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Asus ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO Manual
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Asus ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO Manual

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Summary of Contents for Asus ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO

  • Page 1 MAXIMUS XI HERO...
  • Page 2 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.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents Safety information ...................... vi About this guide ......................vii ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO specifications summary ..........ix Package contents ...................... xv Installation tools and components ................. xvi Chapter 1: Product Introduction Motherboard overview ................1-1 1.1.1 Before you proceed ..............1-1 1.1.2...
  • Page 4 3.6.14 HDD/SSD SMART Information ..........3-21 Monitor menu ................... 3-22 Boot menu ....................3-22 Tool menu ....................3-24 3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility ............3-24 3.9.2 ASUS Secure Erase..............3-25 3.9.3 ASUS User Profile..............3-26 3.9.4 ROG OC Panel H-Key Configure ..........3-26 3.9.5...
  • Page 5 Chapter 4: RAID Support RAID configurations .................. 4-1 4.1.1 RAID definitions ................4-1 Appendix Q-Code table ......................A-1 Notices ........................A-5 ASUS contact information ..................A-9...

  • Page 6: Safety Information

    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.

  • Page 7: About This Guide

    Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates. ASUS website The ASUS website (www.asus.com) provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Optional documentation Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer.
  • Page 8 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.

  • Page 9: Rog Maximus Xi Hero Specifications Summary

    ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO specifications summary Socket 1151 for 9 Gen Intel Core™, Pentium Gold and ® ® Celeron processors ® Supports 14nm CPU Supports Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0* ® * Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 support depends on the CPU type.
  • Page 10 ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO specifications summary Intel Z390 Chipset with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10, and Intel Rapid ® Storage Technology support - 1 x M.2_1 Socket 3 with M Key, type 2242/2260/2280 (supports PCIE 3.0 x 4 and SATA modes)* - 1 x M.2_2 Socket 3 with M Key, type 2242/2260/2280/22110...
  • Page 11 ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO specifications summary Intel Z390 Chipset ® - 4 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports (2 ports at back panel [blue], 2 ports at mid-board) - 6 x USB 2.0 ports (2 ports at back panel [black], 4 ports at mid- board) - 4 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports (3 Type-A [red] and 1 Type-C [black] at...
  • Page 12 AURA - Aura Lighting Control - Aura RGB Strip Headers - Aura Addressable Strip Headers - Aura Lighting Effects Synchronization with compatible ASUS ROG devices ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 5 - 5-Way Optimization tuning perfectly consolidates TPU Insight, EPU Guidance, DIGI+ Power Control, Fan Xpert 4, and Turbo App...
  • Page 13 ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO specifications summary 2 x AURA Addressable strip headers 2 x AURA RGB strip headers 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 header supports additional 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports 2 x USB 2.0 headers support additional 4 USB 2.0 ports 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 front panel connector...
  • Page 14 DAEMON Tools Software Windows 10 64-bit Operating System Support ® ATX Form Factor, 12” x 9.6” (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm) Form Factor Specifications are subject to change without notice. Please refer to the ASUS website for the latest specifications.

  • Page 15: Package Contents

    Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items. Motherboard 1 x ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO motherboard 2 x 2-in-1 SATA 6Gb/s cables Cables 1 x Extension Cable for RGB strips 1 x Extension Cable for RGB Addressable strips 1 x SLI™...

  • Page 16: Installation Tools And Components

    Installation tools and components Intel ® LGA1151 CPU Intel LGA1151 compatible CPU Fan ® Phillips (cross) screwdriver SATA hard disk drive PC chassis DIMM 1 bag of screws Power supply unit SATA optical disc drive (optional) Graphics card (optional) M.2 SSD module (optional) The tools and components above are not included in the motherboard package.

  • Page 17: Chapter 1: Product Introduction

    Chapter 1: Product Introduction Product Introduction 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 components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due to static electricity. • Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them. • Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component. • 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. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO...

  • Page 18: Motherboard Layout

    1.1.2 Motherboard layout Refer to 1.1.8 Internal connectors and 2.3.1 Rear I/O connection for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. Chapter 1: Product Introduction...
  • Page 19 12. Water in, water out, and water flow connectors (2-pin W_IN; 2-pin W_OUT; 1-22 3-pin W_FLOW) 13. Thermal sensor connector (2-pin T_SENSOR) 1-17 14. System panel connectors (10-1 pin F_PANEL; 4-pin SPEAKER) 1-21 15. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB_E12; USB_E34) 1-17 16. Node connector (12-1 pin NODE) 1-19 17. USB 3.1 Gen 1 connector (20-1 pin U31G1_910) 1-16 18. ReTry button (RETRY_BUTTON) 1-11 19. MemOK! II switch (MemOK!_II) 1-10 20. TPM connector (14-1 pin TPM) 1-19 21. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-15 22. M.2 sockets (M.2_1 (Socket 3); M.2_2 (Socket 3)) 1-25 23. LED connector (8-pin LED_CON1) 1-22 ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO...

  • Page 20: Central Processing Unit (Cpu)

    1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) This motherboard supports Socket 1151 for 9 / 8 Gen Intel Core™, Pentium Gold and ® ® Celeron processors, with memory and PCI Express controllers integrated to support dual- ® channel (4 DIMM) DDR4 memory and 16 PCI Express 3.0/2.0 lanes. Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1151 socket only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA1150, LGA1155, and LGA1156 sockets in the LGA1151 socket. • Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU. • Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on the socket and the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard components. ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is shipment/ transit-related. • Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the LGA1151 socket. • The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts resulting from incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/incorrect removal of the PnP cap. Chapter 1: Product Introduction...

  • Page 21: System Memory

    1.1.4 System memory The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 4 (DDR4) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) slots. 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. Recommended memory configurations ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO...
  • Page 22 Memory configurations You may install 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB and 16 GB unbuffered and non-ECC DDR4 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. • You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation. • This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 512 Mb (64 MB) chips or less (Memory chip capacity counts in Megabit, 8 Megabit/Mb = 1 Megabyte/MB). • The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect (SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module. Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a lower frequency than the vendor-marked value. • For system stability, use a more efficient memory cooling system to support a full memory load (4 DIMMs) or overclocking condition. • Always install the DIMMS with the same CAS Latency. For an optimum compatibility, we recommend that you install memory modules of the same version or data code (D/C) from the same vendor. Check with the vendor to get the correct memory modules. • Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL. Chapter 1: Product Introduction...

  • Page 23: Expansion Slots

    1.1.5 Expansion slots Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. Slot No. Slot Description PCIe 3.0 x1_1 slot PCIe 3.0 x16_1 slot PCIe 3.0 x1_2 slot PCIe 3.0 x16_2 slot PCIe 3.0 x1_3 slot PCIe 3.0 x16_3 slot ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO...
  • Page 24 PCIe operating mode VGA Configuration PCIe 3.0 x16_1 PCIe 3.0 x16_2 Single VGA/PCIe card x16 (Recommend for single VGA) Dual VGA/PCIe card PCIe operating mode PCIe Lane Auto mode x4 mode PCIe_x16_3 (Shares bandwidth with SATA6G_5 and SATA6G_6) • We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running CrossFireX™ or SLI ® mode. • Connect a chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1-3 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. The PCIEX16_1 slot switches to x8 mode when PCIEX16_2 slot is occupied. PCI Express 3.0 operating mode Hyper M.2 X16 series card configuration PCIEX16_1 PCIEX16_2...

  • Page 25: Onboard Buttons And Switches

    1.1.6 Onboard buttons and switches Onboard buttons and switches allow you to fine-tune performance when working on a bare or open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. Power-on button (START) The motherboard comes with a power-on button that allows you to power up or wake up the system. The button also lights up when the system is plugged to a power source indicating that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or installing any motherboard component. RESET button (RESET) Press the reset button to reboot the system. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO...
  • Page 26 • Refer to section 1.1.7 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the Mem_LED. • The DRAM LED also lights up when the DIMM is not properly installed. Turn off the system and reinstall the DIMM before using the MemOK! II function. • The MemOK! II switch does not function under Windows OS environment. ® • During the tuning process, the system loads and tests pretest profiles. It takes about 30 seconds for the system to test one set of profiles. If the test fails, the system reboots and tests the next set of profiles. The system will reboot multiple times when training, once the system has completed the training process the Mem_LED will turn off, please refrain from doing anything before the Mem_LED turns off. • Due to memory tuning requirement, the system automatically reboots when each profile is tested. If the installed DIMMs still fail to boot after the whole tuning process, and the Mem_LED is turned off, please refer to the Q-code LED and Q-code table for more details on the error. • If you turn off the computer and replace DIMMs during the tuning process, the system continues memory tuning after turning on the computer. To stop memory tuning, turn off the computer and unplug the power cord for about 5–10 seconds, then set the MemOK! II switch to disabled. • Ensure to replace the DIMMs with ones recommended in the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists) at www.asus.com. • We recommend that you download and update to the latest BIOS version from www.asus.com after using the MemOK! II function. 1-10 Chapter 1: Product Introduction...
  • Page 27 ReTry button (RETRY_BUTTON) The ReTry button is specially designed for overclockers and is most useful during the booting process where the Reset button is rendered useless. When pressed, it forces the system to reboot while retaining the same settings to be retried in quick succession to achieve a successful POST. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 1-11...

  • Page 28: Onboard Leds

    1.1.7 Onboard LEDs Q LEDs (BOOT_LED, VGA_LED, DRAM_LED, CPU_LED) Q LEDs check key components (CPU, DRAM, VGA card, and booting devices) in sequence during motherboard booting process. If an error is found, the corresponding LED remains lit until the problem is solved. This user-friendly design provides an intuitive way to locate the root problem within seconds. The Q LEDs provide the most probable cause of an error code as a starting point for troubleshooting. The actual cause may vary from case to case. Memory LED (Mem_LED) The Mem_LED will light up and remain lit while the MemOK! II function is in use. When the re-training is complete, the Mem_LED will turn off. 1-12 Chapter 1: Product Introduction...
  • Page 29 Hard Disk LED (HD_LED) The Hard Disk LED is designed to indicate the hard disk activity. It blinks when data is being written into or read from the hard disk drive. The LED does not light up when there is no hard disk drive connected to the motherboard or when the hard disk drive does not function. Q-Code LED The Q-Code LED design provides you with a 2-digit error code that displays the system status. Refer to the Q-Code table on the following page for details. • The Q-Code LED provides the most probable cause of an error code as a starting point for troubleshooting. The actual cause may vary from case to case. • Please refer to the Q-Code table in the Appendix section for more details. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 1-13...

  • Page 30: Internal Connectors

    Z390 Serial ATA 6 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_12; SATA6G_34; ® SATA6G_56) These connectors connect to Serial ATA 6 Gb/s hard disk drives via Serial ATA 6 Gb/s signal cables. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configuration with the Intel Rapid Storage Technology through the onboard Intel ® ® Z390 chipset. • These connectors are set to [AHCI] by default. If you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode Selection item in the BIOS to [Intel RST Premium With Intel Optane System Acceleration (RAID)]. • For more information on configuring your RAID sets, please refer to the RAID Configuration Guide which you can find at https://www.asus.com/support. 1-14 Chapter 1: Product Introduction...
  • Page 31 Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports HD Audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector. We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-definition audio capability. USB 3.1 Gen 2 front panel connector (U31G2_2) This connector allows you to connect a USB 3.1 Gen 2 module for additional USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports. The latest USB 3.1 Gen 2 connectivity provides data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps. The USB 3.1 Gen 2 module is purchased separately. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 1-15...
  • Page 32 USB 3.1 Gen 1 connector (20-1 pin U31G1_910) This connector allows you to connect a USB 3.1 Gen 1 module for additional USB 3.1 Gen 1 front or rear panel ports. With an installed USB 3.1 Gen 1 module, you can enjoy all the benefits of USB 3.1 Gen 1 including faster data transfer speeds of up to 5 Gb/s, faster charging time for USB-chargeable devices, optimized power efficiency, and backward compatibility with USB 2.0. The USB 3.1 Gen 1 module is purchased separately. The plugged USB 3.1 Gen 1 device may run on xHCI or EHCI mode depending on the operating system’s setting. 1-16 Chapter 1: Product Introduction...
  • Page 33 USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB_E12; USB_E34) These connectors are for the USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. This USB connector complies with USB 2.0 specification that supports up to 480 MBps connection speed. Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! Thermal sensor connector (2-pin T_SENSOR) This connector is for the thermistor cable that allows you to monitor the temperature of your motherboard’s critical components and connected devices. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 1-17...
  • Page 34 Fan and pump connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CPU_OPT; 4-pin H_AMP; 5-pin EXT_FAN; 4-pin W_PUMP+; 4-pin AIO_PUMP; 4-pin CHA_FAN1-3) 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. The EXT_FAN connector is only for the fan extension card. For more details on the fan extension card, please refer to the To install Fan Extension Card section in this guide. • DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors! • Ensure to fully insert the fan cable to the fan connector. • The FAN Extension card is purchased separately. • W_PUMP+ function support depends on water cooling device. • For better Q-Fan functions, we recommend using 4-pin PWM fans when you connect powerful fans (1A or above) onto the H_AMP connector. Header Max.
  • Page 35 Node connector (12-1 pin NODE) This connector allow you to connect a compatible PSU or control a compatible fan extension card. Visit www.asus.com for more information about the devices and the latest compatibility list. TPM connector (14-1 pin TPM) This connector supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which securely stores keys, digital certificates, passwords and data. A TPM system also helps enhance network security, protect digital identities, and ensures platform integrity. The TPM module is purchased separately. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 1-19...
  • Page 36 ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V_1; 4-pin EATX12V_2) These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit. • DO NOT connect the 4-pin power plug only, the motherboard may overheat under heavy usage. • Ensure to connect the 8-pin power plug, or connect both the 8-pin and 4-pin power plugs. • For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12V Specification 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 350 W. • We recommend that you use a PSU with a higher power output when configuring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate. • If you want to use two or more high-end PCIe x16 cards, use a PSU with 1000W power or above to ensure the system stability. 1-20 Chapter 1: Product Introduction...
  • Page 37 System panel connectors (10-1 pin F_PANEL; 4-pin SPEAKER) These connectors supports several chassis-mounted functions. • System power LED (2-pin PLED) This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode. • Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin HDD_LED) This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable to this connector. The HDD LED lights up or flashes when data is read from or written to the HDD. • System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER) This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings. • ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRBTN) This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button turns the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending on the BIOS settings. Pressing the power button 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. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 1-21...
  • Page 38 LED connector (8-pin LED_CON1) This LED connector is for connecting LED strips on your back I/O cover. Water in, water out, and water flow connectors (2-pin W_IN; 2-pin W_OUT; 3-pin W_FLOW) These connectors allow you to connect sensors to monitor the temperature and flow rate of your liquid cooling system. You can manually adjust the fans and water pump to optimize the thermal efficiency of your liquid cooling system. 1-22 Chapter 1: Product Introduction...
  • Page 39 AURA RGB headers (4-pin RGB_HEADER1-2) These connectors are for RGB LED strips. The RGB header supports 5050 RGB multi-color LED strips (12V/G/R/B), with a maximum power rating of 3A (12V), and no longer than 3 m. 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. • Actual lighting and color will vary with LED strips. • If your LED strip does not light up, check if the RGB LED extension cable and the RGB LED strip is connected in the correct orientation, and the 12V connector is aligned with the 12V header on the motherboard. • The LED strip will only light up when the system is operating. • The LED strips are purchased separately. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 1-23...
  • Page 40 Addressable RGB headers (4-1 pin ADD_HEADER1-2) These connectors are for individually addressable RGB WS2812B LED strips or WS2812B based LED strips. The addressable RGB header supports WS2812B addressable RGB LED strips (5V/Data/ Ground), with a maximum power rating of 3A (5V) and a maximum of 120 LEDs. 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. • Actual lighting and color will vary with LED strip. • If your LED strip does not light up, check if the addressable RGB LED strip is connected in the correct orientation, and the 5V connector is aligned with the 5V header on the motherboard. • The addressable RGB LED strip will only light up under the operating system. • The addressable RGB LED strip is purchased separately. 1-24 Chapter 1: Product Introduction...
  • Page 41 M.2 sockets (M.2_1 (Socket 3); M.2_2 (Socket 3)) These sockets allow you to install M.2 SSD modules. • M.2_1 socket supports PCIe 3.0 x4 and SATA mode M Key design and type 2242 / 2260 / 2280 PCIe and SATA storage devices. • M.2_2 socket supports PCIe 3.0 x4 M Key design and type 2242 / 2260 / 2280 / 22110 PCIe storage devices. • These sockets support IRST (Intel Rapid Storage Technology). ® • When the M.2_1(Socket 3) is operating in SATA mode, SATA port 2 (SATA6G_2) will be disabled. • The M.2 SSD module is purchased separately. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 1-25...
  • Page 42 1-26 Chapter 1: Product Introduction...

  • Page 43: Chapter 2: Basic Installation

    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. 2.1.1 CPU installation • Ensure that you install the correct CPU designed for LGA1151 socket only. DO NOT install a CPU designed for LGA1155 and LGA1156 sockets on the LGA1151 socket. • ASUS will not cover damages resulting from incorrect CPU installation/removal, incorrect CPU orientation/placement, or other damages resulting from negligence by the user. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO...

  • Page 44: Cooling System Installation

    2.1.2 Cooling system installation Apply Thermal Interface Material to the CPU cooling system and CPU before you install the cooling system, if necessary. Chapter 2: Basic Installation...
  • Page 45 To install a CPU heatsink and fan assembly ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO...
  • Page 46 To install an AIO cooler AIO_PUMP CPU_FAN CPU_OPT Chapter 2: Basic Installation...

  • Page 47: Motherboard Installation

    2.1.3 Motherboard installation Place the motherboard into the chassis, ensuring that its rear I/O ports are aligned to the chassis’ rear I/O panel. Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis. DO NOT over tighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO...

  • Page 48: Dimm Installation

    2.1.4 DIMM installation To remove a DIMM Chapter 2: Basic Installation...

  • Page 49: Atx Power Connection

    2.1.5 ATX power connection • DO NOT connect the 4-pin power plug only, the motherboard may overheat under heavy usage. • Ensure to connect the 8-pin power plug, or connect both the 8-pin and 4-pin power plugs. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO...

  • Page 50: Sata Device Connection

    2.1.6 SATA device connection Chapter 2: Basic Installation...

  • Page 51: Front I/O Connector

    USB 3.1 Gen 2 This connector will only fit in one orientation. Push the connector until it clicks into place. To install USB 3.1 Gen 1 connector To install USB 2.0 connector USB 3.1 Gen 1 USB 2.0 To install front panel audio connector To install system speaker connector AAFP ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO...

  • Page 52: Expansion Card Installation

    2.1.8 Expansion card installation To install PCIe x16 cards To install PCIe x1 cards Chapter 2: Basic Installation 2-10...
  • Page 53 To install FAN EXTENSION CARD • The illustrations in this section are for reference only. The motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps are the same for all models. • The FAN Extension card is purchased separately. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 2-11...

  • Page 54: M.2 Installation

    2.1.9 M.2 installation For type 2280 M.2 on M.2_1 socket For type 2242 / 2260 M.2 on M.2_1 socket The M.2 is purchased separately. Chapter 2: Basic Installation 2-12...
  • Page 55 For type 22110 M.2 on M.2_2 socket For type 2242 / 2260 / 2280 M.2 on M.2_2 socket The M.2 is purchased separately. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 2-13...

  • Page 56: Bios Update Utility

    BIOS update utility USB BIOS Flashback USB BIOS Flashback allows you to easily update the BIOS without entering the existing BIOS or operating system. Simply insert a USB storage device to the USB port, press the USB BIOS Flashback button for three seconds, and the BIOS is updated automatically. To use USB BIOS Flashback: Insert a USB storage device to the USB Flashback port. We recommend you to use a USB 2.0 storage device to save the latest BIOS version for better compatibility and stability. Visit https://www.asus.com/support/ and download the latest BIOS version for this motherboard. Rename the file as M11H.CAP, then copy it to your USB storage device. Shut down your computer. Press the BIOS Flashback button for three seconds until the Flashback LED blinks three times, indicating that the BIOS Flashback function is enabled. USB BIOS USB BIOS Flashback port Flashback button Wait until the light goes out, indicating that the BIOS updating process is completed. For more BIOS update utilities in BIOS setup, refer to the section 3.11 Updating BIOS in Chapter 3.

  • Page 57: Motherboard Rear And Audio Connections

    Optical S/PDIF OUT port Audio I/O ports** * and ** : Refer to the tables on the next page for LAN port LEDs, and audio port definitions. • USB 3.1 Gen 1/Gen 2 devices can only be used as data storage only. • We strongly recommend that you connect your devices to ports with matching data transfer rate. Please connect your USB 3.1 Gen 1 devices to USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports and your USB 3.1 Gen 2 devices to USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports for faster and better performance for your devices. • Due to the design of the Intel chipset, all USB devices connected to the USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports are controlled by the xHCI controller. Some legacy USB devices must update their firmware for better compatibility. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 2-15...
  • Page 58 * LAN ports LED indications ACT/LINK SPEED Activity Link LED Speed LED Status Description Status Description No link 10 Mbps connection ORANGE Linked ORANGE 100 Mbps connection LAN port BLINKING Data activity GREEN 1 Gbps connection ** Audio 2, 4, 5.1 or 7.1-channel configuration Headset Port 4-channel 5.1-channel 7.1-channel 2-channel Light Blue...

  • Page 59: Audio I/O Connections

    2.3.2 Audio I/O connections Audio I/O ports Connect to Headphone and Mic Connect to Stereo Speakers Connect to 2-channel Speakers ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 2-17...
  • Page 60 Connect to 4-channel Speakers Connect to 5.1-channel Speakers Connect to 7.1-channel Speakers Chapter 2: Basic Installation 2-18...

  • Page 61: Starting Up For The First Time

    BIOS Beep Description VGA detected One short beep 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 short beeps At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the instructions in Chapter 3. Turning off the computer While the system is ON, press the power button for less than four seconds to put the system on sleep mode or soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Press the power button for more than four seconds to let the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 2-19...
  • Page 62 Chapter 2: Basic Installation 2-20...

  • Page 63: Chapter 3: Bios Setup

    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.

  • Page 64: Bios Setup Program

    RTC RAM via the Clear CMOS button. • The BIOS setup program does not support the Bluetooth devices. Please visit ASUS website for the detailed BIOS content manual. BIOS menu screen The BIOS Setup program can be used under two modes: EZ Mode and Advanced Mode.

  • Page 65: Advanced Mode

    Qfan Control(F6) AI OC Guide(F11) AURA ON/OFF(F4) Menu items General help Last modified settings Go back to EZ Mode Hot Keys EZ Tuning Wizard Search on the FAQ Displays a quick overview of the system status and prediction ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO...
  • Page 66 Menu bar The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items: For saving the frequently-used system settings and configuration. My Favorites For changing the basic system configuration Main For changing the overclocking settings Extreme Tweaker For changing the advanced system settings Advanced For displaying the system temperature, power status, and changing Monitor...
  • Page 67 Move your mouse over this button to show a QR code, scan this QR code on your mobile device to connect to the BIOS FAQ web page of the ASUS support website. You can also scan the following QR code:...
  • Page 68 EZ Tuning Wizard This button above the menu bar allows you to view and configure the RAID settings of your system. Refer to section 3.2.5 EZ Tuning Wizard for more information. Last Modified button This button shows the items that you last modified and saved in BIOS Setup. Chapter 3: BIOS Setup...

  • Page 69: Ez Mode

    Click to go to Advanced mode Loads optimized Search on the FAQ default settings Click to display boot devices Selects the boot device priority The boot device options vary depending on the devices you installed to the system. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO...

  • Page 70: Q-Fan Control

    3.2.3 Q-Fan 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 Click to activate Click to activate DC Mode configured PWM Mode Select a profile to...
  • Page 71 Select the fan that you want to configure and to view its current status. Click and drag the speed points to adjust the fans’ operating speed. Click Apply to save the changes then click Exit (ESC). ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO...

  • Page 72: Ai Oc Guide

    3.2.4 AI OC Guide • The screenshot shown in this section is for reference purposes only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen. • This function is only enabled when using an unlocked CPU. The AI OC Guide allows you to enable the Ai Overclocking feature, or view a quick guide of the Ai Overclocking feature which highlights the recommended setup procedure and descriptions of the AI Overclocking.

  • Page 73: Ez Tuning Wizard

    Ensure that your HDDs have no existing RAID volumes. • Ensure to connect your HDDs to Intel SATA connectors. ® Select the port that you want to set to [RAID] mode, PCIE or SATA, then click Next. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 3-11...
  • Page 74 Select the type of storage for your RAID, Easy Backup or Super Speed, then click Next. For Easy Backup, click Next then select from Easy Backup (RAID 1) or Easy Backup (RAID 10). You can only select Easy Backup (RAID 10) if you connect four (4) HDDs. For Super Speed, click Next then select from Super Speed (RAID 0) or Super Speed (RAID 5).

  • Page 75: My Favorites

    My Favorites is your personal space where you can easily save and access your favorite BIOS items. My Favorites comes with several performance, power saving, and fast boot related items by default. You can personalize this screen by adding or removing items. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 3-13...
  • Page 76 Adding items to My Favorites To add BIOS items: Press <F3> on your keyboard or click MyFavorites(F3) from the BIOS screen to open Setup Tree Map screen. On the Setup Tree Map screen, select the BIOS items that you want to save in My Favorites screen.

  • Page 77: Main Menu

    If you install memory modules supporting the eXtreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.) Technology, choose this item to load the DIMM’s default XMP memory timings (CL, TRCD, TRP, TRAS) with BCLK frequency and other memory parameters optimized by ASUS. [XMP II] If you install memory modules supporting the eXtreme Memory Profile (X.M.P.) Technology, choose this item to load the DIMM’s complete default...
  • Page 78 CPU permanently. ASUS MultiCore Enhancement [Auto] This item allows you to maximize the oveclocking performance optimized by ASUS core ratio settings. [Disabled] This item allows you to set to default core ratio settings. CPU Core Ratio This item allows you to set the CPU core ratios.

  • Page 79: Advanced Menu

    Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] CPU C-States This item allows you to set the power saving of the CPU states. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 3-17...

  • Page 80: System Agent (Sa) Configuration

    3.6.3 System Agent (SA) Configuration The items in this menu allow you to adjust the Link Speed for PEG Port and Multi-Monitor. 3.6.4 PCH Configuration The items in this menu allow you to adjust the PCH PCI Express speed. PCI Express Configuration This item allows you to configure the PCI Express slots.

  • Page 81: Pch-Fw Configuration

    Auto-detects the M.2 device mode. If a SATA device is detected, SATA6G_2 will be disabled. [SATA mode] Only supports M.2 SATA devices. Please note that SATA6G_2 port cannot be used in this mode. [PCIE mode] Only supports M.2 PCIE devices. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 3-19...

  • Page 82: Apm Configuration

    PCIEX16_3 Bandwidth [X2] Run at X2 mode with SATA6G_56 enabled. [X4] Run at X4 mode for higher performance with SATA6G_56 disabled. LED lighting When system is in working state This item allows you to turn the RGB LED lighting on or off when the system is in the working state.

  • Page 83: Usb Configuration

    This menu displays the NVMe controller and Drive information of the connected devices. 3.6.14 HDD/SSD SMART Information The items in this menu display the SMART information of the connected devices. NVM Express devices do not support SMART information. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 3-21...

  • Page 84: Monitor Menu

    Monitor menu The Monitor menu displays the system temperature/power status, and allows you to change the fan settings. Q-fan Configuration Qfan Tuning Click this item to automatically detect the lowest speed and configure the minimum duty cycle for each fan. W_PUMP+ Control/AIO PUMP Control [Disabled] Disable the Water Pump control feature.
  • Page 85 Configuration options: [Legacy only] [UEFI driver first] Secure Boot This item allows you to configure the Windows Secure Boot settings and manage its keys to ® protect the system from unauthorized access and malwares during POST. ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO 3-23...

  • Page 86: Tool Menu

    3.9.1 ASUS EZ Flash 3 Utility This item allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 3. 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.

  • Page 87: Asus Secure Erase

    To launch ASUS Secure Erase, click Tool > ASUS Secure Erase on the Advanced mode menu. Check the ASUS support site for a full list of SSDs tested with ASUS Secure Erase. The drive may become unstable if you run ASUS Secure Erase on an incompatible SSD.

  • Page 88: Asus User Profile

    3.9.3 ASUS User Profile This item allows you to save and load multiple BIOS settings profiles. Load Profile This item allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Key in the profile number that saved your BIOS settings, press <Enter>, and then select Yes.

  • Page 89: Asus Spd Information

    This item displays the information and recommended configuration for the PCIE slots that the graphics card is installed in your system. This feature is only supported on selected ASUS graphics cards. Bus Interface This item allows you to select the bus interface.

  • Page 90: Updating Bios

    ® ASUS EZ Flash 3: Updates the BIOS using a USB flash drive. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3: Restores the BIOS using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted. 3.11.1...

  • Page 91: Asus Ez Flash 3

    3.11.2 ASUS EZ Flash 3 ASUS EZ Flash 3 allows you to download and update to the latest BIOS through the Internet without having to use a bootable floppy disk or an OS-based utility. Updating through the Internet varies per region and Internet conditions. Check your local Internet connection before updating through the Internet.
  • Page 92 To update the BIOS by Internet: Enter the Advanced Mode of the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tool menu to select ASUS EZ Flash Utility and press <Enter>. Select via Internet. Press the Left/Right arrow keys to select an Internet connection method, and then press <Enter>.

  • Page 93: Asus Crashfree Bios 3

    The BIOS file in the motherboard support DVD may be older than the BIOS file published on the ASUS official website. If you want to use the newer BIOS file, download the file at https://www.asus.com/support/ and save it to a USB flash drive.
  • Page 94 Chapter 3: BIOS Setup 3-32...

  • Page 95: Chapter 4: Raid Support

    ® RAID 1, RAID 5 and RAID 10 configuration. For more information on configuring your RAID sets, please refer to the RAID Configuration Guide which you can find at https://www.asus.com/support. 4.1.1 RAID definitions RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in parallel, interleaved stacks.
  • Page 96 Chapter 4: RAID Support...

  • Page 97: Appendix

    CPU self test failed or possible CPU cache error CPU micro-code is not found or micro-code update is failed Internal CPU error Reset PPI is not available Reserved for future AMI error codes 5C – 5F (continued on the next page) ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO...

  • Page 98: Q-Code Table

    Q-Code table Code Description S3 Resume is stared (S3 Resume PPI is called by the DXE IPL) S3 Boot Script execution Video repost OS S3 wake vector call Reserved for future AMI progress codes E4 – E7 S3 Resume Failed S3 Resume PPI not Found S3 Resume Boot Script Error S3 OS Wake Error...
  • Page 99 Reserved for ASL (see ASL Status Codes section below) Ready To Boot event Legacy Boot event Exit Boot Services event Runtime Set Virtual Address MAP Begin Runtime Set Virtual Address MAP End Legacy Option ROM Initialization System Reset (continued on the next page) ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO...
  • Page 100 Q-Code table Code Description USB hot plug PCI bus hot plug Clean-up of NVRAM Configuration Reset (reset of NVRAM settings) B8– BF Reserved for future AMI codes CPU initialization error System Agent initialization error PCH initialization error Some of the Architectural Protocols are not available PCI resource allocation error.

  • Page 101: Notices

    Notices FCC Compliance Information Responsible Party: Asus Computer International Address: 48720 Kato Rd., Fremont, CA 94538, USA Phone / Fax No: (510)739-3777 / (510)608-4555 This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
  • Page 102 Compliance Statement of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) This device complies with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada licence 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.
  • Page 103 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.
  • Page 104 доступний на: www.asus.com/support Cijeli tekst EU izjave o sukladnosti dostupan je na: www.asus.com/support Türkçe AsusTek Computer Inc., bu aygıtın temel gereksinimlerle ve ilişkili Čeština Společnost ASUSTeK Computer Inc. tímto prohlašuje, že toto Yönergelerin diğer ilgili koşullarıyla uyumlu olduğunu beyan eder.

  • Page 105: Asus Contact Information

    +1-510-739-3777 +1-510-608-4555 Web site http://www.asus.com/us/ Technical Support Support fax +1-812-284-0883 Telephone +1-812-282-2787 Online support http://qr.asus.com/techserv ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria) Address Harkort Str. 21-23, 40880 Ratingen, Germany +49-2102-959931 Web site http://www.asus.com/de Online contact http://eu-rma.asus.com/sales Technical Support Telephone +49-2102-5789555 Support Fax...
  • Page 106 A-10 Appendix...

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