2017-12-26
Many ASUS and ASUS ROG motherboards now have built-in RGB headers. This saves you the cost and hassle of buying and configuring a dedicated LED controller and power supply. All that sounds like a great benefit, but what does it actually mean? What, for example, is the difference between a standard RGB header and the ‘addressable’ headers you’ll find on some of our motherboards? Allow us to explain…
Many ASUS and ASUS ROG motherboards now have built-in RGB headers. This saves you the cost and hassle of buying and configuring a dedicated LED controller and power supply. All that sounds like a great benefit, but what does it actually mean? What, for example, is the difference between a standard RGB header and the ‘addressable’ headers you’ll find on some of our motherboards? Allow us to explain…
Standard RGB headers
Let’s start with standard RGB headers. These are 4-pin connectors that support 5050 RGB LED strips with a maximum power rating of 3A (12V)*. The 5050 bit, incidentally, relates to the size of the surface-mounted LEDs — which each measure 5.0mm x 5.0mm. All the LEDs on a single, standard 5050 RGB strip will display the same color, though that color is easily configured via the Aura software. For the best brightness, we recommend 5050 strip lengths of up to 3m.
Addressable RGB headers
Some ASUS and ASUS ROG motherboards additionally benefit from addressable RGB headers, which have a key underlying technical distinction. Specifically with Aura, an addressable RGB header allows you create more complex effects that will bring both your rig and connected gear to life in synchronized harmony.
Setup simplicity and Aura ecosystem
All Aura-enabled ASUS and ASUS ROG motherboards include the appropriate RGB LED extension cables for standard and addressable headers, making it easy to route the output to wherever it’s needed. We’ve also worked closely with a number of industry partners to ensure that Aura is the most complete RGB ecosystem around — allowing lighting effects to extend from the motherboard to the chassis, RGB strips, coolers, memory, PSU, and more. Just look for the Aura Sync logo for a guarantee of best compatibility and aesthetics.
* Specified configuration relates to X299 and later motherboards. Maximus VIII Hero/Alpha and Maximus IX series both have a 2A (12V) maximum power rating.
**Addressable headers are not compatible with standard RGB strips and gear.