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Chapter 4 UEFI SETUP UTILITY

4.1 Introduction

ASRock Interactive UEFI is a blend of system configuration tools, cool sound effects and stunning visuals. Not only will it make BIOS setup less difficult but also a lot more amusing. This section explains how to use the UEFI SETUP UTILITY to configure your system. You may run the UEFI SETUP UTILITY by pressing <F2> or <Del> right after you power on the computer, otherwise, the Power-On-Self-Test (POST) will continue with its test routines. If you wish to enter the UEFI SETUP UTILITY after POST, restart the system by pressing <Ctl> + <Alt> + <Delete>, or by pressing the reset button on the system chassis. You may also restart by turning the system off and then back on.

Because the UEFI software is constantly being updated, the following UEFI setup screens and descriptions are for reference purpose only, and they may not exactly match what you see on your screen.

4.1.1 UEFI Menu Bar

The top of the screen has a menu bar with the following selections:

Main

For setting system time/date information

OC Tweaker

For overclocking configurations

Advanced

For advanced system configurations

Tool

Useful tools

H/W Monitor

Displays current hardware status

Boot

For configuring boot settings and boot priority

Security

For security settings

Exit

Exit the current screen or the UEFI Setup Utility

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ASRock Z87 Extreme9/ac manual Introduction, Uefi Menu Bar

Z87 Extreme9/ac specifications

The ASRock Z87 Extreme9/ac motherboard is designed to empower enthusiasts and professionals who demand high performance, flexibility, and cutting-edge features. Built on Intel's Z87 chipset, this motherboard supports the fourth generation Intel Core processors, offering exceptional performance for both gaming and productivity tasks.

One of the standout features of the Z87 Extreme9/ac is its impressive power design. The motherboard is equipped with a 12-phase power design that allows for better power delivery and stability, crucial for overclocking. The Digi Power technology enhances the efficiency of power delivery, while the premium capacitors ensure longevity and reliability, allowing for increased operational lifetimes under heavy loads.

The ASRock Z87 Extreme9/ac comes with four DIMM slots supporting a maximum of 32GB DDR3 memory up to 3100 MHz when overclocked. This ample memory capacity makes it an excellent choice for memory-intensive applications such as video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming. The motherboard features an extensive array of USB ports, including USB 3.0 connectivity, enabling fast data transfer speeds for external devices.

For gaming and multimedia enthusiasts, the Z87 Extreme9/ac integrates a Realtek ALC1150 audio chip, which provides a high-definition sound quality that enhances the entire gaming experience. The motherboard also features the Purity Sound technology, providing a dedicated audio power supply, which minimizes electronic noise for superior audio fidelity.

Another key feature is the inclusion of dual Gigabit Ethernet ports powered by the Intel LAN chip, enabling load balancing and failover protection for a more reliable and faster network connection. The ASRock Z87 Extreme9/ac also supports Thunderbolt technology, providing ultra-fast data transfer speeds and the ability to connect multiple devices through a single port.

In terms of storage, the motherboard offers extensive support for SATA III and RAID configurations, enhancing data transfer rates and redundancy options. The Z87 Extreme9/ac provides several PCIe slots for expansion cards, ensuring users can customize their systems to meet their specific needs.

In summary, the ASRock Z87 Extreme9/ac is a feature-rich motherboard aimed at gamers and power users seeking advanced performance and stability. With its top-notch power delivery system, audio capabilities, and connectivity options, it stands as a solid foundation for building a high-performance computing environment.