SATA Mode [IDE Mode]

Allows you to set the SATA conguration.

[Disabled] Disables the SATA function.

[IDE Mode] Set to [IDE Mode] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as

Parallel ATA physical storage devices.

[AHCI Mode] Set to [AHCI Mode] when you want the SATA hard disk drives to use the

AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface). The AHCI allows the onboard

storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that increases

storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to

internally optimize the order of commands.

Serial-ATA Controller 0 [Enhanced]

This item appears only when you set the SATA Mode item to [IDE Mode].

[Disabled] Disables the SATA function.

[Enhanced] Set to [Enhanced] to support more than four SATA devices.

[Compatible] Set to [Compatible] when using Windows 98/NT/2000/MS-DOS. Up to four

SATA devices are supported under these oeprating syste.

Serial-ATA Controller 1 [Enhanced]

This item appears only when you set the SATA Mode item to [IDE Mode].

[Disabled] Disables the SATA function.

[Enhanced] Set to [Enhanced] to support more than four SATA devices.

S.M.A.R.T. Status Check [Enabled]

S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) is a monitor system. When

read/write of your hard disk errors occur, this feature allows the hard disk to report warning

messages during the POST. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

2-20 ASUS P8H61 EVO

2.5.5 USB Conguration

The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features.

The USB Devices item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the

item shows None.

Legacy USB Support [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS).

[Disabled] The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup program.

[Auto] Allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If

detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is

detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.

Legacy USB3.0 Support [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the support for USB 3.0 devices on legacy operating systems

(OS).

[Disabled] Disables the function.

EHCI Hand-off [Disabled]

[Enabled] Enables the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand-off

feature.

[Disabled] Disables the function.

2.5.6 Onboard Devices Conguration

HD Audio Controller [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the High Denition Audio Controller.

[Disabled] Disables the controller.

Front Panel Type [HD]

This item appears only when you set the HD Audio Cnotroller item to [Enabled] and allows

you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97 or high-denition

audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio module supports.

[HD] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high denition audio.

[AC97] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC’97

ASM1061 Storage Controller [AHCI Mode]

Allows you to select the ASMedia 1061 storage controller operating mode.

[Disabled] Disables the controller.

[IDE Mode] Set to [IDE Mode] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as

Parallel ATA physical storage devices.

[AHCI Mode] Set to [AHCI Mode] when you want the SATA hard disk drives to use the

AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface). The AHCI allows the onboard

storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that increases

storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to

internally optimize the order of commands.

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-21

ASM1061 Storage OPROM [Enabled]

This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you to enable

or disable the OptionRom of the ASMedia 1061 storage controller.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Realtek LAN Controller [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the Realtek LAN controller.

[Disabled] Disables the controller.

Realtek PXE OPROM [Disabled]

This item appears only when you set the Realtek LAN Controller item to [Enabled] and

allows you to enable or disable the Rom Help of the Realtek LAN controller.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller (Back) [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the Asmedia USB 3.0 controller for the USB 3.0 ports on the rear

panel.

[Disabled] Disables the controller.

PCIE Port Mode [Auto]

The PCIE Port Mode item allows you to change the port control from Asmedia USB 3.0

Controller (Front) to PCIEx1 slot and vice-versa.

[Auto]

PCIEx1_1 slot will switch to Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller (Front) unless a device is detected

in PCIEx1_1 slot.

[Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller]

Enables the Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller (Front). The PCIEx1_1 slot is disabled.

[PCIEx1 Slot]

Enables the PCIEx1_1 slot. The Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller (Front) is disabled.

Asmedia USB 3.0 Battery Charging Support [Disabled]

This item appears only when the ASMedia USB 3.0 Controller item is set to [Enabled].

[Enabled] Enables ASMedia USB 3.0 fast battery charging support for USB 3.0

devices complying with the BC 1.1 regulation.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

Serial Port Conguration

The sub-items in this menu allow you to set the serial port conguration.

Serial Port [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the serial port (COM).

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Change Settings [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4]

Allows you to select the Serial Port base address.

Conguration options: [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4] [IO=2F8h; IRQ=3] [IO=3E8h; IRQ=4]IO=2F8h; IRQ=3] [IO=3E8h; IRQ=4]] [IO=3E8h; IRQ=4]IO=3E8h; IRQ=4]]

[IO=2E8h; IRQ=3]IO=2E8h; IRQ=3]]

2-22 ASUS P8H61 EVO

2.5.7 APM

Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off]

[Power On] The system goes into on state after an AC power loss.

[Power Off] The system goes into off state after an AC power loss.

[Last State] The system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was

before the AC power loss.

Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables the Power On by a PS/2 keyboard.

[Space Bar] Sets the Space Bar on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system.

[Ctrl-Esc] Sets the Ctrl+Esc key on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system.

[Power Key] Sets Power key on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature

requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.

Power On By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables the Power On by a PS/2 mouse.

[Enabled] Enables the Power On by a PS/2 mouse. This feature requires an ATX

power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.

Power On By PCI [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables the PME to wake up from S5 by PCI devices.

[Enabled] Allows you to turn on the system through a PCI LAN or modem card. This

feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the

+5VSB lead.

Power On By PCIE [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables the PCIE devices to generate a wake event.

[Enabled] Enables the PCIE devices to generate a wake event.

Power On By Ring [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables Ring to generate a wake event.

[Enabled] Enables Ring to generate a wake event.

Power On By RTC [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables RTC to generate a wake event.

[Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the items RTC Alarm Date (Days) and Hour/

Minute/Second will become user-congurable with set values.

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-23

2.6 Monitor menu

The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change

the fan settings.

Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Monitor Boot Tool

Exit

CPU Temperature

→←: Select Screen

↑↓: Select Item

Enter: Select

+/-: Change Opt.

F1: General Help

F2: Previous Values

F5: Optimized Defaults

F10: Save ESC: Exit

EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode

CPU Temperature +45ºC / +113ºF+45ºC / +113ºF

MB Temperature +34ºC / +93ºF

CPU Fan Speed 4515 RPM

Chassis Fan 1 Speed N/A

Chassis Fan 2 Speed N/A

CPU Q-Fan Control Enabled

CPU Fan Speed Low Limit 600 RPM

CPU Fan Prole Standard

Chassis Q-Fan Control Enabled

Chassis Fan Speed Low Limit 600 RPM

Chassis Fan Prole Standard

CPU Voltage +1.184 V

3.3V Voltage +3.312 V

Scroll down to display the following items:

5V Voltage +5.080 V

12V Voltage +12.192 V

Anti Surge Support Enabled

2.6.1 CPU Temperature / MB Temperature [xxx�C/xxx�F][xxx�C/xxx�F]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU and motherboard

temperatures. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures.

2.6.2 CPU / Chassis Fan 1/2 Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU and chassis fan

speeds in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the eld

shows N/A. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected speed.

2.6.3 CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled]

[Disabled] Disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.

[Enabled] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature.

2-24 ASUS P8H61 EVO

CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]

This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows

you to disable or set the CPU fan warning speed.

Conguration options: [Ignore] [200RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]

CPU Fan Profile [Standard]

This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows

you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU fan.

[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the CPU fan automatically adjust depending on

the CPU temperature.

[Silent] Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.

[Turbo] Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.

[Manual] Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.

The following four items appear only when you set CPU Fan Prole to [Manual].

CPU Upper Temperature [70]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the CPU temperature. The values range

from 20ºC to 75ºC.

CPU Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from

20% to 100%. When the CPU temperature reaches the upper limit, the CPU fan will operate at

the maximum duty cycle.

CPU Lower Temperature [20]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the lower limit of the CPU temperature. The values range

from 20ºC to 75ºC

CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [20]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from

0% to 100%. When the CPU temperature is under the lower limit, the CPU fan will operate at the

minimum duty cycle.

2.6.4 Chassis Q-Fan Control [Enabled]

[Disabled] Disables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.

[Enabled] Enables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.

Chassis Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]

This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and

allows you to disable or set the chassis fan warning speed.

Conguration options: [Ignore] [200RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]

Chassis Fan Profile [Standard]

This item appears only when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature and

allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the chassis fan.

[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the chassis fan automatically adjust depending

on the chassis temperature.

[Silent] Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet chassis fan operation.

[Turbo] Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum chassis fan speed.

[Manual] Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-25

The following four items appear only when you set Chassis Fan Prole to [Manual].

Chassis Upper Temperature [70]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the upper limit of the CPU temperature. The values range

from 40ºC to 90ºC.

Chassis Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the maximum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range

from 60% to 100%. When the chassis temperature reaches the upper limit, the chassis fan will

operate at the maximum duty cycle.

Chassis Lower Temperature [40]

Displays the lower limit of the chassis temperature.

CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [60]

Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range from

60% to 100%. When the chassis temperature is under 40ºC, the chassis fan will operate at the

minimum duty cycle.

2.6.5 CPU Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard

voltage regulators. Select Ignore if you do not want to detect this item.

2.6.6 Anti Surge Support [Enabled]

This item allows you to enable or disable the Anti Surge function.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2-26 ASUS P8H61 EVO

2.7 Boot menu

The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options.

2.7.1 Bootup NumLock State [On]

[On] Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [On].

[Off] Sets the power-on state of the NumLock to [Off].

2.7.2 Full Screen Logo [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables the full screen logo display feature.

[Disabled] Disables the full screen logo display feature.

Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo 2™ feature.

Post Report [5 sec]

This item appears only when the Full Screen Logo item is set to [Disabled] and allows you

to set the waiting time for the system to display the post report. Conguration options: [1 sec]

[2 sec] [3 sec] [4 sec] [5 sec] [6 sec] [7 sec] [8 sec] [9 sec] [10 sec] [Until Press ESC]

2.7.3 Wait For ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]

[Disabled] Disables this function.

[Enabled] The system waits for the <F1> key to be pressed when error occurs.

Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Monitor Boot Tool

Exit

Select the keyboard NumLock state

→←: Select Screen

↑↓: Select Item

Enter: Select

+/-: Change Opt.

F1: General Help

F2: Previous Values

F5: Optimized Defaults

F10: Save ESC: Exit

EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode

Bootup NumLock State On

Full Screen Logo Enabled

Wait for ‘F1’ If Error Enabled

Option ROM Messages Force BIOS

Setup Mode EZ Mode

Boot Option Priorities

Boot Option #1 SATA: xxxxxxx

Boot Option #2 SATA: xxxxxxx

> CD/DVD ROM Drive BBS Priorities

> Hard Drive BBS Priorities

Boot Override

> SATA: xxxxxxxxxxxx

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-27

2.7.4 Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS]

[Force BIOS] The third-party ROM messages will be forced to display during the boot

sequence.

[Keep Current] The third-party ROM messages will be displayed only if the third-party

manufacturer had set the add-on device to do so.

2.7.5 Setup Mode [EZ Mode]

[Advanced Mode] Sets Advanced Mode as the default screen for entering the BIOS setup

program.

[EZ Mode] Sets EZ Mode as the default screen for entering the BIOS setup program.

2.7.6 Boot Option Priorities

These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The

number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices

installed in the system.

• To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS Logo appears.

• To access Windows OS in Safe Mode, press <F8> after POST.

2.7.7 Boot Override

These items displays the available devices. The number of device items that appears on

the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system. Click an item to start

booting from the selected device.

2-28 ASUS P8H61 EVO

2.8 Tools menu

The Tools menu items allow you to congure options for special functions. Select an item

then press <Enter> to display the submenu.

2.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility

Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. Press [Enter] to launch the ASUS EZ Flash 2 screen.

For more details, see section 2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2.

Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Monitor Boot Tool

Exit

Be used to update BIOS

EFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode

2.8.3 ASUS O.C. Prole

This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.

The Setup Prole Status items show Not Installed if no prole is created.

• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the system

boot failure!

• We recommend that you update the BIOS le only coming from the same memory/CPU

conguration and BIOS version.

Save to Prole

Allows you to save the current BIOS settings to the BIOS Flash, and create a prole. Key in a

prole number from one to eight, press <Enter>, and then select Yes.

Load from Prole

Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Key in the proleKey in the prole

number that saved your CMOS settings, press <Enter>, and then select Yes.

> ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility

> ASUS SPD Information

> ASUS O.C. Prole

2.8.2 ASUS SPD Information

DIMM Slot # [Slot X]

Displays the Serial Presence Detect (SPD) information of the DIMM module installed on the

selected slot. Conguration options: [Slot 1] [Slot 2] [Slot 3] [Slot 4]

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-29

2.9 Exit menu

The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal default values for the BIOS items, and

save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. You can access the EZ Mode from the Exit

menu.

Load Optimized Defaults

This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup

menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a conrmation window appears.

Select Yes to load the default values.

Save Changes & Reset

Once you are nished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to

ensure the values you selected are saved. When you select this option or if you press <F10>,

a conrmation window appears. Select Yes to save changes and exit.

Discard Changes & Exit

This option allows you to exit the Setup program without saving your changes. When youWhen you

select this option or if you press <Esc>, a conrmation window appears. Select Yes to

discard changes and exit..

ASUS EZ Mode

This option allows you to enter the EZ Mode screen.

Launch EFI Shell from lesystem device

This option allows you to attempt to launch the EFI Shell application (shellx64.e) from one of

the available devices that have a lesystem.

Exit

Load Optimized Defaults

Save Changes & Reset

Discard Changes & Exit

ASUS EZ Mode

Launch EFI Shell from lesystem device

2-30 ASUS P8H61 EVO

ASUS contact information

ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.

Address 15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259

Telephone +886-2-2894-3447

Fax +886-2-2890-7798

E-mail info@asus.com.tw

Web site www.asus.com.tw

Technical Support

Telephone +86-21-38429911

Online support support.asus.com

ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)

Address 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA

Telephone +1-510-739-3777

Fax +1-510-608-4555

Web site usa.asus.com

Technical Support

Telephone +1-812-282-2787

Support fax +1-812-284-0883

Online support support.asus.com

ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)

Address Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany

Fax +49-2102-959911

Web site www.asus.de

Online contact www.asus.de/sales

Technical Support

Telephone (Component) +49-1805-010923*

Telephone (System/Notebook/Eee/LCD) +49-1805-010920*

Support Fax +49-2102-9599-11

Online support support.asus.com

* EUR 0.14/minute from a German xed landline; EUR 0.42/minute from a mobile phone.

EC Declaration of Conformity

We, the undersigned,

Manufacturer: ASUSTek COMPUTER INC.

Address, City: No. 150, LI-TE RD., PEITOU, TAIPEI 112, TAIWAN R.O.C.

Country: TAIWAN

Authorized representative in Europe: ASUS COMPUTER GmbH

Address, City: HARKORT STR. 21-23, 40880 RATINGEN

Country: GERMANY

declare the following apparatus:

Product name : Motherboard

Model name : P8H61 EVO

conform with the essential requirements of the following directives:

2004/108/EC-EMC Directive

EN 55022:2006+A1:2007

EN 61000-3-2:2006

EN 55013:2001+A1:2003+A2:2006

EN 55024:1998+A1:2001+A2:2003

EN 61000-3-3:2008

EN 55020:2007

1999/5/EC-R &TTE Directive

EN 300 328 V1.7.1(2006-05)

EN 300 440-1 V1.4.1(2008-05)

EN 300 440-2 V1.2.1(2008-03)

EN 301 511 V9.0.2(2003-03)

EN 301 908-1 V3.2.1(2007-05)

EN 301 908-2 V3.2.1(2007-05)

EN 301 893 V1.4.1(2005-03)

EN 302 544-2 V1.1.1(2009-01)

EN 50360:2001

EN 50371:2002

EN 50385:2002

EN 301 489-1 V1.8.1(2008-04)

EN 301 489-3 V1.4.1(2002-08)

EN 301 489-4 V1.3.1(2002-08)

EN 301 489-7 V1.3.1(2005-11)

EN 301 489-9 V1.4.1(2007-11)

EN 301 489-17 V2.1.1(2009-05)

EN 301 489-24 V1.4.1(2007-09)

EN 302 326-2 V1.2.2(2007-06)

EN 302 326-3 V1.3.1(2007-09)

EN 301 357-2 V1.3.1(2006-05)

EN 302 623 V1.1.1(2009-01)

2006/95/EC-LVD Directive

EN 60950-1:2006

EN 60950-1:2006+A11:2009

EN 60065:2002+A1:2006+A11:2008

2009/125/EC-ErP Directive

Regulation (EC) No. 1275/2008

EN 62301:2005

Regulation (EC) No. 642/2009

EN 62301:2005

Regulation (EC) No. 278/2009

EN 62301:2005

Ver. 110101

CE marking

Declaration Date: Apr. 12, 2011

Year to begin affixing CE marking:2011

Position : CEO

Name : Jerry Shen

Signature : __________

(

EC conformit

markin

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Per FCC Part 2 Section 2. 1077(a)

Responsible Party Name: Asus Computer International

Address: 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539.

Phone/Fax No: (510)739-3777/(510)608-4555

hereby declares that the product

Product Name : Motherboard

Model Number : P8H61 EVO

Conforms to the following specifications:

FCC Part 15, Subpart B, Unintentional Radiators

FCC Part 15, Subpart C, Intentional Radiators

FCC Part 15, Subpart E, Intentional Radiators

Supplementary Information:

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to

the following 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.

Representative Person’s Name : Steve Chang / President

Signature :

Date : Apr. , 2011

Ver. 110101

Asus P8H61 Evo Owner S Manual

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