1-2
Chapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1
Dual-Channel DDR3 3400 (O.C) / 1600 / 1333 MHz Support
The motherboard supports the dual-channel DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates
of DDR3 3400 (O.C.)* / 1600 / 1333 MHz to boost the system’s performance, and to meet the
higher bandwidth requirements of 3D graphics, multimedia and Internet applications.
M.2 Support
This motherboard features the M.2 slot, which shares bandwidth with PCI Express x2 slot
to speed up data transfer up to 10 Gb/s. This helps enhance the performance of your SSD
(Solid State Drive) that is dedicated only to the operating system. The M.2 slot also includes
Intel Rapid Storage Technology support for faster access to data and applications, and
quicker wake up time for your system.
Complete USB 3.0 integration
This motherboard offers you the strategic USB 3.0 accessibility for both the front and rear
panels, allowing you to experience the convenience of the latest plug and play connectivity
solution at speed up to ten times faster than USB 2.0.
Extra SATA 6 Gb/s support
The Intel Z97 Express chpset natively supports the next-generation Serial ATA (SATA)
interface, delivering up to 6 Gb/s of data transfer. This motherboard features an extra 6 Gb/s
ports for an enchanced scalability, faster data retrieval, and double bandwidth of current bus
systems.
1.1.2 ASUS-exclusive workstation features
PCI Express 3.0 for 4-Way CrossFireX™ and SLI™ Support
The motherboard provides PCI Express x16 slots for 4-Way AMD CrossFireX™ and NVIDIA SLI™
graphics cards, giving you with ample graphics power to easily run even the most demanding
computer games for enhanced entertainment.
Q-Code Logger
Q-Code Logger is your one-touch troubleshooter that lets you easily check Q-Code event logs
without opening the computer’s case. If a workstation is behaving abnormally, plug a ash drive
into the adjacent USB port, press the motherboard’s dedicated Flash Log button and all ASUS
Q-Code event logs for the current live session will be copied to the drive.
ProCool Connector
ProCool eliminates the hollow areas associated with traditional power connectors, ensuring an
exceptionally close and secure connection with this motherboard. This design is much stronger,
and provides better heat dissipation, allowing cooler operating temperatures.
ASUS Dr. Power
ASUS Dr. Power detects any relevant power issues to prevent sudden system shutdown and
hassle-free notications when power delivery is not sufcient.
Built-in dual Intel
®
Ethernet
For more reliable networking, this motherboard features the latest server class built-in dual
Intel
®
Ethernet. This leads to lower CPU utilization and temperatures, achieving outstanding
performance, and providing better support for diverse operating systems.