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......vi About this guide...vii MAXIMUS X HERO specifications summary ix Package contents...xv Installation tools and components xvi Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1.1 Motherboard overview 1-1 1.1.1 Before you proceed 1-1 1.1.2 Motherboard layout 1-2 1.1.3 Central Processing ... 1-16 Chapter 2: Basic Installation 2.1 Building your PC system 2-1 2.1.1 CPU installation 2-1 2.1.2 Cooling system installation 2-3 2.1.3 Motherboard installation 2-5 2.1.4 DIMM installation 2-6 2.1.5 ATX power connection 2-7 2.1.6 SATA device connection 2-7 2.1.7 Front I/O connector 2-8 2.1.8...
......vi About this guide...vii MAXIMUS X HERO specifications summary ix Package contents...xv Installation tools and components xvi Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1.1 Motherboard overview 1-1 1.1.1 Before you proceed 1-1 1.1.2 Motherboard layout 1-2 1.1.3 Central Processing ... 1-16 Chapter 2: Basic Installation 2.1 Building your PC system 2-1 2.1.1 CPU installation 2-1 2.1.2 Cooling system installation 2-3 2.1.3 Motherboard installation 2-5 2.1.4 DIMM installation 2-6 2.1.5 ATX power connection 2-7 2.1.6 SATA device connection 2-7 2.1.7 Front I/O connector 2-8 2.1.8...
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...connected. If you are using, contact your area. vi If you add a device. • Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are not damaged. Safety information Electrical safety • To ...detect any area where it may become wet. • Place the product on it by yourself. Operation safety • Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on a stable surface. • If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you encounter technical problems...
...connected. If you are using, contact your area. vi If you add a device. • Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are not damaged. Safety information Electrical safety • To ...detect any area where it may become wet. • Place the product on it by yourself. Operation safety • Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on a stable surface. • If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you encounter technical problems...
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... describes the RAID configurations. How this guide This user guide contains the information you have been added by your dealer. ASUS website The ASUS website (www.asus.com) provides updated information on the motherboard. • Chapter 2: Basic Installation This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers...
... describes the RAID configurations. How this guide This user guide contains the information you have been added by your dealer. ASUS website The ASUS website (www.asus.com) provides updated information on the motherboard. • Chapter 2: Basic Installation This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers...
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xv Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items. Motherboard Cables Accessories Application DVD Documentation 1 x ROG MAXIMUS X HERO motherboard 1 x RGB LED extension cable 1 x RGB Addressable LED extension cable 2 x 2-in-1 SATA 6Gb/s cables 1 x SLI™ HB Bridge(2-way-M) 1 x Q-Connector 1 x ROG Coaster 1 x 3D printing mount kit 1 x 10-in-1 ROG cable label 1 x CPU Installation Tool 1 x 2-in-1 M.2 Screw set 1 x ROG sticker 1 x Fan holder 1 x ROG motherboard support DVD 1 x User guide If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
xv Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items. Motherboard Cables Accessories Application DVD Documentation 1 x ROG MAXIMUS X HERO motherboard 1 x RGB LED extension cable 1 x RGB Addressable LED extension cable 2 x 2-in-1 SATA 6Gb/s cables 1 x SLI™ HB Bridge(2-way-M) 1 x Q-Connector 1 x ROG Coaster 1 x 3D printing mount kit 1 x 10-in-1 ROG cable label 1 x CPU Installation Tool 1 x 2-in-1 M.2 Screw set 1 x ROG sticker 1 x Fan holder 1 x ROG motherboard support DVD 1 x User guide If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
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Installation tools and components 1 Bag of screws Phillips (cross) screwdriver PC chassis Power supply unit Intel® LGA 1151 CPU Intel® LGA 1151 compatible CPU Fan DDR4 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. xvi
Installation tools and components 1 Bag of screws Phillips (cross) screwdriver PC chassis Power supply unit Intel® LGA 1151 CPU Intel® LGA 1151 compatible CPU Fan DDR4 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. xvi
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ROG MAXIMUS X HERO 1-1 Failure to do so may cause severe damage to avoid touching the ICs on them. • Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded ... or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Chapter 1 Chapter 1: Product Introduction Product Introduction 1 1.1 Motherboard overview 1.1.1 Before you proceed Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. • Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. • Before handling...
ROG MAXIMUS X HERO 1-1 Failure to do so may cause severe damage to avoid touching the ICs on them. • Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded ... or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Chapter 1 Chapter 1: Product Introduction Product Introduction 1 1.1 Motherboard overview 1.1.1 Before you proceed Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. • Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. • Before handling...
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1.1.2 Motherboard layout Chapter 1 Refer to 1.1.9 Internal connectors and 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. 1-2 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
1.1.2 Motherboard layout Chapter 1 Refer to 1.1.9 Internal connectors and 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. 1-2 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
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...LGA1155 and LGA1156 sockets in the LGA1151 socket. • Ensure that all power cables are not bent. ASUS will process Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with memory and PCI Express controllers integrated to support dual-channel (4 DIMM) DDR4 memory and 16 ...of the PnP cap. 1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is on the LGA1151 socket. • The product warranty does not cover damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard components. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA1151 ...
...LGA1155 and LGA1156 sockets in the LGA1151 socket. • Ensure that all power cables are not bent. ASUS will process Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with memory and PCI Express controllers integrated to support dual-channel (4 DIMM) DDR4 memory and 16 ...of the PnP cap. 1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is on the LGA1151 socket. • The product warranty does not cover damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard components. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA1151 ...
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Chapter 1 1.1.4 System memory The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 4 (DDR4) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) slots. Recommended memory configurations ROG MAXIMUS X HERO 1-5 A DDR4 module is notched differently from a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 module. DO NOT install a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 memory module to the DDR4 slot.
Chapter 1 1.1.4 System memory The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 4 (DDR4) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) slots. Recommended memory configurations ROG MAXIMUS X HERO 1-5 A DDR4 module is notched differently from a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 module. DO NOT install a DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 memory module to the DDR4 slot.
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Slot Description 1 PCIe x1_1 slot 2 PCIe x16/x8_1 slot 3 PCIe x1_2 slot 4 PCIe x8_2 slot 5 PCIe x1_3 slot 6 PCIe x4_3 slot ROG MAXIMUS X HERO 1-7 Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. 1.1.5 Expansion slots Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Chapter 1 Slot No.
Slot Description 1 PCIe x1_1 slot 2 PCIe x16/x8_1 slot 3 PCIe x1_2 slot 4 PCIe x8_2 slot 5 PCIe x1_3 slot 6 PCIe x4_3 slot ROG MAXIMUS X HERO 1-7 Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. 1.1.5 Expansion slots Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Chapter 1 Slot No.
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PCIe_x16/x8_1 slot switches to the motherboard chassis fan connectors when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. Chapter 1 VGA Configuration PCIe operating mode PCIe_x16/x8_1 PCIe_x8_2 Single VGA/PCIe card ...
PCIe_x16/x8_1 slot switches to the motherboard chassis fan connectors when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. Chapter 1 VGA Configuration PCIe operating mode PCIe_x16/x8_1 PCIe_x8_2 Single VGA/PCIe card ...
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Power-on button (START) The motherboard comes with a power-on a bare or open-case system. RESET button (RESET) Press the reset button to reboot the system. The button also lights up ... before removing or installing any motherboard component. 2. Chapter 1 1.1.6 Onboard buttons and switches Onboard buttons and switches allow you to fine-tune performance when working on button that you to power up or wake up when the system is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. 1. ROG MAXIMUS X HERO 1-9
Power-on button (START) The motherboard comes with a power-on a bare or open-case system. RESET button (RESET) Press the reset button to reboot the system. The button also lights up ... before removing or installing any motherboard component. 2. Chapter 1 1.1.6 Onboard buttons and switches Onboard buttons and switches allow you to fine-tune performance when working on button that you to power up or wake up when the system is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. 1. ROG MAXIMUS X HERO 1-9
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..., turn off the system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function. • The MemOK! Replace the DIMMs with the motherboard may cause system boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! button to boot after the whole tuning process, the DRAM_LED lights continuously.... button (MemOK!) Installing DIMMs that are not compatible with ones recommended in the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists) at www.asus.com. • If you download and update to memory tuning requirement, the system automatically reboots when each timing set is not properly ...
..., turn off the system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! function. • The MemOK! Replace the DIMMs with the motherboard may cause system boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! button to boot after the whole tuning process, the DRAM_LED lights continuously.... button (MemOK!) Installing DIMMs that are not compatible with ones recommended in the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists) at www.asus.com. • If you download and update to memory tuning requirement, the system automatically reboots when each timing set is not properly ...
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1.1.7 Jumper and holes 1. Chapter 1 2. 3D Mount Secure 3D printed parts to these 3D Mount holes for a personalized motherboard. • Download 3D source files at http://www.asus.com. • Use the bundled 3D Mount screws to remedy the cold-boot bug during POST and help the system boot successfully. ROG MAXIMUS X HERO 1-13 LN2 Mode jumper (3-pin LN2_MODE) With LN2 mode activated, the ROG motherboard is optimized to install the 3D printed parts.
1.1.7 Jumper and holes 1. Chapter 1 2. 3D Mount Secure 3D printed parts to these 3D Mount holes for a personalized motherboard. • Download 3D source files at http://www.asus.com. • Use the bundled 3D Mount screws to remedy the cold-boot bug during POST and help the system boot successfully. ROG MAXIMUS X HERO 1-13 LN2 Mode jumper (3-pin LN2_MODE) With LN2 mode activated, the ROG motherboard is optimized to install the 3D printed parts.
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Q LEDs (CPU, DRAM, VGA, BOOT) Q LEDs check key components (CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and booting devices) in sequence during motherboard booting process. This user-friendly design provides an intuitive way to case. 2. The LED does not light up when there is being written into or ... cause may vary from the hard disk drive. If an error is found, the corresponding LED remains lit until the problem is designed to the motherboard or when the hard disk drive does not function. 1-14 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Q LEDs (CPU, DRAM, VGA, BOOT) Q LEDs check key components (CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and booting devices) in sequence during motherboard booting process. This user-friendly design provides an intuitive way to case. 2. The LED does not light up when there is being written into or ... cause may vary from the hard disk drive. If an error is found, the corresponding LED remains lit until the problem is designed to the motherboard or when the hard disk drive does not function. 1-14 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
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... configuration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® Z370 chipset. • These connectors are set the SATA Mode in the motherboard support DVD. • When using NCQ, set to [AHCI]. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set...
... configuration with the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® Z370 chipset. • These connectors are set the SATA Mode in the motherboard support DVD. • When using NCQ, set to [AHCI]. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set...
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... module cable to any of the front panel audio I /O module that supports up to 480 MBps connection speed. Doing so will damage the motherboard! 5. We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to avail of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB...this connector. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB910; Chapter 1 Never connect a 1394 cable to a slot opening at the back of the motherboard's high-definition audio capability. 1-18 Chapter 1: Product Introduction Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector is for USB 2.0 ports.
... module cable to any of the front panel audio I /O module that supports up to 480 MBps connection speed. Doing so will damage the motherboard! 5. We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to avail of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB...this connector. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB910; Chapter 1 Never connect a 1394 cable to a slot opening at the back of the motherboard's high-definition audio capability. 1-18 Chapter 1: Product Introduction Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector is for USB 2.0 ports.
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... fan cables to the fan connectors on water cooling device. These are not jumpers! Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. ROG MAXIMUS X HERO 1-19 Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors! • Ensure to fully insert the 4-pin CPU fan cable to the...1 • DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the CPU_FAN and/or CPU_OPT header(s). • W_PUMP+ function support depends on the motherboard, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector. 6. CPU, CPU optional, high amp, extension, and chassis...
... fan cables to the fan connectors on water cooling device. These are not jumpers! Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. ROG MAXIMUS X HERO 1-19 Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors! • Ensure to fully insert the 4-pin CPU fan cable to the...1 • DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the CPU_FAN and/or CPU_OPT header(s). • W_PUMP+ function support depends on the motherboard, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector. 6. CPU, CPU optional, high amp, extension, and chassis...
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Chapter 1 9. Thermal sensor connector (2-pin T_SENSOR) This connector is for the thermistor cable that allows you to monitor the temperature of your back I/O cover. 1-22 Chapter 1: Product Introduction LED connector (5-pin LED2_CON1) This connector is for connecting LED strips on your motherboard's critical components and connected devices. 10.
Chapter 1 9. Thermal sensor connector (2-pin T_SENSOR) This connector is for the thermistor cable that allows you to monitor the temperature of your back I/O cover. 1-22 Chapter 1: Product Introduction LED connector (5-pin LED2_CON1) This connector is for connecting LED strips on your motherboard's critical components and connected devices. 10.