ASUS 970 PRO GAMING-AURA Motherboard User Manual PDF

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970 PRO GAMING/AURA

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E11139 First Edition December 2015

Copyright 2015 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (ASUS). Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification 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 identification or explanation and to the owners benefit, without intent to infringe.

Offer to Provide Source Code of Certain Software This product contains copyrighted software that is licensed under the General Public License (GPL), under the Lesser General Public License Version (LGPL) and/or other Free Open Source Software Licenses. Such software in this product is distributed without any warranty to the extent permitted by the applicable law. Copies of these licenses are included in this product. Where the applicable license entitles you to the source code of such software and/or other additional data, you may obtain it for a period of three years after our last shipment of the product, either (1) for free by downloading it from http://www.asus.com/support/download or (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 notification 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).

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Contents Safety information ............................................................................................................. iv

About this guide ................................................................................................................ iv

Package contents ..............................................................................................................vi

970 PRO GAMING/AURA specifications summary ........................................................vi

Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1.1 Before you proceed ..........................................................................................1-1

1.2 Motherboard overview ......................................................................................1-1

1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ........................................................................1-5

1.4 System memory ................................................................................................1-9

1.5 Expansion slots ...............................................................................................1-12

1.6 Jumpers ...........................................................................................................1-15

1.7 Connectors ......................................................................................................1-17

1.8 Onboard LEDs .................................................................................................1-26

Chapter 2: BIOS Information 2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS .................................................................2-1

2.2 BIOS setup program .........................................................................................2-6

2.3 My Favorites ....................................................................................................2-10

2.4 Main menu .......................................................................................................2-11

2.5 Ai Tweaker menu .............................................................................................2-13

2.6 Advanced menu ..............................................................................................2-18

2.7 Monitor menu ..................................................................................................2-24

2.8 Boot menu .......................................................................................................2-28

2.9 Tool menu ........................................................................................................2-33

2.10 Exit menu .........................................................................................................2-34

Appendices Notices ........................................................................................................................... A-1

ASUS contact information ............................................................................................. A-5

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Safety information

Electrical safety To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet

before relocating the system.

When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.

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 fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified 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 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 qualified service technician or your retailer.

About this guide This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard.

How this guide is organized This guide contains the following parts:

Chapter1:ProductIntroduction

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

Chapter2:BIOSInformation

This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.

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Chapter3:SoftwareSupport

This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package and the software.

Where to find more information Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates.

1. ASUS websites

The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.

2. Optional documentation

Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.

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.

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

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

Typography

Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.

Italics Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.

Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign means that you must press the enclosed key.

Example: means that you must press the Enter or Return key.

+ + If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key names are linked with a plus sign (+).

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970 PRO GAMING/AURA specifications summary

CPU

AMD AM3+ FX/Phenom II/Athlon II/Sempron 100 Series Processors

Supports AM3+ 32 nm CPU

Supports CPU up to 125 W

AMD Cool n Quiet Technology

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

Chipset AMD 970+SB950 Chipset

Memory

4 x DIMM, max. 32GB DDR3 2133(OC)*/1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz, non- ECC, un-buffered memory

Dual-channel memory architecture * Refer to www.asus.com for the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists).

* Due to OS limitation, when installing total memory of 4GB capacity or more, Windows 32-bit operation system may only recognize less than 3GB. Install a 64-bit Windows OS when you want to install 4GB or more memory on the motherboard.

* Due to CPU spec., AMD 100 series CPUs support up to DDR3 1066MHz. With ASUS design, this motherboard can support up to DDR3 1333MHz.

System Bus Up to 4.8 GT/s HyperTransport 3

Multi-GPU support Supports NVIDIA Quad-GPU SLI Technology

Supports AMD Quad-GPU CrossFireX Technology

Expansion slots

2 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots (supports x16, x8/x8)

2 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot

2 x PCI slots

Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items.

Motherboard ASUS Gaming Motherboard - 970 PRO GAMING/AURA

Cables 2 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables 1 x SLI bridge

Accessories

1 x I/O Shield 1 x cable label 1 x pack of cable tie 1 x M.2 Screw package

Application DVD Support DVD

Documentation User manual

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

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970 PRO GAMING/AURA specifications summary

Storage

AMD SB950 controller: - 6 x SATA 6Gb/s port(s) (black) with Raid 0, 1, 5, 10 support - 1 x M.2 Socket 3 with M Key, type 2242/2260/2280 storage devices

support (PCIE 2.0 x4)

LAN

Intel I211 Gb LAN

Anti-surge LANGuard

GameFirst technology

Audio

SupremeFX 8-Channel High Definition Audio CODEC - Supports: Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel MIC Jack-

retasking - High quality 115dB SNR stereo playback output

Audio Features : - SupremeFX Shielding Technology - Headphone AMP - Optical S/PDIF out port at back panel - Sonic Radar II

USB

ASMedia USB 3.1 controller: - 2 x USB 3.1 ports (2 x Type-A at back panel)

ASMedia USB 3.0 controller: - 2 x USB 3.0 port(s) (2 at mid-board)

AMD SB950 controller: - 14 x USB 2.0 port(s) (8 at back panel, black, 6 at mid-board)

Internal I/O connectors

1 x 19-pin USB 3.0/2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB 3.0/2.0 port

3 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 6 USB 2.0/1.1 ports

1 x System panel header

1 x Front panel audio connector (AAFP)

6 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (Black)

1 x M.2 Socket 3 for M Key, type 2242/2260/2280 devices

1 x Water pump connector (4-pin)

1 x CPU fan connector (4-pin)

1 x CPU OPT fan connector (4-pin)

3 x Chassis Fan connectors (4-pin)

1 x COM connector

1 x TPM header

1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector

1 x 8-pin EATX 12V Power connector

1 x Slow Mode header

1 x Safe Boot header

1 x ReTry header

1 x Clear CMOS jumper

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970 PRO GAMING/AURA specifications summary

ASUS Gaming Features

Gamers Guardian - DIGI+ VRM - DRAM Overcurrent Protection - ESD Guards on LAN, Audio, KBMS and USB3.1/3.0/2.0 ports - Stainless Steel Back I/O - Q-Design (Q-Shield, Q-DIMM, Q-LED, Q-Slot)

Performance Level Up - DIGI+ VRM - AI Suite 3 - Fan Xpert 2 - UEFI BIOS EZ Mode (O.C. Tuner, CrashFree BIOS 3, EZ Flash 2) - RAMCache - Speed your game loads - USB 3.1 Boost featuring speedy USB 3.1 transmission

ASUS Exclusive Features - Disk Unlocker - Push Notice - AI Charger+ - ASUS CPU-Z - Aura: RGB Lighting control

Back panel I/O ports

1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port

1 x optical SPDF out

1 x LAN (RJ45) port

2 x USB 3.1 ports (2 x Type-A, Red)

8 x USB 2.0 ports

8-channel audio I/O ports

BIOS features 64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 2.7, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2, F12 PrintScreen, F3 Shortcut Function and ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) memory information

Manageability WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE

Support DVD

Drivers

ASUS utilities

EZ Update

Anti-virus software (OEM version)

Operating system support

Windows 10 (64-bit)

Windows 8.1 (64-bit)

Windows 7 (64-bit/32-bit)

Form factor ATX Form Factor, 12x 9.6 (30.5cm x 24.4cm)

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-1

Product Introduction

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1 1.1 Before you proceed Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings.

Unplugthepowercordfromthewallsocketbeforetouchinganycomponent.

Beforehandlingcomponents,useagroundedwriststraportouchasafelygrounded objectorametalobject,suchasthepowersupplycase,toavoiddamagingthemdue to static electricity.

HoldcomponentsbytheedgestoavoidtouchingtheICsonthem.

Wheneveryouuninstallanycomponent,placeitonagroundedantistaticpadorinthe bag that came with the component.

Beforeyouinstallorremoveanycomponent,ensurethattheATXpowersupplyis switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so

maycauseseveredamagetothemotherboard,peripherals,orcomponents.

1.2 Motherboard overview Beforeyouinstallthemotherboard,studytheconfigurationofyourchassistoensurethatthe motherboardfitsintoit.

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

1.2.1 Placement direction Wheninstallingthemotherboard,ensurethatyouplaceitintothechassisinthecorrect orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis as indicated in the image below.

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Place this side towards

the rear of the chassis

1.2.2 Screw holes Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.

Donotovertightenthescrews!Doingsocandamagethemotherboard.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-3

1.2.3 Motherboard layout

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1.2.4 Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page

1. ATXpowerconnectors(24-pinEATXPWR,8-pinEATX12V) 1-19

2. AMDAM3+ socket 1-5 3. CPU,CPUoptional,waterpump,andchassisfanconnectors(4-pinCPU_FAN,4-pin

CPU_OPT,4-pinw_PUMP,4-pinCHA_FAN1-3) 1-20

4. DDR3DIMMslots 1-9

5. USB3.0connector(20-1pinUSB3_12) 1-22 6. AMDSB950SerialATA6.0Gb/sconnector(SATA6G_1~6[black]) 1-23 7. M.2(Socket3) 1-25

8. StandbyPowerLED(SB_PWR) 1-26 9. Systempanelconnector(20-5pinPANEL) 1-24 10. OverclockingJack(8-1pinOCJ) 1-16 11. ClearRTCRAM(3-pinCLRTC) 1-19 12. USB2.0connector(10-1pinUSB910,USB1112,USB1314) 1-22 13. TPMconnector(14-1pinTPM) 1-21 14. Serialportconnector(10-1pinCOM) 1-20 15. Frontpanelaudioconnector(10-1pinAAFP) 1-21

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-5

1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ThismotherboardcomeswithanAMDAM3+socketdesignedforAMD FX/PhenomII/ AthlonII/Sempron100SeriesProcessors.

UnplugallpowercablesbeforeinstallingtheCPU.

TheAM3+sockethasadifferentpinoutfromtheAM2+/AM2socket.Ensurethatyouusda CPUdesignedfortheAM3+socket.TheCPUfitsinonlyonecorrectorientation.DONOT forcetheCPUintothesockettopreventbendingthepinsanddamagingtheCPU!

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1.3.1 Installing the CPU

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-7

1.3.2 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation

To install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

ApplytheThermalInterfaceMaterial totheCPUheatsinkandCPU before you install the heatsink and fan if necessary.

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To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-9

1.4 System memory

1.4.1 Overview Thismotherboardcomeswithfour(4)DoubleDataRate3(DDR3)DualInlineMemory Module(DIMM)sockets.ADDR3moduleisnotcheddifferentlyfromaDDRorDDR2module. DONOTinstallaDDRorDDR2memorymoduletotheDDR3slot.

Recommended memory configurations

Topreventsysteminstability,eitherinstallDDR3LDIMMsorDDR3DIMMswithvoltage lowerthan1.5V.

Channel Sockets

ChannelA DIMM_A1&DIMM_A2

ChannelB DIMM_B1&DIMM_B2

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1.4.2 Memory configurations Youmayinstall1GB,2GB,4GB,and8GBunbufferednon-ECCDDR3DIMMsintotheDIMM sockets.

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

YoumayinstallvaryingmemorysizesinChannelAandChannelB.Thesystem mapsthetotalsizeofthelower-sizedchannelforthedual-channelconfiguration.Any excessmemoryfromthehigher-sizedchannelisthenmappedforsingle-channel operation.

AlwaysinstallDIMMswiththesameCASlatency.Foroptimalcompatibility,we recommendthatyouinstallmemorymodulesofthesameversionordatecode(D/C) fromthesamevendor.Checkwiththeretailertogetthecorrectmemorymodules.

Duetothememoryaddresslimitationon32-bitWindowsOS,whenyouinstall4GB ormorememoryonthemotherboard,theactualusablememoryfortheOScanbe about3GBorless.Foreffectiveuseofmemory,werecommendthatyoudoanyofthe following:

- Useamaximumof3GBsystemmemoryifyouareusinga32-bitWindowsOS.

- Installa64-bitWindowsOSifyouwanttoinstall4GBormoreonthe motherboard.

ThismotherboarddoesnotsupportDIMMsmadeupof512megabits(Mb)chipsor less.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-11

To remove a DIMM

1.4.3 Installing a DIMM

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1.5.1 Installing an expansion card To install an expansion card:

1. Beforeinstallingtheexpansioncard,readthedocumentationthatcamewithitand make the necessary hardware settings for the card.

2. Removethesystemunitcover(ifyourmotherboardisalreadyinstalledinachassis).

3. Removethebracketoppositetheslotthatyouintendtouse.Keepthescrewforlater use.

4. Alignthecardconnectorwiththeslotandpressfirmlyuntilthecardiscompletely seated on the slot.

5. Securethecardtothechassiswiththescrewyouremovedearlier.

6. Replacethesystemcover.

1.5.2 Configuring an expansion card Afterinstallingtheexpansioncard,configureitbyadjustingthesoftwaresettings.

1. TurnonthesystemandchangethenecessaryBIOSsettings,ifany.SeeChapter2for informationonBIOSsetup.

2. AssignanIRQtothecard.

3. Installthesoftwaredriversfortheexpansioncard.

WhenusingPCIcardsonsharedslots,ensurethatthedriverssupportShareIRQorthat thecardsdonotneedIRQassignments.Otherwise,conflictswillarisebetweenthetwoPCI

groups,makingthesystemunstableandthecardinoperable.

1.5 Expansion slots Inthefuture,youmayneedtoinstallexpansioncards.Thefollowingsub-sectionsdescribe the slots and the expansion cards that they support.

Unplugthepowercordbeforeaddingorremovingexpansioncards.Failuretodosomay cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-13

1.5.3 PCI Express 2.0 slots

Slot No. Expansion slot

PCIe2.0x1_1slot

PCIe2.0x16/x8_1slot

PCI1

PCIe2.0x1_2slot

PCIe2.0x8_2slot

PCI2

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IRQ assignments for this motherboard

A B C D E F G H

PCIEX1_1 - - - - - - - shared

PCIE_X16/X8_1 shared - - - - - - -

PCI1 - - - - shared - - -

PCIEX1_2 shared - - - - - - -

PCIE_X8_2 - - - - shared - - -

PCI2 - - - - - shared - -

M.2PCIEX4SLOT - - - - shared - - -

HDAudio shared - - - - - - -

IntelLANController - - shared - - - - -

SATAController - - - shared - - - -

USB1.1Controller1 - - shared - - - - -

USB1.1Controller2 - - - - shared - - -

USB1.1Controller3 - - - - - - shared -

USB1.1Controller4 - - shared - - - - -

USB2.0Controller1 - shared - - - - - -

USB2.0Controller2 - - - - - shared - -

USB2.0Controller3 - - - - - - - shared

AsmediaUSB3.1Controller shared - - - - - - - AsmediaUSB3.0Controller - shared - - - - - -

WerecommendthatyouprovidesufficientpowerwhenrunningCrossFireXmode.

ConnectachassisfantothemotherboardconnectorlabeledCHA_FAN1-3when usingmultiplegraphicscardsforbetterthermalenvironment.

VGA configuration

PCI Express 2.0 operating mode

PCIe 2.0 x16/x8_1 PCIe 2.0 x8_2

SingleVGA/PCIecard x16(singleVGA recommended) N/A

DualVGA/PCIecard x8 x8

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-15

1.6 Jumpers 1. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)

ThisjumperallowsyoutocleartheRealTimeClock(RTC)RAMinCMOS.Youcan cleartheCMOSmemoryofdate,time,andsystemsetupparametersbyerasingthe CMOSRTCRAMdata.TheonboardbuttoncellbatterypowerstheRAMdatain CMOS,whichincludesystemsetupinformationsuchassystempasswords.

To erase the RTC RAM:

1. TurnOFFthecomputerandunplugthepowercord.

2. Movethejumpercapfrompins12(default)topins23.Keepthecaponpins 23forabout510seconds,thenmovethecapbacktopins12.

3. PlugthepowercordandturnONthecomputer.

4. HolddownthekeyduringthebootprocessandenterBIOSsetupto reenter data.

Ifthestepsabovedonothelp,removetheonboardbatteryandshortthetwopins againtocleartheCMOSRTCRAMdata.AfterclearingtheCMOS,reinstallthe battery.

YoudonotneedtocleartheRTCwhenthesystemhangsduetooverclocking.For systemfailureduetooverclocking,usetheCPUParameterRecall(C.P.R.)feature. Shutdownandrebootthesystem,thentheBIOSautomaticallyresetsparameter settingstodefaultvalues.

Duetochipsetbehavior,ACpoweroffisrequiredtoenableC.P.R.function.Youmust turn off and on the power supply or unplug and plug the power cord before rebooting the system.

ExceptwhenclearingtheRTCRAM,neverremovethecaponCLRTCjumperdefault position.Removingthecapwillcausesystembootfailure!

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2. Overclocking Jack (8-1 pin OCJ)

ThesejumperssupporttheoverclockingfeaturesReTry,SafeBootandSlowMode.

Short-circuitthecorrespondingpinswithametalobjectorjumpercapforabout5-10 seconds to use its function.

ReTry

ReTryisusedduringthebootingprocesswheretheResetbuttonisrendereduseless. Itforcesthesystemtorebootwhileretainingthesamesettingstoberetriedinquick successiontoachieveasuccessfulPOST.

SafeBoot

SafeBootisusedtoforcethesystemtorebootintotheBIOSsafemode.Ittemporarily appliessafesettingstotheBIOSwhileretaininganyoverclockedsettingsallowingyou to modify the settings causing boot failure.

SlowMode

SlowModeisemployedduringLN2benching.Someprocessorshaveasmalloptimum temperaturerangetorunattheirhighestfrequency.Temperaturesthatfalloutsidethis bandmayyieldinstability.Forexample,aprocessormayneedtooperateat-80C underloadandonly75Cwhenidletomaintainstabilityat5GHz.

Atlowerfrequencies,theCPUstemperaturetoleranceincreases.Itwillhowever remainstableatlowerfrequenciesatmuchcolderorwarmertemperatures.Once itcomesoutofaheavyloadwhiletransitioningovertoalightload,whenthe temperaturedoesnotwarmfastenough,itmaycrash.Toovercomethis,simplyshort the2-pinstodecreasetheprocessorfrequency.SwitchingovertoSlow-Modeduring criticalmomentswhenTemperature/MaxFrequencyalignmentisoff-synccanprevent alotofcrashes,evenwhentryingtobootintotheOSatcoldtemperatures.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-17

1.7 Connectors

1.7.1 Rear panel connectors

Rear panel connectors

1. PS/2Keyboard/Mousecomboport 6. USB2.0ports34

2. OpticalS/PDIFOUTport 7. USB2.0ports12

3. LAN(RJ-45)port* 8. USB3.1ports

4. USB2.0ports78 9. AudioI/Oports**

5. USB2.0ports56

* and **: Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port LEDs and audio port definitions.

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LAN port

Speed LED

Activity Link LED

*LAN port LED indications

Activity/Link LED Speed LED

Status Description Status Description

Off Nolink OFF 10Mbpsconnection Orange Linked ORANGE 100Mbpsconnection Orange(Blinking) Dataactivity GREEN 1Gbpsconnection Orange(Blinking then steady)

Readytowakeup fromS5mode

DuetoUSB3.0controllerlimitations,USB3.0devicescanonlybeusedundera WindowsOSenvironmentandafterUSB3.0driverinstallation.

ThepluggedUSB3.0devicemayrunonxHCIorEHCImode,dependingonthe operatingsystemssetting.

USB3.0devicescanonlybeusedfordatastorage.

WestronglyrecommendthatyouconnectUSB3.0devicestoUSB3.0portsforfaster andbetterperformancefromyourUSB3.0devices.

** Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration

Port Headset

2-channel 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel

LightBlue LineIn LineIn LineIn LineIn Lime LineOut FrontSpeakerOut FrontSpeakerOut FrontSpeakerOut Pink MicIn MicIn MicIn MicIn Orange Center/Subwoofer Center/Subwoofer Black RearSpeakerOut RearSpeakerOut RearSpeakerOut Gray SideSpeakerOut

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-19

1.7.2 Internal connectors

Forafullyconfiguredsystem,werecommendthatyouuseapowersupplyunit (PSU)thatcomplieswithATX12Vspecification2.4(orlaterversion)andprovidesa minimumpowerof350W

WerecommendthatyouuseaPSUwithhigherpoweroutputwhenconfiguringa systemwithmorepower-consumingdevicesorwhenyouintendtoinstalladditional devices.Thesystemmaybecomeunstableormaynotbootupifthepoweris inadequate.

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

TheseconnectorsareforATXpowersupplyplugs.Thepowersupplyplugsare designedtofittheseconnectorsinonlyoneorientation.Findtheproperorientationand pushdownfirmlyuntiltheconnectorscompletelyfit.

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2. CPU, CPU optional, Water pump, and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CPU_OPT, 4-Pin W_PUMP, 4-pin CHA_FAN1-3)

Connectthefancablestothefanconnectorsonthemotherboard,ensuringthatthe black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.

DONOTforgettoconnectthefancablestothefanconnectors.Insufficientairflowinside thesystemmaydamagethemotherboardcomponents.Thesearenotjumpers!Donot placejumpercapsonthefanconnectors!TheCPU_FANconnectorsupportsaCPUfanof maximum1A(12W)fanpower.

3. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM)

Thisconnectorisforaserial(COM)port.Connecttheserialportmodulecabletothis connector,theninstallthemoduletoaslotopeningatthebackofthesystemchassis.

TheCOMmoduleispurchasedseparately.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-21

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

Thisconnectorisforachassis-mountedfrontpanelaudioI/Omodulethatsupports eitherHDAudioorlegacyAC97audiostandard.Connectoneendofthefrontpanel audioI/Omodulecabletothisconnector.

Werecommendthatyouconnectahigh-definitionfrontpanelaudiomoduletothis connectortoavailofthemotherboardshigh-definitionaudiocapability.

Ifyouwanttoconnectahigh-definitionfrontpanelaudiomoduletothisconnector,set theFrontPanelTypeitemintheBIOSsetupto[HDAudio].Ifyouwanttoconnectan AC97frontpanelaudiomoduletothisconnector,settheitemto[AC97].Bydefault, thisconnectorissetto[HDAudio].

5. TPM connector (14-1 pin TPM)

ThisconnectorsupportsaTrustedPlatformModule(TPM)system,whichcansecurely storekeys,digitalcertificates,passwords,anddata.ATPMsystemalsohelpsenhance networksecurity,protectsdigitalidentities,andensuresplatformintegrity.

TheTPMmoduleispurchasedseparately.

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6. USB 2.0 connector (10-1 pin USB910, USB1112, USB1314)

TheseconnectorsareforUSB2.0ports.ConnecttheUSBmodulecabletoanyof theseconnectors,theninstallthemoduletoaslotopeningatthebackofthesystem chassis.TheseUSBconnectorscomplywithUSB2.0specificationsandsupportsupto 480Mbpsconnectionspeed.

Neverconnecta1394cabletotheUSBconnectors.Doingsowilldamagethe motherboard!

TheUSB2.0moduleispurchasedseparately.

7. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_12)

TheseconnectorsallowyoutoconnectaUSB3.0moduleforadditionalUSB3.0front orrearpanelports.WithaninstalledUSB3.0module,youcanenjoyallthebenefitsof USB3.0includingfasterdatatransferspeedsofupto5Gbps,fasterchargingtimefor USB-chargeabledevices,optimizedpowerefficiencyandbackwardcompatibilitywith USB2.0.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-23

8. AMD SB950 Serial ATA 6.0Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1~6 [black])

TheseconnectorsconnecttoSerialATA6.0Gb/sharddiskdrivesviaSerialATA6.0 Gb/ssignalcables.

1-24 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

9. System panel connector (20-5 pin PANEL)

Thisconnectorsupportsseveralchassis-mountedfunctions.

SystempowerLED(4-pin+PWR_LED-)

This4-pinconnectorisforthesystempowerLED.ConnectthechassispowerLED cabletothisconnector.ThesystempowerLEDlightsupwhenyouturnonthesystem power,andblinkswhenthesystemisinsleepmode.

HarddiskdriveactivityLED(2-pin+HDD_LED-)

This2-pinconnectorisfortheHDDActivityLED.ConnecttheHDDActivityLEDcable tothisconnector.TheHDDLEDlightsuporflasheswhendataisreadfromorwritten totheHDD.

Systemwarningspeaker(4-pinSPEAKER)

This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.

ATXpowerbutton/soft-offbutton(2-pinPWR_SW)

This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button turns the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending on the operating system settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the systemisONturnsthesystemOFF.

Resetbutton(2-pinRESET)

This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without turning off the system power.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-25

10. M.2 (Socket 3)

TheM.2(Socket3)withMKeysupportstype2242(22mmx42mm),2260(22mmx 60mm),and2280(22mmx80mm)PCIeinterfacestoragedevices.

M.2onlysupportsdatastorage.

1-26 Chapter 1: Product Introduction

1. Standby Power LED (SB_PWR)

ThemotherboardcomeswithastandbypowerLEDthatlightsuptoindicatethatthe systemisON,insleepmode,orinsoft-offmode.Thisisareminderthatyoushould shutdownthesystemandunplugthepowercablebeforeremovingorplugginginany motherboardcomponent.TheillustrationbelowshowsthelocationoftheonboardLED.

2. Q LEDs (BOOT_DEVICE_LED; VGA_LED; DRAM_LED; CPU_LED)

QLEDscheckkeycomponents(CPU,DRAM,VGAcard,andbootingdevices)in sequenceduringmotherboardbootingprocess.Ifanerrorisfound,thecorresponding LEDflashesuntiltheproblemissolved.Thisuser-friendlydesignprovidesanintuitive way to locate the root problem within seconds.

1.8 Onboard LEDs

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 1-27

3. M2 LED (M2_SSD_LED)

ThisLEDlightsuptoindicatethattheinstalledM.2(NGFF)cardisbeingaccessed.

4. RGB LED

TheRGBLEDlightingcontrolprovidesseverallightingschemes,whichallowyou tocustomizeyourfavoriteLEDeffect.YoucansetyourfavoriteLEDeffecttocast astunningmulti-colorglowacrossyourbuild,changeshadestoindicateCPU temperature,orpulsateintimetothebeatofyourmusic.

YoucanchangethelightingschemesfromtheLEDControlappnamedAura.

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ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-1

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS

Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a USB flash disk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update utility.

BIOS Information 2 2.1.1 EZ Update EZ Update is a utility that allows you to automatically update your motherboards softwares, drivers and the BIOS version easily. With this utlity, you can also manually update the saved BIOS and select a boot logo when the system goes into POST.

To launch EZ Update, click EZ Update on the AI Suite 3 main menu bar.

Click to automatically update your

motherboards driver, software and

firmware

Click to find and select the BIOS

from file

Click to select a boot logo

Click to update the BIOS

EZ Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an ISP (Internet Service Provider).

Chapter 2: BIOS Information

2-2 Chapter 2: BIOS Information

2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without using an OSbased utility. Press to launch the EZ Flash 2 screen.

Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS website at www.asus.com.

To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:

1. Insert the USB flash disk that contains the latest BIOS file 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 .

3. Press to switch to the Drive field.

4. Press the Up/Down arrow keys to find the USB flash disk that contains the latest BIOS then press .

5. Press to switch to the Folder Info field.

6. Press the Up/Down arrow keys to find the BIOS file then press to perform the BIOS update process. Reboot the system when the update process is done.

This function supports USB flash disks formatted using FAT32 or FAT16 on a single partition only.

Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu.

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

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 23

2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive that contains the updated BIOS file.

Before using this utility, rename the BIOS file in the removable device into

970PGMA.CAP.

The BIOS file in the support DVD may not be the latest version. Download the latest BIOS file 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 flash drive that contains the BIOS file to the USB port.

3. The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS file. When found, the utility reads the BIOS file and enters ASUS EZ Flash 3 utility automatically.

4. The system requires you to enter BIOS Setup to recover BIOS settings. To ensure system compatibility and stability, we recommend that you press to load default BIOS values.

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

2.1.4 ASUS BIOS Updater ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update the BIOS in DOS environment.

The screen captures used in this section are for reference only and may not be exactly the same as actually shown on your computer screen.

Before updating BIOS

Prepare the motherboard support DVD and a USB flash drive.

Download the latest BIOS file and BIOS Updater from https://www.asus.com/support/ and save them in your USB flash drive.

NTFS is not supported under FreeDOS environment. Ensure that your USB flash drive is in single partition and in FAT32/16 format.

Turn off the computer.

Ensure that your computer has a DVD optical drive.

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Booting the system in DOS environment To boot the system in DOS:

1. Insert the USB flash drive with the latest BIOS file and BIOS Updater to the USB port.

2. Boot your computer then press to launch the select boot device screen.

3. When the select boot device screen appears, insert the Support DVD into the optical drive then select the optical drive as the boot device.

Please select boot device:

E1: ASUS DVD-E818A6T (4069MB) USB DISK 2.0 (3824MB) UEFI: (FAT) USB DISK 2.0 (3824MB) Enter Setup

and to move selection ENTER to select boot device ESC to boot using defaults

4. When the booting message appears, press within five (5) seconds to enter FreeDOS prompt.

Welcome to FreeDOS (http://www.freedos.org)! C:/> d: D:/>

5. On the FreeDOS prompt, type d: then press to switch the disk from Drive C (optical drive) to Drive D (USB flash drive).

ISOLINUX 3.20 2006-08-26 Copyright (C) 1994-2005 H. Peter Anvin A Bootable DVD/CD is detected. Press ENTER to boot from the DVD/CD. If no key is pressed within 5 seconds, the system will boot next priority device automatically. boot:

Updating the BIOS file To update the BIOS file:

1. On the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /pc /g and press .

2. On the BIOS Updater screen, press to switch from Files panel to Drives panel then select D:.

D:/> bupdater /pc /g

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-5

ASUSTeK BIOS Updater for DOS V1.30 [2015/01/01]

Current ROM BOARD: 970 PRO GAMING/AURA VER: 0202 (H :00 B :00) DATE: 08/12/2015

Update ROM BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown

PATH: C:\

C: D:

FORMAN~1

970PGMA.CAP 8390656 2015-12-08 21:14:34

Note [Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info [Up/Down/Home/End] Move [Esc] Exit

Files panelDrives panel

3. Press to switch from Drives panel to Files panel then press keys to select the BIOS file and press .

4. After the BIOS Updater checks the selected BIOS file, select Yes to confirm the BIOS update.

5. Select Yes then press . When BIOS update is done, press to exit BIOS Updater.

6. Restart your computer.

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

Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit BIOS menu.

Are you sure you want to update the BIOS?

Yes No

The BIOS Backup feature is not supported due to security regulations.

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The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.

Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS file for this motherboard.

If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS setting, load the default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu or press hotkey <F5>.

If the system fails to boot after changing any BIOS setting, try to clear the CMOS and reset the motherboard to the default value. See section 1.6 Jumpers for information on how to erase the RTC RAM.

2.2 BIOS setup program Use the BIOS Setup program to update the BIOS or configure its parameters. The BIOS screens include navigation keys and brief online help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup program.

Entering BIOS Setup at startup To enter BIOS Setup at startup:

Press <Delete> or <F2> during the PowerOn Self Test (POST). If you do not press <Delete> or <F2>, 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 first two options.

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 you always shut down the system properly from the operating system

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-7

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.

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.

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 or press <F7> for the advanced BIOS settings.

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

Selects the boot device priority

Displays the system properties of the selected mode

Normal mode Selects the boot device priority

Loads optimized default

Displays the CPU/motherboard temperature, CPU voltage output, and CPU/chassis fan speed

Selects the display language of the BIOS setup program

ASUS Optimal mode

Displays the Advanced mode menus

Selects the Advanced mode functionsPower saving

mode

Exits the BIOS setup program without saving the changes, saves the changes and resets the system, or enters the Advanced Mode

28 Chapter 2: BIOS Information

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

My Favorites For saving the frequentlyused system settings and configuration

Main For changing the basic system configuration

Ai Tweaker For changing the overclocking settings

Advanced For changing the advanced system settings

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

Boot For changing the system boot configuration

Tool For configuring options for special functions

Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default settings

Advanced Mode The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced endusers to configure the BIOS settings. The figure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode.

To access the EZ Mode, click Exit, then select ASUS EZ Mode or press <F7>.

Navigation keys

General helpMenu bar

Submenu item

Configuration fieldsMenu itemsBack button

Pop-up window Scroll bar

Last modified settings

Quick note

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-9

Menu items The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific 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 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 .

Pop-up window Select a menu item and press to display a popup window with the configuration 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 fit on the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or

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.

Configuration fields These fields show the values for the menu items. If an item is userconfigurable, you can change the value of the field opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not userconfigurable.

A configurable field is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a field, select it and press to display a list of options.

Quick Note button This button allows you to enter notes of the activities that you have done in BIOS.

Last Modified button This button shows the items that you last modified and saved in BIOS Setup.

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Adding items to My Favorites To add frequentlyused BIOS items to My Favorites:

1. Use the arrow keys to select an item that you want to add. When using a mouse, hover the pointer to the item.

2. Press on your keyboard or rightclick on your mouse to add the item to My Favorites page.

You cannot add the following items to My Favorites:

Items with submenu options

Userconfigurable items such as language and boot device order

Configuration items such as Memory SPD Information, system time and date

2.3 My Favorites MyFavorites is your personal space where you can easily save and access your favorite

BIOS items.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-11

2.4 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.

System Language [English] Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options. Configuration options: [English] [Espaol] [] []

System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx] Allows you to set the system date.

System Time [xx:xx:xx] Allows you to set the system time.

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 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.

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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 fields in the BIOS setup program.

To set an administrator password:

1. Select the Administrator Password item and press .

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

3. Confirm the password when prompted.

To change an administrator password:

1. Select the Administrator Password item and press .

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

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

4. Confirm the password when prompted.

To clear the administrator password, follow the same steps as in changing an administrator password, but press when prompted to create/confirm 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 .

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

3. Confirm the password when prompted.

To change a user password:

1. Select the User Password item and press .

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

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

4. Confirm the password when prompted.

To clear the user password, follow the same steps as in changing a user password, but press when prompted to create/confirm the password. After you clear the password, the User Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 213

2.5 Ai Tweaker menu The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclockingrelated items. Scroll down on the menu to display more items.

Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction.

The configuration options for this section vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you installed on the motherboard.

Current CPU Speed : xxxxMHz Displays the current CPU speed.

Target CPU Speed : xxxxMHz Displays the target CPU speed.

Current Memory Frequency : xxxxMHz Displays the current memory frequency.

Current NB Frequency : xxxxMHz Displays the current NB frequency.

Current HT Link Speed : xxxxMHz Displays the current HT link speed.

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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 configuration options:

[Auto] Loads the optimal settings for the system.

[Manual] Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.

[D.O.C.P.] Allows you to select a DRAM O.C. profile, and the related parameters will be adjusted automatically.

CPU Ratio [Auto] Allows user can manually adjust the maximum nonCPB mode CPU ratio. The value will be limit to CPU base or factory setting. Use the <+> and <> keys to adjust the ratio. The valid value ranges vary according to your CPU model.

AMD Turbo CORE technology [Auto] Allows you to enable or disable AMD Turbo CORE technology.

Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

Memory Frequency [Auto] Allows you to set the memory operating frequency.

Configuration options: [Auto] DDR3800MHz] [DDR31066MHz] [DDR31333MHz] [DDR3 1600MHz] [DDR31866MHz] [DDR32133MHz] [DDR32400MHz]

Selecting a very high memory frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this happens, revert to the default setting.

CPU/NB Frequency [Auto] Allows you to set the ratio between the NB (in CPU) Clock and the CPU Bus Frequency.

Configuration options: [Auto] [1400MHz] [1600MHz] [1800MHz] [2000MHz] [2200MHz] [2400MHz] [2600MHz] [2800MHz] [3000MHz] [3200MHz]

HT Link Speed [Auto] Allows you to select the HyperTransport link speed.

Configuration options: [Auto] [800MHz] [1000MHz] [1200MHz] [1400MHz] [1600MHz] [1800MHz] [2000MHz] [2200MHz] [2400MHz]

CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto] [Auto] Automatic configuration.

[Disabled] Enhances the BCLK overclocking ability.

[Enabled] Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.

PCIe Spread Spectrum [Auto] [Auto] Automatic configuration.

[Disabled] Enhances the PCIE overclocking ability.

[Enabled] Sets to [Enabled] for EMI control.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-15

EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled] The ASUS EPU (Energy Processing Unit) sets the CPU in its minimum power consumption settings. Enable this item to set lower CPU core/cache voltage and achieve the best energy saving condition.

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

The following item appears only when you set EPU Power Saving Mode to [Enabled].

EPU Setting [Auto]

This item allows you to set power saving mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [Light Power Saving Mode] [Medium Power Saving Mode] [Max Power Saving Mode]

OC Tuner [CANCEL] OC Tuner utility automatically overclocks the frequency and voltage of the CPU and DRAM. Press to start auto tuning. It takes around five minutes, and the system will reboot for several times until auto tuning is completed.

Configuration options: [OK] [Cancel]

The configuration options for the following subitems vary depending on the CPU/DIMMs you install on the motherboard.

DRAM Timing Control The subitems in this menu allow you to set the DRAM timing control features. Use the <+> and <> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press .

Changing the values in this menu may cause the system to become unstable! If this happens, revert to the default settings.

DRAM Driving Control The subitems in this menu allow you to set the DRAM driving control features. Use the <+> and <> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press .

Changing the values in this menu may cause the system to become unstable! If this happens, revert to the default settings.

DIGI+ Power Control

CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

Loadline is defined by AMD VRM spec and affects CPU voltage. The CPU working voltage will decrease proportionally to CPU loading. Higher value gets a higher voltage and better overclocking performance, but increases the CPU and VRM thermal. This item allows you to enable or disable the CPU LoadLine Calibration function.

Configuration options: [Auto] [Regular] [Medium] [High] [Ultra High] [Extreme]

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CPU/NB Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

This item allows you to enable or disable the CPU/NB LoadLine Calibration function.

Configuration options: [Auto] [Regular] [High] [Extreme]

CPU Current Capability [Auto]

This item provides a total power range for CPU overclocking. A higher value setting provides higher power consumption delivery and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously.

Configuration options: [Auto] [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%] [140%]

Configure higher values when overclocking or under a high CPU loading for extra power support.

CPU/NB Current Capability [Auto]

This item provides wider total power range for overclocking. A higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously.

Configuration options: [Auto] [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%]

CPU Power Phase Control [Standard]

Phase number is the number of working VRM phase. Increasing phase number under heavy system loading to get more transient and better thermal performance. Reducing phase number under light system loading to increase VRM efficiency.

[Standard] Proceeds phase control depending on the CPU loading.

[Optimized] Loads the ASUS optimized phase tuning profile.

[Extreme] Proceeds the full phase mode.

[Manual Adjustment] Allows manual adjustment.

CPU Voltage Frequency [Auto]

Switching frequency will affect the VRM transient response and component thermal. Setting a higher frequency gets faster transient response.

[Auto] Allows you to enable or disable the Spread Spectrum item.

[Manual] Allows you to manually set the frequency with a 10k Hz interval.

The following item appears only when you set CPU Voltage Frequency to [Auto].

VRM Spread Spectrum [Disabled]

This item allows you to enable the spread spectrum to enhance system stability.

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-17

CPU & NB Voltage [Offset Mode] Allows you to set the CPU & NB Voltage Mode. Different subitems appear according to the CPU & NB Voltage Mode item setting.

Configuration options: [Offset Mode] [Manual Mode]

The following items appear only when you set CPU & NB Voltage to [Offset Mode].

Offset Mode Sign [+] This item allows you to set the offset mode sign.

Configuration options: [+] []

CPU Offset Voltage [Auto] This item allows you to set the CPU Offset voltage. Use the <+> or <> to adjust the value. The values range from 0.006250V to 0.700000V with an interval of 0.06250V.

CPU/NB Offset Mode Sign [+] This item allows you to set the offset mode sign.

Configuration options: [+] []

CPU/NB Offset Voltage [Auto] This item allows you to set the CPU/NB Offset voltage. Use the <+> or <> to adjust the value. The values range from 0.006250V to 0.700000V with an interval of 0.06250V.

The following item appears only when you set CPU Voltage Frequency to [Manual].

VRM Fixed Frequency Mode [200]

This item allows you to set a higher frequency for a quicker transient response speed. Use the <+> or <> to adjust the value. The values range from 200 KHz to 400 KHz with an interval of 10 KHz.

CPU Power Duty Control [T.Probe]

[T.Probe] Maintains the VRM thermal balance.

[Extreme] Maintains the VRM current balance.

CPU Power Response Control [Auto]

Configuration options: [Auto] [Regular] [Medium] [Fast] [Ultra Fast]

CPU/NB Power Response Control [Auto]

Configuration options: [Auto] [Regular] [Medium] [Fast] [Ultra Fast]

CPU Power Thermal Control [130]

Higher temperature provides a wider CPU power thermal range and extends the overclocking tolerance to enlarge the overclocking potential.

Configuration options: [130] [151]

218 Chapter 2: BIOS Information

The following items appear only when you set CPU & NB Voltage to [Manual Mode].

CPU Manual Voltage [Auto] This item allows you to set a fixed CPU voltage. Use the <+> or <> to adjust the value. The values range from 0.006250V to 2.075000V with an interval of 0.06250V.

CPU/NB Manual Voltage [Auto] This item allows you to set a fixed CPU/NB voltage. Use the <+> or <> to adjust the value. The values range from 0.500000V to 1.900000V with an interval of 0.06250V.

CPU VDDA Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the CPU VDDA voltage. Use the <+> or <> to adjust the value. The values range from 2.200000V to 2.800000V with a 0.006250V interval.

DRAM Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the DRAM voltage. Use the <+> or <> to adjust the value. The values range from 1.200000V to 2.200000V with a 0.006250V interval.

NB Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the Northbridge voltage. Use the <+> or <> to adjust the value. The values range from 1.100000V to 1.250000V with a 0.006250V interval.

NB HT Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the Northbridge HyperTransport voltage. Use the <+> or <> to adjust the value. The values range from 1.200000V to 1.400000V with a 0.006250V interval.

2.6 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices.

Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-19

2.6.2 SATA Configuration 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.

SB SATA Configuration Allows you to set SATA options.

OnChip SATA Channel [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable serial ATA.

Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

The following items appear only when you set OnChip SATA Channel to [Enabled].

2.6.1 CPU Configuration The items in this menu show the CPUrelated information that the BIOS automatically detects.

The items shown in submenu may be different due to the CPU you installed.

CoolnQuiet [Always Enabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the Cool n Quiet function.

Configuration options: [Disabled by CPU] [Always Enabled] [Always Disabled]

C1E [Enabled] This item allows your system to utilize the AMD specific ACPI states to save power consumption.

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

SVM [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables this function.

[Enabled] Enables the AMD Secure Virtual Machine mode.

Core C6 State [Enabled] Enables or disables Core C6 state function.

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

HPC Mode [Disabled] Allows you to disable or enable High Performance Computing Mode.

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Apm Master Mode [Auto] Enables or disables Application Power Management.

Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

2-20 Chapter 2: BIOS Information

SATA Port1 - Port4 [AHCI]

[IDE] Set to [IDE] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as Parallel ATA physical storage devices.

[AHCI] Set to [AHCI] 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.

[RAID] Set to [RAID] when you want to create a RAID configuration from the SATA hard disk drives.

The following item appears only when you set SATA Port1 Port4 to [AHCI].

SATA ESP on PORT1 ~ 4 [Disabled]

Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

The following item appears only when you set SATA Port1 Port4 to [RAID].

Board SATA RAID ROM [Legacy ROM]

This item allows you to select Board SATA RAID ROM.

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Legacy ROM] [UEFI DRIVER]

SATA Port5 - Port6 [AHCI]

Allows you to set the SATA port 5~6 mode.

Configuration options: [AHCI] [IDE] [RAID]

When the SATA Port1Port 4 and the SATA Port5Port 6 items are set to [AHCI], the information of the SATA connectors 16 can be seen only under the OS environment or during POST.

The configuration options of SATA Port5 Port6 will vary according to the configuration option of the SATA Port1 Port4.

The following item appears only when you set SATA Port5 Port6 to [AHCI].

SATA ESP on PORT5 ~ 6 [Disabled]

Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

S.M.A.R.T. Status Check [Enabled]

[Disabled] Disables the S.M.A.R.T feature.

[Enabled] Enables the S.M.A.R.T feature.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-21

2.6.4 CPU Core On/Off Function

CPU Core Activation [Auto] This item lets user turn off cores except core 1, user can turn off 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, etc core manually. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]

The following items appear only when you set CPU Core Activation to [Manual].

3rd & 4th Core [Enabled]

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.6.3 USB Configuration The items in this menu allow you to change the USBrelated features.

The USB Devices item shows the autodetected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None.

Legacy USB Support [Enabled] [Disabled] The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup program.

[Enabled] Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS).

[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.

The following item appears only when you set Legacy USB Support to [Auto] or [Enabled].

Legacy USB3.0 Support [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the function.

[Enabled] Enables the support for USB 3.0 devices on legacy operating systems (OS).

EHCI Hand-off [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables the function.

[Enabled] Enables the support for operating systems without an EHCI handoff feature.

SB USB Configuration Options for SB USB Configuration.

USB PORT 1 ~ 14 [Enabled]

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2-22 Chapter 2: BIOS Information

5th & 6th Core [Enabled]

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

7th & 8th Core [Enabled]

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.6.5 Onboard Devices Configuration

Asmedia USB 3.1 Controller [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the controller.

[Enabled] Enables the rear USB 3.1 controller.

Asmedia USB 3.0 Controller [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the controller.

[Enabled] Enables the front USB 3.0 controller.

Asmedia USB 3.0 Battery Charging Support [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables this function

[Enabled] Enables the Asmedia USB 3.0 battery charging function.

Intel LAN Controller [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the controller.

[Enabled] Enables the Intel LAN controller.

The following item appears only when you set Intel LAN Controller to [Enabled].

Lntel LAN PXE Option ROM [Disabled] This item allows you to enable or disable the Rom Help of the Realtek LAN controller.

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Serial Port Configuration The subitems in this menu allow you to set the serial port configuration.

Serial Port [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the serial port (COM).

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

The following item appears only when you set Serial Port to [Enabled].

Change Settings [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4]

This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you to select the Serial Port base address.

Configuration options: [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4] [IO=2F8h; IRQ=3] [IO=3E8h; IRQ=4] [IO=2E8h; IRQ=3]

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 223

SB HD Azalia Configuration

HD Azalia Configuration

Allows you to change the HD Azalia configuration.

[Disabled] Disables the device.

[Enabled] Enables the High Definition Audio Azalia device.

The following items appear only when you set HD Audio Azalia Deviceto [Enabled].

Azalia Front Panel [HD]

Allows you to set the Azalia front panel audio connector (AAFP) type to legacy AC97 or highdefinition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio module supports.

[AC97] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC97

[HD] Sets the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to high definition audio.

SPDIF Out Type [SPDIF]

[SPDIF] Sets to [SPDIF] for SPDIF audio output.

[HDMI] Sets to [HDMI] for HDMI audio output.

2.6.6 APM

ErP Ready [Disabled] Allows the BIOS to switch off some power at S5 to get the system ready for ErP requirement. When this item is set to [Enabled], all other PME options will be switched off.

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off] [Power Off] The system goes into off state after an AC power loss.

[Power On] The system goes into on 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 PME [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables the PME to wake up by PCI/PCIE devices.

[Enabled] Allows you to turn on the system through a PCI/PCIE LAN or modem card. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.

Power On By Ring [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables Ring to generate a wake event.

[Enabled] Enables Ring to generate a wake event.

2-24 Chapter 2: BIOS Information

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 userconfigurable with set values.

2.6.7 Network Stack

Network Stack [Disabled] This item allows user to disable or enable the UEFI network stack.

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

The following item appears only when you set Network Stack to [Enabled].

Ipv4 PXE Support [Enabled] Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Ipv6 PXE Support [Enabled] Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.6.8 NVMe Configuration You may view the NVMe controller and Drive information if an NVMe device is connected.

2.7 Monitor menu The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change the fan settings. Scroll down on the menu to display more items.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-25

CPU Temperature / MB Temperature [xxxC/xxxF] 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.

VCORE Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage, VDDA2.5V 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.

CPU Fan Speed, CPU Opt Fan Speed, Chassis Fan 1-3 Speed, and Water Pump 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 field shows N/A. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected speed.

CPU Q-Fan Control [PWM Mode] [Disabled] Disable the QFan control.

[PWM Mode] Enable the CPU QFan control feature in PWM mode for 4pin CPU fan.

[DC Mode] Enable the CPU QFan control feature in DC mode for 3pin CPU fan.

The following items appear only when you set CPU QFan Control to [PWM Mode] or [DC Mode].

CPU_FAN Speed Low Limit [600 RPM] This item allows you to disable or set the CPU fan warning speed.

Configuration options: [Ignore] [100 RPM] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]

CPU Fan Profile [Standard] This item 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 items appear only when you set CPU Fan Profile to [Manual].

CPU Upper Temperature [70]

Use the <+> and <> keys to adjust the upper limit of the CPU temperature. The values range from 20C to 75C.

2-26 Chapter 2: BIOS Information

CPU Lower Temperature [20]

Displays the lower limit of the CPU temperature.

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 Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [30]

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 40C, the CPU fan will operate at the minimum duty cycle.

Chassis Q-Fan Control [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables the Chassis QFan control feature.

[Enabled] Enables the Chassis QFan control feature.

The following items appear only when you set Chassis QFan Control to [Enabled].

Chassis Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM] This item allows you to disable or set the chassis fan warning speed.

Configuration options: [Ignore] [100 RPM] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]

Chassis Fan Profile [Standard] This item 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.

The following items appear only when you set Chassis Fan Profile to [Manual].

Chassis Upper Temperature [70]

Use the <+> and <> keys to adjust the upper limit of the chassis temperature. The values range from 40C to 90C.

Chassis Lower Temperature [40]

Displays the lower limit of the chassis temperature.

Chassis Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [60]

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.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-27

Chassis 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 40C, the chassis fan will operate at the minimum duty cycle.

Water Pump Control [Disabled] [Disabled] Disable the Water Pump control feature.

[DC mode] Enable the Water Pump control in DC mode for 3pin chassis fan.

[PWM mode] Enable the Water Pump control in PWM mode for 4pin chassis fan.

The following items appear only when you set the Water Pump Control to [DC mode] or [PWM mode].

PUMP Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM] This item allows you to disable or set the water pump warning speed.

Configuration options: [Ignore] [100 RPM] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]

Water Pump Profile [Standard] This item 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.

The following items appear only when you set Water Pump Profile to [Manual].

Water Pump Upper Temperature [70]

Use the <+> and <> keys to adjust the upper limit of the chassis temperature. The values range from 40C to 90C.

Water Pump Lower Temperature [40]

Displays the lower limit of the chassis temperature.

Water Pump Max. Duty Cycle(%) [60]

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.

Water Pump 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 40C, the chassis fan will operate at the minimum duty cycle.

228 Chapter 2: BIOS Information

2.8 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Scroll down on the menu to display more items.

Fast Boot [Enabled] [Disabled] Allows your system to go back to its normal boot speed.

[Enabled] Allows your system to accelerate the boot speed.

The following items appear only when you set the Fast Boot to [Enabled].

USB Support [Partial Initialization]

[Disabled] All USB devices will not be available until OS boot up for a fastest POST time.

[Full Initialization] All USB devices will be available during POST. This process will extend the POST time.

[Partial Initialization] For a faster POST time, only the USB ports with keyboard and mouse connections will be detected.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 2-29

PS/2 Keyboard and Mouse Support [Full Initialization]

Select any of these settings when PS/2 keyboard and mouse are installed. These settings only apply when Fast Boot is enabled.

[Disabled] For the fastest POST time, all PS/2 devices will not be available until your computer enters the operating system.

[Auto] For a faster POST time, PS/2 devices will only be available when the system boots up or rebooted when the PS/2 devices have not been reconnected or changed. If you disconnect or change PS/2 devices before restarting the system, PS/2 devices will not be available and BIOS setup program will not be accessible via PS/2 devices.

[Full Initialization] For full system control, PS/2 devices will be available during POST at any circumstances. This process will extend POST time.

Network Stack Driver Support [Disabled]

[Disabled] Select to skip the network stack driver from loading during POST.

[Enabled] Select to load the network stack driver during POST.

Next Boot after AC Power Loss [Normal Boot]

[Normal Boot] Returns to normal boot on the next boot after AC power loss.

[Fast Boot] Accelerates the boot speed on the next boot after AC power loss.

Boot Logo Display [Auto] [Auto] Sets the boot logo to display during POST.

[Full Screen] Sets the boot logo display in full screen during POST.

[Disabled] Disables the boot logo display during POST.

The following item appears only when you set the Boot Logo Display to [Auto] and [Full Screen].

Post Delay Time [3 sec]

This item allows you to select a desired additional POST waiting time to easily enter the BIOS Setup. You can only execute the POST delay time during normal boot. The values range from 0 to 10 seconds.

This feature only works when set under normal boot.

The following items appear only when you set the Boot Logo Display to [Disabled].

Post Report [5 sec]

This item allows you to select a desired POST report waiting time.

Configuration options: [1 sec] [10 sec] [Until Press ESC]

230 Chapter 2: BIOS Information

INT19 Trap Response [Postponed] This item allows you to set the BIOS reaction on INT19 trapping by Option ROM.

[Immediate] Execute the trap right away.

[Postponed] Execute the trap during legacy boot.

Bootup NumLock State [On] This item allows you to enable or disable poweron state of the NumLock.

Configuration options: [On] [Off]

Wait For F1 If Error [Enabled] This item allows your system to wait for the key to be pressed when error occurs.

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS] Configuration options: [Force BIOS] [Keep Current]

Setup Mode [EZ Mode] [Advanced Mode] This item allows you to go to Advanced Mode of the BIOS after POST.

[EZ Mode] This item allows you to go to EZ Mode of the BIOS after POST.

CSM (Compatibility Support Module) This item allows you to configure the CSM (Compatibility Support Module) items to fully support the various VGA, bootable devices and addon devices for better compatibility.

Launch CSM [Enabled]

[Auto] The system automatically detects the bootable devices and the add on devices.

[Enabled] For better compatibility, enable the CSM to fully support the nonUEFI driver addon devices or the Windows UEFI mode.

[Disabled] Disable the CSM to fully support the nonUEFI driver addon devices or the Windows UEFI mode.

The following items appear only when you set the Launch CSM to [Enabled].

Boot Devices Control [UEFI and Legacy OPROM] This item allows you to select the type of devices that you want to boot. Configuration options: [UEFI and Legacy OPROM] [Legacy OPROM only] [UEFI only]

Boot from Network Devices [Legacy OpROM first] This item allows you to select the type of network devices that you want to launch. Configuration options: [Legacy OpROM first] [UEFI driver first] [Ignore]

Boot from Storage Devices [Legacy OpROM first] This item allows you to select the type of storage devices that you want to launch. Configuration options: [Both, Legacy OpROM first] [Both, UEFI first] [Legacy OpROM first] [UEFI driver first] [Ignore]

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 231

Secure Boot This item allows you to configure the Windows Secure Boot settings and manage its keys to protect the system from unauthorized access and malwares during POST.

OS Type [Windows UEFI mode]

[Windows UEFI Mode]

This item allows you to select your installed operating system. Execute the Microsoft Secure Boot check. Only select this option when booting on Windows UEFI mode or other Microsoft Secure Boot compliant OS.

[Other OS] Get the optimized function when booting on Windows non- UEFI mode. Microsoft Secure Boot only supports Windows UEFI mode.

Key Management

Clear Secure Boot keys

This item allows you to clear all default Secure Boot keys.

Save Secure Boot Keys

This item allows you to save the PK (Platform Keys) to a USB storage device.

PK Management

Delete PK

This item allows you to delete the PK from your system. Once the PK is deleted, all the systems Secure Boot keys will not be active.

Configuration options: [Yes] [No]

Load PK from File

This item allows you to load the downloaded PK from a USB storage device.

The PK file must be formatted as a UEFI variable structure with timebased authenticated variable.

KEK Management

Keyexchange Key (KEK) refers to Microsoft Secure Boot KeyEnrollment Key (KEK).

Delete the KEK

Allows you to delete the KEK from your system.

Configuration options: [Yes] [No]

Boot from PCI-E/PCI Expansion Devices [Legacy OpROM first] This item allows you to select the type of PCIE/PCI expansion devices that you want to launch. Configuration options: [Legacy OpROM first] [UEFI driver first]

232 Chapter 2: BIOS Information

Load KEK from File

Allows you to load the downloaded KEK from a USB storage device.

Append KEK from File

Allows you to load the additional KEK from a storage device for an additional db and dbx loaded management.

The KEK file must be formatted as a UEFI variable structure with timebased authenticated variable.

DB Management

Delete the db

Allows you to delete the db file from your system.

Configuration options: [Yes] [No]

Load db from File

Allows you to load the downloaded db from a USB storage device.

Append db from File

Allows you to load the additional db from a storage device so that more images can be loaded securely.

The db file must be formatted as a UEFI variable structure with timebased authenticated variable.

DBX Management

Delete the dbx

Allows you to delete the dbx file from your system.

Load dbx from File

Allows you to load the downloaded dbx from a USB storage device.

Configuration options: [Yes] [No]

Append dbx from File

Allows you to load the additional dbx from a storage device so that more dbs images cannot be loaded.

The dbx file must be formatted as a UEFI variable structure with timebased authenticated variable.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA 233

ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. Press to launch the ASUS EZ Flash 2 screen.

For more details, see section ASUS EZ Flash 2.

ASUS SPD Information

DIMM Slot # [Slot 2]

Displays the Serial Presence Detect (SPD) information of the DIMM module installed on the selected slot.

Configuration options: [Slot 1] [Slot 2] [Slot 3] [Slot 4]

ASUS O.C. Profile This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.

The Setup Profile Status items show Not Installed if no profile is created.

Save to Profile

Allows you to save the current BIOS settings to the BIOS Flash, and create a profile. Key in a profile number from one to eight, press , and then select Yes.

Load from Profile

Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Key in the profile number that saved your CMOS settings, press , and then select Yes.

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 file only coming from the same memory/ CPU configuration and BIOS version.

2.9 Tool menu The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the submenu.

234 Chapter 2: BIOS Information

2.10 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. 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 , a confirmation window appears. Select Yes to load the default values.

Save Changes & Reset Once you are finished 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 , a confirmation 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 you select this option or if you press , a confirmation 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 filesystem device This option allows you to attempt to launch the EFI Shell application (shellx64.efi) from one of the available devices that have a filesystem.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA A-1

Appendices

Notices

Federal Communications Commission Statement This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

This device may not cause harmful interference.

This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. 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 manufacturers 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 toassurecompliancewithFCCregulations.Changesormodificationstothisunitnot expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the users authority to operate this equipment.

Appendices

A-2 Appendix

IC: Canadian Compliance Statement ComplieswiththeCanadianICES-003ClassBspecifications.ThisdevicecomplieswithRSS 210 of Industry Canada. This Class B device meets all the requirements of the Canadian interference-causing equipment regulations.

This device complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

Cut appareil numrique de la Classe B est conforme la norme NMB-003 du Canada. Cet appareil numrique de la Classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Rglement sur le matriel brouilleur du Canada.

Cet appareil est conforme aux normes CNR exemptes de licence dIndustrie Canada. Le fonctionnement est soumis aux deux conditions suivantes :

(1) cet appareil ne doit pas provoquer dinterfrences et

(2) cet appareil doit accepter toute interfrence, y compris celles susceptibles de provoquer un fonctionnement non souhait de lappareil.

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.

VCCI: Japan Compliance Statement

Class B ITE

KC: Korea Warning Statement

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA A-3

REACH Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at ASUS REACH website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.

DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to enable proper reuse of parts and recycling. 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.

ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services ASUS recycling and takeback programs come from our commitment to the highest standards for protecting our environment. We believe in providing solutions for you to be able to responsibly recycle our products, batteries, other components as well as the packaging materials. Please go to http://csr.asus.com/english/Takeback.htm for detailed recycling information in different regions.

Google License Terms Copyright 2015 Google Inc. All Rights Reserved.

LicensedundertheApacheLicense,Version2.0(theLicense);youmaynotusethisfile except in compliance with the License. You may obtain a copy of the License at:

http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0

Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software distributed under the License is distributed on an AS IS BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied.

SeetheLicenseforthespecificlanguagegoverningpermissionsandlimitationsunderthe License.

A-4 Appendix

Portugus A AsusTek Inc. declara que este dispositivo est em conformidade com os requisitos essenciais e outras disposies relevantes das Diretivas da CE. Para mais detalhes, consulte a Declarao de Conformidade CE.

Romn Prin prezenta, AsusTek Inc. declar faptul c acest dispozitiv respect cerinele eseniale i alte prevederi relevante ale directivelor CE. Pentru mai multe detalii, consultai declaraia de conformitate CE.

Srpski AsusTek Inc. ovim izjavljuje da je ovaj ureaj u saglasnosti sa kljunim zahtevima i drugim relevantnim odredbama CE Direktiva. Molimo vas, pogledajte CE Deklaraciju o usklaenosti za vie detalja.

Slovensky Spolonos AsusTek Inc. tmto prehlasuje, e toto zariadenie vyhovuje prslunm poiadavkm a alm svisiacim ustanoveniam smernc ES. Viac podrobnost si pozrite v prehlsen o zhode ES.

Slovenina AsusTek Inc. tukaj izjavlja, da je ta naprava skladna s temeljnimi zahtevami in drugimi relevantnimi doloili direktiv CE. Za ve informacij glejte Izjavo CE o skladnosti.

Espaol Por la presente, AsusTek Inc. declara que este dispositivo cumple los requisitos bsicos y otras disposiciones relevantes de las directivas de la CE. Consulte la Declaracin de conformidad de la CE para obtener ms detalles.

Svenska AsusTek Inc. frklarar hrmed att denna enhet r i verensstmmelse med de grundlggande kraven och andra relevanta bestmmelser i CE-direktiven. Se CE-frskran om verensstmmelse fr mer information.

AsusTek Inc. , . , . .

Trke AsusTek Inc., bu aygtn temel gereksinimlerle ve CE Ynergelerinin dier ilgili koullaryla uyumlu olduunu beyan eder. Daha fazla ayrnt iin ltfen CE Uygunluk Beyanna bakn.

Bosanski AsusTek Inc. ovim potvruje da je ovaj ureaj usklaen s osnovnim zahtjevima i drugim relevantnim propisima Direktiva EK. Za vie informacija molimo pogledajte Deklaraciju o usklaenosti EK.

English AsusTek Inc. hereby declares that this device is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of CE Directives. Please see the CE Declaration of Conformity for more details.

Franais AsusTek Inc. dclare par la prsente que cet appareil est conforme aux critres essentiels et autres clauses pertinentes des directives europennes. Veuillez consulter la dclaration de conformit CE pour plus dinformations.

Deutsch AsusTek Inc. erklrt hiermit, dass dieses Gert mit den wesentlichen Anforderungen und anderen relevanten Bestimmungen der CE-Richtlinien bereinstimmt. Weitere Einzelheiten entnehmen Sie bitte der CE-Konformittserklrung.

Italiano AsusTek Inc. con la presente dichiara che questo dispositivo conforme ai requisiti essenziali e alle altre disposizioni pertinenti alle direttive CE. Per maggiori informazioni fate riferimento alla dichiarazione di conformit CE.

ASUS , . , , .

AsusTek Inc. , CE. CE .

Hrvatski AsusTek Inc. ovim izjavljuje da je ovaj ureaj sukladan s bitnim zahtjevima i ostalim odgovarajuim odredbama CE direktiva. Vie pojedinosti potraite u CE izjavi o sukladnosti.

etina Spolenost AsusTek Inc. tmto prohlauje, e toto zazen spluje zkladn poadavky a dal pslun ustanoven smrnic CE. Dal podrobnosti viz Prohlen o shod CE.

Dansk AsusTek Inc. Erklrer hermed, at denne enhed er i overensstemmelse med hovedkravene and andre relevante bestemmelser i CE-direktiverne. Du kan lse mere i CE-overensstemmelseserklring.

Nederlands AsusTek Inc. verklaart hierbij dat dit apparaat compatibel is met de essentile vereisten en andere relevante bepalingen van CE- richtlijnen. Raadpleeg de CE-verklaring van conformiteit voor meer details.

Eesti Kesolevaga kinnitab AsusTek Inc., et see seade vastab CE direktiivide oluliste nuetele ja teistele asjakohastele stetele. Vt ksikasju CE vastavusdeklaratsioonist.

Suomi AsusTek Inc. vakuuttaa tten, ett tm laite on CE-direktiivien olennaisten vaatimusten ja muiden asiaan kuuluvien lisysten mukainen. Katso listietoja CE-vaatimustenmukaisuusvakuutuksesta.

, AsusTek Inc. . .

Magyar Az AsusTek Inc. ezennel kijelenti, hogy a kszlk megfelel a CE-irnyelvek alapvet kvetelmnyeinek s ide vonatkoz egyb rendelkezseinek. Tovbbi rszletekrt tekintse meg a CE-megfelelsgi nyilatkozatot.

Latviski Ldz ar o AsusTek Inc. pazio, ka ierce atbilst btiskajm prasbm un citiem saistoajiem nosacjumiem, kas nordti CE direktv. Lai uzzintu vairk, skatiet CE Atbilstbas deklarciju.

Lietuvi iuo dokumentu bendrov AsusTek Inc. pareikia, kad is renginys atitinka pagrindinius CE direktyv reikalavimus ir kitas susijusias nuostatas. Daugiau informacijos rasite CE atitikties deklaracijoje.

Norsk AsusTek Inc. erklrer herved at denne enheten er i samsvar med hovedsaklige krav og andre relevante forskrifter i CE-direktiver. Du finner mer informasjon i CE-samsvarserklringen.

Polski Niniejszym AsusTek Inc. deklaruje, e to urzdzenie jest zgodne z istotnymi wymaganiami oraz innymi powizanymi zaleceniami Dyrektyw CE. W celu uzyskania szczegw, sprawd Deklaracj zgodnoci CE.

ASUS 970 PRO GAMING/AURA A-5

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.com/

Technical Support Telephone +86-21-38429911 Fax +86-21-5866-8722, ext. 9101# Online support https://www.asus.com/tw/support/

ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America) Address 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA Telephone +1-510-739-3777 Fax +1-510-608-4555 Web site http://www.asus.com/us/

Technical Support Support fax +1-812-284-0883 Telephone +1-812-282-2787 Online support http://www.service.asus.com/

ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria) Address Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany Fax +49-2102-959911 Web site http://www.asus.com/de Online contact http://eu-rma.asus.com/sales

Technical Support Telephone +49-1805-010923 Support Fax +49-2102-9599-11 Online support http://www.asus.com/de/support/

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