Review - Motherboard Asus Sabertooth 990FX R2.0

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ASUS Announces World’s first AMD-Based Motherboard with PCI Express 3.0

The ASUS TUF Series SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 is the world’s first AMD-based motherboard with PCI Express 3.0 for three-way NVIDIA® SLI™ or AMD CrossFireX™ DirectX® 11 graphics card support. Tested to military and server-grade standards, it features dual-heatpipe heatsinks with CeraM!X micro-ridged coating to provide significantly improved heat dissipation. It also uses Thermal Radar technology for accurate temperature monitoring with independent fan speed control.

ASUS today announced the TUF Series SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0, the world’s first AMD-based motherboard to feature PCI Express 3.0 for use with nextgeneration high performance graphics cards. Up to three DirectX® 11 graphics cards with 28nm GPU technology can be used via NVIDIA® SLI™ or AMD CrossFireX™ to create desktop PCs with formidable graphics performance.

SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 also features renowned ASUS TUF Series thermal design for superior heat removal. Like all TUF Series motherboards, it undergoes military and server-grade testing to ensure absolute stability, reliability, and longevity. SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 is backed by a five-year warranty.

Military-grade components for superior reliability

SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 meets strict TUF Series quality assurance standards, which consist of multiple-stage military and server-grade tests. TUF-certified alloy chokes, together with solid state capacitors and MOSFETs, ensure complete reliability even when the motherboard is subjected to intense use for prolonged periods. Four DIMM slots support up to 32GB DDR3 memory at frequencies up to 2400MHz, aided by an eight-layered PCB that promotes faster memory performance while ensuring stability and compatibility with improved cross-component signal quality.

Sophisticated thermal management copes with extreme heat

TUF Series motherboards are designed to provide absolute stability and reliability under harsh operating conditions, and feature sophisticated thermal management to handle extreme heat. Both the Northbridge and Southbridge use dual-heatpipe heatsinks with CeraM!X micro-ridged coating that increases the effective heat dissipation surface area by around 50%.

SABERTOOTH 990FX/GEN3 R2.0 also features TUF Thermal Radar, which uses multiple heat sensors across the motherboard for real time temperature monitoring. Independent and automatic fan speed control then allows components to be cooled individually for maximum efficiency and operating stability.

Overview

Windows 8 Exclusive Features

Fast Boot
Instant OS Login
ASUS has released new hardware and software designs to shorten system boot-up time to 2-seconds* for a smoother user experience that removes annoying delays under Windows 8, and even previous versions of Windows. Faster system boot and restart means Windows starts quicker and higher efficiency - No more waiting around.
ASUS Boot Setting
Multi-startup Options 
Thanks to ASUS Windows 8 hardware optimization, ASUS Boot Setting provides better flexibility in customizing your PCs startup process. You can enter the BIOS directly with one click through a user-friendly interface, and quickly select your preferred system boot up method: either get to the OS in seconds or opt for regular boot up. Whatever your choice, settings are saved and persistent, with no need to choose every time you power on.
DirectKey
A Dedicated Button to Access the BIOS Directly
Designed for those requiring frequent BIOS access, users can easily enter the BIOS automatically when the PC is on standby power with the simple press of a button. It saves you time during boot-up from having to repeatedly press the DEL key. Convenience and ease at its best!

"Ultimate COOL!" Thermal Solution


CeraM!X - Heatsink Coating Tech.
50% Larger area for heat dissipation with the revolutionary ceramics-coating technology
Innovative ceramics effectively conducts heat away from the system. It replaces traditional anti-oxidant to dissipate heat better with its microscopic irregular surface and enlarged area. Better cooling leads to overall improvement in system stability.
TUF Thermal Radar
Real Time Temp Detection and Heat Removal 
The TUF Thermal Radar monitors temps in critical parts of the motherboard in real time, automatically adjusting fan speeds to make sure the system maintains high stability without overheating. It consists of multiple sensors for various components on the motherboard, giving users the ability to monitor each area, while increasing options for fan control housed inside the chassis. The Thermal Radar automatically calculates ideal fan speeds based on different parameters selected by users for each component, keeping everything cooler and longer lasting.

"TUF ENGINE!" Power Design


New DIGI+ Power Control
Leading digital power control solution with the best quality
New DIGI+ Power Control includes multiple digital voltage controllers, allowing ultra-precise modulation and tuning for both the CPU and DRAM. This innovative and industry-leading ASUS technology provides extremely accurate voltage tuning for better efficiency, stability and performance.


UEFI BIOS
Flexible and Easy BIOS Interface
ASUS UEFI BIOS offers a user-friendly interface that goes beyond traditional keyboard-only BIOS controls to enable more flexible and convenient mouse input. Users can easily navigate the UEFI BIOS with the smoothness of their operating system. Quick and simple overclocking and setup sharing is facilitated by the F12 hotkey BIOS snapshot feature. The exclusive EZ Mode displays frequently-accessed setup info, while the Advanced Mode is for experienced performance enthusiasts that demand far more intricate system control, including detailed DRAM information.
TUF Components (Alloy Choke, Cap. & MOSFET; Certified by Military-standard)
Certified for Tough Duty 
Get rugged performance even in the most challenging conditions with robust TUF chokes, solid capacitors, and MOSFETs--certified through third-party, military-grade testing. TUF Chokes, also known as the “Alloy Choke”, is a made of a compound of various types of metal instead standard iron, enables the support of up to a massive 40A of rated current, 25% higher than conventional component. Furthermore, the single piece packaing also elimates the emission of virbation noise, delivering superb charactoristics as well as durability under extreme conditions.
E.S.P. Efficient Switching Power Design
Optimal power efficiency for key components
Exclusively for this motherboard, the switching power design is provided not only for the CPU and memory, but also for other key components such as graphics cards, LAN and USB 3.0. E.S.P. dramatically improves system efficiency and reduces heat generation.

"Safe & Stable!" Guardian Angel

MemOK!
Any Memory is A-OK!
MemOK! quickly ensures memory boot compatibility. This remarkable memory rescue tool requires a mere push of a button to patch memory issues. MemOK! determines failsafe settings and dramatically improves your system boot success. Get your system up and running in no time!
ESD Guards
Unique protection of motherboard components from unexpected electrostatic discharges (ESD)
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can happen suddenly and its damaging effects is often underestimated. Exclusive ASUS anti-static chip, a protective circuit design, and the I/O shield provides four times better protection to extend component lifespan.

ASUS Exclusive Features


USB BIOS Flashback
Simple Plug & Press - Hardware-based BIOS Flashback 
A truly revolutionary hardware-based update solution. USB BIOS Flashback offers the most convenient way ever to update the BIOS! It allows users to update new UEFI BIOS versions even without hardware such as a CPU or DRAM installed into the motherboard. Just plug in a USB flash drive containing the BIOS file, and press the BIOS Flashback button for 3 seconds with the power supply connected. The UEFI BIOS will then automatically update without requiring further interaction. With its new, complementary Windows application, users can regularly check for UEFI BIOS updates and download the latest BIOS automatically. Hassle-free updating for the ultimate convenience! 
AI Suite II
One-stop Access to Innovative ASUS Features
With its user-friendly interface, ASUS AI Suite II consolidates all exclusive ASUS features into one simple-to-use package. It allows users to supervise overclocking, energy management, fan speed, voltage and sensor readings. This all-in-one software offers diverse and easy to use functions, with no need to switch back and forth between different utilities.
USB 3.0 Boost
Faster USB 3.0 Transmission with UASP
New ASUS USB 3.0 Boost technology supports UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol), the latest USB 3.0 standard. With USB 3.0 Boost technology, a USB device's transmission speed is significantly increased up to 170%, adding to an already impressive fast USB 3.0 transfer speed. ASUS software automatically accelerates data speeds for compatible USB 3.0 peripherals without the need for any user interaction.

World’s 1st USB 3.0 UASP Support – 170% faster instantly
Complete USB 3.0 Solution – Performance boost for most USB devices
Simple Plug & Boost – Auto detection design ensures best performance always 
Remote GO!
One-stop PC Remote Control and Home Entertainment
Remote GO! links PCs, tablets, smartphones and TVs wirelessly together through an existing LAN cable and route setup. It provides a seamless environment for a futuristic connected lifestyle with three useful functions: Media Streaming Hub, Remote Desktop and File Transfer.

Media Streaming Hub: Enjoy HD video, music and photos stored in the PC, streaming to your HDTV via Wi-Fi connectivity. You can even control the PC to play multimedia on a TV with a tablet.
Remote Desktop: Operate and control your PC in real-time from a smartphone or tablet for complete comfort and convenience.
File Transfer: Send and share files between your PC and smart devices* with only a right click on the mouse.

* iPad/iPhone can send, but not receive files from the PC. 
DirectKey
A Dedicated Button to Access the BIOS Directly
Designed for users requiring frequent BIOS access, you can easily enter the BIOS automatically when the PC is on standby power with a press of a button. It saves you time during boot-up from having to repeatedly press the DEL key. Convenience and ease at its best!
Network iControl
Real-time Network Bandwidth Control
With a single-click on/off button, the application currently in use has its data and network bandwidth prioritized over other programs. Moreover, you can prioritize your favorite software easily by configuring profiles through the intuitive user interface. Within the profile, programs can be pre-scheduled to run in a specific time period to avoid network congestion and long-waits on downloads. Auto PPPoE network connection provides a one-step setup for enhanced online convenience. Overall, it's an intuitive network bandwidth control center.

Latest Transfer Technology

Front Panel USB 3.0 Support
Convenient USB 3.0 Front Panel Compatibility 
ASUS provides standardized USB 3.0 front panel support, compatible with any chassis. Enjoy faster throughput of USB 3.0 without relegating cables or devices to the hard-to-reach rear I/O.
Extra SATA 6Gb/s Supports
Extra Ports, Extra Speed and Accessibility 
The AMD SB950 chipset natively supports the next-generation Serial ATA (SATA) interface, delivering up to 6Gb/s data transfers. ASUS provides extra SATA 6Gb/s ports with enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval and double the bandwidth of current bus systems.

CPU, Chipset and Graphics features

AMD® Socket AM3+ for AMD® FX Series CPU up to 8-core
This motherboard supports latest AMD® Socket AM3+ multi-core processors with up to 8-core native CPU cores and delivers better overclocking capabilities with less power consumption. It features AMD Turbo CORE Technology 2.0 and accelerates data transfer rate up to 5200MT/s via HyperTransport™ 3.0 based system bus. This motherboard
also supports AMD® CPUs in the new 32nm manufacturing process.
AMD® 990FX Chipset
AMD 990FX Chipset is designed to support up to 5.2GT/s HyperTransport™ 3.0 (HT 3.0) interface speed and dual PCI Express™ 2.0 x16 graphics. It is optimized with AMD latest AM3+ and multi-core CPUs to provide excellent system performance and overclocking capabilities.
Quad-GPU SLI and Quad-GPU CrossFireX Support!
Flexible Multi-GPU solutions, Your Weapon of Choice!
SABERTOOTH 990FX R2.0 brings multi-GPU configurations through both SLI™ and CrossFireX. This motherboard features the powerful AMD® 990FX/SB950 platform, optimizing PCIe allocation in multiple GPU configurations. Expect a brand new gaming style like you’ve never experienced before!

Windows 8 Ready

Windows 8 Ready
With hardware driver compatibility tested and assured, ASUS provides a complete solution for Windows 8 support. Starting now, users can experience the next generation operating system on ASUS hardware, and can rest assured that they can easily upgrade once the final driver versions are released without any compatibility issues!

Rich Software Bundled

ASUS CPU-Z
Whole New Design of CPU-Z
ASUS CPU-Z is a customized TUF version authorized by CPUID. It has the same functionality and credibility as the original version, with a unique design. Use the whole new look of TUF CPU-Z to truly report your CPU related information and your uniqueness.

* The color of icon will be changed by setting.

SABERTOOTH 990FX R2.0 Product Overview

Guaranteed Service

5 Year Warranty
The ultimate reliability of TUF Series is not only based on advanced thermal design, military-standard components and strict reliability tests, but also on the 5 Years Warranty* which is proudly provided.

* This service will follow the local standard and service policy.
** This service only covers failures or malfunctions that occur during the warranty period and under normal use conditions, as well as any material or workmanship defects.
ErP Ready
The motherboard is European Union´s Energy-related Products (ErP) ready, and ErP requires products to meet certain energy efficiency requirements in regards to energy consumptions. This is in line with ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and energy-efficient products through product design and innovation to reduce carbon footprint of the product and thus mitigate environmental impacts.

Specifications

  • CPU
    AMD AM3+ FX™/Phenom™ II/Athlon™ II/Sempron™ 100 Series Processors
    Supports AM3+ 32 nm CPU
    Supports CPU up to 8 cores
    Supports CPU up to 140 W
    AMD Cool 'n' Quiet™ Technology
  • Chipset
    AMD 990FX/SB950
  • Memory
    4 x DIMM, Max. 32GB, DDR3 1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz ECC, Non-ECC, Un-buffered Memory
    Dual Channel Memory Architecture
    * Refer to www.asus.com for the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists).
    * Due to OS limitation, when installing total memory of 4GB capacity or more, Windows® 32-bit operation system may only recognize less than 3GB. Install a 64-bit Windows® OS when you want to install 4GB or more memory on the motherboard.
    * Due to CPU spec., AMD 100 series CPUs support up to DDR3 1066MHz. With ASUS design, this motherboard can support up to DDR3 1333MHz.
  • System Bus
    Up to 5.2 GT/s HyperTransport™ 3.0
  • Multi-GPU Support
    Supports NVIDIA® Quad-GPU SLI™ Technology
    Supports AMD Quad-GPU CrossFireX™ Technology
  • Expansion Slots
    3 x PCIe 2.0 x16 (dual x16 or x16/x8/x8) *1
    1 x PCIe 2.0 x16 (x4 mode, black)
    1 x PCIe 2.0 x1
    1 x PCI
  • Storage
    AMD SB950 controller : 
    6 x SATA 6Gb/s port(s), brown
    Support Raid 0, 1, 5, 10
    ASMedia® PCIe SATA controller : 
    2 x SATA 6Gb/s port(s), gray
    2 x eSATA 6Gb/s port(s), red
  • LAN
    Realtek® 8111F, 1 x Gigabit LAN Controller(s)
  • Audio
    Realtek® ALC892 8-Channel High Definition Audio CODEC
    - Supports : Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, Front Panel Jack-retasking
    Audio Feature :
    - Absolute Pitch 192kHz/ 24-bit True BD Lossless Sound
    - Blu-ray audio layer Content Protection
    - ASUS Noise Filter
    - Optical S/PDIF out port(s) at back panel
  • USB Ports
    ASMedia® USB 3.0 controller :
    2 x USB 3.0/2.0 port(s) (2 at mid-board)
    ASMedia® USB 3.0 controller :
    4 x USB 3.0/2.0 port(s) (4 at back panel, blue)
    AMD SB950 controller :
    12 x USB 2.0/1.1 port(s) (8 at back panel, , 4 at mid-board)
  • Special Features
    TUF ENGINE! Power Design :
    - 8 +2 Digital Phase Power Design
    - TUF Components (Alloy choke, Cap. & MOSFET; certified by military-standard)
    - ASUS DIGI+ Power Control Utility
    - E.S.P. : Efficient Switching Power Design
    Ultimate COOL! Thermal Solution :
    - TUF CeraM!X Heatsink Coating Tech.
    - TUF Thermal Radar
    ASUS Exclusive Features :
    - Remote GO!
    - USB BIOS Flashback
    - MemOK!
    - AI Suite II
    - Ai Charger+
    - Anti-Surge
    - ESD Guards
    - Front Panel USB 3.0 Support
    - ASUS UEFI BIOS EZ Mode featuring friendly graphics user interface
    - Network iControl
    - USB 3.0 Boost
    ASUS EZ DIY :
    - DirectKey
    - ASUS O.C. Profile
    - ASUS EZ Flash 2
    - ASUS MyLogo 2
    - Multi-language BIOS
    ASUS Q-Design :
    - ASUS Q-Shield
    - ASUS Q-LED (CPU, DRAM, VGA, Boot Device LED)
    - ASUS Q-Slot
    - ASUS Q-DIMM
    - ASUS Q-Connector
  • Operating System Support
    Windows® 8.1
    Windows® 8
    Windows® 7
    Windows® Vista
    Windows® XP
  • Back I/O Ports
    1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port(s)
    2 x eSATA 6Gb/s
    1 x LAN (RJ45) port(s)
    4 x USB 3.0 (blue)
    8 x USB 2.0
    1 x Optical S/PDIF out
    6 x Audio jack(s)
    1 x USB BIOS Flashback Button(s)
  • Internal I/O Ports
    1 x USB 3.0 connector(s) support(s) additional 2 USB 3.0 port(s) (19-pin, moss green)
    2 x USB 2.0 connector(s) support(s) additional 4 USB 2.0 port(s)
    1 x TPM connector(s)
    1 x COM port(s) connector(s)
    8 x SATA 6Gb/s connector(s)
    1 x CPU Fan connector(s) (1 x 4 -pin)
    1 x CPU OPT Fan connector(s) (1 x 4 -pin)
    4 x Chassis Fan connector(s) (4 x 4 -pin)
    1 x S/PDIF out header(s)
    1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector(s)
    1 x 8-pin ATX 12V Power connector(s)
    1 x Front panel connector(s)
    1 x System panel(s) (Q-Connector)
    1 x DirectKey Button(s)
    1 x DRCT header(s)
    1 x MemOK! button(s)
    1 x Clear CMOS jumper(s)
  • Accessories
    User's manual
    ASUS Q-Shield
    4 x SATA 6Gb/s cable(s)
    1 x SLI bridge(s)
    1 x Q-connector(s) (2 in 1)
    1 x TUF Certification card(s)
    1 x TUF 5 Year Warranty manual(s) (by region)
  • BIOS
    64 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI BIOS, PnP, SLP2.1, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 2.7, ACPI 2.0a, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash 2, F12 PrintScreen, F3 Shortcut Function and ASUS DRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect) memory information
  • Manageability
    WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE
  • Support Disc
    Drivers
    Anti-virus software (OEM version)
    ASUS Update
    ASUS Utilities 
  • Form Factor
    ATX Form Factor
    12 inch x 9.6 inch ( 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm )
  • Note
    *1: When running dual graphics cards, be sure to insert the card in the first and third PCIex16 slot to get the best performance.

Manual & Document

Version E8042
DescriptionSABERTOOTH 990FX R2.0 User's Manual (English)
File Size11.76 MBytesupdate 2013/01/16
Download fromGlobal