2.1

BIOS information

2

Managing and updating your BIOS

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

Update utility.

2.1.1 EZ Update

EZ Update is a utility that allows you to automatically update your motherboard’s softwares, drivers and the BIOS version easily. With this utlity, you can also manually update the saved

BIOS and select a boot logo when the system goes into POST.

To launch EZ Update, click

EZ Update on the AI Suite 3 main menu bar.

Click to automatically update your motherboard’s driver, software and firmware

Click to find and select the BIOS from file

Click to select a boot logo

Click to update the

BIOS

EZ Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an ISP (Internet

Service Provider).

ASUS Q170M2 2-1

2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 3

The ASUS EZ Flash 3 feature allows you to update the BIOS without using an OS‑based utility.

• Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability.

Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section

2.10 Exit

Menu for details.

• Check your local Internet connection before updating through the Internet.

2-2

To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 3:

1. Enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tool menu to select

ASUS EZ Flash 3 and press <Enter> to enable it.

2. Follow the steps below to update the BIOS via USB or Internet.

Via Storage Device(s)

a) Insert the USB flash disk that contains the latest BIOS file to the USB port, then select via Storage Device(s). b) Press <Tab> to switch to the Drive field.

c) Press the Up/Down arrow keys to find the USB flash disk that contains the latest

BIOS, and then press <Enter>. d) Press <Tab> to switch to the Folder Info field.

e) Press the Up/Down arrow keys to find the BIOS file, and then press <Enter> to perform the BIOS update process.

Via the Internet

a) Select via Internet. b) Press the Left/Right arrow keys to select an Internet connection method, and then press <Enter>. c) Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the update.

3. Reboot the system when the update process is done.

Chapter 2: Getting started

• ASUS EZ Flash 3 supports USB devices, such as a USB flash disk, with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only.

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

2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility

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

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

Q170M2.CAP.

• The BIOS file in the support DVD may not be the latest version. Download the latest

BIOS file from the ASUS website at www.asus.com.

Recovering the BIOS

To recover the BIOS:

1. Turn on the system.

2. Insert the support DVD to the optical drive or the USB flash drive that contains the

BIOS file to the USB port.

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

4. The system requires you to enter BIOS Setup to recover BIOS settings. To ensure system compatibility and stability, we recommend that you press <F5> to load default

BIOS values.

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

2.1.4 ASUS BIOS Updater

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

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

Before updating BIOS

• Prepare the motherboard support DVD and a USB flash drive.

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

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

ASUS Q170M2 2‑3

•

•

Turn off the computer.

Ensure that your computer has a DVD optical drive.

Booting the system in DOS environment

To boot the system in DOS:

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

2. Boot your computer then press <F8> to launch the select boot device screen.

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

2-4

4. When the booting message appears, press <Enter> within five (5) seconds to enter

FreeDOS prompt.

ISOLINUX 3.20 2006-08-26 Copyright (C) 1994-2005 H. Peter Anvin

A Bootable DVD/CD is detected. Press ENTER to boot from the DVD/CD.

If no key is pressed within 5 seconds, the system will boot next priority device automatically. boot:

5. On the FreeDOS prompt, type d: then press <Enter> to switch the disk from Drive C

(optical drive) to Drive D (USB flash drive).

Welcome to FreeDOS (http://www.freedos.org)!

C:/> d:

D:/>

Updating the BIOS file

To update the BIOS file:

1. On the FreeDOS prompt, type

bupdater /pc /g and press <Enter>.

D:/> bupdater /pc /g

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

Chapter 2: Getting started

Drives panel

BOARD:

VER:

DATE:

ASUSTeK BIOS Updater for DOS V1.30 [2014/01/01]

Current ROM

Q170M2

0210 (H :00 B :00)

12/18/2015

PATH: C:\

Update ROM

BOARD: Unknown

VER: Unknown

DATE: Unknown

C:

D:

FORMAN~1 <DIR>

Q170M2.CAP 16779264 2015-12-18 21:14:34

Note

[Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info

[Up/Down/Home/End] Move [Esc] Exit

Files panel

3. Press <Tab> to switch from Drives panel to Files panel then press <Up/Down or Home/

End> keys to select the BIOS file and press <Enter>.

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

Are you sure you want to update the BIOS?

Yes No

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

5. Select Yes then press <Enter>. When BIOS update is done, press <ESC> to exit BIOS

Updater.

6. Restart your computer.

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

Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Optimized Defaults item under the Exit BIOS menu. See section 2.10 Exit

Menu for details.

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2‑6

2.2 BIOS setup program

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

Entering BIOS Setup at startup

To enter BIOS Setup at startup:

Press <Delete> or <F2> during the Power‑On Self Test (POST). If you do not press <Delete> or <F2>, POST continues with its routines.

Entering BIOS Setup after POST

To enter BIOS Setup after POST:

Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> simultaneously.

Press the reset button on the system chassis.

Press the power button to turn the system off then back on. Do this option only if you failed to enter BIOS Setup using the first two options.

Using the power button, reset button, or the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> keys to force reset from a running operating system can cause damage to your data or system. We recommend you always shut down the system properly from the operating system.

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

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

• Ensure that a USB mouse is connected to your motherboard if you want to use the mouse to control the BIOS setup program.

• If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS setting, load the default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the

Load Optimized

Defaults item under the Exit menu or press hotkey F5. See section 2.10 Exit Menu for details.

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

BIOS menu screen

The BIOS setup program can be used under two modes: EZ Mode and Advanced Mode.

Press <F7> to change between the two modes.

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.2.1 EZ Mode

By default, the EZ Mode screen appears when you enter the BIOS setup program. The EZ

Mode provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to select the display language, system performance mode, fan profile and boot device priority. To access the Advanced Mode, click Advanced Mode(F7) or press <F7>.

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

Setup Mode item in section 2.8 Boot menu for details.

Displays the CPU/motherboard temperature, CPU voltage output,

CPU/chassis fan speed, and SATA information

Selects the display language of the BIOS setup program

Displays the system properties of the selected mode. Click < or > to switch EZ System Tuning modes

Creates storage RAID and configures system overclocking

Enables or disables the Intel

Rapid Storage Technology

Displays the CPU Fan’s speed. Click the button to manually tune the fans

Loads optimized default settings

Saves the changes and resets the system

Shows the bootable devices

Displays the

Advanced mode menus

Searches FAQ

Selects the boot device priority

The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system.

ASUS Q170M2 2‑7

2.2.2 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 EZ Mode, click EzMode(F7) or press <F7>.

Menu bar

Language

MyFavorite

Q-Fan control

EZ Tuning

Wizard

Quick

Note

Hot Keys

2‑8

Sub-menu item

Menu items

General help

Pop-up window

Scroll bar

Last modified settings

Searches

FAQ

Configuration fields

Goes back to EZ Mode

Displays the CPU/motherboard temperature,

CPU and memory voltage output

Menu bar

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

My Favorites

Main

Ai Tweaker

Advanced

Monitor

Boot

Tool

Exit

For saving the frequently‑used system settings and configuration

For changing the basic system configuration

For changing the overclocking settings

For changing the advanced system settings

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

For changing the system boot configuration

For configuring options for special functions

For selecting the exit options and loading default settings

Chapter 2: Getting started

Menu items

The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific items for that menu. For example, selecting

Main shows the Main menu items.

The other items (My Favorites, Ai Tweaker, Advanced, Monitor, Boot, Tool, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items.

Submenu items

A greater than sign (>) before each item on any menu screen means that the item has a submenu. To display the submenu, select the item and press <Enter>.

Language

This button above the menu bar contains the languages that you can select for your BIOS.

Click this button to select the language that you want to display in your BIOS screen.

MyFavorites (F3)

This button above the menu bar shows all BIOS items in a Tree Map setup. Select frequently‑ used BIOS settings and save it to MyFavorites menu.

Refer to section 2.3 My Favorites for more information.

Q-Fan Control (F6)

This button above the menu bar displays the current settings of your fans. Use this button to manually tweak the fans to your desired settings.

Refer to section 2.2.3 QFan Control for more information.

EZ Tuning Wizard (F11)

This button above the menu bar allows you to view and tweak the overclocking settings of your system. It also allows you to change the motherboard’s SATA mode from AHCI to RAID mode.

Refer to section 2.2.4 EZ Tuning Wizard for more information.

Quick Note (F9)

This button above the menu bar allows you to key in notes of the activities that you have done in BIOS.

• The Quick Note function does not support the following keyboard functions: delete, cut, copy and paste.

• You can only use the alphanumeric characters to enter your notes.

Hot keys

This button above the menu bar contains the navigation keys for the BIOS setup program.

Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings.

Scroll bar

A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not fit on the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> / <Page Down> keys to display the other items on the screen.

ASUS Q170M2 2-9

General help

At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item. Use

<F12> key to capture the BIOS screen and save it to the removable storage device.

Configuration fields

These fields show the values for the menu items. If an item is user‑configurable, you can change the value of the field opposite the item. 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.

Last Modified button

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

2.2.3 QFan Control

The QFan Control allows you to set a fan profile or manually configure the operating speed of your CPU and chassis fans.

Click to select a fan to be configured

Click to activate

PWM Mode

Click to activate DC

Mode

2-10

Select a profile to apply to your fans

Click to undo the changes

Click to apply the fan setting

Click to go back to main menu

Chapter 2: Getting started

Configuring fans manually

Select

Manual from the list of profiles to manually configure your fans’ operating speed.

Speed points

Click to manually configure your fans

To configure your fans:

1. Select the fan that you want to configure and to view its current status.

2. Click and drag the speed points to adjust the fans’ operating speed.

3. Click

Apply to save the changes then click Exit (ESC).

ASUS Q170M2 2-11

2.2.4 EZ Tuning Wizard

EZ Tuning Wizard allows you to view your CPU and DRAM, computer usage, and CPU fan settings. You can also easily set RAID in your system using this feature.

2-12

Tuning your system settings

To tune your settings:

1. Press <F11> on your keyboard or click

EZ Tuning Wizard screen, then click Next.

from the BIOS screen to open

2. Select a PC scenario Daily Computing or Gaming/Media Editing, then click Next.

3. Select the CPU fan type ( Box cooler, Tower cooler, or Water cooler) that you installed then click Next.

If you are not sure of the CPU fan type, click

I’m not sure. The system automatically detects the CPU fan type.

4. Click Next then click Yes to confirm auto‑tuning.

Chapter 2: Getting started

Creating RAID

To create RAID:

1. Press <F11> on your keyboard or click

EZ Tuning Wizard screen.

2. Click

RAID

then click Next.

from the BIOS screen to open

• Ensure that your HDDs have no existing RAID volumes.

• Ensure to connect your HDDs to Intel

®

SATA connectors.

3. The available HDDs display. Click Next to continue.

4. Select the type of storage for your RAID Easy Backup or Super Speed, then click

Next.

ASUS Q170M2 2‑13

2-14 a. For Easy Backup, select from

Easy Backup (RAID1) or Easy Backup (RAID10) then click Next.

You can only select Easy Backup (RAID 10) if you connect four (4) HDDs.

b. For Easy Backup, select from

Super Speed (RAID0) or Super Speed (RAID5) then click Next.

5. After selecting the type of RAID, click

Yes to continue the RAID setup.

6. After the RAID setup is done, click Yes to exit the setup then click OK to reset your system.

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.3 My Favorites

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

BIOS items.

ASUS Q170M2 2‑15

2‑16

Adding items to My Favorites

To add BIOS items:

1. Press <F3> on your keyboard or click

Setup Tree Map screen.

from the BIOS screen to open

2. On the Setup Tree Map screen, select the BIOS items that you want to save in

MyFavorites screen.

Main menu panel

Submenu panel

Selected shortcut items

3. Select an item from main menu panel, then click the submenu that you want to save as favorite from the submenu panel and click .

You cannot add the following items to My Favorite items:

• User‑managed items such as language and boot order

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

4. Click Exit (ESC) or press <esc> key to close Setup Tree Map screen.

5. Go to My Favorites menu to view the saved BIOS items.

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.4 Main menu

The Main menu screen appears when you enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS Setup program. The Main menu provides you an overview of the basic system information, and allows you to set the system date, time, language, and security settings.

2.4.1 Language [English]

Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options. Configuration options:

[English] [Español] [ Русский] [Korean]

2.4.2 Security

The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings.

• If you have forgotten your BIOS password, erase the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC)

RAM to clear the BIOS password. See section 1.6 Headers and Jumpers for information on how to erase the RTC RAM.

• The Administrator or User Password items on top of the screen show the default

Not Installed. After you set a password, these items show Installed.

ASUS Q170M2 2‑17

2‑18

Administrator Password

If you have set an administrator password, we recommend that you enter the administrator password for accessing the system.

To set an administrator password:

1. Select the

Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the

Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.

3. From the

Confirm New Password box, key in your password again to confirm the password, then click OK.

To change an administrator password:

1. Select the Administrator Password item and press <Enter>.

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

<Enter>.

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

4. From the Confirm New Password box, key in your password again to confirm the password, then click

OK.

To clear the administrator password, follow the same steps as in changing an administrator password, but click OK when prompted to create/confirm the password. After you clear the password, the Administrator Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.

User Password

If you have set a user password, you must enter the user password for accessing the system.

The

User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed.

To set a user password:

1. Select the

User Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the

Create New Password box, key in a password, then press <Enter>.

3. From the

Confirm New Password box, key in your password again to confirm the password, then click OK.

To change a user password:

1. Select the

User Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the

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

<Enter>.

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

4. From the Confirm New Password box, key in your password again to confirm the password, then click OK.

To clear the user password, follow the same steps as in changing a user password, but click

OK when prompted to create/confirm the password. After you clear the password, the User

Password item on top of the screen shows Not Installed.

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.5 Ai Tweaker menu

The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclocking‑related items.

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

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

Scroll down to display other BIOS items.

CPU Core Ratio [Auto]

This item allows you to set the CPU core ratio limit per core or synchronize automatically to all cores. Configuration options: [Auto] [Sync All Cores] [Per Core]

When the CPU Core Ratio is set to [

Sync All Cores] or [Per Core], the following items appear:

1-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually assign a 1‑Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 2‑Core Ratio Limit.

ASUS Q170M2 2-19

2-20

2-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

Select

[Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually assign a 2‑Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 3‑Core Ratio Limit.

If you assign a value for 2‑Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1‑Core Ratio Limit to [Auto].

3-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually assign a 3‑Core Limit value that must be higher than or equal to the 4‑Core Ratio Limit.

If you assign a value for 3‑Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1‑Core Ratio Limit and 2‑Core

Ratio Limit to [Auto].

4-Core Ratio Limit [Auto]

Select [Auto] to apply the CPU default Turbo Ratio setting or manually assign a 4‑Core Limit value that must be lower than or equal to the 3‑Core Ratio Limit.

If you assign a value for 4‑Core Ratio Limit, do not set the 1‑Core Ratio Limit, 2‑Core Ratio

Limit, and 3‑Core Ratio to [Auto].

BCLK Frequency: DRAM Frequency Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to set the CPU bus speed to DRAM speed ratio mode.

[Auto] DRAM speed is set to the optimized settings.

[100:133]

[100:100]

The BCLK frequency to DRAM speed ratio is set to 100:133.

The BCLK frequency to DRAM speed ratio is set to 100:100.

DRAM Odd Ratio Mode [Enabled]

Odd ratio mode provides better granularity. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

DRAM Frequency [Auto]

This item allows you to set the memory operating frequency. The configurable options vary with the BCLK (base clock) frequency setting. Select the auto mode to apply the optimized setting. Configuration options: [DDR4‑800MHz] [DDR4‑933MHz] [DDR4‑1066MHz] [DDR4‑

1200MHz] [DDR4‑1333MHz] [DDR4‑1400MHz] [DDR4‑1500MHz] [DDR4‑1600MHz] ~

[DDR4‑4266MHz]

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

EPU Power Saving Mode [Disabled]

ASUS EPU (Energy Processing Unit) sets the CPU in its minimum power consumption settings. Enable this item to set lower CPU VCCIN and Vcore voltages and achieve the best energy saving condition. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Chapter 2: Getting started

CPU SVID Support [Auto]

Disabling SVID Support stops the processor from communicating with the external voltage regulator. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

DRAM Timing Control

The subitems in this menu allow you to set the DRAM timing control features. Use the

<+> and <‑> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press the <Enter> key.

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

DIGI+ VRM

CPU Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

Load‑line is defined by Intel VRM specification and affects the CPU power voltage. The CPU working voltage will decrease proportionally depending on the CPU loading. Higher levels of the load‑line calibration can get a higher voltage and a better overclocking performance but increases the CPU and VRM thermal. Select from level 1 to 7 to adjust the CPU power voltage from 0% to 100%. Configuration options: [Auto] [Level 1] [Level 2] [Level 3] [Level 4]

[Level 5] [Level 6] [Level 7]

The boosted performance may vary depending on the CPU specification. Do not remove the thermal module.

CPU Current Capability [Auto]

Allows you to configure the total power range, and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously. Configuration options: [Auto] [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%] [140%]

Choose a higher value when overclocking, or under a high CPU loading for extra power support.

CPU VRM Switching Frequency [Auto]

This item affects the VRM transient response speed and the component thermal production.

Select [Manual] to configure a higher frequency for a quicker transient response speed.

Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]

DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.

The following item appears only when you set the CPU VRM Switching Frequency to

[Manual].

Fixed CPU VRM Switching Frequency (KHz) [250]

This item allows you to set a higher frequency for a quicker transient response speed.

Use the <+> and <‑> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 250KHz to

500KHz with a 50KHz interval.

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2-22

CPU Power Duty Control [T.Probe]

DIGI + VRM Duty control adjusts the current and thermal conditions of every component’s phase.

[T. Probe] Select to maintain the VRM thermal balance.

[Extreme] Select to maintain the current VRM balance.

CPU Power Phase Control [Auto]

This item allows you to set the power phase control of the CPU. Configuration options: [Auto]

[Standard] [Optimized] [Extreme] [Power Phase Response]

DO NOT remove the thermal module when setting this item to

[Extreme] or [Power Phase

Response]. The thermal conditions should be monitored.

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Power Phase Control to

[Power

Phase Response].

Power Phase Response [Fast]

This item allows you to set a faster phase response for the CPU to increase system performance or to slower phase response to decrease DRAM power efficiency.

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

DO NOT remove the thermal module when setting this item to [Extreme]. The thermal conditions should be monitored.

CPU Graphics Load-Line Calibration [Auto]

Load‑line is defined by Intel VRM specification and affects the GT power voltage. The GT working voltage will decrease proportionally depending on the GT loading. Higher levels of the load‑line calibration can get a higher voltage and a better overclocking performance but increases the GT and VRM thermal. Select from level 1 to 7 to adjust the GT power voltage from 0% to 100%. Configuration options: [Auto] [Level 1] [Level 2] [Level 3] [Level 4] [Level 5]

[Level 6] [Level 7]

The boosted performance may vary depending on the GT specification. Do not remove the thermal module.

CPU Graphics Current Capability [Auto]

Allows you to configure the total power range, and extends the overclocking frequency range simultaneously. Configuration options: [Auto] [100%] [110%] [120%] [130%] [140%]

Choose a higher value when overclocking, or under a high GT loading for extra power support.

CPU Graphics Switching Frequency [Auto]

This item affects the GT transient response speed and the component thermal production.

Select [Manual] to configure a higher frequency for a quicker transient response speed.

Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]

DO NOT remove the thermal module. The thermal conditions should be monitored.

Chapter 2: Getting started

The following item appears only when you set the GT VRM Switching Frequency to

[Manual].

Fixed CPU Graphics Switching Frequency (KHz) [250]

This item allows you to set a higher frequency for a quicker transient response speed.

Use the <+> and <‑> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 250KHz to

500KHz with a 50KHz interval.

Internal CPU Power Management

The subitems in this menu allow you to set the CPU ratio and features.

Intel

®

SpeedStep(tm) [Auto]

AThis item allows the operating system to dynamically adjust the processor voltage and cores frequency, resulting to a decreased average power consumption and decreased average heat production. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

Turbo Mode [Enabled]

This item allows you to automatically set the CPU cores to run faster than the base operating frequency when it is below the operating power, current and temperature specification limit.

Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Turbo Mode is only available on selected CPU models only.

Turbo Mode Parameters

Long Duration Package Power Limit [Auto]

Allows you to limit the turbo ratio’s long duration package power.

Use the <+> and <‑> keys to adjust the value.

Package Power Time Window [Auto]

Allows you to set the package power time window.

Use the <+> and <‑> keys to adjust the value.

Short Duration Package Power Limit [Auto]

Allows you to limit the turbo ratio’s long duration power.

Use the <+> and <‑> keys to adjust the value.

IA/AC Load Line [Auto]

Allows you to limit the AC Loadline in 1/100 mOhms. Use <+> and <‑> key to adjust the value.

IA/DC Load Line [Auto]

Allows you to limit the DC Loadline in 1/100 mOhms. Use <+> and <‑> key to adjust the value.

CPU Core/Cache Current Limit Max. [Auto]

Allows you to configure a higher current limit to prevent a frequency or power throttling when overclocking. The values range from 0.00A to 255.50A with a 0.25A interval.

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2-24

CPU Graphics Current Limit Max. [Auto]

Allows you to configure a higher current limit to prevent a frequency or power throttling when overclocking. The values range from 0.00A to 255.50A with a 0.25A interval.

Min. CPU Cache Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to configure the minimum possible CPU cache ratio. Use the <+> or <‑> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 8 to 34 with a 1 interval.

Max. CPU Cache Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to configure the maximum possible CPU cache ratio. Use the <+> or <‑> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 8 to 34 with a 1 interval.

Max. CPU Graphics Ratio [Auto]

Allows you to configure the maximum CPU graphics ratio. Use the <+> or <‑> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 1 to 60 with a 1 interval.

CPU Core/Cache Voltage [Auto]

This item allows you to configure the amount of voltage fed to the CPU cores. Increase the voltage when setting a high Core Frequency value. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual

Mode] [Offset Mode]

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to [Manual Mode].

CPU Core Voltage Override [Auto]

Allows you to set the input voltage for the CPU by the external voltage regulator. Use the

<+> or <‑> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.600V to 1.700V with a 0.005V interval.

The following items appear only when you set the CPU Core Voltage to

[Offset Mode].

Offset Mode Sign [+]

[+]

[–]

To offset the voltage by a positive value.

To offset the voltage by a negative value.

CPU Core Voltage Offset [Auto]

Use the <+> or <‑> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.005V to 0.635V with a

0.005V interval.

DRAM Voltage [Auto]

This item allows you to set the voltage for the DRAM. Configuration options: [Auto] [1.20V]

[1.25V] [1.32V] [1.35V] [1.36V] [1.39V] [1.46V] [1.50V]

CPU System Agent Voltage [Auto]

This item allows you to set the voltage for the CPU system agent. Configuration options:

[Auto] [1.00V] [1.05V] [1.10V] [1.15V]

Chapter 2: Getting started

CPU Graphics Voltage Mode [Auto]

This item allows you to configure the mode of voltage fed to the CPU Graphics Voltage.

Manual mode allows user‑defined values. Offset mode modifies values by SVID.

Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual Mode] [Offset Mode]

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Graphics Voltage Mode to

[Manual

Mode].

CPU Graphics Voltage Override [Auto]

This item allows you to configure the CPU Graphics Voltage Override. Use the <+> or <‑> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.600V to 1.700V with a 0.005V interval.

The following item appears only when you set the CPU Core Voltage Mode to

[Offset

Mode].

Offset Mode Sign [+]

[+]

[–]

To offset the voltage by a positive value.

To offset the voltage by a negative value.

CPU Graphics Voltage Offset [Auto]

This item allows you to configure the CPU Graphics Voltage Offset. Use the <+> or <‑> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.005V to 0.635V with a 0.005V interval.

PCH Core Voltage [Auto]

This item allows you to set the voltage for the PCH Core. Configuration options: [Auto]

[+0.10V]

DRAM REF Voltage Control

DRAM CTRL REF Voltage on CHA [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM reference voltage on the control lines of channel A. You can use the <+> or <‑> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.39500V to 0.63000V with a

0.00500V interval.

DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHB [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM reference voltage on the data lines of channel B. You can use the <+> or <‑> keys to adjust the value. The values range from 0.39500V to 0.63000V with a

0.00500V interval.

DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA DIMM0 Rank0 BL0-7 [Auto]

Configures the DRAM Data REF Voltage. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] ‑ [63]

DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA DIMM0 Rank1 BL0-7 [Auto]

Configures the DRAM Data REF Voltage. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] ‑ [63]

DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA DIMM1 Rank0 BL0-7 [Auto]

Configures the DRAM Data REF Voltage. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] ‑ [63]

ASUS Q170M2 2‑25

DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHA DIMM1 Rank1 BL0-7 [Auto]

Configures the DRAM Data REF Voltage. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] ‑ [63]

DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHB DIMM0 Rank0 BL0-7 [Auto]

Configures the DRAM Data REF Voltage. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] ‑ [63]

DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHB DIMM0 Rank1 BL0-7 [Auto]

Configures the DRAM Data REF Voltage. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] ‑ [63]

DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHB DIMM1 Rank0 BL0-7 [Auto]

Configures the DRAM Data REF Voltage. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] ‑ [63]

DRAM DATA REF Voltage on CHB DIMM1 Rank1 BL0-7 [Auto]

Configures the DRAM Data REF Voltage. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] ‑ [63]

2‑26 Chapter 2: Getting started

2.6 Advanced menu

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

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

CPU Configuration

The items in this menu show the CPU‑related information that the BIOS automatically detects.

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

Hyper-threading [Enabled]

The Intel Hyper‑Threading Technology allows a hyper‑threading processor to appear as two logical processors to the operating system, allowing the operating system to schedule two threads or processes simultaneously.

[Enabled]

[Disabled]

Two threads per activated core are enabled.

Only one thread per activated core is enabled.

Active Processor Cores [All]

This item allows you to select the number of CPU cores to activate in each processor package. Configuration options: [All] [1] [2] [3]

For some CPU types, only [ All] and [1] appear.

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2‑28

Intel Virtualization Technology [Disabled]

When set to

[Enabled], a VMM can utilize the additional hardware capabilities provided by

Vanderpool Technology. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Hardware Prefetcher [Enabled]

This item allows you to turn on/off the MLC streamer prefetcher. Configuration options:

[Disabled] [Enabled]

Adjacent Cache Line Prefetcher [Enabled]

This item allows you to turn on/off prefetching adjacent cache lines. Configuration options:

[Disabled] [Enabled]

CPU Power Management Configuration

This item allows you to manage and configure the CPU’s power.

Intel(R) SpeedStep(tm) [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable the Intel

®

SpeedStep technology. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

Turbo Mode [Enabled]

This item allows you to automatically set the CPU cores to run faster than the base operating frequency when it is below the operating power, current and temperature specification limit. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Turbo Mode is only available on selected CPU models only.

CPU C states [Auto]

[Auto] Automatic configuration.

[Enabled]

[Disabled]

Enables the CPU C states.

Disables the CPU C states.

The following items appear only when you set the CPU C states to

[Enabled].

Enhanced C states [Enabled]

[Enabled] Enables enhanced C1 state.

[Disabled] Disables enhanced C1 state.

CPU C3 Report [Enabled]

Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C3 report to OS. Configuration options:

[Enabled] [Disabled]

CPU C6 Report [Enabled]

Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C6 report to OS. Configuration options:

[Enabled] [Disabled]

CPU C7 Report [CPU C7s]

Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C7 report to OS. Configuration options:

[Disabled] [CPU C7] [CPU C7s]

CPU C8 Report [Enabled]

Allows you to disable or enable the CPU C8 report to OS. Configuration options:

[Enabled] [Disabled]

Chapter 2: Getting started

Package C State Limit [Auto]

Allows you to disable or enable the whole C‑State package support. Configuration options: [C0/C1] [C2] [C3] [C6] [C7] [C7s] [C8] [Auto]

CFG Lock [Disabled]

This item allows you to configure the MSR 0xE2[15], CFG lock bit. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Platform Misc Configuration

The items in this menu allow you to configure the platform‑related features.

PCI Express Native Power Management [Disabled]

This item allows you to enhance the power saving feature of PCI Express and perform ASPM operations in the operating system. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

The following item appears only when you set the PCI Express Native Power Management to [Enabled].

Native ASPM [Disabled]

[Enabled] Windows

®

Vista OS controls the ASPM (active state power management) support for devices.

[Disabled] BIOS controls the ASPM support for the device.

PCH - PCI Express options

DMI Link ASPM Control [Disabled]

This item allows you to control the Active State Power Management on both NB

(NorthBridge) side and SB (SouthBridge) side of the DMI Link. Configuration options:

[Disabled] [Enabled]

ASPM Support [Disabled]

This item allows you to select the ASPM state for energy‑saving conditions. Configuration options: [Disabled] [L0s] [L1] [L0sL1] [Auto]

SA - PCI Express options

DMI Link ASPM Control [Disabled]

This item allows you to control the Active State Power Management on both CPU and PCH

(platform controller hub) Both DMI link ASPM control items of the CPU and PCH sides must be enabled for the ASPM to take effect. Configuration options: [Disabled] [L1]

PEG-ASPM [Disabled]

This item allows you to select the ASPM state for energy‑saving conditions, or use the ASUS optimized energy saving profile. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto] [ASPM L0s] [ASPM

L1] [ASPM L0sL1]

ASUS Q170M2 2-29

2‑30

AMT Configuration

The items in this menu allow you to change the Intel

®

Active Management Technology (AMT) feature.

Intel

®

AMT [Enabled]

Allow you to enable or disable the Intel

®

Active Management Technology (AMT) in the BIOS extension. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

• iAMT H/W is always enabled. This option just controls the BIOS extension execution.

If enabled, this requires additional firmware in the SPI device.

• The following eleven items become configurable only when you set the Intel to [Enabled].

®

AMT item

BIOS Hotkey Pressed [Off]

This item allows you to enable or disable this function. Configuration options: [On] [Off]

MEBx Selection Screen [Off]

This item allows you to enable or disable this function. Configuration options: [On] [Off]

Un-Configure ME [Off]

Sets this item to [Disabled] to unconfigure AMT/ME without using a password or set it to

[Enabled] to use a password. Configuration options: [On] [off]

System Agent (SA) Configuration

VT-d [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable VT‑d function on MCH. Configuration options: [Enabled]

[Disabled]

Graphics Configuration

Allows you to select a primary display from iGPU, and PCIe graphical devices.

Primary Display [Auto]

Allows you to select which of the iGPU/PCIE Graphics device should be the Primary

Display. Configuration options: [Auto] [CPU Graphics] [PCIE] [PCI]

iGPU Multi-Monitor [Disabled]

Allows you to enable the iGPU Multi‑Monitor. Set this item to [Enabled] to empower both integrated and discrete graphics. The iGPU shared system memory size will be fixed at 64MB. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

RC6(Render Standby) [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable render standby support. Configuration options:

[Disabled] [Enabled]

DVMT Pre-Allocated [32M]

Allows you to select DVMT 5.0 Pre_Allocated (Fixed) Graphics Memory size used by the Internal Graphics Device. Configuration options: [32M] [64M] [96M] ~ [1024M]

Chapter 2: Getting started

DMI/OPI Configuration

Allows you to control various DMI/OPI functions.

DMI Max Link Speed [Auto]

Allows you to set the DMI speed. Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2] [Gen3]

PEG Port Configuration

Allows you to configure the PEG Port settings.

PCIEX16_1 Link Speed [Auto]

Allows you to configure the PCIEX16_1 speed. Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1]

[Gen2] [Gen3]

PCIEX16_2 Link Speed [Auto]

Allows you to configure the PCIEX16_1 speed. Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1]

[Gen2] [Gen3]

Memory Configuration

Memory Remap [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable remapping the memory above 4GB. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

PCH Configuration

DeepSx Power Policies [Disabled]

Allows you to configure the DeepSx Mode. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled in

S4‑S5]

PCI Express Configuration

PCIe Speed [Auto]

Allows you to configure the PCIe speed. Configuration options: [Auto] [Gen1] [Gen2]

PCH Storage Configuration

While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. The

SATA Port items show

Empty if no SATA device is installed to the corresponding SATA port.

Hyper Kit Mode [Disabled]

Disables this option for M.2 devices. Enables this option for ASUS Hyper Kit card.

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

SATA Controller(s) [Enabled]

Enables or disables onboard the SATA device. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

The following items appear only when you set SATA Controller(s) to

[Enabled].

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2‑32

SATA Mode Selection [AHCI]

Allows you to set the SATA configuration.

[AHCI] Set to [AHCI] when you want the SATA hard disk drives to use the AHCI

(Advanced Host Controller Interface). The AHCI allows the onboard storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that increases storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to internally optimize the order of commands.

[RAID] Set to [RAID Mode] when you want to create a RAID configuration from the

SATA hard disk drives.

Aggressive LPM Support [Disabled]

This item is designed for LPM (link power management) support with a better energy saving conditions. When disabled, the hot plug function of SATA ports are disabled. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Smart Self Test [On]

This item allows you to enable or disable the SMART Self Test on all HDDs during POST.

Configuration options: [On] [Off]

SATA6G_1~6(Gray) [Enabled]

Allow you to enable/disable the SATA6G_1~6 port. Configuration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled]

Hot Plug [Disabled]

These items allow you to enable/disable SATA Hot Plug Support. Configuration options:

[Disabled] [Enabled]

USB Configuration

The items in this menu allow you to change the USB‑related features.

The

USB Devices item shows the auto‑detected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None.

Legacy USB Support [Enabled]

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

[Disabled]

[Auto]

The USB devices can be used only for the BIOS setup program.

Allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.

XHCI Hand-off [Disabled]

[Enabled] Enables the support for operating systems without an XHCI hand‑off feature.

[Disabled] Disables the function.

Chapter 2: Getting started

USB Single Port Control

Allow you to enable or disable the USB Port Disable Override.

USB3_1~10, USB13, USB14 [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the USB ports individually. Configuration options:

[Enabled] [Disabled]

Refer to section 1.2.3 Motherboard layout for the location of the USB ports.

Onboard Devices Configuration

HD Audio Controller [Enabled]

[Enabled]

[Disabled]

Enables the HD Audio Device.

Disables the HD Audio Device.

The following items appear only when you set the

HD Audio Controller item to [Enabled].

DVI-D Port Audio [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the DVI‑D port audio. Configuration options: [Enabled]

[Disabled]

DVI-I Port Audio [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the DVI‑I port audio. Configuration options: [Enabled]

[Disabled]

M.2 / SATA6G_1 Configuration [Auto]

Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]

The following item appears only when you set the M.2 / SATA6G_1 Configuration to

[Manual].

M.2 and SATA6G_1 SATA Mode Configuration [SATA6G_1]

M.2 shares SATA mode with SATA6G_1 port. Change this item before installing M.2

SATA devices.

[M.2] SATA mode will be switched to M.2. SATA6G_1 is disabled.

[SATA6G_1] SATA mode will be switched to SATA6G_1. M.2 can only support

PCIE devices.

Realtek LAN Controller [On]

[On] Enables the Realtek LAN controller.

[Off] Disables the controller.

Realtek PXE Option ROM [Off]

This item appears only when you set the previous item to [On] and allows you to enable or disable the PXE OptionRom of the Realtek LAN controller. Configuration options: [On] [Off]

Intel LAN Controller [Enabled]

[Enabled]

[Disabled]

Enables the Intel LAN controller.

Disables the controller.

ASUS Q170M2 2‑33

2‑34

Intel PXE Option ROM [Off]

This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled] and allows you to enable or disable the PXE Option ROM of the Intel LAN controller. Configuration options: [Off] [On]

Charging USB devices in Power State S5 [Disabled]

[Enabled] Charges USB devices even when the system is in Power State S5.

[Disabled] Disables this function.

Serial Port Configuration

The sub‑items in this menu allow you to set the serial port configuration.

Serial Port [On]

Allows you to enable or disable the serial port (COM).Configuration options: [On] [Off]

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

This item appears only when you set the Serial Port to [On] and allows you to select the Serial Port base address. Configuration options: [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4] [IO=2F8h;

IRQ=3] [IO=3E8h; IRQ=4] [IO=2E8h; IRQ=3]

Serial Port 1 Configuration

The sub‑items in this menu allow you to set the serial port 1 configuration.

Serial Port [On]

Allows you to enable or disable the serial port (COM).Configuration options: [On] [Off]

Change Settings [IO=2F8h; IRQ=3]

This item appears only when you set the

Serial Port to [On] and allows you to select the Serial Port base address. Configuration options: [IO=3F8h; IRQ=4] [IO=2F8h;

IRQ=3] [IO=3E8h; IRQ=4] [IO=2E8h; IRQ=3]

Parallel Port Configuration

The sub‑items in this menu allow you to set the parallel port configuration.

Parallel Port [On]

Allows you to enable or disable the parallel port (LPT/LPTE).Configuration options:

[On] [Off]

The following items appear only when you set the Parallel Port Configuration item to

[On].

Change Settings [Auto]

Allows you to select an optimal setting for Super I/O devices. Configuration options: [Auto] [IO=378h; IRQ=5;] [IO=378h; IRQ=5,6,7,9,10,11,12;] [IO=278h;

IRQ=5,6,7,9,10,11,12;] [IO=3BCh; IRQ=5,6,7,9,10,11,12;]

Device Mode [STD Printer Mode]

Allows you to select the Printer Port mode. Configuration options: [STD Printer Mode]

[SPP Mode] [EPP‑1.9 and SPP Mode] [EPP‑1.7 and SPP Mode] [ECP Mode] [ECP and EPP 1.9 Mode] [ECP and EPP 1.7 Mode]

Chapter 2: Getting started

APM Configuration

Restore AC Power Loss [Power Off]

[Power On] The system goes into on state after an AC power loss.

[Power Off]

[Last State]

The system goes into off state after an AC power loss.

The system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was before the AC power loss.

Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables the Power On by a PS/2 keyboard.

[Space Bar]

[Ctrl‑Esc]

[Power Key]

Sets the Space Bar on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system.

Sets the Ctrl+Esc key on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system.

Sets Power key on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.

Power On By PCI-E/PCI [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables the PCIE/PCI devices to generate a wake‑on‑LAN feature of the

Intel

®

/Realtek LAN device.

[Enabled] Enables the PCIE/PCI devices to generate a wake‑on‑LAN feature of the

Intel

®

/Realtek LAN device.

Power On By Ring [Disabled]

[Disabled] Disables Ring to generate a wake event.

[Enabled] Enables Ring to generate a wake event.

Power On By RTC [Disabled]

[Disabled]

[Enabled]

Disables RTC to generate a wake event.

When set to [Enabled], the items RTC Alarm Date (Days) and Hour/

Minute/Second will become user‑configurable with set values.

Serial Port Console Redirection

Console Redirection [Off]

Enables or disables the console redirection feature. When enabled, it allows you to maintain a system from a remote location by redirecting keyboard input and text output through the serial port. Configuration options: [On] [Off]

Console Redirection Settings

The following items become configurable only when you set the previous item to [On].

Terminal Type [ANSI]

VT‑UTF8 is the preferred terminal type for out‑of‑band management. The next best choice is VT100+ and then VT100. Configuration options: [VT100] [VT100+] [VT‑UTF8]

[ANSI]

Bits per second [115200]

Allows you to select the transmission speed of the serial port. Configuration options:

[9600] [19200] [38400] [57600] [115200]

ASUS Q170M2 2‑35

2‑36

Data Bits [7]

Allows you to select the data bits. Configuration options: [7] [8]

Parity [None]

A parity bit can be sent with the data bits to detect some transmission errors. This item allows you to set the parity bit. Configuration options: [None] [Even] [Odd] [Mark]

[Space]

Stop Bits [1]

Stop bits indicate the end of a serial data packet. This item allows you to set the stop bits. Configuration options: [1] [2]

Flow Control [None]

Flow control prevents data loss from buffer overflow. This item allows you to set the flow control. Configuration options: [None] [Hardware RTS/CTS]

VT-UTF8 Combo Key Support [Off]

Allows you to enable or disable VT‑UTF8 Combo Key Support. Configuration options:

[On] [Off]

Recorder Mode [Off]

When set to [Off], only text will be sent. Configuration options: [On] [Off]

Resolution 100x31 [Off]

Allows you to enable or disable extended terminal resolution. Configuration options:

[On] [Off]

Legacy OS Redirection Resolution [80x24]

Allows you to set the redirection resolution on legacy OS. Configuration options:

[80x24] [80x25]

Putty KeyPad [VT100]

Allows you to select FunctionKey and Keypad on Putty. Configuration options: [VT100]

[LINUX] [XTERMR6] [SCO] [ESCN] [VT400]

Redirection After BIOS POST [Always Enable]

[Always Enable] Legacy console redirection is enabled for legacy OS.

[BootLoader] Legacy console redirection is disabled before booting to Legacy OS.

Legacy Console Redirection Settings

Legacy Serial Redirection Port [COM0]

This item allows you to set the legacy serial redirection port. Configuration options:

[COM0] [COM1(Pci Bus0, Dev0, Func0) (Disabled)]

Console Redirection [Off]

Allows you to enable or disable the console redirection. Configuration options: [On] [Off].

The following items become configurable only when you set the previous item to [On].

Out-of-Band Mgmt Port [COM0]

Microsoft Windows Emergency Management Services (EMS) allows for remote management of a Windows Server OS through a serial port. Configuration options:

[COM0] [COM1(Pci Bus0, Dev0, Func0) (Disabled)]

Chapter 2: Getting started

Terminal Type [VT-UTF8]

VT‑UTF8 is the preferred terminal type for out‑of‑band management. The next best choice is VT100+ and then VT100. Configuration options: [VT100] [VT100+] [VT‑UTF8]

[ANSI]

Bits per second [115200]

Allows you to select the transmission speed of the serial port. Configuration options:

[9600] [19200] [57600] [115200]

Flow Control [None]

Flow control prevents data loss from buffer overflow. This item allows you to set the flow control. Configuration options: [None] [Hardware RTS/CTS] [Software Xon/Xoff]

Network Stack Configuration

Network Stack [Disabled]

This item allows user to disable or enable the UEFI network stack. Configuration options:

[Disabled] [Enabled]

The following two items appear only when you set the previous item to [Enabled].

Ipv4 PXE Support [Enabled]

This item allows user to disable or enable the Ipv4 PXE Boot support. Configuration options:

[Disabled] [Enabled]

Ipv6 PXE Support [Enabled]

This item allows user to disable or enable the Ipv6 PXE Boot support. Configuration options:

[Disabled] [Enabled]

Intel TXT Information

This menu displays the Intel TXT information.

HDD/SSD SMART Information

This menu displays the SMART information of the connected devices.

ASUS Q170M2 2‑37

2.7 Monitor menu

The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change the fan settings.

Scroll down to display more items.

2‑38

CPU / MotherBoard Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU / motherboard temperatures. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected temperature.

CPU / Chassis Fan 1/2 Speed [xxxx RPM] or [Ignore] / [N/A]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU / chassis fan 1/2 speeds in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the field shows N/A. Select Ignore if you do not wish to display the detected speed.

CPU Core Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard voltage regulators. Select Ignore if you do not want to detect this item.

Q-Fan Configuration

Q-Fan Tuning

Click [OK] button to detect the lowest speed and configure the minimum duty circle for each fan. Do not shut down or reset your system during the tuning progress. Configuration options:

[Ok] [Cancel]

Chapter 2: Getting started

CPU Q-Fan Control [Auto]

[Disabled] Disables the CPU Q‑Fan control feature.

[PWM Mode] Enable the CPU Q‑Fan control in PWM mode for 4‑pin CPU fan.

CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [200 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] [100RPM]

[200RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 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.

[Standard]

[Silent]

Sets to [Standard] to make the CPU fan automatically adjust depending on the CPU temperature.

Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.

[Turbo]

[Manual]

Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.

Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.

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

CPU Upper Temperature [70]

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

ºC to 75ºC.

CPU Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]

Use the <+> and <‑> keys to adjust the maximum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from 20% to 100%. When the CPU temperature reaches the upper limit, the

CPU fan will operate at the maximum duty cycle.

CPU Middle Temperature [25]

Use the <+> or <‑> keys to set the value for CPU Middle Temperature. The range of the values depends on the CPU installed.

CPU Fan Middle Duty Cycle(%) [20]

Use the <+> or <‑> keys to adjust the CPU fan middle duty cycle. The values range from 20% to 100%. When the CPU temperature reaches the middle value, the CPU fan operates at the middle duty cycle.

CPU Lower Temperature [20]

Displays the lower limit of the CPU temperature.

CPU Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [20]

Use the <+> and <‑> keys to adjust the minimum CPU fan duty cycle. The values range from 20% to 100%. When the CPU temperature is under the lower limit, the CPU fan will operate at the minimum duty cycle.

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2-40

Chassis1/2 Q-Fan Control [Enabled]

[PWM mode] Enables the chassis Q‑Fan control in PWM mode for 4‑pin chassis fan.

[DC mode]

[Disabled]

Enables the chassis Q‑Fan control in DC mode for 3‑pin chassis fan.

Disables the chassis Q‑Fan control feature.

The following items appear only when you set the Chassis Fan 1/2 Q‑Fan Control to

[PWM

Mode] or [DC Mode].

Chassis Fan 1/2 Q-Fan Source [CPU]

This item controls the assigned fan according to the selected temperature source.

Configuration options: [CPU] [MotherBoard]

Chassis1/2 Fan Speed Low Limit [600 RPM]

This item appears only when you enable the Chassis1/2 Q‑Fan Control feature and allows you to disable or set the chassis1/2 fan warning speed. Configuration options: [Ignore]

[200RPM] [300 RPM] [400 RPM] [500 RPM] [600 RPM]

Chassis1/2 Fan Profile [Standard]

This item appears only when you enable the Chassis1/2 Q‑Fan Control feature and allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the chassis1/2 fan.

[Standard]

[Silent]

Sets to [Standard] to make the chassis1/2 fan automatically adjust depending on the chassis1/2 temperature.

Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet chassis1/2 fan operation.

[Turbo]

[Manual]

Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum chassis1/2 fan speed.

Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters.

The following four items appear only when you set

Chassis1/2 Fan Profile to [Manual].

Chassis1/2 Upper Temperature [70]

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

ºC to 75ºC.

Chassis1/2 Fan Max. Duty Cycle(%) [100]

Use the <+> and <‑> keys to adjust the maximum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range from 60% to 100%. When the chassis temperature reaches the upper limit, the chassis fan will operate at the maximum duty cycle.

Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Middle Temperature [45]

Use the <+> or <‑> keys to set the value for Chassis Fan Middle Temperature.

Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Middle Duty Cycle(%) [60]

Use the <+> or <‑> keys to adjust the chassis fan middle duty cycle. The values range from 20% to 100%.

Chassis1/2 Lower Temperature [40]

Displays the lower limit of the chassis temperature.

Chassis1/2 Fan Min. Duty Cycle(%) [60]

Use the <+> and <‑> keys to adjust the minimum chassis fan duty cycle. The values range from 60% to 100%. When the chassis temperature is under 40

ºC, the chassis fan will operate at the minimum duty cycle.

Chapter 2: Getting started

Anti Surge Support [Off]

This item allows you to enable or disable the Anti Surge function. Configuration options: [Off]

[On]

Chassis Intrude Detect Support [Off]

This item allows you to enable or disable the chassis intrusion detection function. Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to the chassis instrusion connector.

The chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable sends high‑‑level signal to the connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal is then generated as a chassis intrusion event. Configuration options: [On] [Off]

2.8 Boot menu

The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options.

Scroll down to display more items.

Fast Boot [Enabled]

[Enabled]

[Disabled]

Select to accelerate the boot speed.

Select to go back to normal boot.

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

Next Boot after AC Power Loss [Normal Boot]

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

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

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Boot Logo Display [Auto]

[Auto] Adjust automatically for Windows® requirement.

[Full Screen] Maximize the boot logo size.

[Disabled] Hide the logo during POST.

POST Delay Time [3 sec]

This item appears only when you set Boot Logo Display to [Enabled]. This item allows you to select the desired additional POST waiting time to easily enter the BIOS setup. You can only execute the POST delay time during Normal Boot. The values range from 0 to 10 seconds.

This feature will only work under normal boot.

Post Report [5 sec]

This item appears only when you set Boot Logo Display to [Auto] or [Full Screen]. This item allows you to select a desired post report waiting time. Configuration options: [1 sec] ~ [10 sec] [Until Press ESC].

Bootup NumLock State [Enabled]

[Enabled]

[Disabled]

Sets the power‑on state of the NumLock to [Enabled].

Sets the power‑on state of the NumLock to [Disabled].

Wait for ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]

When this item is set to [Enabled], the system waits for the F1 key to be pressed when error occurs. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Option ROM Messages [Force BIOS]

[Force BIOS] The third‑party ROM messages will be forced to display during the boot sequence.

[Keep Current] The third‑party ROM messages will be displayed only if the third‑party manufacturer had set the add‑on device to do so.

Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled]

This item allows you to trap Interrupt 19 by the option ROMs. Configuration options:

[Disabled] [Enabled]

Setup Mode [EZ Mode]

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

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

CSM (Compatibility Support Module)

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.

Chapter 2: Getting started

Launch CSM [Enabled]

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

[Enabled]

[Disabled]

For better compatibility, enable the CSM to fully support the non‑UEFI driver add‑on devices or the Windows

®

UEFI mode.

Disable the CSM to fully support the Windows ®

Security Boot.

Security Update and

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

Boot Device Control [UEFI and Legacy OPROM]

Allows you to select the type of devices that you want to boot up. Configuration options:

[UEFI and Legacy OPROM] [Legacy OPROM only] [UEFI only]

Boot from Network Devices [Legacy only]

Allows you to select the type of network devices that you want to launch. Configuration options: [Ignore] [Legacy only] [UEFI driver first]

Boot from Storage Devices [Legacy Only]

Allows you to select the type of storage devices that you want to launch. Configuration options: [Ignore] [Legacy only] [UEFI driver first]

Boot from PCI-E/PCI Expansion Devices [Legacy Only]

Allows you to select the type of PCI‑E/PCI expansion devices that you want to launch.

Configuration options: [Legacy only] [UEFI driver first]

Secure Boot

Allows you to configure the Windows

®

Secure Boot settings and manage its keys to protect the system from unauthorized access and malwares during POST.

OS Type [Windows UEFI mode]

Allows you to select your installed operating system.

[Windows UEFI mode]

[Other OS]

This item allows you to select your installed operating system.

Execute the Microsoft ® Secure Boot check. Only select this option when booting on Windows

®

UEFI mode or other Microsoft

®

Secure Boot compliant OS.

Get the optimized function when booting on Windows

®

non‑UEFI mode. Microsoft

®

Secure Boot only supports Windows

®

UEFI mode.

Key Management

This item allows you to manage the Secure Boot keys.

Install Default Secure Boot keys

This item allows you to immediately load the default Security Boot keys, Platform key

(PK), Key‑exchange Key (KEK), Signature database (db), and Revoked Signatures

(dbx). When the default Secure boot keys are loaded, all the Secure Boot keys’ state will change from Unloaded mode to loaded mode.

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Clear Secure Boot keys

This item appears only when you load the default Secure Boot keys. This item allows you to clear all the previously applied Secure Boot keys.

Save Secure Boot Keys

This item allows you to save all the Secure Boot keys to a USB storage device.

PK Management

The Platform Key (PK) locks and secures the firmware from any non‑permissible changes. The system verifies the PK before your system enters the OS.

Set New Key

Allows you to set a new key from your system. Press [Yes] to load factory default

PK or select [No] to load it from a file on external media Configuration options: [Yes]

[No]

Delete PK

Allows you to delete the PK from your system. Once the PK is deleted, all the system’s Secure Boot keys will not be active. Configuration options: [Yes] [No]

The PK file must be formatted as a public key certificate or UEFI variable structure with time‑based authenticated variable.

KEK Management

The KEK (Key‑exchange Key or Key Enrollment Key) manages the Signature database

(db) and Revoked Signature database (dbx).

Key‑exchange Key (KEK) refers to Microsoft

®

Secure Boot Key‑Enrollment Key (KEK).

Set New Key

Allows you to set a new key.

Append Key

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

The KEK file must be formatted as a public key certificate or UEFI variable structure with time‑based authenticated variable.

Delete key

Allows you to delete the Key from your system. Configuration options: [Yes] [No]

DB Management

The db (Authorized Signature database) lists the signers or images of UEFI applications, operating system loaders, and UEFI drivers that you can load on the single computer.

Set New Key

Allows you to set a new key.

Append Key

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

Chapter 2: Getting started

The KEK file must be formatted as a public key certificate or UEFI variable structure with time‑based authenticated variable.

Delete key

Allows you to delete the Key from your system. Configuration options: [Yes] [No]

DBX Management

The DBX (Revoked Signature database) lists the forbidden images of db items that are no longer trusted and cannot be loaded.

Set New Key

Allows you to set a new key.

Append Key

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

The KEK file must be formatted as a public key certificate or UEFI variable structure with time‑based authenticated variable.

Delete key

Allows you to delete the Key from your system. Configuration options: [Yes] [No]

Boot Option Priorities

These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system.

• To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS Logo appears.

• To access Windows OS in Safe Mode, do any of the following:

•

•

Press <F5> when ASUS Logo appears.

Press <F8> after POST.

Boot Override

These items displays the available devices. The number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system. Click an item to start booting from the selected device.

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2.9 Tool menu

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

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ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility

Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 3. Press [Enter] to launch the ASUS EZ Flash 3 screen.

For more details, see section

2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 3.

Setup Animator [Disabled]

This item allows you to enable or disable the Setup animator.

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ASUS Overclocking Profile

This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.

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

Save to Profile

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

Load/Save Profile from/to USB Drive

This item allows you to load or save profile from your USB drive, load and save profile to your

USB drive.

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

• We recommend that you update the BIOS file only coming from the same memory/

CPU configuration and BIOS version.

ASUS SPD Information

DIMM Slot # [DIMM_A1]

Displays the Serial Presence Detect (SPD) information of the DIMM module installed on the selected slot. Configuration options: [DIMM_A1] [DIMM_A2] [DIMM_B1] [DIMM_B2]

Chapter 2: Getting started

2.10 Exit menu

The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. You can access the EZ Mode from the Exit menu.

Load Optimized Defaults

This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a confirmation window appears.

Select Yes to load the default values.

Save Changes & Reset

Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to ensure the values you selected are saved. When you select this option or if you press <F10>, a confirmation window appears. Select Yes to save changes and exit.

Discard Changes and Exit

This option allows you to exit the Setup program without saving your changes. When you select this option or if you press <Esc>, a confirmation window appears. Select Yes to discard changes and exit.

Launch EFI Shell from USB drives

This option allows you to attempt to launch the EFI Shell application (shellx64.efi) from one of the available USB devices.

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2‑48 Chapter 2: Getting started