Intel socket LGA1155 CPUs have an embedded memory controller, meaning that it is the processor, not the chipset, which defines what memory technologies you can have and the maximum amount of memory that is possible. The motherboard, however, may have a limitation as to how much memory can be installed.

The integrated memory controller from socket LGA1155 processors supports DDR3 memories up to 1,333 MHz (“Sandy Bridge” CPUs) or up to 1,600 MHz (“Ivy Bridge” CPUs). According to ASUS, the P8Z77-V PRO supports memories up to 2,600 MHz.

The ASUS P8Z77-V PRO has four memory sockets. Since DDR3 memory modules can be found in capacities up to 8 GB, you can have up to 32 GB with this motherboard if you use four 8 GB modules.

In order to enable the dual-channel mode, you must install two or four memory modules. On the ASUS P8Z77-V PRO, the first and third memory sockets are blue, while the second and fourth are black. When installing two memory modules, use the blue sockets.

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Figure 3: Memory sockets; install two or four modules for the best performance

As with other motherboards from ASUS, the P8Z77-V PRO comes with the “MemOK!” feature, which allows you to test the compatibility of the memory modules that are installed by pressing the button shown in Figure 4.

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Figure 4: The MemOK! button