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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.
“Ultimate COOL!” Thermal Solution ..........1-2 1.1.3 “TUF ENGINE!” Power Design............ 1-2 1.1.4 “Safe & Stable!” Guardian Angel ..........1-3 1.1.5 ASUS EZ DIY ................1-3 1.1.6 Other special features ..............1-4 Motherboard overview ................1-5 1.2.1 Before you proceed ..............1-5 1.2.2...
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Network Stack ................3-26 Monitor menu ................... 3-27 Boot menu ....................3-30 Tools menu ....................3-36 3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility ............3-36 3.8.2 ASUS SPD Information ............. 3-37 3.8.3 ASUS O.C. Profile ..............3-38 Exit menu ....................3-39 3.10...
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Running the support DVD ............4-1 4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals..........4-2 Software information ................. 4-3 4.3.1 AI Suite II..................4-3 4.3.2 ASUS TUF Thermal Radar ............4-4 4.3.3 Remote GO! ................4-8 4.3.4 TurboV EVO ................4-19 4.3.5 DIGI+ Power Control ..............4-22 4.3.6...
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6.2.1 Requirements ................6-6 6.2.2 Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards ........6-6 6.2.3 Installing the device drivers ............6-7 6.2.4 Enabling the NVIDIA SLI™ technology ........6-8 ® Appendices Notices ........................A-1 ASUS contact information ..................A-4...
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.
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates. ASUS websites The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information. Optional documentation Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer.
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.
4 x DIMM, max. 32GB, DDR3 1866 / 1600 / 1333 / 1066 MHz, ECC, non-ECC, un-buffered memory Dual channel memory architecture * Refer to www.asus.com for Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors List) of AM3+ / AM3 CPU for details. ** Due to OS limitation, when installing a total memory of 4GB capacity...
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ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode USB BIOS Flashback with USB BIOS Flashback Wizard DirectKey AI Suite II ASUS Q-Connector ASUS Q-Shield ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED) ASUS Q-Slot ASUS Q-DIMM ASUS O.C. Profile Ai Charger+ ASUS EZ Flash 2...
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BIOS features 64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI BIOS, PnP, SLP2.1, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.7, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2, F12 PrintScreen function, 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...
User manual Support DVD R2.0 motherboard 4 x Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s cables 1 x ASUS SLI™ bridge connector 1 x TUF Certification card 1 x ASUS Q-Shield 1 x 2-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector kit 1 x TUF Five-year warranty manual •...
Installation tools and components 1 bag of screws Philips (cross) screwdriver PC chassis Power supply unit AMD AM3+ CPU AMD AM3+ compatible CPU Fan DDR3 DIMM SATA hard disk drive SATA optical disc drive (optional) Graphics card (optional) The tools and components in the table above are not included in the motherboard package.
Dual-Channel 1866 MHz Support The motherboard supports the dual-channel DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of 1866 MHz to boost the system’s performance, and to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
Efficient Switching Power (E.S.P.) Design E.S.P., an ASUS exclusive feature, is designed for key components such as CPU, memory, graphics cards, LAN, and USB 3.0 to help improve system efficiency and reduce heat generation.
ASUS EZ DIY ASUS UEFI BIOS (EZ Mode) ASUS UEFI BIOS, a UEFI compliant architecture, offers the first mouse-controlled intuitive graphical BIOS interface that goes beyond the traditional keyboard-only BIOS controls, providing you with more flexibility, convenience, and easy to navigate EFI BIOS than the traditional BIOS versions.
It allows you to automatically connect to a PPPoE network for a more convenient online experience. ASUS EZ-Flash 2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly utility that allows you to update the BIOS without using a bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility. O.C. Profile This motherboard features the ASUS O.C.
Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, or components. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
1.2.2 Motherboard layout Refer to 1.2.9 Internal connectors and 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. Chapter 1: Product introduction...
1.2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with an AM3+ socket designed for AMD FX Series CPU up to 8- ® core, also compatible with AMD socket AM3 for AMD Phenom™ II/Athlon™ II/ Sempron™ ® ® 100 Series Processors. Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU.
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) slots. A DDR3 module is notched differently from a DDR or DDR2 module. DO NOT install a DDR or DDR2 memory module to the DDR3 slot. Recommended memory configurations ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
Memory configurations You may install 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, 8GB, and 16GB ECC, non-ECC and unbuffered DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. • Memory module with memory frequency higher than 2133 MHz and its corresponding timing or the loaded DRAM OC Profile is not the JEDEC memory standard. The stability and compatibility of these memory modules depend on the CPU’s capabilities and other installed devices.
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Hyper DIMM support is subject to the physical characteristics of individual CPUs. Load the X.M.P. or D.O.C.P. settings in the BIOS for the hyper DIMM support. • Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL. Chapter 1: Product introduction 1-22...
PCI Express operating mode PCIe PCIe PCIe PCIe configuration 3.0_x16_1 2.0_x16_2 3.0x16_3 3.0x16_4 Single or Dual (Recommend for VGA/PCIe card single VGA) 3-way SLI • In single VGA card mode, use the PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot (beige) for a PCI Express x16 graphics card to get better performance.
BIOS has been restored to its default settings. • We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from the ASUS website at www.asus.com after using the MemOK! function. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 1-25...
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DirectKey button This feature allows your system to go to the BIOS Setup program with the press of a button. With DirectKey, you can enter the BIOS anytime without having to press the <Del> key during POST. It also allows you to turn on or turn off your system and conveniently enter the BIOS during boot-up.
• Due to the chipset behavior, AC power off is required to enable C.P.R. function. You must turn off and on the power supply or unplug and plug the power cord before rebooting the system. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 1-27...
1.2.8 Onboard LEDs POST State LEDs The POST State LEDs provide the status of these key components during POST (Power-On-Self Test): CPU, memory modules, VGA card, and hard disk drives. If an error is found, the critical component’s LED stays lit up until the problem is solved. Standby Power LED The motherboard comes with a standby power LED.
You must install Windows XP Service Pack 3 or later versions before using Serial ® ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using Windows XP SP3 or later versions. ® ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 1-29...
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ASMedia Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_E1-2 [gray]) ® These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s signal cables. USB 3.0 connector (20-1 pin USB3_56) This connector is for the additional USB 3.0 ports, and complies with the USB 3.0 specificaton that supports up to 480 MBps connection speed.
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This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port. Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. The S/PDIF module is purchased separately. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 1-31...
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Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB, brown) first, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis supports front panel USB ports.
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This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. The COM module is purchased separately. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 1-33...
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CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CPU_OPT, 4-pin CHA_FAN1-4) Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector. DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components.
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• If you want to connect a high-definition or an AC’97 front panel audio module to this connector, set the Front Panel Type item in the BIOS setup to [HD] or [AC97]. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 1-35...
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1000W power or above to ensure the system stability. • If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system, refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus. com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details. Chapter 1: Product introduction...
Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON turns the system OFF. • Reset button (2-pin RESET) This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without turning off the system power. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 1-37...
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TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM) This connector supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which securely store keys, digital certificates, passwords and data. A TPM system also helps enhance network security, protect digital identities, and ensures platform integrity. Direct Connector (2-pin DRCT) This connector is for the chassis-mounted button that supports the DirectKey function.
The diagrams in this section are for reference only. The motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps are the same for all models. Install the ASUS Q-Shield to the chassis rear I/O panel. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
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Place the motherboard into the chassis, ensuring that its rear I/O ports are aligned to the chassis’ rear I/O panel. Chapter 2: Getting started...
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Place nine screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis. DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
2.1.2 CPU installation The AMD AM3+ socket is compatible with AMD AM3+ and AM3 processors. Ensure you use a CPU designed for the AM3+ socket. The CPU fits in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU! Chapter 2: Getting started...
2.1.3 CPU heatsink and fan assembly installation Apply the Thermal Interface Material to the CPU heatsink and CPU before you install the heatsink and fan if necessary. To install the CPU heatsink and fan assembly ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
2.1.7 Front I/O Connector To install ASUS Q-Connector To install USB 2.0 connector To install front panel audio connector AAFP USB 2.0 To install USB 3.0 connector USB 3.0 Chapter 2: Getting started 2-10...
• Updating BIOS may have risks. If the BIOS program is damaged during the process and results to the system’s failure to boot up, please contact your local ASUS Service Center. Chapter 2: Getting started...
USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2 Optical S/PDIF Out port Audio I/O ports** External SATA ports * and **: Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port LEDs, and audio port definitions. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 2-13...
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• DO NOT insert a different connector to the external SATA port. • DO NOT connect a keyboard/mouse to any USB 3.0 port when installing Windows® operating system. • Due to USB 3.0 controller limitation, USB 3.0 devices can only be used under Windows®...
2.3.2 Audio I/O connections Audio I/O ports Connect to Headphone and Mic Connect to Stereo Speakers Connect to 2.1 channel Speakers ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 2-15...
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Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers Connect to 5.1 channel Speakers Chapter 2: Getting started 2-16...
If you do not see anything within 30 seconds from the time you turned on the power, the system may have failed a power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call your retailer for assistance. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 2-17...
BIOS Beep Description One short beep VGA detected Quick boot set to disabled No keyboard detected One continuous beep followed by two No memory detected short beeps then a pause (repeated) One continuous beep followed by three No VGA detected short beeps One continuous beep followed by four Hardware component failure...
BIOS setup Knowing BIOS The new ASUS UEFI BIOS is a Unified Extensible Interface that complies with UEFI architecture, offering a user-friendly interface that goes beyond the traditional keyboard- only BIOS controls to enable a more flexible and convenient mouse input. You can easily navigate the new UEFI BIOS with the same smoothness as your operating system.
BIOS setup program Use the BIOS Setup to update the BIOS or configure its parameters. The BIOS screen include navigation keys and brief onscreen help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup program. Entering BIOS at startup To enter BIOS Setup at startup: •...
• 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. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
3.2.2 Advanced Mode The Advanced Mode provides advanced options for experienced end-users to configure the BIOS settings. The figure below shows an example of the Advanced Mode. Refer to the following sections for the detailed configurations. To access the Advanced Mode, click Exit, then select Advanced Mode or press F7 hotkey. Back button Menu items Menu bar...
You cannot select an item that is not user-configurable. A configurable field is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a field, select it and press <Enter> to display a list of options. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
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. UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode Exit Main...
Installed. To set a user password: Select the User Password item and press <Enter>. From the Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>. Confirm the password when prompted. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
To change a user password: Select the User Password item and press <Enter>. From the Enter Current Password box, key in the current password, then press <Enter>. From the Create New Password box, key in a new password, then press <Enter>. Confirm the password when prompted.
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Configuration options: [Auto] [1400MHz] [1600MHz] [1800MHz] [2000MHz] [2200MHz] [2400MHz] [2600MHz] [2800MHz] [3000MHz] [3200MHz] HT Link Speed [Auto] Allows you to set the HyperTransport link speed. Configuration options: [Auto] [800MHz] [1000MHz] [1200MHz] [1400MHz] [1600MHz] [1800MHz] [2000MHz] [2200MHz] [2400MHz] [2600MHz] ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
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. EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the EPU power saving function.
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Configuration options: [Auto] [2] - [11] DRAM READ to READ Timing [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [2] - [11] DRAM Refresh Rate [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [Every 7.8ms] [Every 3.9ms] DRAM COMMAND Rate [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1T] [2T] ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 3-11...
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DRAM Driving Control Allows you to set the primary, secondary, and tertiary memory timings. DCT0 Information CKE drive strength [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] [2x] CS/ODT drive strength [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] [2x] ADDR/CMD drive strength [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] [2x] MEMCLK drive strength [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [0.75x] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] [2x]...
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Reduce the 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.
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Manual Adjustment [Fast] This item appears only when you set the CPU Power Phase Control item to [Manual Adjustment]. Configuration options: [Ultra Fast] [Fast] [Medium] [Regular] CPU Voltage Frequency [Auto] Frequency switching affects the VRM transient response, and the thermal component. Higher frequency gets quicker transient response.
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O.C. range, or a low DRAM frequency for a better system stability. Configuration options: [300KHZ] [350KHZ] [400KHZ] [450KHZ] [500KHZ] DRAM Power Phase Control [Optimized] [Optimized] Allows you to set the ASUS optimized phase tuning profile. [Extreme] Allows you to set the full phase mode. CPU & NB Voltage [Offset Mode] [Manual Mode] Allows you to set a fixed CPU voltage.
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CPU/NB Offset Mode Sign [+] To offset the voltage by a positive value. [–] To offset the voltage by a negative value. CPU/NB Offset Voltage [Auto] This item appears only when you set the CPU & NB Voltage item to [Offset Mode] and allows you to set the CPU/NB Offset voltage.
Version 2.00.1208. Copyright (C) 2012 American Megatrends, Inc. 3.5.1 CPU Configuration The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically detects. The items in this menu may vary based on the CPU installed. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 3-17...
Memory Clear [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the Memory Clear funtion. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] ECC Mode [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the Error Correcting Code (ECC) Mode. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 3-19...
Power Down Enable [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable DDR power down mode. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable Memory Hole Remapping function. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] DCT Unganged Mode [Enabled] Allows you to select unganged DRAM mode (64-bit width).
POST. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] SATA ESP on PORT1-6 [Disabled] Allows you to set SATA port on PORT1-6 to external SATA port. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 3-21...
3.5.5 USB Configuration The items in this menu allow you to change the USB-related features. UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode Exit Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Monitor Boot Tool Back Advanced\ USB Configuration > USB Configuration Enables Legacy USB support. AUTO option disables legacy support if no USB Devices: USB devices are connected.
The system goes into on state after an AC power loss. [Power Off] The system goes into off state after an AC power loss. [Last State] The system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was before the AC power loss. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 3-25...
Power On By PME Device [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables the PME device to generate a wake-on-LAN feature of the Realtek LAN device. [Enabled] Enables the PME device to generate a wake-on-LAN feature of the Realtek LAN device. Power On By Ring [Disabled] [Disabled] Disables Wake-On-Ring from generating a wake event.
N/A. Select [Ignore] if you do not wish to display the detected speed. CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled] [Disabled] Disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature. [Enabled] Enables the CPU Q-Fan control feature. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 3-27...
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CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM] This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to disable or set the CPU fan warning speed. Configuration options: [Ignore] [200 RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM] CPU Fan Profile [Standard] This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Control feature and allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU fan.
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Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the minimum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range from 0% to 100%. When the chassis temperature is under 40ºC, the chassis fan will operate at the minimum duty cycle. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 3-29...
Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode Exit Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Monitor Boot Tool Select [Enable] to accelerate the boot speed. Select [Disable] to go back to Boot Configuration normal boot.
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Enables the full screen logo display feature. [Disabled] Disables the full screen logo display feature. Set this item to [Enabled] to use ASUS MyLogo 2™ feature. POST Delay Time [3 sec] This item appears only when you set Full Screen Logo to [Enabled]. This item allows you to select the desired additional POST waiting time to easily enter the BIOS setup.
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CSM (Compatibility Support Module) Allows you to configure the CSM (Compatibility Support Module) items to fully support the various VGA, bootable devices and add-on devices for better compatibility. Launch CSM [Auto] [Auto] The system automatically detects the bootable devices and the add- on devices.
Key-exchange Key (KEK) refers to Microsoft Secure Boot Key database (KEK). ® Clear Secure Boot keys This item appears only when you load the default Secure Boot keys. This item allows you to clear all default Secure Boot keys. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 3-33...
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PK Management The Platform Key (PK) locks and secures the firmware from any permissible changes. The system verifies the PK before your system enters the OS. Load PK from File Allows you to load the downloaded PK from a USB storage device. Copy PK to File Allows you to store the PK to a USB storage device.
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Delete the dbx Allows you to delete the dbx file from your system. Configuration options: [Yes] [No] The dbx file must be formatted as a UEFI variable structure with time-based authenticated variable. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 3-35...
3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Utility Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to confirm your choice.
Allows you to view the DRAM SPD information. UEFI BIOS Utility - Advanced Mode Tool Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Monitor Boot Back Tool\ ASUS SPD Information > DIMM Slot # Slot 2 DIMM Slot number Manufacturer Kingston Module Size 2048 MBytes Maximum Bandwidth 1333 Mhz Part Number 9905403-048.A00LF...
Ai Tweaker Main Advanced Monitor Boot Tool Back Tool\ ASUS O.C. Profile > O.C. Profile Configuration Save BIOS settings to Profile Setup Profile 1 Status : Not Installed Setup Profile 2 Status : Not Installed Setup Profile 3 Status :...
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 filesystem devices. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 3-39...
BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update or BIOS Updater utilities. 3.10.1 ASUS Update The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows environment. ®...
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Launching ASUS Update To launch ASUS Update, click Update > ASUS Update on the AI Suite II main menu bar. Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility. Updating the BIOS through the Internet To update the BIOS through the Internet:...
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The screenshots in this section are for reference only. The actual BIOS information vary by models. • Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration. Chapter 3: BIOS setup...
3.10.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 allows you to update the BIOS without having to use a bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility. Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS from the ASUS website at www.asus.com.
3.10.3 ASUS BIOS Updater The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update the BIOS in DOS environment. This utility also allows you to copy the current BIOS file that you can use as a backup when the BIOS fails or gets corrupted during the updating process.
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Insert the USB flash drive with the latest BIOS file and BIOS Updater to the USB port. Boot your computer. When the ASUS Logo appears, press <F8> to show the BIOS Boot Device Select Menu. Insert the support DVD into the optical drive and select the optical drive as the boot device.
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The BIOS Updater screen appears as below. ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.30 [2012/12/22] FLASH TYPE: MX1C 25L1065A Current ROM Update ROM BOARD: SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 BOARD: UNKNOWN VER: VER: 0204 UNKNOWN DATE: DATE: 09/15/2012 UNKNOWN PATH: ST990R20.CAP 2097152 2012-05-30 17:30:48 Note [Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch...
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Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit BIOS menu. See Chaper 3 of your motherboard user manual for details. • Ensure to connect all SATA hard disk drives after updating the BIOS file if you have disconnected them. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 3-47...
Support DVD information The contents of the support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for updates. 4.2.1 Running the support DVD Place the support DVD into the optical drive.
The software manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening the files. Click Manual tab. Click ASUS Motherboard Utility Guide from the manual list on the left.
4.3.1 AI Suite II AI Suite II is an all-in-one interface that integrates several ASUS utilities and allows users to launch and operate these utilities simultaneously. Installing AI Suite II To install AI Suite II on your computer: Place the support DVD to the optical drive.
4.3.2 ASUS TUF Thermal Radar TUF Thermal Radar monitors the critical components in real-time and automatically adjusts fan speeds for system stability. Its interface provides you with sensors for various components, allowing you to monitor the components individually. It automatically adjusts fan speeds based on your selected or customized fan profile for each component, keeping the system stable and cool.
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Read the introduction and notice of the selected fan. Click Setting. Select a fan profile in the Profile Name dropdown list and click Apply. Click the CPU or CHA icon to configure the system fans. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
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Configuring user-customizable fan settings You can customize the fan speed to meet different computing and environment needs. To customize the fan speed: Select User in the Profile Name dropdown list. Drag the control points on the fan speed curve to set the fan speed percentage. Click Apply.
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Click Apply to save and apply the changes or click Undo to cancel the fan settings made. Click to select the CHA_FAN4 setting Adjust the slider to set RPM percentage of the User fan setting Click to save and apply the changes made Click to undo the changes made ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
4.3.3 Remote GO! Connect your computer to a wireless network and use Remote GO! to wirelessly stream media files to DLNA devices. It allows you to remotely control and access your computer using your mobile device, and easily transfer files between your computer and mobile device. •...
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Wi-Fi GO! Remote supports iOS 4.0/Android 2.3 mobile devices or later versions. • For iOS devices, download the Wi-Fi GO! Remote from iTunes store. For Android devices, download the Wi-Fi GO! Remote from Google Play Store or from ASUS support DVD. Launching Wi-Fi GO! Remote Turn on your mobile device’s wireless connection.
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Wi-Fi GO! Remote menu The Wi-Fi GO! Remote’s user interface shown above is for reference only and may vary with the mobile device’s operating system. Below are the supported screen resolution of your mobile devices: Screen type Low Density Medium Density High Density Extra high (120, ldpi)
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® • Keep the Windows Media Player open. Ensure that your media file formats supported on Windows Media Player and DLNA playback devices. Click any of the tabs to select your preferred media file type. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 4-11...
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To play music: Click Music tab. Tick Library to view or play files. Tick Playlist and select an existing playlist from the dropdown list. Click a music file, and click To edit the library: Tick Library. Click to add or delete music files.
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Tick to select or deselect the video file and click Save Profile. Select the profile name and click Save. To add as a new playlist, key in your profile name and click Save. To delete playlist, select the profile and click ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 4-13...
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To view images: Click Photo tab. Tick Library to view the image files from your local computer. Tick Playlist to view the image files saved in your profile. An image slideshow plays when pressing To edit the image library: Tick Library. Click to add or delete image files.
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Remote Desktop Remote Desktop allows you to view your computer’s desktop and remotely operate your computer in real-time from your mobile device. Using the Remote Desktop From the main screen, click Remote Desktop. Click Setting. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 4-15...
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Select a suitable codec Auto, Speed optimization, or Image optimization for your mobile device. Click Apply. Click to select Application help a video codec Click to go back to previous screen Using the Remote Desktop via Wi-Fi GO! Remote When the Remote Desktop is enabled, the mobile device shows the contents of your desktop.
After the transfer is complete, click OK. Using File Transfer via Wi-Fi GO! Remote On your mobile device, tap File Transfer. Tap Enable to receive files from PC. Tap Enter to send files to PC. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 4-17...
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Tap to select the file’s source location Tap to select files for transfer Tap to send Tap to select Tap to clear all selected files all files files The Wi-Fi GO! Remote’s user interface shown above is for reference only and may vary with the mobile device’s operating system.
To launch TurboV EVO, click Tool > TurboV EVO on the AI Suite II main menu bar.. Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www.asus. com for detailed software configuration. TurboV TurboV allows you to overclock the BCLK frequency, CPU voltage, IMC voltage, and DRAM Bus voltage in Windows®...
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Using the Advanced Mode Click the Advanced Mode tab to adjust the advanced voltage settings. Voltage Adjustment Advanced mode bars Target values Undoes all the changes Current values Click to restore all Applies all the changes startup settings immediately Chapter 4: Software support 4-20...
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Set the CPU Ratio Setting item in BIOS to [Auto] before using the CPU Ratio function • in TurboV. Refer to the BIOS chapter of your motherboard user manual for details. • The CPU Ratio bars show the status of the CPU cores, which vary with your CPU model. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 4-21...
4.3.5 DIGI+ Power Control ASUS DIGI+ Power Control allows you to adjust VRM voltage and frequency modulation to enhance reliability and stability. It also provides the highest power efficiency, generating less heat to prolong the component lifespan and minimize power loss.
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The actual performance boost may vary depending on your CPU specification. • DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored. Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
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DRAM Power Application help Applies all the changes Undoes all the changes DRAM Current Capability A higher value brings a wider total power range and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously. DRAM Voltage Frequency Allows you to adjust the DRAM switching frequency for system stability or to increase the overclocking range.
To launch Sensor Recorder, click Tool > Sensor Recorder on the AI Suite II main menu bar. Using Sensor Recorder Click Voltage/ Temperature/ Fan Speed tabs for the status you want to monitor. Colored lines will automatically appear on the diagram to indicate the immediate changes in the system status. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 4-25...
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Using History Record Click History Record tab and adjust the settings on the left for Record Interval and Record Duration according to need. Click Start Recording to start measuring and recording each sensor. To stop recording, click Recording again. To track the recorded contents, set Type/ Date/ Select display items to display the history details.
** Actual charging speeds may vary depending on the charging rate and specifications of your USB device. • To ensure normal charging function, disconnect and reconnect your USB device every time you enable or disable Ai Charger+. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 4-27...
Turbo mode or UASP mode (if UASP is supported by the USB 3.0 device). You can manually switch the USB 3.0 mode back to Normal mode at any time. • Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for detailed software configuration. •...
Before you start downloading, ensure that you have installed the USB storage device to your computer’s USB port. Click Check for New BIOS Update to check for the latest BIOS version. Wait for the system to check the latest BIOS firmware. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 4-29...
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From the Save to dropdown list, select the USB storage device that you want to save the BIOS file to, then click Download. When the download process is completed, click OK to exit. Chapter 4: Software support 4-30...
4.3.10 Network iControl ASUS Network iControl is an intuitive one-stop network control center that makes it easier for you to manage your network bandwidth and allows you to set, monitor, and schedule the bandwidth priorities for your network programs. It also allows you to automatically connect to a PPPoE for a more convenient online experience.
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Select ON to activate Network iControl Displays the current network programs bandwidth Click to apply the settings made Click to select a profile Click to set the current network program as the highest priority Using Quick Connection Configuring the PPPoE connection settings Before enabling the Network iControl’s Quick Connection functions, you must configure the PPPoE connection settings To configure the PPPoE settings:...
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Click the Options tab, and deselect Prompt for name and password, certificate, etc. Click OK to complete the auto PPPoE connection settings. • You only need to configure the PPPoE connection settings once. • Obtain the necessary information about your PPPoE connection from your network provider. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 4-33...
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Configuring the Quick Connection To configure the auto-PPPoE connection: Click the Quick Connection tab. Tick Automatically connect online anytime option, then select the connection name in the Connection Name dropdown box. Click Apply to enable the PPPoE automatic network connection. You can also enable the No Delay TCP function to help improve the network performance.
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Click to set program as High/Normal/ Information Low priority pane of currently running programs Pre-schedule your network priorities to avoid network congestions Select a program, and click to edit your network profile ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 4-35...
4.3.11 ASUS Update ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows® environment. Launching ASUS Update To launch ASUS Update, click Update> ASUS Update on the AI Suite II main menu bar.
Change the boot logo of a downloaded BIOS file and update (or do not update) this BIOS to the motherboard From the BIOS file field, click Browse to locate the BIOS file. From the Picture File field, click Browse the image for your boot logo, then click Next. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 4-37...
Do any of the following: Click Auto Tune to adjust the image size or the image resolution. • Click Booting Preview to preview the boot image. • Click Next. Click Flash to update the boot logo. When prompted, click Yes to reboot the system. You will see the new boot logo the next time you start up the system.
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Control settings window Information button • Refer to the software manual in the support DVD or visit the ASUS website at www. asus.com for detailed software configuration. • To play Blu-Ray disc, make sure to use an HDCP compliant monitor.
With the RAID 10 configuration you get all the benefits of both RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations. Use four new hard disk drives or use an existing drive and three new drives for this setup. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
5.1.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks The motherboard supports Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array. To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration: Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays.
The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only and may not exactly match the items on your screen. To create a RAID volume using more than four hard disk drives, ensure that the SATA connectors 5/6 are set to [RAID] mode. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
Creating a RAID volume To create a RAID volume: In the Main Menu, press <2> to enter the LD View / LD Define Menu function. Press <Ctrl> + <C>, and the following screen appears. Option ROM Utility (c) 2009 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. [ LD Define Menu ] LD No LD Name...
[PaUp/PaDn] Switch page [Del/Alt+D] Delete LD The utility prompts the following messages: Press Ctrl-Y to delte the data in the disk! or press any other key to abort... Press <Ctrl> + <Y> to delete the RAID volume. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
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Displaying a RAID set information To display a RAID set information: In the Main Menu, press <2> to enter the LD View / LD Define Menu function. Select a RAID item and press <Enter> to display its information. Option ROM Utility (c) 2009 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. [ View LD Defination Menu ] LD No LD Name...
Go to the Make Disk menu, and then click Intel AHCI/RAID Driver Disk to create a RAID driver disk. Select USB floppy disk drive as the destination disk. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the process. Write-protect the floppy disk to avoid a computer virus infection. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
5.2.3 Installing the RAID driver during Windows ® installation To install the RAID driver in Windows ® During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the <F6> key to install third-party SCSI or RAID driver. Press <F6>, and then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the USB floppy disk drive.
Product ID (PID) are displayed. Browse the contents of the RAID driver disk to locate the file txtsetup.oem. Double-click the file. A window appears, allowing you to select the program for opening the oem file. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
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Use Notepad to open the file. Find the [HardwareIds.scsi.iaAHCI_DesktopWorkstationServer] and [HardwareIds.scsi.iaStor_DesktopWorkstationServer] sections in the txtsetup.oem file. Type the following line to the bottom of the two sections: id = “USB\VID_xxxx&PID_xxxx”, “usbstor” [HardwareIds.scsi.iaAHCI_ DesktopWorkstationServer] id= “PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_1C02&CC_0106”,”iaStor” id= “USB\VID_03EE&PID_6901”, “usbstor” [HardwareIds.scsi.iaStor_ DesktopWorkstationServer] id= “PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2822&CC_0104”,”iaStor”...
For Windows XP, go to Control Panel > Add/Remove Programs. For Windows 7, go to Control Panel > Programs and Features. Select your current graphics card driver/s. For Windows XP, select Add/Remove. For Windows 7, select Uninstall. Turn off your computer. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
6.1.3 Installing two CrossFireX™ graphics cards The following pictures are for reference only. The graphics cards and the motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same. Prepare two CrossFireX-ready graphics cards. Insert the two graphics card into the PCIEX16 slots.
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Connect two independent auxiliary power sources from the power supply to the two graphics cards separately. Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the graphics card. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
6.1.4 Installing the device drivers Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device drivers. Ensure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the AMD® CrossFireX™ technology. Download the latest driver from the AMD website (www.amd.com). 6.1.5 Enabling the AMD CrossFireX™...
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Enabling Dual CrossFireX technology In the Catalyst Control Center window, click Performance > AMD CrossFireX Select Enable CrossFireX Select a GPU combination from the drop-down list. Click Apply to save and activate the GPU settings made. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
NVIDIA SLI™ technology ® The motherboard supports the NVIDIA SLI™ (Scalable Link Interface) technology that ® allows you to install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the installation procedures in this section. 6.2.1 Requirements • In SLI mode, you should have two identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA ®...
Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device drivers. Ensure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA SLI™ technology. ® Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com). ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
6.2.4 Enabling the NVIDIA SLI™ technology ® After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the SLI feature in NVIDIA® Control Panel under the Windows® 7 operating system. Launching the NVIDIA Control Panel You can launch the NVIDIA Control Panel by the following two methods. desktop and select NVIDIA Control Right click on the empty space of the Windows ®...
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Enabling SLI settings From the NVIDIA Control Panel window, select Configure SLI, Surround, PhysX. In the Quad-SLI enabled, click Maximize 3D Performance SLI to set the display for viewing SLI rendered content. When done, click Apply. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment. ASUS SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0...
IC: Canadian Compliance Statement Complies with the Canadian ICES-003 Class B specifications. This device complies with RSS 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.
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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.
+1-812-282-3777 +1-510-608-4555 Web site usa.asus.com Technical Support Telephone +1-812-282-2787 Support fax +1-812-284-0883 Online support support.asus.com ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria) Address Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany +49-2102-959911 Web site www.asus.de Online contact www.asus.de/sales Technical Support Telephone +49-1805-010923* Support Fax...
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