Asus MAXIMUS III FORMULA Specifications

MotherboardMAXIMUS VII FORMULA Series

xMAXIMUS VII FORMULA Series specifications summary(continued on the next page)CPUIntel®LGA1150 socket for the 5th, New 4th, and 4th Generation Intel®

3-12Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3DRAM READ to PRE Time [Auto]Conguration options: [Auto] [1] – [15]DRAM FOUR ACT WIN Time [Auto]Conguration options

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-13Chapter 3Third TimingstRDRD [Auto]Conguration options: [Auto] [1] - [7]tRDRD_dr [Auto]Conguration options: [Auto] [1] -

3-14Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3Channel B DIMM Control [Enable Both DIMMS]Allows you to enable or disable the Channel B DIMM slots. Conguration opt

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-15Chapter 3GPU.DIMM PostAutomatically detects and displays the information about the devices or memory installed on the PCIe

3-16Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3VRM Spread Spectrum [Disabled]This item allows to enhance the system stability. Conguration options: [Disabled] [En

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-17Chapter 3Tweakers’ ParadiseThe subitems in this menu allow you to set the CPU ratio and features.BCLK TuningVCCIN Shadow V

3-18Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3The following items appear only when you set the Turbo Mode to [Enabled].Turbo Mode ParametersCPU Integrated VR Curr

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-19Chapter 3Power Current Offset [Auto]Allows you to increase or decrease the output current sensed by the CPU. It nds the b

3-20Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3CPU Core Voltage [Auto]Congures the amount of Voltage fed to the cores of the processor. Increase when increasing C

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-21Chapter 3Appear only when you set the CPU Graphics Voltage to [Manual Mode].CPU Graphics Voltage Override [Auto]This item

xi(continued on the next page)StorageIntel® Z97 Express Chipset1 x SATA Express port (red at bottom, compatible with 2 x SATA 6.0 Gb/s ports)1 x M.2 S

3-22Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3CPU Analog I/O Voltage Offset Mode Sign [+][+] To offset the voltage by a positive value.[–] To offset the voltage

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-23Chapter 3PCH Core Voltage [Auto]This item allows you to set the Core voltage for the PCH (Platform Controller Hub). You ca

3-24Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 33.5 Main menuThe Main menu screen appears when you enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS Setup program. The Main menu

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-25Chapter 3SecurityThe Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.• If you have forgotten your

3-26Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3Administrator PasswordIf you have set an administrator password, we recommend that you enter the administrator passw

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-27Chapter 33.6 Advanced menuThe Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices.B

3-28Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 33.6.1 CPU ConfigurationThe items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically detects.

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-29Chapter 3Execute Disable Bit [Enabled]Execute Disable prevents certain classes of malicious buffer overow attacks when co

3-30Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3CPU C-States [Auto]This item allows you to set the power saving of the CPU states.Conguration options: [Auto] [Disa

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-31Chapter 33.6.2 PCH ConfigurationPCI Express ConfigurationThis item allows you to congure the PCI Express slots. PCI-E Sp

xii(continued on the next page)MAXIMUS VII FORMULA Series specifications summaryUSBIntel® Z97 Express Chipset6 x USB 3.0 ports (4 ports at back panel

3-32Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3Hybrid Hard Disk Support [Disabled]This item allows you to enable or disable the hybrid hard disk support for a fast

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-33Chapter 3SATA Express(SATAEXPRESS_1) and M.2 Configuration [Auto][Auto] The system will automatically detect the connecte

3-34Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3SATA6G_1 (Red) - SATA6G_6 (Red)Press <Enter> to rename the Intel SATA ports.SATA6G_1 (Red) - SATA6G_6 (Red) [E

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-35Chapter 33.6.4 System Agent ConfigurationGraphics ConfigurationAllows you to select a primary display from iGPU, and PCIe

3-36Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3NB PCI-E ConfigurationAllows you to congure the NB PCI Express settings.PCIEx16_1/2 Link Speed [Auto]Allows you to

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-37Chapter 33.6.5 USB ConfigurationThe items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features.The USB Devices item

3-38Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 33.6.6 Platform Misc ConfigurationThe items in this menu allow you to congure the platform-related features.PCI-E N

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-39Chapter 3SA - PCI ExpressDMI Link ASPM Control [Disabled]Enable the PCH side ASPM for energy saving support. Conguration

3-40Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3Bluetooth Controller [Enabled]This item allows you to enable or disable the Bluetooth Controller. Conguration optio

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-41Chapter 3This item allows you to enable or disable the Intel LAN Controller. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]Int

xiiiMAXIMUS VII FORMULA Series specifications summarySpecial FeaturesASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 5 - 5-Way Optimization tuning key perfectly cons

3-42Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 33.6.8 APM ConfigurationErP Ready [Disabled]Allows you to switch off some power at S4+S5 or S5 to get the system rea

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-43Chapter 33.6.9 Network Stack ConfigurationNetwork Stack [Disabled]This item allows you to disable or enable the UEFI netw

3-44Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 33.7 Monitor menuThe Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change the fan set

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-45Chapter 3Fan Speed ControlCPU Q-Fan Control [Auto][Auto] Detect the type of CPU fan installed and automatically switch the

3-46Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Q-Fan Control [DC Mode][Disabled] Disables the Chassis Q-Fan control feature.[DC mode] Enable th

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-47Chapter 3Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Lower Temperature [40]Displays the lower limit of the CPU temperature.Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Min. D

3-48Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3Fast Boot [Enabled][Disabled] Allows your system to go back to its normal boot speed.[Enabled] Allows your system

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-49Chapter 3Boot Logo Display [Disabled][Auto] Auto adjustments for Windows requirements.[Full Screen] Maximize the boot lo

3-50Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3CSM (Compatibility Support Module)This item allows you to congure the CSM (Compatibility Support Module) items to f

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-51Chapter 3Key ManagementClear Secure Boot keysThis item appears only when you load the default Secure Boot keys. This item

xivInternal Connectors1 x USB 3.0 connector supports additional 2 USB 3.0 ports2 x USB 2.0 connectors support additional 4 USB 2.0 ports [one connecto

3-52Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3The db le must be formatted as a UEFI variable structure with time-based authenticated variable. DBX ManagementDBX

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-53Chapter 33.9 Tool menuThe Tools menu items allow you to congure options for special functions. Select an item then press

3-54Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3Click to start the SSD Secure EraseDisplays the available SSDsStatus definition:• Frozen. The frozen state is the

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-55Chapter 33.9.4 ASUS Overclocking ProfileThis item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. Profile NameKey in

3-56Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 33.9.5 ASUS SPD InformationAllows you to view the DRAM SPD information. DIMM slot number [DIMM_B2]Allows you to sele

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-57Chapter 33.9.6 ROG OC Panel H-Key ConfigureThe ROG OC Panel H-Key Congure allows you to input and save values on the CPU

3-58Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 33.10 Exit menuThe Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal default values for the BIOS items, and save or disc

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-59Chapter 33.11 Updating BIOSThe ASUS website publishes the latest BIOS versions to provide enhancements on system stabilit

3-60Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 33.11.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2ASUS EZ Flash 2 allows you to update the BIOS without having to use a bootable oppy disk or

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-61Chapter 3• This function can support devices such as a USB ash disk with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only.•

xvPackage contentsCheck your motherboard package for the following items.MotherboardROG MAXIMUS VII FORMULACables4 x 2-in-1 SATA 6Gb/s cables1 x SLI™

3-62Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 33.11.4 ASUS BIOS UpdaterASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update the BIOS in DOS environment. The screen captures use

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-63Chapter 34. When the booting message appears, press <Enter> within ve (5) seconds to enter FreeDOS prompt.Updatin

3-64Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 35. Select Yes then press <Enter>. When BIOS update is done, press <ESC> to exit BIOS Updater. 6. Resta

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-1Chapter 44Chapter 4: Software supportSoftware support44.1 Installing an operating system• ThismotherboardsupportsWind

4-2Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 44.2.2 Obtaining the software manualsThesoftwaremanualsareincludedinthesupportDVD.Followtheinstructi

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-3Chapter 4Thescreenshotsinthissectionareforreferenceonly.TheactualsoftwaremanualscontaininginthesupportDVD

4-4Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4Launching AI Suite 3Windows® 7 OSFromtheDesktop,clickStart>All Programs>ASUS>AI Suite 3 >

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-5Chapter 4AI Suite 3 main menu bar• SomefunctionsintheAISuite3mainmenuinthisuserguidemayvarydependingonthe

4-6Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4DONOTremoveyourfanduringthetuningprocess.4.5 Dual Intelligent Processors 5ASUSDualIntelligentProces

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-7Chapter 4Using TPUCPU Frequency• SettheCPURatioSettingiteminBIOSto[Auto]beforeusingtheCPUFrequencyinTPU.R

xviInstallation tools and components1 bag of screws Philips (cross) screwdriverPC chassis Power supply unitIntel LGA 1150 CPU Intel LGA 1150 compatibl

4-8Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4Graphics cardClick to save the adjustment into a profileMove the sliders or Click or tap or to adjust the

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-9Chapter 4Energy Processing Unit (EPU)EPUisareal-timesystempower-savingchipthatautomaticallydetectsthecurrentsys

4-10Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4DIGI+ Power ControlASUSDIGI+PowerControlfeaturestherevolutionaryandinnovativedigitalVRMandDRAMVol

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-11Chapter 4Fan Xpert 3ASUSFanXpert3providescustomizablesettingsofyourfansforacoolerandmorequietcomputingenv

4-12Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4Turbo AppTurboAppallowsyoucustomizethesystemperformance,networkpriority,andaudiosettingofanappl

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-13Chapter 4Click to select a USB device Click to enable the USB device’s normal data transfer rateClick to enable UASP or Tu

4-14Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4EZ UpdateEZUpdateisautilitythatallowsyoutoautomaticallyupdateyourmotherboard’ssoftware,drivers,

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-15Chapter 4System InformationThisutilitydisplaysthedetailedinformationandsettingsoftheinstalledmotherboard,CPU,

4-16Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4Viewing the SPD informationClickortaptheSPDtabtoviewthememory’sinformation.

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-17Chapter 4Set a schedule for the BIOS Update downloadClick to check for a new BIOS update available for downloadClick or ta

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-1Chapter 1Product introduction11.1 Special features1.1.1 Product highlightsRepublic of Gamers The Republic of Gamers offer

4-18Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4USB Charger+USBCharger+allowsyoutoquick-chargeyourportableUSBdevicesevenifyourcomputerisoff,in

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-19Chapter 4Push NoticeThisutilityallowsyougetthedetailedstatusofyoursystemtoyoursmartdevice.Youcanalsosend

4-20Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4Setting up PC Mode alerts of your computerThisfeatureallowsyoutorestart,shutdown,orputyourcomputer

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-21Chapter 4Viewing your computer status on your smart deviceTapPush NoticeonyoursmartdevicetolaunchPushNotice.Sendi

4-22Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4Wi-Fi EngineTouseWi-FiEngine,clickortapthe onthetopedgeoftheAISuite3mainmenu,thenselect W

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-23Chapter 4Using the AP ModeTheAPmodeallowsyoutosetyoursystemasanaccesspointforotherwireless-enableddevices.

4-24Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4Wi-Fi GO! and Remote GO!Wi-FiGO!andRemoteGO!areASUSexclusiveutilitiesthatgivesyoucompletecontrol

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-25Chapter 4Creating an ASUS account Ensurethatyouhaveaninternetconnectionbeforeyoucreateanaccount.Tocreateane

4-26Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4Tolog-inusingyoursmartdevice:1. LaunchWi-Fi GO! & NFC Remote onyousmartdevice.2. TapASUS Ac

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-27Chapter 4Using Wi-Fi GO! & NFC RemoteTousetheWi-FiGO!&NFCRemote:1. ConnectyoursmartdevicetothesameW

1-2Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 11.1.2 ROG Gaming FeaturesSupremeFX Formula 2014SupremeFX Formula 2014 delivers audio that’s as great as a

4-28Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4Using the Wake-on-LANIfyouwanttowakeupyourcomputerusingthesmartdevice,ensurethatyouenablethec

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-29Chapter 4Cloud GO!CloudGO!allowsyoutocontrolandsynchronizeyourlesacrossmultiplecloudservicessuchasASUSWe

4-30Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4Remote DesktopRemoteDesktopallowsyoutoremotelycontrolyourdesktopinreal-timeusingyoursmartdevice.

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-31Chapter 4Remote Desktop Control NotificationThisfunctionallowsyoutosendthecontrolauthorizationtoasmartdevicea

4-32Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4File TransferFileTransferallowsyoutosyncandsharelesbetweenyourPCsandsmartdeviceswithjustacl

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-33Chapter 4Remote Keyboard & MouseRemoteKeyboard&Mouseallowsyoutouseyoursmartdevice’stouchpanelasarem

4-34Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4Ai Charger+AiCharger+allowsyoutofast-chargeyourportableBC1.1*mobiledevicesonyourcomputer’sUSBp

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-35Chapter 44.6 ROG Audio featuresInstalling the SoftwareFollowtheinstallationwizardtoinstalltheRealtek®AudioManag

4-36Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4Equalizer switchClicktoenable.ThisitemallowsyoutoadjusttheparametricEQsettingsaccordingtoyourp

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-37Chapter 4Sonic SenseAmpSonicSenseAmpisanexclusiveROGinventionthatisabuilt-inheadphoneAMPononboardaudiowith

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-3Chapter 11.1.3 ROG Exclusive FeaturesExtreme Engine Digi+ IIIThe Extreme Engine Digi+ III offers the best CPU/Memory desig

4-38Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4Afteryouclosethepop-window,SonicSenseAmpentersspeakercongurationanddisplaystheadjustedheadphone

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-39Chapter 4Sonic SoundStageSonicSoundStageisahardwarebasedsoundsolutionforvirtualSoundStagethatoffersfourpres

4-40Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4DTS ConnectDTSConnectdeliversexcellentaudioentertainmentacrossallformatsandworkswith4,5.1and7.1

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-41Chapter 44.7 Sonic Radar IISonicRadarIIisdesignedforFirstPersonShooting(FPS)gamesandshowstheprecisedirecti

4-42Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4Audio Mode/Radar Selection menuAllowsyoutocongurethesoundenhancers.Tick to choose the desired sound enh

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-43Chapter 44.8 GameFirst IIIGameFirstIIIisanetworkmanagementsoftwarethatfeaturesfourpresetpacketprioritizedpro

4-44Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4Network MonitorTop 5 applicationDisplaysthetop5bandwidthconsumingapplicationscurrentlyused.Application

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-45Chapter 4Click to begin the speed testBandwidth TestYoucanusethisfeaturetotesttheInternetServiceProvider(ISP)

4-46Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 44.9 KeyBotKeyBotisabuilt-inmicroprocessorthatprovidesinstantupgradetoyourkeyboard.Youcancongure

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-47Chapter 4Function KeysShortcut Smart Input•  SmartInputrecordsasequenceoftypedcharactersandspeedsupkeyinput

iiE9394First Edition V1June 2014Copyright © 2014 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.No part of this manual, including the products and software

1-4Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 11.1.5 ROG rich bundled softwareKeyBot KeyBot is a built-in microprocessor that provides instant upgrade t

4-48Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 44.10 ASUS Media StreamerASUSMediaStreamerallowsyoutoenjoyyourPC’smultimediacontentanywhere.Youca

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-49Chapter 4Adding and deleting media filesThefollowingmediaformatsaresupported:.3gp,.mp4,.m4a,.aac,.ts,.ac,.mp

4-50Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 44.11 ASUS Disk UnlockerThisASUSexclusiveutilityprovidesaneasy-to-useinterfacetoidentifyandutilize

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-51Chapter 44.12 RAMDiskRAMDiskisadata-storagesoftwarethatreservesapartofyoursystem’smemoryandturnsitintoah

4-52Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4To delete or format an existing RAMDisk drive: Click to delete the existing RAMDisk driveClick to format the e

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-53Chapter 4Synchronizing backup files Aftercreatingajunctionpoint,RAMDiskautomaticallycreatesabackupfolderinthe

4-54Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 44.13 MemTweakItMemTweakItisasoftwarethatyoucanusetoviewalllevelsofmemorytimings.Youcanvalidat

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-55Chapter 4Tovalidateandsaveyourcongurationmanually:1. LaunchMemTweakItandclickValidate.2. InManual Mode,clic

4-56Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 44.14 ROG ConnectROGConnectallowsyoutomonitorandadjustthelocalPCthroughyourremotePC.Setting up U

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA4-57Chapter 4RC PosterRCPostershowsthestatusofthelocalsystemduringthePOST.Youcanswitchthedisplaymodebetween

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-5Chapter 11.2 Motherboard overview1.2.1 Before you proceedTake note of the following precautions before you install mother

4-58Chapter 4: Software supportChapter 4

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA5-1Chapter 5RAID support55.1 RAID configurationsThe motherboard comes with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology that supports

5-2Chapter 5: RAID supportChapter 55.1.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disksThe motherboard supports Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performanc

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA5-3Chapter 55.1.4 Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utilityTo enter the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM ut

5-4Chapter 5: RAID supportChapter 5Creating a RAID setTo create a RAID set:1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press <

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA5-5Chapter 55. Use the up/down arrow key to select a drive, and then press <Space> to select. A small triangle marks th

5-6Chapter 5: RAID supportChapter 5Deleting a RAID setBe cautious when deleting a RAID set. You will lose all data on the hard disk drives when you de

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA5-7Chapter 5Exiting the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology Option ROM utilityTo exit the utility:1. From the utility main menu,

5-8Chapter 5: RAID supportChapter 55.2.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®To create a RAID driver disk in Windows®:1. Start Windows®.2. Plug

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULAA-1AppendicesAppendicesNoticesFederal Communications Commission StatementThis device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. O

1-6Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1Refer to Internal connectors and Rear I/O connection for more information about rear panel connectors and i

A-2AppendicesAppendicesIC: Canadian Compliance StatementComplieswiththeCanadianICES-003ClassBspecications.ThisdevicecomplieswithRSS210 o

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULAA-3AppendicesREACHComplying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulatory

A-4AppendicesAppendicesASUS contact informationASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.Address 15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259Telephone +886-2-2894-34

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULAA-5AppendicesEC Declaration of Conformity We, the undersigned, Manufacturer: ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. Address: 4F, No. 150, LI-T

A-6AppendicesAppendices

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-7Chapter 1Layout contentsConnectors/Jumpers/Buttons and switches/Slots Page1.CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pi

1-8Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 11.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1150 socket designed for

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-9Chapter 1Recommended memory configurations1.2.4 System memoryThe motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dua

1-10Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1Memory configurationsYou may install 1 GB, 2 GB, 4 GB and 8 GB unbuffered and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-11Chapter 1MAXIMUS VII FORMULA Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3 3200 MHz capabilityDDR3 3100 MHz capabilityVen

1-12Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1DDR3 2933 MHz capabilityVendors Part No. SizeSS/DSChip BrandChip NO.Timing VoltageDIMM socket support (Opt

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-13Chapter 1DDR3 2666 MHz capabilityVendors Part No. SizeSS/DSChip BrandChip NO.Timing VoltageDIMM socket support (Optional)2

iiiContentsSafety information ... viiAbout this guid

1-14Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1DDR3 2400 MHz capabilityVendorsPart No.Size SS/DSChip BrandChip NO.Timing VoltageDIMM socket support (Opti

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-15Chapter 1DDR3 2133 MHz capabilityVendorsPart No.SizeSS/DSChip BrandChip NO.Timing VoltageDIMM socket support (Optional)2 4

1-16Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1DDR3 1866 MHz capabilityVendorsPart No.SizeSS/DSChip BrandChip NO.Timing VoltageDIMM socket support (Optio

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-17Chapter 1Vendors Part No. SizeSS/DSChip BrandChip NO. Timing VoltageDIMM socket support (Optional)2 4GeIL GEEL316GB1866C9D

1-18Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1DDR3 1600 MHz capability(continued on the next page)Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip BrandChip NO. Timing V

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-19Chapter 1DDR3 1600 MHz capability(continued on the next page)Vendors Part No. Size SS/DSChip BrandChip NO. Timing VoltageD

1-20Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1(continued on the next page)DDR3 1600 MHz capabilityVendors Part No. SizeSS/DSChip Brand Chip NO. Timing V

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-21Chapter 1DDR3 1600 MHz capabilityVendors Part No. Size SS/DS Chip Brand Chip NO. Timing VoltageDIMM socket support (Option

1-22Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1DDR3 1333 MHz capabilityVendorsPart No. SizeSS/DSChip BrandChip NO. Timing VoltageDIMM socket support (Opt

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-23Chapter 1DDR3 1333 MHz capabilityVendors Part No.SizeSS/DSChip Brand Chip NO. Timing VoltageDIMM socket support (Optional)

iv2.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections ...2-162.3.1 Rear I/O connection ...

1-24Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 11.2.5 Expansion slotsUnplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so ma

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-25Chapter 1• We recommend that you provide sufcient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI® mode. • Connect a chassis fan

1-26Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 11.2.6 Onboard buttonsOnboard buttons allow you to ne-tune performance when working on a bare or open-cas

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-27Chapter 1• Refer to section Onboard LEDs for the location of the MEMOK_LED.• The DRAM_LED also lights up when the DIMM i

1-28Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 14. KeyBot button (KeyBot)Press this button to activate the KeyBot feature. • The KeyBot feature suppo

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-29Chapter 11.2.7 Onboard LEDs1. Hard Disk LED (HD_LED)The Hard Disk LED is designed to indicate the hard disk activity. It

1-30Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 13. KeyBot LED (KEYBOT_LED)This LED lights up when the KeyBot button is pressed.4. USB BIOS Flashback LED

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-31Chapter 15. Q-Code LEDsThe Q-Code LED design provides you with a 2-digit error code that displays the system status. Refe

1-32Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1(continued on the next page)Q-Code table(continued on the next page)Code Description00Not used01Power on.

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-33Chapter 1Code Description54Unspecied memory initialization error55Memory not installed56Invalid CPU type or Speed57CPU mi

vChapter 4: Software support4.1 Installing an operating system ...4-14.2 Support DVD

1-34Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1Code DescriptionF9Recovery capsule is not foundFAInvalid recovery capsuleFB – FFReserved for future AMI er

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-35Chapter 1Code Description9CUSB Detect9DUSB Enable9E – 9FReserved for future AMI codesA0IDE initialization is startedA1IDE

1-36Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1Code DescriptionD2PCH initialization errorD3Some of the Architectural Protocols are not availableD4PCI res

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-37Chapter 11.2.8 Internal connectors1. Intel® Z97 Serial ATA 6 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1 - 4; SATAEXPRESS_1 [b

1-38Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 12. ASMedia® Serial ATA 6 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_E1-E2; SATAEXPRESS_E1 [top])These connectors conn

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-39Chapter 13. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_12)This connector allows you to connect a USB 3.0 module for additional USB

1-40Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard!You can connect the

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-41Chapter 15. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O modu

1-42Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 16. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 4-pin CHA_FAN1A-3A; 4-pin

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-43Chapter 1• For a fully congured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V

viChapter 5: RAID support5.1 RAID configurations ...5-15.1.1 RAID de

1-44Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1• SystempowerLED(2-pinPLED)This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis powe

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-45Chapter 19. ROG Extension - ROG_EXT connector (18-1 pin ROG_EXT)This connector is for the OC Panel, Front Base, and the o

1-46Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 111. T_Sensor connector (2-pin T_SENSOR1) This connector is for the thermistor cable that allows you to mo

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-47Chapter 113. Thunderbolt header (5-pin TB_HEADER)This connector is for the add-on Thunderbolt I/O card that supports Inte

1-48Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 11.2.9 ProbeItThe ROG ProbeIt allows you to detect your system’s current voltage and OC settings. Use a mul

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA1-49Chapter 11.2.10 CrossChill CopperCrossChill Copper is an exclusive ROG heatsink that provides air cooling and water cooli

1-50Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA2-1Chapter 2Basic Installation22.1 Building your PC system2.1.1 Motherboard installationThe diagrams in this section are for

2-2Chapter 2: Basic InstallationChapter 23. Place nine screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.DO NOT ove

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA2-3Chapter 22.1.2 CPU installation1AB23ABC45Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1150 socket only. DO NOT

viiSafety informationElectrical safety• To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating t

2-4Chapter 2: Basic InstallationChapter 22.1.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installationApply the Thermal Interface Material to the CPU heatsink and

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA2-5Chapter 2To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan assembly

2-6Chapter 2: Basic InstallationChapter 2123To remove a DIMM2.1.4 DIMM installationBA

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA2-7Chapter 22.1.5 ATX Power connection12OR

2-8Chapter 2: Basic InstallationChapter 22.1.6 SATA device connection2OR1

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA2-9Chapter 22.1.7 Front I/O ConnectorTo install ASUS Q-Connector12USB 2.0To install USB 2.0 connector To install front panel

2-10Chapter 2: Basic InstallationChapter 22.1.8 Expansion Card installationTo install PCIe x16 cards

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA2-11Chapter 22.1.9 mPCIe Combo III installationROG mPCIe Combo III offers expandability solutions with the latest connectivit

2-12Chapter 2: Basic InstallationChapter 25. Secure the front of the metal cover with the two screws that you removed in step 1.4. Replace the metal

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA2-13Chapter 2ThemPCIeComboIIItsinoneorientationonly.2. Locate the MPCIE_COMBO_III connector on the motherboard then

viiiAbout this guideThis user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring the motherboard.How this guide is organizedThis g

2-14Chapter 2: Basic InstallationChapter 21. Remove the bolt from the Wi-Fi antenna connector but leave the washer on the connector.Installing the Wi

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA2-15Chapter 22.2 BIOS update utilityUSB BIOS FlashbackUSB BIOS Flashback allows you to easily update the BIOS without enterin

2-16Chapter 2: Basic InstallationChapter 22.3 Motherboard rear and audio connections2.3.1 Rear I/O connection* and ** : Refer to the tables on the

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA2-17Chapter 2* LAN ports LED indications• DuetoUSB3.0controllerlimitation,USB3.0devicescanonlybeusedunderWindow

2-18Chapter 2: Basic InstallationChapter 2Connect to Headphone and MicConnect to Stereo SpeakersConnect to 2.1 channel Speakers

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA2-19Chapter 2Connect to 4.1 channel SpeakersConnect to 5.1 channel Speakers

2-20Chapter 2: Basic InstallationChapter 2Connect to 7.1 channel Speakers

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA2-21Chapter 22.4 Starting up for the first time1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. 2. Ensur

2-22Chapter 2: Basic InstallationChapter 2

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-1Chapter 3BIOS setup33.1 Knowing BIOSThe new ASUS UEFI BIOS is a Unied Extensible Interface that complies with UEFI archit

ixConventions used in this guideTo ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual.DANG

3-2Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3• The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and may not exactly match what you

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-3Chapter 33.2.1 EZ ModeThe EZ Mode provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to select the d

3-4Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 33.2.2 Advanced ModeThe Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to congure the BIOS settin

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-5Chapter 3Menu barThe menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:My FavoritesFor saving the frequently-used

3-6Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3Quick Note (F9)This button above the menu bar allows you to key in notes of the activities that you have done in BIOS

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-7Chapter 33.3 My FavoritesMy Favorites is your personal space where you can easily save and access your favorite BIOS items

3-8Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 33.4 Extreme Tweaker menuThe Extreme Tweaker menu items allow you to congure overclocking-related items.Be cautious

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-9Chapter 3When the Ai Overclock Tuner is set to [Manual] or [XMP], the following items appear. Filter PLL [Auto]Set this ite

3-10Chapter 3: BIOS setupChapter 3Min. CPU Cache Ratio [Auto]Allows you to set the minimum possible ratio on the Uncore part of the processor. Use the

ASUS MAXIMUS VII FORMULA3-11Chapter 3CPU Level Up [Auto]Allows you to select a CPU level, and the related parameters will be automatically adjusted ac