Motherboard P5N32-E SLI Plus
E2979 First Edition V1 December 2006 Copyright © 2006 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).
Contents Notices......................................................................................................... vii Safety information..................................................................................... viii About this guide.......................................................................................... ix P5N32-E SLI Plus specifications summary............................................... xi Chapter 1: Product introduction 1.1 Welcome!.............................
Contents 2.5.4 PCI slots......................................................................... 2-20 2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slot........................................................ 2-20 2.5.6 PCI Express x16 slots.................................................... 2-20 2.6 Jumper......................................................................................... 2-21 2.7 Audio card installation............................................................... 2-22 2.8 Connectors...........
Contents 4.3.4 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8 4.9 Legacy Diskette A ......................................................... 4-13 4.3.5 Primary IDE Master/Slave.............................................. 4-14 4.3.6 SATA 1 ~ 6.......................................................................................4-16 4.3.7 HDD SMART Monitoring................................................ 4-17 4.3.8 Installed Memory............................................................ 4-17 4.3.
Contents Chapter 5: Installing an operating system.................................................... 5-1 5.2 Support DVD information............................................................. 5-1 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.2.1 Running the support DVD................................................ 5-1 5.2.2 Drivers menu.................................................................... 5-2 5.2.3 Utilities menu................................................................... 5-3 5.2.4 Make Disk menu.
Notices Federal Communications Commission Statement This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: • This device may not cause harmful interference, and • This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
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.
About this guide This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard. How this guide is organized This guide contains the following parts: • Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. • Chapter 2: Hardware information This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components.
Conventions used in this guide To make sure 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. IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task. NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
P5N32-E SLI Plus specifications summary CPU LGA775 socket for Intel® Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® Extreme / Pentium® D / Pentium® 4 / Celeron® D Processors Intel® Quad-core CPU Ready Compatible with Intel® 06/05B/05A processors Note: Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for the Intel® CPU support list.
P5N32-E SLI Plus specifications summary High Definition Audio SupremeFX Audio Card - ADI 1988B 8-channel High Definition Audio CODEC - Supports Jack-Sensing, Multi‑streaming and Jack-Retasking Coaxial, Optical S/PDIF out DTS® Connect IEEE 1394 VIA6308P��������������������� controller supports: - 2 x IEEE 1394a connectors (1 at mid-board, 1 on the rear panel) USB Supports up to 10 USB 2.0/1.
P5N32-E SLI Plus specifications summary Internal connectors 1 x Floppy disk drive connector 1 x IDE connector for 2 devices 6 x Serial ATA connectors 3 x USB 2.0 connectors support six additional USB 2.
xiv
This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.
Chapter summary 1 1.1 Welcome!....................................................................................... 1-1 1.2 Package contents.......................................................................... 1-1 1.3 Special features.............................................................................
1.1 Welcome! Thank you for buying an ASUS® P5N32-E SLI Plus motherboard! The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards! Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in your package with the list below. 1.2 Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items.
1.3 Special features 1.3.1 Product highlights Green ASUS This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packaging to safeguard consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment. Intel® Core™2 / Quad-core Processor Ready This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Core™2 processor in the LGA775 package.
DDR2 memory support The motherboard supports DDR2 memory that features data transfer rates of 800/667/533 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR2 architecture doubles the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance, eliminating bottlenecks with peak bandwidths of up to 12.8 GB/s. See page 2‑15 for details. Serial ATA I/II technology The motherboard fully supports the Serial ATA II 3.
S/PDIF digital sound ready This motherboard provides convenient connectivity to external home theater audio systems via coaxial and optical S/PDIF-out (SONY/PHILIPS Digital Interface) jacks.It allows to transfer digital audio without converting to analog format and keeps the best signal quality. See pages 2-24 and 2-25 for details. Dual Gigabit LAN solution The motherboard comes with dual Gigabit LAN controllers to provide the total solution for your networking needs.
1.3.2 ASUS AI Lifestyle features ASUS has devoted special efforts to address the thermal issues across the motherboard, and most notably the areas that reside the CPU, power, Northbridge and Southbridge. Advanced thermal design Stack Cool 2 Stack Cool 2 is a fan-less and zero-noise cooling solution offered exclusively by ASUS. It effectively transfers heat generated by the critical components to the other side of the specially designed PCB (printed circuit board) for effective heat dissipation.
ASUS EZ DIY ASUS Q-Connector The ASUS Q-Connector allows you to connect or disconnect chassis front panel cables in one easy step with one complete module. This unique adapter eliminates the trouble of plugging in one cable at a time, making connection quick and accurate. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 allows users to restore corrupted BIOS data from a USB flash disk containing the BIOS file. This utility saves users the cost and hassle of buying a replacement BIOS chip.
1.3.3 ASUS special features ASUS O.C. Profile The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Profile that allows users to conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be stored in the CMOS or a separate file, giving users freedom to share and distribute their favorite overclocking settings. AI NOS™ Applications such as 3D games and video editing demand a huge chunk of system resource.
1- Chapter 1: Product Introduction
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It includes description of the jumpers and connectors on the motherboard.
Chapter summary 2 2.1 Before you proceed...................................................................... 2-1 2.2 Motherboard overview.................................................................. 2-2 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU).................................................... 2-7 2.4 System memory.......................................................................... 2-15 2.5 Expansion slots........................................................................... 2-18 2.
2.1 Before you proceed Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. • Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or to a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity. • Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
2.2 Motherboard overview Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits into it. Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. 2.2.1 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, make sure that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation.
2.2.3 ASUS Stack Cool 2 The motherboard comes with the ASUS Stack Cool 2 cooling solution that lowers the temperature of critical heat generating components. The motherboard uses a special design on the printed circuit board (PCB) to dissipate heat that critical components generate.
2.2.4 Motherboard layout 24.5cm (9.6in) CPU_FAN NVIDIA® LAN2_USB34 CHA_FAN1 USB910 NFORCE® dual x 16 SLI PWR_FAN PRI_IDE Audio slot OPT_FAN2 ® PCIEX16_1 Marvell 88E1116 FLOPPY Intel® Edition 30.5cm (12.
2.2.5 Layout contents Slots 1. 2. 3. 4. DDR2 DIMM slots PCI slots PCI Express x1 slot PCI Express x16 slots Page 2-15 2-20 2-20 2-20 Jumper 1. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC_EN) Page 2-21 Rear panel connectors 1. PS/2 mouse port (green) 2. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port 3. LAN 1 (RJ-45) port. 4. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port 5. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2, 3 and 4 6 IEEE1394a port 7. Optical S/PDIF Out port 8. PS/2 keyboard port (purple) Page 2-23 2-23 2-23 2-23 2-25 2-25 2-25 2-25 Supreme FX 1. Line In port (light blue) 2.
Internal connectors 1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) 2. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE) 3. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1-6) 4. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB 78, USB910) 5. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) 6. CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1, 3-pin OPT-FAN 1~5, 3-pin PWR_FAN) 7. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) 8. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 2 x 4-pin ATX12V) Page 2-26 2-26 2-27 2-28 2-29 2-30 9.
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA775 socket designed for the Intel® Quad-core / Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® Extreme / Pentium® D/ Pentium® 4 and Celeron® D processors. • Make sure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU. • Connect the chassis fan cable to the CHA_FAN1 connector to ensure system stability. • Upon purchase of the motherboard, make sure that the PnP cap is on the socket and the socket contacts are not bent.
2.3.1 Installing the CPU To install a CPU: 1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard. ® P5N32-E SLI Plus P5N32-E SLI Plus CPU Socket 775 Before installing the CPU, make sure that the socket box is facing towards you and the load lever is on your left. 2. Press the load lever with your thumb (A), then move it to the left (B) until it is released from the retention tab. Retention tab Load lever A PnP cap B This side of the socket box should face you.
4. Lift the load plate with your thumb and forefinger to a 100º angle (A), then push the PnP cap from the load plate window to remove (B). B A Load plate Alignment key 5. Position the CPU over the socket, making sure that the gold triangle is on the bottom‑left corner of the socket then fit the socket alignment key into the CPU notch. CPU notch Gold triangle mark The CPU fits in only one correct orientation.
2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan The Intel LGA775 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum ���������������������������������� thermal �������������������������� condition and performance. ® • When you buy a boxed Intel® processor, the package includes the CPU fan and heatsink assembly. If you buy a CPU separately, make sure that you use only Intel®‑certified multi‑directional heatsink and fan.
2. Push down two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to secure the heatsink and fan assembly in place. B A A 3. A B B A B Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN. ® CPU FAN PWM CPU FAN IN CPU FAN PWR GND CPU_FAN P5N32-E SLI Plus P5N32-E SLI Plus CPU fan connector Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector.
2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan: 1. Disconnect the CPU fan cable from the connector on the motherboard. 2. Rotate each fastener counterclockwise. 3. Pull up two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to disengage the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard. 4. 2-12 A B B A B A A B Carefully remove the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard.
5. Rotate each fastener clockwise to ensure correct orientation when reinstalling. Narrow end of the groove The narrow end of the groove should point outward after resetting. (The photo shows the groove shaded for emphasis.) Refer to the documentation in the boxed or stand-alone CPU fan package for detailed information on CPU fan installation.
2.3.4 Installing the optional fan Install the optional fan only if you are using a passive cooler or a water cooler. Installing the optional fan with an active CPU cooler will interfere with the airflow and destabilize the system. 1. Position the fan above the pipe and heatsink assembly. 2. Fit the grooved edge to the heatsink. 3. Carefully push down the fan until it snugly fits the heatsink, then connect the fan cables. 4. The above photo shows the fan installed on the motherboard.
2.4 System memory 2.4.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. A DDR2 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR DIMM but has a 240-pin footprint compared to the 184-pin DDR DIMM. DDR2 DIMMs are notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR DIMM socket.
2.4.2 Memory configurations You may install 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR2 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. • For dual-channel configuration, the total size of memory module(s) installed per channel must be the same (DIMM_A1 + DIMM_A2 = DIMM_B1 + DIMM_B2). • Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, we recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor. Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for the latest DDR2 Qualified Vendors List.
2.4.3 Installing a DIMM Unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so can cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components. 2 To install a DIMM: 1. Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clips outward. 2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break on the socket. 3.
2.5 Expansion slots In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub‑sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support. Make sure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. 2.5.1 Installing an expansion card To install an expansion card: 1.
2.5.
2.5.4 PCI slots The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI specifications. Refer to the figure below for the location of the slots. 2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slot This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications. ������������������������������ Refer to the figure below for the location of the slot. 2.5.
2.6 Jumper Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC) You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. To erase the RTC RAM: 1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3 to enable the CLRTC function. 3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer. 4. Hold down the key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter data.
2.7 2-22 Audio card installation 1. Take out the Audio card from the package. 2. Locate the slot on the motherboard. 3. Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card sits on the slot completely. 4. The above photo shows the audio card installed on the motherboard.
2.8 Connectors 2.8.1 Rear panel connectors 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 9 10 14 13 12 11 1. PS/2 mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse. 2. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device via an optical S/PDIF cable. LAN 1 (RJ-45) port. Supported by NV Gigabit LAN controller, this port allows Gigabit connection to a Local ACTIVITY/ SPEED LINK LED LED Area Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the table on the next page for the LAN port LED indications.
64-bit OS LAN port LED indications Activity/Link DNR DNR DNR DNR Speed LED DNR DNR DNR DNR Description Soft-off Mode During Power ON/OFF 100 Mbps connection 1 Gbps connection 5. Line In port (light blue). This port connects the tape, CD, DVD player, or other audio sources. 6. Line Out port (lime). This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In 4-channel, 6-channel, and 8-channel configuration, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out. 7. Microphone port (pink).
11. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2, 3 and 4. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices. 12. IEEE 1394a port. This 6-pin IEEE 1394a port provides high-speed connectivity for audio/video devices, storage peripherals, PCs, or portable devices. 13. Optical S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device via an optical S/PDIF cable. 14. PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.
2.8.2 1. Internal connectors Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) This connector is for the provided floppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert one end of the cable to this connector, then connect the other end to the signal connector at the back of the floppy disk drive. Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when using a FDD cable with a covered Pin 5. FLOPPY NOTE: Orient the red markings on the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.
PRI_IDE NOTE: Orient the red markings (usually zigzag) on the IDE ribbon cable to PIN 1. ® P5N32-E SLI Plus PIN 1 P5N32-E SLI Plus IDE connector 3. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1-6) These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk drives. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, or JBOD configuration������������������������ with the onboard NVIDIA® MediaShield™ RAID controller.
Right-angle side Connect the right-angle side of SATA signal cable to the SATA device, or connect the right‑angle side of the SATA cable to the onboard SATA port to avoid mechanical conflict with huge graphics cards. 4. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78, USB910) These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.
5. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) This connector is for a IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. ® GND +12V TPB2GND TPA2- P5N32-E SLI Plus IE1394_2 +12V TPB2+ GND TPA2+ PIN1 P5N32-E SLI Plus IEEE 1394 connector Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector.
6. CPU, chassis, power, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1, 3-pin PWR_FAN, 3‑pin OPT_FAN1~5) The fan connectors support cooling fans of 1A~2.2A (26.4 W max.) at +12V. Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, making sure that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector. DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components.
7. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch. Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal is then generated as a chassis intrusion event.
• For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 550 W. • Do not forget to connect the 4-pin/8pin EATX12V power plug; otherwise, the system will not boot. • Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when configuring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.
9. S/PDIF output connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_O2) This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s). Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. +5V GND SPDIFOUT ® P5N32-E SLI Plus SPDIF_O2 P5N32-E SLI Plus SPDIF OUT connector The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.
10. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. +5V Ground Ground Speaker SPEAKER PLED- PLED+ PLED RESET IDE_LED P5N32-E SLI Plus Reset Ground ® PWR Ground IDE_LED+ IDE_LED- PANEL PWR * Requires an ATX power supply. P5N32-E SLI Plus System panel connector • 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.
ASUS Q-Connector (system panel) You can use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect chassis front panel cables in a few steps. Refer to the instructions below to install the ASUS QConnector. 1. Connect the front panel cables to the ASUS Q-Connector. Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector to know the detailed pin definitions, then match them to the respective front panel cable labels. 2.
2-36 Chapter 2: Hardware information
This chapter describes the power up sequence, the vocal POST messages, and ways of shutting down the system.
Chapter summary 3 3.1 Starting up for the first time......................................................... 3-1 3.2 Turning off the computer..............................................................
3.1 Starting up for the first time 1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. 2. Be sure that all switches are off. 3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. 4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector. 5. Turn on the devices in the following order: 6. a. Monitor b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain) c.
3.2 Turning off the computer 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function If you are using Windows® 2000: 1. Click the Start button then click Shut Down... 2. Make sure that the Shut Down option button is selected, then click the OK button to shut down the computer. 3. The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down. If you are using Windows® XP or later version: 1. Click the Start button then select Turn Off Computer. 2. Click the Turn Off button to shut down the computer. 3.
This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
Chapter summary 4 4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS............................................. 4-1 4.2 BIOS setup program..................................................................... 4-9 4.3 Main menu................................................................................... 4-13 4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu.............................................................. 4-18 4.5 Advanced menu.......................................................................... 4-25 4.
4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. 1. ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.) 2. ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS in DOS using a floppy disk or a USB flash disk.) 3. Award BIOS Flash Utility (Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable floppy disk.) Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility. Updating the BIOS through the Internet To update the BIOS through the Internet: 4- 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears. 2. Select Update BIOS from the Internet option from the drop‑down menu, then click Next. 3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network traffic, or click Auto Select.
4. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download. Click Next. 5. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process. The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update the utility to avail all its features. Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file To update the BIOS through a BIOS file: 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate.
4.1.2 1. Creating a bootable floppy disk Do either one of the following to create a bootable floppy disk. DOS environment a. Insert a 1.44MB floppy disk into the drive. b. At the DOS prompt, type format A:/S then press . Windows® XP environment a. Insert a 1.44 MB floppy disk to the floppy disk drive. b. Click Start from the Windows® desktop, then select My Computer. c. Select the 3 1/2 Floppy Drive icon. d. Click File from the menu, then select Format. A Format 3 1/2 Floppy Disk window appears.
4.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go through the long process of booting from a floppy disk and using a DOS‑based utility. The EZ Flash utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing + during the Power-On Self Tests (POST). To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2: 1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for the motherboard. 2.
4.1.4 Updating the BIOS The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) can be updated using the AwardBIOS Flash Utility. Follow these instructions to update the BIOS using this utility. 1. Download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS web site. Rename the file to P5N32-EP.BIN and save it to a floppy disk, CD ROM or a USB flash disk in FAT 16/12 format. Save only the updated BIOS file in the disk to avoid loading the wrong BIOS file. 2. Copy the AwardBIOS Flash Utility (awdflash.
6. Type the BIOS file name in the File Name to Program field, then press . AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.14 (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved For NV Dual x16 SLI-P5N32-EP DATE:03/30/2006 Flash Type - PMC Pm49FL004T LPC/FWH File Name to Program: P5N32-EP.bin Message: Do You Want To Save Bios (Y/N) 7. Press when the utility prompts you to save the current BIOS file. The following screen appears. 8.
4.1.5 Saving the current BIOS file You can use the AwardBIOS Flash Utility to save the current BIOS file. You can load the current BIOS file when the BIOS file gets corrupted during the flashing process. Make sure that the floppy disk, CD ROM or a USB flash disk has enough disk space to save the file. To save the current BIOS file using the AwardBIOS Flash Utility: 1. Follow steps 1 to 6 of the previous section. 2. Press when the utility prompts you to save the current BIOS file.
4.2 BIOS setup program This motherboard supports a programmable Low-Pin Count (LPC) chip that you can update using the provided utility described in section “4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS.” Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconfiguring your system, or prompted to“Run Setup.” This section explains how to configure your system using this utility. Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the configuration of your computer in the future.
4.2.1 BIOS menu screen Menu items Main Menu bar Extreme Tweaker Configuration fields Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit System Time System Date Language 15 : 30 : 36 Sat, Jan 21 2006 [English] Legacy Diskette A: [1.44M, 3.5 in.
4.2.3 Legend bar At the bottom of the Setup screen is a legend bar. The keys in the legend bar allow you to navigate through the various setup menus. The following table lists the keys found in the legend bar with their corresponding functions.
4.2.7 Pop-up window Select a menu item then press to display a pop-up window with the configuration options for that item. Main Extreme Tweaker Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced Power Boot Tools System Time System Date Language 15 : 30 : 36 Thu, Apr 6 2006 [English] Legacy Diskette A: [1.44M, 3.5 in.] A: Primary IDE Master Legacy Diskette [ST321122A] Primary IDE Slave [ASUS CDS520/A] Disabled ..... [ ] ������������ SATA1������� [None] 720K , 3.5 in.[None] .....
4.3 Main menu When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an overview of the basic system information. Refer to section “4.2.1 BIOS menu screen” for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them. Main Extreme Tweaker Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit System Time System Date Language 15 : 30 : 36 Sat, Jan 21 2006 [English] Legacy Diskette A: [1.44M, 3.5 in.
4.3.5 Primary IDE Master/Slave While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of IDE devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each IDE device. Select a device item then press to display the IDE device information.
Access Mode [Auto] The default [Auto] allows automatic detection of an IDE hard disk drive. Select [CHS] for this item if you set the IDE Primary Master/Slave to [Manual]. Configuration options: [CHS] [LBA] [Large] [Auto] Before attempting to configure a hard disk drive, make sure you have the correct configuration information supplied by the drive manufacturer. Incorrect settings may cause the system to fail to recognize the installed hard disk. Capacity Displays the auto-detected hard disk capacity.
4.3.6 SATA1/2/3/4/5/6 While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of Serial ATA devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SATA device. Select a device item then press to display the SATA device information.
Head Shows the number of the hard disk read/write heads. This item is not configurable. Landing Zone Shows the number of landing zone per track. This item is not configurable. Sector Shows the number of sectors per track. This item is not configurable. After entering the IDE hard disk drive information into BIOS, use a disk utility, such as FDISK, to partition and format new IDE hard disk drives. This is necessary so that you can write or read data from the hard disk.
4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu The Extreme menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related items. Take caution when changing the settings of the Extreme menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. Main x x x x x Extreme Tweaker Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit AI Tuning Overclock Options N.O.S. Option System Clocks FSB & Memory Config Overclocking Over Voltage� NVIDIA GPU EX [Auto] Disabled Press [Enter] to select overclock profile.
The following items become user-configurable when you set AI Tuning to [Manual]. System Clocks This sub-menu allows you to adjust the system frequency-related items. Select an item, then press to edit.
FSB & Memory Config This sub-menu allows you to adjust the system frequency-related items. Select an item, then press to edit. Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker FSB & Memory Config x FSB - Memory Clock Mode FSB - Memory Ratio FSB (QDR), MHz Actual FSB (QDR), MHz MEM (DDR), MHz Actual MEM (DDR), MHz [Linked] [Auto] [800] 800.0 Linked 667 Select Menu Item Specific Help System clock mode [Optimal] Set FSB and memory speed automatically. [Linked] Enter FSB Speed manually.
4.4.2 Overclocking This sub-menu allows you to adjust the system frequency-related items. Select an item, then press to edit. Extreme Tweaker Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Overclocking Select Menu CPU Type Genuine Intel (R) CPU CPU Speed 2.80GHz Cache RAM 1024K x2 CPU Multiplier [17] X X Item Specific Help Memory Timing Setting Spread Spectrum Control Intel SpeedStep [Disabled] CPU Internal Thermal Control [Auto] TM2 Bus Ratio 12 X TM2 Bus VID 1.
Command Per Clock (CMD) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 clock] [2 clock] tRRD [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]...[15] tRC [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]...[31] tWR [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] tWTR [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]...[15] tREF [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] Async Latency [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1.00nS] [1.25nS] [1.50nS] [1.
Intel SpeedStep [Disabled] This item is user-configurable only when you set [AI Tuning] to [Standard], [Auto], or [AI N.O.S.].
1.2V HT Voltage [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1.20V] [1.25V] [1.30V]...[1.90V] [1.95V] NB Core Voltage [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1.20V] [1.25V] [1.30V]...[2.70V] [2.75V] SB Core Voltage [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1.50V] [1.55V] [1.60V] [1.65V] [1.70V] [1.75V] [1.80V] [1.85V] CPU VTT Voltage [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1.20V] [1.25V] [1.30V] [1.35V]...[1.50V] [1.
4.5 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for system devices. Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. Main Extreme Tweaker Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Select Menu AI NET2 PCIPnP Onboard Device Configuration USB Configuration F1:Help ESC: Exit 4.5.1 ↑↓ : Select Item →←: Select Menu Item Specific Help Press [Enter] to set.
4.5.2 PCIPnP Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced PCIPnP Plug & Play O/S Primary Display Adapter Select Menu [No] [PCI] Item Specific Help Select Yes if you are using a Plug and Play capable operating system. Select No if you need the BIOS to configure non-boot devices. Plug & Play O/S [No] When set to [No], the BIOS configures all the devices in the system.
4.5.
Serial-ATA Configuration This sub-menu allows you to change Serial ATA settings. Select an item then press to edit.
Onboard 1394 [Enabled] Allows you to disable or enable the onboard 1394 device support. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] USB Configuration The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an item then press to display the configuration options. Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced USB Configuration USB Controller USB2.0 Controller USB Legacy support [Enabled] [Enabled] [Enabled] Select Menu Item Specific Help Enable or disable the USB 1.1 and 2.
4.6 Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) and the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press to display the configuration options. Main Extreme Tweaker Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit ACPI Suspend Type ACPI APIC support APM Configuration Hardware Monitor F1:Help ESC: Exit 4.6.
4.6.
Restore on AC Power Loss [Power-Off] Allows you to enable or disable the Restore on AC Power Loss function. Configuration options: [Power-Off] [Power-On] PWR Button < 4 secs [Instant-Off] Allows you to set the event after the power button is pressed for more than 4 seconds. Configuration options: [Suspend] [Instant-Off] Power Up On PCI/PCIE Devices [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the PME to wake up from S5 by PCI devices & NV Onboard LAN.
4.6.4 Hardware Monitor The items in this sub-menu displays the hardware monitor values automatically detected by the BIOS. It also allows you to change CPU Q-Fan feature-related parameters. Select an item then press to display the configuration options.
Temperature Monitor Power Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Temperature Monitor CPU Temperature M/B Temperature 57ºC 37ºC Select Menu Item Specific Help CPU, M/B Temperature The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard and CPU temperatures. These items are not user-configurable.
Fan Speed Control Power Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Fan Speed Control x CPU CPU CHA CHA CHA Fan Fan Fan Fan Fan Control Duty Cycle Control Duty Cycle Q-Fan Sense [Duty Cycle Mode] [100%] [Duty Cycle Mode] [100%] CPU Temperature Select Menu Item Specific Help Press [Enter] to enable or disable. CPU / CHA / OPT Fan1, 2, 3, Fan Control [Duty Cycle Mode] Allows you to select the fan control mode.
4.7 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then press to display the sub-menu. Main Extreme Tweaker Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Select Menu Boot Device Priority Removable Drives Hard Disk Drives CDROM Drives Boot Settings Configuration Security Item Specific Help Select Boot Device Priority full ↑↓ : Select Item →←: Select Menu F1:Help ESC: Exit 4.7.
4.7.2 Removable Drives Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Boot Removable Drives 1. Floppy Disks Select Menu Item Specific Help 1. Floppy Disks Allows you to assign a removable drive attached to the system. 4.7.3 Hard Disk Drives Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Boot Hard Disk Drives 1. 1st Master: XXXXXXXXX Select Menu Item Specific Help 1. 1st Master: XXXXXXXXX Allows you to assign hard disk drives attached to the system. 4.7.
4.7.
Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec) [6] Allows you to select the rate at which a character repeats when you hold a key. Configuration options: [6] [8] [10] [12] [15] [20] [24] [30] Typematic Delay (Msec) [250] Allows you to set the delay before keystrokes begin to repeat. Configuration options: [250] [500] [750] [1000] OS Select for DRAM > 64MB [Non-OS2] Set this item to OS2 only when you are running on an OS/2 operating system with an installed RAM of greater than 64 MB.
3. When prompted, confirm the password by typing the exact characters again, then press . The password field setting is changed to Set. To clear the password: 1. Select the password field and press twice. The following message appears: PASSWORD DISABLED !!! Press any key to continue... 2. Press any key to continue. The password field setting is changed to Clear. A note about passwords The Supervisor password is required to enter the BIOS Setup program preventing unauthorized access.
4.8 Tools menu The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item then press to display the sub-menu. Main Extreme Tweaker Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit ASUS Music Alarm ASUS O.C. Profile ASUS EZ Flash 2 F1:Help ESC: Exit 4.8.
Alarm Time (hh:mm) 0 : 0 Allows you to set the alarm time. Press to select the field, then use <+> or <-> to change the value. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Audio CD Drive [Primary IDE Master] Allows you to select the connection configuration of the optical storage device from which the alarm music will play from. Configuration options: [Primary IDE Master] [Primary IDE Slave] Detect CD [Enter] Press to search the CD track number.
Load from Profile 1/2 Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Press to load the file. Load from File Allows you to load the previous BIOS file saved in the hard disk/floppy disk/USB flash disk with the FAT32/16/12 format. Follow the instructions below to load the BIOS file. 1. Insert the storage devices that contains the “xxx.CMO” file. 2. Turn on the system. 3. Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the “Tools” menu to select “Load from File.
5. 6. Key in the file name. Then press . A pop-up message will inform you when the saving process finishes. ASUSTek O.C. Profile Utility B318 Current CMOS BOARD: P5N32-E SLI Plus VER: 0116 DATE: 10/30/2006 Update CMOS BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown PATH: A:\ A: CMOS backup is done! Press any key to Exit. Note [Enter] Select [S] Save [Tab] Switch [Up/Down/Home/End] Move [ESC]: Exit The BIOS file will be saved as “xxx.CMO“. 4.8.
4.9 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. Main Extreme Tweaker Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Load Setup Default Discard Changes F1:Help ESC: Exit ↑↓ : Select Item →←: Select Menu Select Menu Item Specific Help This option save data to CMOS and exiting the setup menu.
4-46 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes with the motherboard package.
Chapter summary 5 5.1 Installing an operating system.................................................... 5-1 5.2 Support DVD information............................................................. 5-1 5.3 Software information.................................................................... 5-9 5.4 RAID configurations................................................................... 5-26 5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk........................................................
5.1 Installing an operating system This motherboard supports Windows® 2000/2003 Server/XP/64-bit XP operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware. 5.2 • Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Use the setup procedures presented in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OS documentation for detailed information.
5.2.2 Drivers menu The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices. ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Drivers Launches the ASUS InstAll driver installation wizard. Nvidia Chipset Driver Program Installs the NVIDIA® Chipset drivers for the NVIDIA® nForce™ dual x16 SLI chipset. SoundMAX® AD1988 Audio Driver Installs the SoundMAX® AD1988 audio driver and application. USB 2.
5.2.3 Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities Launches the ASUS InstAll utilities installation wizard. ASUS PC Probe II This smart utility monitors the fan speed, CPU temperature, and system voltages, and alerts you of any detected problems. This utility helps you keep your computer in healthy operating condition.
Adobe Reader V7.0 Installs the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader that allows you to open, view, and print documents in Portable Document Format (PDF). Microsoft DirectX 9.0c Installs the Microsoft® DirectX 9.0c driver. The Microsoft DirectX® 9.0c is a multimedia technology that enhances computer graphics and sound. DirectX® improves the multimedia features of you computer so you can enjoy watching TV and movies, capturing videos, or playing games in your computer. Visit the Microsoft website (www.microsoft.
5.2.4 Make Disk menu The Make Disk menu contains items to create the NVIDIA® nForce™ dual x16 SLI SATA RAID driver disk. Make NVIDIA 32bit XP/2000/2003 SATA RAID Driver Make NVIDIA 64bit 2003 SATA RAID Driver Allows you to create an NVIDIA® Serial ATA RAID driver disk for a 32-bit/64‑bit system.
5.2.5 Manuals menu The Manuals menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to open the folder of the user manual. Most user manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening a user manual file. 5.2.6 ASUS Contact information Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. You can also find this information on the inside front cover of this user guide.
5.2.7 Other information The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on the motherboard and the contents of the Support DVD. Click an icon to display the specified information. Motherboard Info Displays the general specifications of the motherboard. Browse this DVD Displays the Support DVD contents in graphical format.
Technical support form Displays the ASUS Technical Support Request Form that you have to fill out when requesting technical support. Filelist Displays the contents of the Support DVD and a brief description of each in text format.
5.3 Software information Most of the applications in the Support DVD have wizards that will conveniently guide you through the installation. View the online help or readme file that came with the software application for more information. 5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3™ The ASUS MyLogo3™ utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the image that appears on screen during the Power‑On Self-Tests (POST).
7. When the logo images appear on the right window pane, select an image to enlarge by clicking on it. 8. Adjust the boot image to your desired size by selecting a value on the Ratio box. 9. When the screen returns to the ASUS Update utility, flash the original BIOS to load the new boot logo. 10. After flashing the BIOS, restart the computer to display the new boot logo during POST.
5.3.2 SoundMAX® High Definition Audio utility The ADI AD1988B High Definition Audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio capability through the SoundMAX® audio utility with AudioESP™ software to deliver the ultimate audio experience on your PC. The software implements high quality audio synthesis/rendering, 3D sound positioning, and advanced voice-input technologies.
From the taskbar, double-click on the SoundMAX® icon to display the SoundMAX® Control Panel. Audio Setup Wizard By clicking the icon from the SoundMAX® control panel, you can easily configure your audio settings. Simply follow succeeding screen instructions and begin enjoying High Definition Audio.
Jack configuration Adjust speaker volume This screen helps you configure your computer’s audio ports, depending on the audio devices you have installed. This screen helps you adjust speaker volume. Click the Test button to hear the changes you have made. Adjust microphone volume This screen helps you adjust microphone volume. You will be asked to read prewritten text to allow the AudioWizard to adjust the volume as you speak.
Audio preferences Click the icon to go to the Preferences page. This page allows you to change various audio settings. General options Click the General tab to choose your playback and recording devices, enable/ disable the AudioESP™ feature, and enable/disable digital output. DTS This feature is consists of two elements: DTS interactive and DTS NEO:PC. DTS interactive re-encodes your stereo or multi-channel sound into a DTS audio signal and send it out from your PC to any DTS enabled system.
Microphone options Click the Listening Environment tab allows you to optimize your microphone input settings. Enhanced Microphone Features Noise Filtering Enables Noise Filter function. Detects repetitive and stationary noises like computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates it in the incoming sudio stream while recording. You can enable it for a better recording quality.
5.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II PC Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer’s vital components, and detects and alerts you of any problem with these components. PC Probe II senses fan rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others. Because PC Probe II is software-based, you can start monitoring your computer the moment you turn it on. With this utility, you are assured that your computer is always at a healthy operating condition.
Button Function Opens the Configuration window Opens the Report window Opens the Desktop Management Interface window Opens the Peripheral Component Interconnect window Opens the Windows Management Instrumentation window Opens the hard disk drive, memory, CPU usage window Shows/Hides the Preference section Minimizes the application Closes the application Sensor alert When a system sensor detects a problem, the main window right handle turns red, as the illustrations below show.
Hardware monitor panels The hardware monitor panels display the current value of a system sensor such as fan rotation, CPU temperature, and voltages. The hardware monitor panels come in two display modes: hexagonal (large) and rectangular (small). When you check the Enable Monitoring Panel option from the Preference section, the monitor panels appear on your computer’s desktop.
Monitoring sensor alert The monitor panel turns red when a component value exceeds or is lower than the threshold value. Refer to the illustrations below. Small display Large display WMI browser Click to display the WMI (Windows Management Instrumentation) browser. This browser displays various Windows® management information. Click an item from the left panel to display on the right panel. Click the plus sign (+) before WMI Information to display the available information.
PCI browser Click to display the PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) browser. This browser provides information on the PCI devices installed on your system. Click the plus sign (+) before the PCI Information item to display available information. Usage The Usage browser displays real-time information on the CPU, hard disk drive space, and memory usage. Click to display the Usage browser. CPU usage The CPU tab displays realtime CPU usage in line graph representation.
Memory usage The Memory tab shows both used and available physical memory. The pie chart at the bottom of the window represents the used (blue) and the available Configuring PC Probe II Click to view and adjust the sensor threshold values. The Config window has two tabs: Sensor/Threshold and Preference. The Sensor/ Threshold tab enables you to activate the sensors or to adjust the sensor threshold values. The Preference tab allows you to customize sensor alerts, or change the temperature scale.
5.3.4 ASUS Music Alarm This motherboard is equipped with an audio alarm clock called ASUS Music Alarm. The ASUS Music Alarm gives you a personal wake-up called with your favorite CD music when the system is off. The onboard audio CODEC supports this feature, which requires an optical drive (CD-ROM, CD-RW, or DVD-ROM). • Make sure that the power cord is plugged to a grounded power source so that the system has standby power. • ASUS Music Alarm only supports audio CDs.
OS configuration To configure ASUS Music Alarm in Windows® 1. Place the Support DVD into the optical drive. 2. Click the Utilities tab and choose ASUS Music Alarm to install the utility. 3. Insert an audio CD into the optical drive. 4. Launch the ASUS Music Alarm application by going to Start > ASUS > ASUS Music Alarm. The main window appears.
7. Click the arrow ( ) next to Options in the Options section. The Options panel appears. Disable or select the Repeat mode, then specify the length of the alarm music to play. Set the desired volume. When done, click OK. 8. After you have finished making all the required settings, turn off the system. Adjusting the volume To adjust the volume while the music alarm is playing: • Use the or arrow key to increase or decrease the volume.
5.3.5 ASUS AI Booster The ASUS AI Booster application allows you to overclock the CPU speed in WIndows® environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. After installing the program from the bundled Support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Booster icon on the Windows® OS taskbar. The options on the task bar allow you to use the default settings, adjust CPU/ Memory/PCI-E frequency manually, or create and apply your personal overclocking configurations.
5.4 RAID configurations The motherboard comes with two RAID controllers that allow you to configure Serial ATA hard disk drives as RAID sets. • The NVIDIA® nForce™ dual x16 SLI Southbridge includes a high performance SATA RAID controller that supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5 and JBOD for six independent Serial ATA channels. 5.4.1 RAID definitions RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in parallel, interleaved stacks.
If you want to boot the system from a hard disk drive included in a RAID set, first copy the RAID driver from the Support DVD to a floppy disk before you install an operating system to a selected hard disk drive. Refer to section “5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk” for details. 5.4.2 NVIDIA® RAID configurations The motherboard includes a high performance SATA RAID controller integrated in the NVIDIA® nForce™ dual x16 SLI southbridge chipset.
Make sure to re-enter your NVRAID settings after the CMOS is cleared; otherwise, the system will not recognize your RAID setup. • • For detailed descriptions on the NVIDIA® RAID configuration, refer to the “NVIDIA® RAID User Guide” found in your motherboard Support DVD. When using Windows® 2000 operating system, make sure to install the Windows® 2000 Service Pack 4 or later version. Entering the NVIDIA® RAID utility To enter the NVIDIA® RAID utility: 1. Boot up your computer. 2.
Creating a RAID Volume To create a RAID volume: 1. From the NVIDIA® RAID utility Define a New Array menu, select RAID Mode then press . The following submenu appears. Use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID mode then press . 2. Press select the Striping Block then press .
NVIDIA RAID Utility Oct 5 2004 - Array List Boot Id Status Vendor Array Model Name No 4 Healthy NVIDIA MIRROR [Ctrl-X]Exit [↑↓]Select [B]Set Boot XXX.XXG [N]New Array [ENTER]Detail A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen. 6. Press to save settings and exit. Rebuilding a RAID array To rebuild a RAID array: 1. From the Array List menu, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array then press . The RAID Array details appear.
A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen. 2. Press to rebuild a RAID array. The following screen appears. Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG - Select Disk Inside Array RAID Mode: Mirroring Striping Width: 1 Striping Block: 64K Adapt Channel M/S Index Disk Model Name Capacity 2 1 1 0 Master Master 0 1 XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XXGB XXX.XXGB [↑↓] Select [F6] Back 3.
Deleting a RAID array To delete a RAID array: 1. From the Array List menu, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array then press . The RAID Array details appear. Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG - Array Detail RAID Mode: Mirroring Striping Width: 1 Striping Block: 64K Adapt Channel M/S Index Disk Model Name Capacity 2 1 1 0 Master Master 0 1 XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XXGB XXX.
Clearing a disk data To clear disk data: 1. From the Array List menu, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array then press . The RAID Array details appear. Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG - Array Detail RAID Mode: Mirroring Striping Width: 1 Striping Block: 64K Adapt Channel M/S Index Disk Model Name Capacity 2 1 1 0 Master Master 0 1 XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XXGB XXX.
5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows® 2000/XP operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. To create a RAID driver disk: 1. Place the motherboard support DVD into the DVD-ROM drive. 2. Select Make Disk tab. 3. From the Make Disk menu, select the RAID driver disk you want to create or browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the driver disk utility. Refer to section “5.2.4 Make Disk menu” for details.
This chapter tells how to install SLI‑ready PCI Express graphics cards.
Chapter summary 6.1 Overview........................................................................................ 6-1 6.2 Dual graphics cards setup...........................................................
6.1 Overview The motherboard supports the NVIDIA® SLI™ (Scalable Link Interface) technology that allows you to install two identical PCI Express™ x16 graphics cards. Follow the installation procedures in this section. Requirements • You should have two identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA® certified. • Make sure that your graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA SLI technology. Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com).
6.2 Dual graphics card setup 6.2.1 Installing SLI-ready graphics cards Install only identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA®-certified. Different types of graphics cards will not work together properly. To install the graphics cards: 1. Prepare two graphics cards. Each graphics card should have goldfingers for the SLI connector. Goldfingers 2. 6- Remove the metal bracket covers opposite the two PCI Express x16 slots.
3. Insert one graphics card into one of the blue slots (PCIEX16_1). Make sure that the card is properly seated on the slot. 4. Insert the second graphics card into the other slot (PCIEX16_3). Make sure that the card is properly seated on the slot. If required, connect an auxiliary power source to the PCI Express graphics cards.
5. Align and insert the SLI connector to the goldfingers on each graphics card. Make sure that the connector is firmly in place. SLI connector 6. When installing two VGA cards using a 20-pin ATX PSU with sufficient+12v capability, we recommend that you connect the auxillary power source from the power supply to the graphics card. Refer to the PSU documentation for dual VGA power requirements. 7. Connect a VGA cable or a DVI-I cable to the graphics card/s.
6.2.2 Installing the device drivers Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device drivers. Make sure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA SLI technology. Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia. com). 6.2.3 Enabling the multi-GPU feature in Windows® After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the Multi‑Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) feature in the NVIDIA nView properties.
5. From the Display Properties dialog box, select the Settings tab then click Advanced. 6. Select the NVIDIA GeForce tab. 7. Click the slider to display the following screen, then select the SLI multi‑GPU item. Slider 6- 8. Click the Enable SLI multi-GPU check box. 9. Click OK when done.
