Motherboard P5Q Premium
E3891 First Edition June 2008 Copyright © 2008 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 Contents....................................................................................................... iii Notices........................................................................................................ viii Safety information....................................................................................... ix About this guide........................................................................................... x P5Q Premium specifications summary.................
Contents 2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slot........................................................ 2-20 2.5.6 PCI Express 2.0 x16 slots.............................................. 2-20 2.5.7 PCI Express x16 slots.................................................... 2-20 2.6 Jumpers....................................................................................... 2-22 2.7 Onboard switches....................................................................... 2-24 2.8 Connectors......................
Contents 3.4 3.5 3.3.6 Storage Configuration.................................................... 3-13 3.3.7 AHCI Configuration........................................................ 3-14 3.3.8 System Information........................................................ 3-15 Ai Tweaker menu......................................................................... 3-16 3.4.1 Ai Overclock Tuner ....................................................... 3-16 3.4.2 CPU Ratio Setting . ....................
Contents 3.6 3.7 3.8 3.9 Power menu................................................................................. 3-31 3.6.1 Suspend Mode . ............................................................ 3-31 3.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume......................................... 3-31 3.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support........................................................... 3-31 3.6.4 ACPI APIC Support........................................................ 3-31 3.6.5 APM Configuration.................
Contents 4.4 4.5 4.3.4 ASUS AI Suite................................................................ 4-18 4.3.5 ASUS AI Nap................................................................. 4-20 4.3.6 ASUS Fan Xpert............................................................ 4-21 4.3.7 ASUS AI Booster............................................................ 4-23 4.3.8 ASUS EPU—6 Engine................................................... 4-24 4.3.9 ASUS AI Direct Link..........................
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.
P5Q Premium specifications summary CPU LGA775 socket for Intel® Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Quad / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® dual-core / Celeron® dual-core / Celeron® Processors Compatible with Intel® 05B/05A/06 processors Intel® 45nm Multi-Core CPU support * Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list Chipset Intel® P45 / ICH10R with Intel® Fast Memory Access Technology System Bus 1600 / 1333 / 1066 / 800 MHz Memory 4 x DIMM, max.
P5Q Premium specifications summary Audio ADI® AD2000B 8-channel High Definition Audio CODEC - Supports Jack-Detecting, Multi-streaming, and Front Panel Jack-Retasking - Coaxial / Optical S/PDIF out ports at back I/O - ASUS AI Audio 2 - ASUS Noise-Filtering USB 14 x USB 2.0/1.
P5Q Premium specifications summary Back Panel I/O Ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard / Mouse combo port 1 x S/PDIF Out (Coaxial + Optical) port 4 x RJ45 ports 10 x USB 2.0/1.
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® P5Q Premium 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/packagings to safeguard consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment.
Quad Gigabit LAN solution The integrated Quad Gigabit LAN design allows a PC to serve as a network gateway for managing traffic between four separate networks. This capability ensures rapid transfer of data from WAN to LAN without any added arbitration or latency. See page 2-25 for details. 1.3.2 ASUS unique features ASUS Express Gate SSD Taking only 5 seconds to go online from bootup, Express Gate is the one-stop gateway to instant fun! It’s a unique motherboard built-in OS.
AI Nap With AI Nap, the system can continue running at minimum power and noise when you are temporarily away. To wake the system and return to the OS environment, simply click the mouse or press a key. See page 4-20 for details. ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the overclocking capability.
Optional Fan (for Water-Cooling or Passive-Cooling only) The optional fan is specifically designed to provide sufficient airflow over the CPU power modules and chipset area when water-cooling or passive-cooling is utilized, ensuring effective heat dissipation for the entire system. See page 2-40 for details. ASUS Crystal Sound This feature can enhance speech-centric applications like Skype, online game, video conference and recording.
ASUS Drive Xpert Without drivers or BIOS setups, the ASUS exclusive Drive Xpert is ideal for anyone who needs to secure data on their hard drives or enhance hard drive performances without the hassles of complicated configurations. With Drive Xpert’s user-friendly graphical user interface, users can easily arrange hard drive backups or enhance their hard drive transfer rates—making sure that data is looked after every moment, every day. See page 3-39 and 4-39 for details.
ASUS EZ Flash 2 EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility. Simply press the predefined hotkey to launch the utility and update the BIOS without entering the OS. Update your BIOS easily without preparing a bootable diskette or using an OS-based flash utility. See page 3-4 for details. ASUS MyLogo2™ This feature allows you to convert your favorite photo into a 256-color boot logo for a more colorful and vivid image on your screen. See page 3-36 and 4-9 for details. 1.3.
1-8 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).................................................... 2-5 2.4 System memory.......................................................................... 2-11 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. • Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. • Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or 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 2.2.1 Motherboard layout Refer to 2.8 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.
2.2.2 Layout contents Connectors/Jumpers/Slots Page 1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin ATX12V) 2-36 2. LGA775 CPU Socket 2-6 3. CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 3-pin CHA_FAN1-3; 3-pin PWR_FAN) 2-33 4. DDR2 DIMM slots 2-11 5. CPU / Northbridge overvoltage setting (3-pin OV_CPU; 3-pin OV_NB) 2-23 6. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) 2-34 7. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1) 2-34 8.
2.2.3 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, make sure that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis as indicated in the image below. 2.2.4 Screw holes Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis. DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA775 socket designed for the Intel® Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Quad / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® dual-core / Celeron® dual-core / Celeron® Processors. • Make sure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU. • If installing a dual-core CPU, connect the chassis fan cable to the CHA_FAN1 connector to ensure system stability. • Due to the chipset limitation, we recommend you use FSB 800MHz CPU or above.
2.3.1 Installing the CPU To install a CPU: 1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard. Before installing the CPU, make sure that the cam 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. To prevent damage to the socket pins, do not remove the PnP cap unless you are installing a CPU. 3. Lift the load lever in the direction of the arrow to a 135º angle. 4.
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 The CPU fits in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU! Gold triangle mark Alignment key 6.
7. Close the load plate (A), then push the load lever (B) until it snaps into the retention tab. A B The motherboard supports Intel® LGA775 processors with the Intel® Enhanced Memory 64 Technology (EM64T), Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST), and Hyper-Threading Technology. Refer to the Appendix for more information on these CPU features.
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. • Your Intel® LGA775 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design and requires no tool to install.
3. Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN. 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.
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 512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB and 4GB unbuffered and non‑ECC DDR2 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. • You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation. • It is recommended to install the memory modules from the yellow slots for better overclocking capability.
P5Q Premium Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-1066MHz capability Size Vendor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No. A* B* 1GB APACER N/A N/A APACER DS 78.0AG9S.
P5Q Premium Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-800MHz capability 2-14 Size Vendor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No. DIMM socket support (Optional) A* B* C* 512MB A-DATA AD29608A8A-25EG N/A N/A SS M2OAD6G3H3160G1E53 • • • 1GB A-DATA AD26908A8A-25EG N/A N/A DS M2OAD6G3I4170I1E58 • • 2GB A-DATA AD20908A8A-25EG N/A A-DATA DS M2OAD6H3J4171Q1E52 • • 512MB Apacer AM4B5708JQJS8E N/A APACER SS 78.91G9I.
P5Q Premium Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-800MHz capability (cont.) Size Vendor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No.
P5Q Premium Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-667MHz capability (cont.) Size Vendor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No.
2.4.3 Installing a DIMM Make sure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components. 1. Unlock a DDR2 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. 2 DDR2 DIMM notch 1 1 Unlocked retaining clip A DDR2 DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it fits in only one direction.
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.
IRQ assignments for this motherboard PCIE1_1 PCIE16_1 PCIE16_2 PCIE16_3 PCIE16_4 LAN (8056_1) LAN (8056_2) LAN (8056_3) LAN (8056_4) Marvell 6121 PCI_1 PCI_2 USB controller 1 USB controller 2 USB controller 3 USB controller 4 USB controller 5 USB controller 6 USB 2.0 controller 1 USB 2.0 controller 2 SATA controller 1 SATA controller 2 Audio Azalia 2.5.
PCIe x16_4 slot (black, at max. x4 link) PCIe 2.0 x16_3 slot (white, at max. x8 link) PCI2 slot PCIe x16_2 slot (black, at max. x4 link) PCIe 2.0 x16_1 slot (blue) PCI1 slot PCIe x1_1 slot VGA configuration PCI Express operating mode PCIex16_1 PCIex16_2 PCIex16_3 PCIex16_4 Single VGA/PCIe card x16 x4 x8 x4 Dual VGA/PCIe card x16 x4 x8 x4 Triple VGA/PCIe card x8 x4 x8 x4 Quad VGA card x8 x4 x8 x4 • In single VGA card mode, use first the PCIe 2.
2.6 1. Jumpers Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords. 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.
2. CPU / Northbridge overvoltage setting (3-pin OV_CPU; 3-pin OV_NB) These jumpers allow you to enable or disable the advanced CPU and Northbridge overvoltage settings in BIOS. Read the following information before you change the jumper settings. Set to pins 1-2 to activate the advanced CPU / Northbridge overvoltage feature. OV_CPU OV_NB Pins 2-3 (Default) up to 1.70V up to 1.9V Pins 1-2 (OV Enabled) up to 2.10V up to 2.
2.7 Onboard switches Onboard switches allow you to power on or reboot system quickly and conveniently when you want to fine-tune performance on a bare or open-case system. 1. Power-on switch Press the power-on switch to wake/power up the system. 2. Reset switch Press the reset switch to reboot the system.
2.8 Connectors 2.8.1 Rear panel connectors 1. PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port. This port is for a PS/2 keyboard or mouse. 2. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device via a coaxial S/PDIF cable. 3. LAN 1/2/3/4 (RJ-45) ports. Supported by Marvell® LAN controller, these ports allow Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.
Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration Port Light Blue Lime Pink Orange Black Gray Headset 2-channel Line In Line Out Mic In – – – 4-channel 6-channel Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In – Rear Speaker Out – Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In Center/Subwoofer Rear Speaker Out – 8-channel Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In Center/Subwoofer Rear Speaker Out Side Speaker Out 10. USB 2.0 ports 1/2/3/4/11/12/13/14. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices. 11.
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. 2.
3. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE) The onboard IDE connector is for the Ultra DMA 133/100 signal cable. There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100 signal cable: blue, black, and gray. Connect the blue connector to the motherboard’s IDE connector, then select one of the following modes to configure your device.
4. ICH10R Serial ATA connectors [red] (7-pin SATA1-6) These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk drives and optical disc drives. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 configuration with the Intel® Matrix Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® ICH10R RAID controller. • These connectors are set to Standard IDE mode by default.
5. SIL5723 Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA_E1 [orange, port 0]; SATA_ E2 [white, port 1]; SATA_E3 [blue, port 2]; SATA_E4 [white, port 3]) 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 EZ Backup or a Super Speed configuration with the Drive Xpert Technology through the onboard Silicon Image® SIL5723 controllers.
6. USB connectors (10-1 pin 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 2.0 specification that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed. Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors.
7. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_1, 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. Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector. Doing so will damage the motherboard! You can attach a FireWire/1394 cable to this connector if your chassis suppots the front panel IEEE1394 port.
8. CPU, chassis and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1-3, 3-pin PWR_FAN) The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350 mA ~ 2000 mA (24 W max.) or a total of 1 A ~ 7 A (84 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.
9. 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. By default , the pin labeled “Chassis Signal” and “Ground” are shorted with a jumper cap.
11. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector. • We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-definition audio capability.
12. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V) These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit. 2-36 • 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 400 W.
13. Optical drive audio connector (4-pin CD) This connector allows you to receive stereo audio input from sound sources such as a CD-ROM, TV tuner, or MPEG card. 14. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF) This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s). The S/PDIF out cable is purchased separately.
15. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. • 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. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode. • Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED) This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable to this connector.
16. 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 Q-Connector. 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.
2.8.3 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. 2-40 1. Position the fan above the pipe and heatsink assembly. 2. Fit the fan to the grooved edge of the heatsink. 3. Carefully push down the fan until it snugly fits the heatsink, then connect the fan cable. 4. The photo shows the fan installed on the motherboard.
2.9 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.
2.10 Turning off the computer 2.10.1 Using the OS shut down function If you are using Windows® XP: 1. Click the Start button then select Turn Off Computer. 2. Click the Turn Off button to shut down the computer. 3. The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down. If you are using Windows® Vista: 1. Click the Start button then select ShutDown. 2. The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down. 2.10.
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 3 3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS............................................. 3-1 3.2 BIOS setup program..................................................................... 3-8 3.3 Main menu................................................................................... 3-11 3.4 Ai Tweaker................................................................................... 3-16 3.5 Advanced menu..........................................................................
3.1 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 using a floppy disk or USB flash disk.) 3. ASUS AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk) 4.
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: 3-2 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.
3.1.2 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 2 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.
3.1.3 AFUDOS utility The AFUDOS utility allows you to update the BIOS file in DOS environment using a bootable floppy disk with the updated BIOS file. This utility also allows you to copy the current BIOS file that you can use as backup when the BIOS fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. Copying the current BIOS To copy the current BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility • Make sure that the floppy disk is not write-protected and has at least 1024KB free space to save the file.
Write the BIOS filename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS filename at the DOS prompt. 2. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to the bootable floppy disk you created earlier. 3. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type: afudos /i[filename] where [filename] is the latest or the original BIOS file on the bootable floppy disk. A:\>afudos /iP5QP.ROM 4. The utility verifies the file and starts updating the BIOS. A:\>afudos /iP5QP.
3.1.4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can update a corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD, the floppy disk, or the USB flash disk that contains the updated BIOS file. Prepare the motherboard support DVD, the floppy disk or the USB flash disk containing the updated motherboard BIOS before using this utility.
3.2 BIOS setup program This motherboard supports a programmable firmware chip that you can update using the provided utility described in section 3.1 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.
3.2.1 BIOS menu screen Menu items Menu bar Configuration fields General help BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A Language [11:55:25] [Wed 04/16/2008] [1.44M, 3.5 in.
3.2.4 Menu items The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific items for that menu. For example, selecting Main shows the Main menu items. The other items (Advanced, Power, Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items. 3.2.5 System Time System Date Floppy Diskette A Language SATA1 SATA2 SATA3 SATA4 SATA5 SATA6 Use [ENTER], [TAB], or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a field. [11:56:54] [Wed 04/16/2008] [1.44M, 3.5 in.
3.3 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 3.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A Language SATA1 SATA2 SATA3 SATA4 SATA5 SATA6 [11:55:25] [Wed 05/07/2008] [1.44M, 3.5 in.
3.3.5 SATA 1-6 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. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main SATA 1 Device : Hard Disk Vendor : HDT722516DLA380 Size : 164.
DMA Mode [Auto] Selects the DMA mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [SWDMA0] [SWDMA1] [SWDMA2] [MWDMA0] [MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2] [UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5] SMART Monitoring [Auto] Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] 32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled] Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 3.3.
Hard Disk Write Protect [Disabled] Disables or enables device write protection. This will be effective only if the device is accessed through BIOS. Configuration option: [Disabled] [Enabled] IDE Detect Time Out (Sec) [35] Selects the time out value for detecting ATA/ATAPI devices. Configuration options: [0] [5] [10] [15] [20] [25] [30] [35] 3.3.7 AHCI Configuration This menu is the section for AHCI configuration.
3.3.8 System Information This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS automatically detects the items in this menu. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Bios Information Version : 0303 Build Date : 05/09/08 Processor Type : Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Duo CPU @ 3.00GHz Speed : 3000MHz Count : 2 System Memory Usable Size : 1024MB Select Screen Select Item F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.
3.4 Ai Tweaker menu The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related items. Take caution when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. The default values of the following items vary depending on the CPU and memory modules you install on the motherboard.
3.4.2 CPU Ratio Setting [Auto] Allows you to adjust the ratio between CPU Core Clock and FSB Frequency. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. Configuration options: [Auto] [06.0] [07.0] [08.0] [09.0] The following two items appear only when you set the Ai Overclock Tuner item to [Manual]. FSB Frequency [XXX] Displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and PCI bus. The value of this item is auto-detected by the BIOS. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the FSB frequency.
3.4.5 DRAM CLK Skew on Channel A1/A2/B1/B2 [Auto] Adjusting these items may help enhancing DRAM overclocking ability. Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 350ps] [Advance 300ps] [Advance 250ps] [Advance 200ps] [Advance 150ps] [Advance 100ps] [Advance 50ps] [Normal] [Delay 50ps] [Delay 100ps] [Delay 150ps] [Delay 200ps] [Delay 250ps] [Delay 300ps] [Delay 350ps] 3.4.
2nd Information: 8-3-5-4-6-4-6 The values vary depending on your settings of the following sub-items: READ to WRITE Delay(S/D) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks] Write to Read Delay(S) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks] WRITE to READ Delay(D) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks] READ To READ Delay(S) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] – [15 DRAM Clocks] READ To READ Delay(D) [Auto
3.4.8 DRAM Read Training [Auto] Allows you to set DRAM read data timing optimization. Setting this item to [Disabled] may help enhance DRAM overclocking ability. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] 3.4.9 MEM. OC Charger Allows you to enable or disable the memory overclocking charger feature. Setting this item to [Enabled] may help enhance DRAM overclock ability. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] 3.4.10 Ai Clock Twister [Auto] Allows you to set the DRAM performance.
3.4.12 CPU Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the CPU VCore voltage. The values range from 0.85000V to 2.10000V* with a 0.00625V interval. 3.4.13 • Refer to the CPU documentation before setting the CPU Vcore voltage. Setting a high VCore voltage may damage the CPU permanently, and setting a low VCore voltage may make the system unstable. • The value [2.10000V] of the CPU Voltage item is supported only if the OV_CPU jumper is enabled, otherwise the maximum voltage supported is [1.70000V]. See 2.
• The value [2.2V] of the NB Voltage item is supported only if the OV_NB jumper is enabled, otherwise the maximum voltage supported is [1.9V]. See 2. CPU / Northbridge overvoltage setting on page 2-23 for details. • Setting the CPU PLL Voltage, FSB Termination Voltage, DRAM Voltage and NB Voltage items to a high level may damage the chipset, memory module and CPU permanently. Proceed with caution.
3.4.24 PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto] Set to [Disabled] to enhance PCIE overclocking ability or [Auto] for EMI control.
3.5 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit TPM Configuration CPU Configuration Chipset Onboard Devices Configuration USB Configuration PCIPnP Configure CPU.
TPM Enable / Disable Status [No State] The item is not configurable. TPM Owner Status [No State] The item is not configurable To enable the TPM function, set the Execute TPM Command item to [Enabled] and then save the change (see 3.9 Exit menu for details). After the system reboots, the TPM Configuration menu will change into the following one.
CPU Ratio Setting [Auto] Allows you to adjust the ratio between CPU Core Clock and FSB Frequency. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. Configuration options: [Auto] [06.0] [07.0] [08.0] [09.0] C1E Support [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable Enhanced Halt State support. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Max CPUID Value Limit [Disabled] Setting this item to [Enabled] allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs with extended CPUID functions.
3.5.3 Chipset The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an item then press to display the sub-menu. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Advanced Chipset Settings WARMING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction. Configure North Bridge features.
3.5.
3.5.5 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. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced USB Configuration Options USB Devices Enabled: 1 Mouse, 1 Hub USB Functions USB 2.0 Controller USB 2.
Legacy USB Support [Auto] Allows you to enable or disable the support for legacy USB devices. Setting to [Auto] allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto] 3.5.6 PCIPnP The PCIPnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices.
3.6 Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press to display the configuration options. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Suspend Mode Repost Video on S3 Resume ACPI 2.0 Support ACPI APIC Support [Auto] [No] [Disabled] [Enabled] Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend.
3.6.5 APM Configuration BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power APM Configuration Restore on AC Power Loss Power Power Power Power Power On On On On On [Power Off] By RTC Alarm [Disabled] By External Modems����������� [Disabled] By PCI Devices������������ [Disabled] By PCIE Devices [Disabled] By�������������������������� PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled] Energy Star 4.0C Support to select whether or not to restart the system after AC power loss.
Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled] Allows you to disable the Power On by PS/2 keyboard function or set specific keys on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Ctrl-Esc] [Power Key] Energy Star 4.0c Support [Disabled] Setting this item to [Enabled] to pass Energy Star 4.0c rating.
CPU Fan Profile [Standard] Allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the ASUS Q-Fan. When set to [Standard], the CPU fan automatically adjusts depending on the CPU temperature. Set this item to [Silent] to minimize fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation, or [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.
3.7 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then press to display the sub-menu. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Specifies the Boot Device Priority sequence. Boot Settings Boot Device Priority Boot Settings Configuration Security A virtual floppy disk drive (Floppy Drive B: ) may appear when you set the CD-ROM drive as the first boot device.
3.7.2 Boot Settings Configuration BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Boot Settings Configuration Quick Boot Full Screen Logo AddOn ROM Display Mode Bootup Num-Lock Wait for ‘F1’ if Error Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled] [Enabled] [Force BIOS] [On] [Enabled] [Enabled] Allows BIOS to skip certain tests while booting. This will decrease the time needed to boot the system.
3.7.3 Security The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item then press to display the configuration options. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Security Settings Supervisor Password : Not Installed User Password : Not Installed to change password. again to disabled password.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Security Settings Supervisor Password : Installed User Password : Installed Change Supervisor Password User Access Level Change User Password Clear User Password Password Check to change password. again to disabled password. [Full Access] [Setup] User Access Level [Full Access] This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items.
3.8 Tools menu The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item then press to display the sub-menu. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit ASUS EZ Flash 2 Drive Xpert Control Drive Xpert Mode Update [Auto] [Last Setting] Drive Xpert Control 2 Drive Xpert Mode Update [Auto] [Last Setting] Express Gate Enter OS Timer Reset User Data [Enabled] [10 Seconds] [No] ASUS O.C.
3.8.3 Drive Xpert Mode Update [Last Setting] Set this item to [Mode change] to show further settings of the Drive Xpert feature. Configuration options: [Last setting] [Mode change] Update To Super Speed [Press Enter] This item appears only when you set the Drive Xpert Mode Update item to [Mode change] and allows you to use Super Speed function. Plug two identical SATA hard drives in the orange SATA port labeled SATA_E1 (port 0) and the white SATA port labeled SATA_E2 (port 1) and press the key.
Update To EZ Backup [Press Enter] This item appears only when you set the Drive Xpert Mode Update item to [Mode change] and allows you to use EZ Backup function. Plug two identical SATA hard drives in the blue SATA port labeled SATA_E3 (port 0) and the white SATA port labeled SATA_E4 (port 3) and press the key. • Make necessary backup before using the Drive Xpert function: All original data of the SATA_E4 (white, port 3) hard drive will be erased for EZ Backup setup.
3.8.7 ASUS O.C. Profile This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Tools O.C. PROFILE Configuration O.C. Profile 1 Status O.C. Profile 2 Status Save BIOS settings to Profile 1 : Not Installed : Not Installed Save to Profile 1 Load from Profile 1 Save to Profile 2 Load from Profile 2 Start O.C. Profile Save to Profle 1/2 Allows you to save the current BIOS file to the BIOS Flash. Press to save the file.
3.8.8 Ai Net 2 BIOS SETUP UTILITY Tools Check Marvell LAN cable during POST. Pair Status Length Check Marvell LAN cable [Disabled] v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc. Check Marvell LAN Cable [Disabled] Enables or disables checking of the Marvell LAN cable during the Power-On Self‑Test (POST).
3.9 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. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Exit Options Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes Load Setup Defaults Exit system setup after saving the changes. F10 key can be used for this operation.
This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package and the software.
Chapter summary 4 4.1 Installing an operating system.................................................... 4-1 4.2 Support DVD information............................................................. 4-1 4.3 Software information.................................................................... 4-9 4.4 RAID configurations................................................................... 4-55 4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk........................................................
4.1 Installing an operating system This motherboard supports Windows® XP/ 64-bit XP/ Vista™ operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware. 4.2 • 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.
4.2.2 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 - Drivers Installation Wizard Installs all of the drivers through the Installation Wizard. Intel Chipset Inf Update Program Installs the Intel® chipset Inf update program. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Driver Installs the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager Driver.
4.2.3 Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. Click to display the next page Click to return to the previous page ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities Installs all of the utilities through the Installation Wizard. ASUS Update The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in Windows® environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
ASUS AI Suite The ASUS AI Suite is an innovative application to do overclocking, fan control, power saving and quiet thermal control. ASUS AI Direct Link The ASUS AI Direct Link provides up to 70% transferring speed improvement when compared to traditional USB 2.0 and is the easiest and fastest way for users to enjoy large-sized data exchange of files such as movies, music, etc ASUS Express Gate SSD Installs the ASUS Express Gate SSD update application.
CyberLink PowerBackup Installs CyberLink PowerBackup to back up and restore your data easily. Winzip 11 Installs the Winzip utility for easy file-compression and protection. Anti-Virus Utility The anti-virus application detects and protects your computer from viruses that destroys data. 4.2.4 Make disk menu The Make disk menu contains items to create the Intel ICH10R or Marvell® 61xx driver disk.
4.2.5 Manual menu The Manual 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. 4.2.6 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.
4.2.7 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 in text format.
4.3 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. 4.3.1 ASUS MyLogo2™ The ASUS MyLogo2™ 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.
4.3.2 AI NET The AI NET features the Marvell® Virtual Cable Tester™ (VCT). VCT is a cable diagnostic utility that reports LAN cable faults and shorts using the Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) technology. The VCT detects and reports open and shorted cables, impedance mismatches, pair swaps, pair polarity problems, and pair skew problems of up to 64 ns at one meter accuracy. The VCT feature reduces networking and support costs through a highly manageable and controlled network system.
4.3.3 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 physical memory. 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.
4.3.4 ASUS AI Suite ASUS AI Suite allows you to launch EPU—6 Engine, AI Booster, AI Nap, and Fan Xpert utilities easily. Installing AI Suite To install AI Suite on your computer: 1. Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature. 2. Click the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite. 3. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation.
Other feature buttons Click on right corner of the main window to open the monitor window. Displays the CPU/ system temperature, CPU/memory/PCIE voltage, and CPU/ chassis fan speed Displays the FSB/CPU frequency Click on right corner of the expanded window to switch the temperature from degrees Centigrade to degrees Fahrenheit.
4.3.5 ASUS AI Nap This feature allows you to minimize the power consumption of your computer whenever you are away. Enable this feature for minimum power consumption and a more quiet system operation. After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows OS taskbar and click the AI Nap button on the AI Suite main window. Click Yes on the confirmation screen.
4.3.6 ASUS Fan Xpert Asus Fan Xpert intelligently allows you to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan speeds according to different ambient temperatures caused by different climate conditions in different geographic regions and your PC’s system loading. The built-in variety of useful profiles offer flexible controls of fan speed to achieve a quiet and cool environment. Install AI Suite from the bundled support DVD.
Fan profile modes • Disable: Select this mode to disable the Fan Xpert function. • Standard: This mode makes the fan adjust speed in moderate pattern. • Silent: This mode minimizes fan speed for quiet fan operation. • Turbo: This mode boosts the fan to achieve maximal fan speed for the best cooling effect. • Intelligent: This mode automatically adjusts the CPU fan speed with the ambient temperature.
4.3.7 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 AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows® OS taskbar and click the AI Booster button on the AI Suite main window.
4.3.8 ASUS EPU—6 Engine ASUS EPU—6 Engine is an energy-efficient tool that satisfies different computing needs. This utility provides four modes that you can select to enhance system performance or save power. Selecting Auto mode will have the system shift modes automatically according to current system status. You can also customize each mode by configuring settings like CPU frequency, vCore Voltage, and Fan Control. Installing 6 Engine To install 6 Engine on your computer: 1.
6 Engine main menu Displays CPU Power and Total CPU Energy Saving Displays the following message if no VGA power saving engine is detected. Lights up when power saving engine is activated Displays the amount of CO2 reduced *Shifts between the display of Total and Current CO2 reduced Displays current mode Auto Mode Turbo Mode Runs calibration High Performance Mode Medium Power Saving Mode Max.
Advanced settings menu Click Advance ( ) from the 6 Engine main menu to display configuration options in each mode. Some options in certain modes are dimmed, meaning that they are not available. Click to select a mode Move the slider to adjust Click the arrow to see more options Restore default settings Click to apply settings Click to abort settings Configuration options in Advanced settings menu The following lists the configuration options and their definitions in Advanced settings menu.
• • Fan Control: Adjusts fan speeds to reduce noise and save system power. • Quiet: Lowers CPU fan speed and shuts off two chassis fans. • Slow: Lowers CPU fan and two chassis fan speeds. AI Nap Idle Time: Enters AI Nap mode after a certain time during system idle process. Refer to the following table for the configuration options in each mode.
4.3.9 ASUS AI Direct Link ASUS AI Direct Link allows you to form a computer-to-computer network via a network cable to share files with high transfer rate. You must first connect two computers (at least one of them is ASUS product) using a network cable, and then install the utility to both computers to avail the AI Direct Link feature. • Turn off your firewall software other than Windows Firewall before launching AI Direct Link. • The transfer rate is limited if you use a 10/100 LAN card.
4. Right click on the AI Direct Link icon and select Incoming folder > Open incoming folder. The AIDirectLinkIncoming folder opens. Put the files you want to share into this folder. The authorized user has full access to this folder. The default path of the AIDirectLinkIncoming folder is C:\Program Files\ASUS\AI Direct Link. To change its location, ������������������������������������������������ disable the incoming folder �������������������� first.
4.3.10 AI Audio 2 (SoundMAX® High Definition Audio utility) The ADI AD2000B 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.
A. SoundMAX BlackHawk (AI Audio 2) If you are using Windows Vista™ operating system, from the taskbar, double-click on the SoundMAX® BlackHawk icon to display the SoundMAX® control panel. Enabling AI Audio 2 Click the power button to activate digital signal processing. AI Audio 2, with the new SoundMAX® BlackHawk by Sonic Focus, brings you more multimedia enjoyment.
Playback Settings To configure the playback settings, click the Playback button on the control panel. You can adjust the volume of the Speakers and SPDIF Interface or mute the audio. Preset settings Click and expand the drop-down menu to select your preferred Digital Signal Processing (DSP) preset. Move the sliders to customize the values of Voice Clarity, Dynamics, Brilliance, and Deep Bass of each preset. Click Save to save the changes to the current preset.
Recording Settings To change the recording settings, click the Recording button on the control panel. You can adjust the speaker delay of Microphone or Line In by moving the slider rightward or leftward. Record testing Port settings Click the tab to perform test recording and play the test sample through the speakers or the SPDIF interface. Click the tab to display the rear panel ports for Microphone or Line In.
Speakers Allows you to adjust the Speaker Trim and Speaker Delay. Bass Allows you to do the Bass management. Preferences Displays the preference options for this utility, version information, AudioESP, etc.
B. SoundMAX If you are using Windows XP operating system, 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. Listening Environment options Click the Listening Environment tab to set up your speaker, acoustic environment, and enable/disable the Virtual Theater Surround function.
Microphone options Click the Microphone tab allows you to optimize your microphone input settings. Enhanced Microphone Features Voice recording 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.
4.3.11 ASUS Drive Xpert Utility—SteelVine Manager The ASUS Drive Xpert Utility—SteelVine Manager, an ASUS exclusive technology, secures the data on your hard disk and enhances hard drive performance without the hassles of complicated configurations. With its user-friendly graphical user interface, you can easily arrange hard drive backups or enhance the hard drive’s transfer rate.
SteelVine Manager main screen Show drives connected to the SATA_E12 ports Show drives connected to the SATA_E34 ports Configure box Drive Information Capacity Information Drive Status Volume Information Current setting Using SteelVine Manager To use SteelVine Manager to create a disk array set 4-40 1. In the SteelVine Manager main screen, select the drives connected to the SATA_E12 or SATA_E34 ports, and click Configure box. The Basic Configuration Wizard appears. 2.
Supported storage policy Policy JBOD (Normal Mode) SAFE (EZ Backup) FAST (Super Speed) Description Creates a logical volume for each physical hard drive. Available only for SATA host controllers that provide Port Multiplier support, and only available for the top-level node of a cascaded configuration. Creates one volume. One hard drive mirrors the other. The system automatically restores data redundancy to a SAFE volume when an offline drive comes back online.
If the New Partition option is not available, right-click Disk item, and then select Initialize Disk to initialize the disk first. 3. A New Partition Wizard screen appears. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the volume partition. Refer to section 4.2.5 Manual menu to get more details from the SteelVine Manager manual in the support DVD.
4.3.12 ASUS Express Gate SSD ASUS Express Gate SSD is an instant-on environment that gives you quick access to web, Skype, and viewing your pictures. Within a few seconds of powering on your computer, you will be at the Express Gate SSD menu where you can start the web browser, Skype, or other Express Gate applications. • ASUS Express Gate supports SATA HDDs in IDE mode only. • ASUS Express Gate supports HDDs connected to motherboard chipsetcontrolled onboard SATA ports only.
Once inside the Express Gate SSD environment, click on the icons on the LaunchBar, by default at bottom of the screen, to launch or switch between softwares. You can re-arrange, re-size and move windows. Bring a window to the foreground by clicking within it or by clicking on its corresponding software icon. Re-size a window by dragging any of its four corners. Move a window by dragging its title bar.
Using the Configuration Panel Use the configuration panel to change various Express Gate SSD settings. Click on an icon to open a particular configuration tool. The following tools are available: • Date and Time: set current date and time as well as time zone. • Input Method: choose your preferred input language and method. • Language and Keyboard: choose your language and keyboard preferences. • LaunchBar Settings: customize your LaunchBar (where it docks, whether it auto-hides, etc.
• Screen Settings: Choose the most optimal screen resolution for your display. • Volume Control: Control the volume for your speaker output, microphone input, etc. Using the LaunchBar The LaunchBar has several system icons that show you various system statuses and let you configure individual Express Gate SSD settings. The LaunchBar can be configured to auto-hide, if you want more screen space for the softwares. It can also be configured to dock on any of the four sides of the screen.
Click to choose input language and method as well as keyboard shortcuts (Ctrl-Space by default). Click to change LaunchBar options (auto-hide, docking position, etc). Click to show the “ASUS Utility” panel. Click to show “About Express Gate SSD”. Click to open Express Gate SSD Help. Click to bring up power options window to boot to OS, restart or power down. This window is also shown when you press Ctrl-Alt-Del on the keyboard.
2. Open Network. Network 3. Make the proper network configurations. Each network interface is enabled immediately when you check the box next to it. • If you use a network cable connected to a home router (which is then connected to your DSL/cable modem), enable both LAN1 and LAN2. Express Gate SSD will automatically use whichever port (LAN1 or LAN2) is connected. If you plug the network cable into a different port while Express Gate SSD is running (e.g.
• If you have wireless network, click Setup for the WiFi option. In the WiFi tab of the Advanced Network Settings box, enter the name of your wireless access point in the SSID field. If your wireless access point has security enabled, select the corresponding security algorithm from the drop-down list (e.g. WEPAUTO) in the Encryption Type field, and enter the password. Click OK to enable WiFi and establish the wireless connection.
Using ASUS Drive Xpert Without drivers or BIOS setups, the ASUS exclusive Drive Xpert is ideal for anyone who needs to secure data on their hard drives or enhance hard drive performances without the hassles of complicated configurations. To start ASUS Drive Xpert application Make necessary backup before using the Drive Xpert function: 1.
4. Select EZ Backup or Super Speed according to your need. EZ Backup To start EZ Backup configuration: 1. Click EZ Backup from the main screen. 2. Check if the SATA cables and power cords are installed properly. Click Next to continue. 3. Click Next to continue the configuration.
4. All original data on the hard drive connected to the SATA_E2 (white, port 1) connector on the motherboard will be erased. Make necessary backup before proceeding. Click Next to continue. 5. The setup is completed. Click OK to close the configuration window. Super Speed To start Super Speed configuration: 4-52 1. Click Super Speed from the main screen. 2. Check if the SATA cables and power cords are installed properly. Click Next to continue. 3. Click Next to continue the configuration.
4. All original data on the two hard drives will be erased. Make necessary backup before proceeding. Click Next to continue. 5. The setup is completed. Click OK to close the configuration window. Configuring Express Gate in BIOS Setup Enter BIOS setup by pressing DEL key after powering on or by clicking on the BIOS setup icon on Express Gate’s first screen. Express Gate configuration options are under Tools configuration menu page. See page 4-35 for details.
To install the Express Gate Updater, launch the installer and follow on-screen prompts. To use the Express Gate Updater, launch the application and follow on-screen prompts. The Updater can preserve your Express Gate settings and personal data (web browser bookmarks, etc.) while doing an update. Use the checkbox “Keep user profile” to decide whether the Updater should do so.
4.4 RAID configurations The motherboard comes with the Intel® ICH10R Southbridge controller that supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10, and RAID 5 for six independent Serial ATA channels. 4.4.1 RAID definitions RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in parallel, interleaved stacks. Two hard disks perform the same work as a single drive but at a sustained data transfer rate, double that of a single disk alone, thus improving data access and storage.
4.4.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks The motherboard supports Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array. To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration: 1. Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays. 2. Connect the SATA signal cables. 3. Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector on each drive. 4.4.
Intel® Matrix Storage Manager option ROM utility The Intel® Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM utility allows you to create RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 (RAID 0+1), and RAID 5 set(s) from Serial ATA hard disk drives that are connected to the Serial ATA connectors supported by the Southbridge. To enter the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager option ROM utility: 1. Install all the Serial ATA hard disk drives. 2. Turn on the system. 3. During POST, press to display the utility main menu.
Creating a RAID 0 set (striped) To create a RAID 0 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press . The following screen appears. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager option ROM v8.0.0.1027 ICH10R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-08 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
6. Use the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID 0 array, and then press . The available stripe size values range from 4 KB to 128 KB. The default stripe size is 128 KB. We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size for multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing. 7. Enter the RAID volume capacity that you want and press . The default value indicates the maximum capacity allowed. 8.
Creating a RAID 1 set (mirrored) To create a RAID 1 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press . The following screen appears. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager option ROM v8.0.0.1027 ICH10R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-08 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
Creating a RAID 10 set (RAID 0+1) To create a RAID 10 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press . The following screen appears. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager option ROM v8.0.0.1027 ICH10R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-08 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
6. Press when the Create Volume item is highlighted. The following warning message appears. WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST. Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N): 7. Press to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu or to go back to the Create Volume menu. Creating a RAID 5 set (parity) To create a RAID 5 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume and press . The following screen appears.
4. The Disks item is highlighted, press to select the hard disk drives to configure as RAID. The following screen appears. [ SELECT DISKS ] Port Drive Model Serial # Size Status 0 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID 1 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID 2 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID 3 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.
4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows® XP/Vista and later operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. For Windows Vista user, you can create a RAID driver disk with a floppy disk drive or a USB flash disk drive. 4.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS To create a RAID driver disk without entering the OS: 1. Boot your computer. 2. Press during POST to enter the BIOS setup utility. 3.
To install the RAID driver in Windows XP: 1. During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the key to install third-party SCSI or RAID driver. 2. Press then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the floppy disk drive. 3. When prompted to select the SCSI adapter to install, make sure you select Intel(R) SATA RAID Controller (Desktop ICH10R). 4. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation. To install the RAID driver in Windows® Vista: 1.
4-66 Chapter 4: Software support
The Appendix describes the CPU features and technologies that the motherboard supports.
Chapter summary A.1 A.2 A.3 ® A Intel EM64T...................................................................................A-1 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST).........................A-1 Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology............................................
A.1 Intel® EM64T • The motherboard is fully compatible with Intel® LGA775 processors running on 32-bit operating systems. • The motherboard comes with a BIOS file that supports EM64T. You can download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS website (www.asus.com/ support/download/) if you need to update the BIOS file. See Chapter 3 for details. • Visit www.intel.com for more information on the EM64T feature. • Visit www.microsoft.com for more information on Windows® 64-bit OS.
A.2.2 Using the EIST To use the EIST feature: 1. Turn on the computer, then enter the BIOS Setup. 2. Go to the Advanced Menu, highlight CPU Configuration, then press . 3. Set the Intel(R) SpeedStep Technology item to [Automatic], then press . 4. Press to save your changes and exit the BIOS setup. 5. After the computer restarts, right click on a blank space on the desktop, then select Properties from the pop-up menu. 6.
A.3 Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology • The motherboard supports Intel® Pentium® LGA775 processors with HyperThreading Technology. • Hyper-Threading Technology is supported under Windows® Vista/XP and Linux 2.4.x (kernel) and later versions only. Under Linux, use the Hyper-Threading compiler to compile the code. If you are using any other operating systems, disable the Hyper-Threading Technology item in the BIOS to ensure system stability and performance.
A-4 Appendix: CPU features
