Motherboard M3A78 PRO
E3906 First Edition May 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.......................................................................................................... vi Safety information...................................................................................... vii About this guide........................................................................................ viii M3A78 PRO specifications summary...................
Contents 1.10.2 Chapter 2 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 iv Internal connectors........................................................ 1-32 BIOS setup Managing and updating your BIOS............................................. 2-2 2.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy disk........................................ 2-3 2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility.................................................... 2-4 2.1.3 AFUDOS utility................................................................. 2-5 2.1.
Contents 2.6 2.7 2.8 2.5.1 Suspend Mode............................................................... 2-30 2.5.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume......................................... 2-30 2.5.3 ACPI 2.0 Support........................................................... 2-30 2.5.4 ACPI APIC Support........................................................ 2-30 2.5.5 APM Configuration......................................................... 2-31 2.5.6 Hardware Monitor...............................
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 manual contains the following parts: • Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. This chapter also 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.
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.
M3A78 PRO specifications summary CPU AMD® Socket AM2/AM2+ for AMD Phenom™ FX / Phenom™ / Athlon™/ Sempron™ processors AMD® Cool’n’Quiet™ Technology Supports CPU TDP up to 140W Chipset AMD 780G + SB700 System Bus Up to 5200 MT/s; HyperTransport™ 3.
M3A78 PRO specifications summary ASUS Unique Features ASUS Express Gate: - Web browser, file downloading and uploading* - Further free features upgradable * File downloading and uploading through USB devices only. ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution: - ASUS 4+1 Phase Power Design - ASUS AI Gear 2 - ASUS AI Nap - ASUS Q-Fan 2 ASUS Crystal Sound - ASUS Noise Filter ASUS EZ DIY - ASUS Q-Shield - ASUS Q-Connector - ASUS O.C.
M3A78 PRO specifications summary Rear panel I/O ports 1 x PS/2 keyboard port (purple) 1 x PS/2 mouse port (green) 1 x S/PDIF Out (Coaxial) 1 x HDMI Out 1 x D-Sub 1 x LAN (RJ-45) 4 x USB 2.0/1.
This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.
1.1 Welcome! Thank you for buying an ASUS® M3A78 PRO 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.
Native DDR2 1066 support This motherboard provides native DDR2 1066 support. It provides faster data transfer rate and more bandwidth to increase memory computing efficiency, enhancing system performance in 3D graphics and other memory demanding applications. See page 1‑15 for details. DDR2 1066 is supported by some of the AM2+ CPUs only. Refer to www.asus. com for the supported CPU models.
High Definition Audio Enjoy high-end sound quality on your PC! The onboard 8-channel HD audio (High Definition Audio, previously codenamed Azalia) CODEC enables high-quality 192KHz/24-bit audio output that simultaneously sends different audio streams to different destinations. You can now talk to your partners on the headphones while playing multi-channel network games. See page 1-29 for details. 1.3.
ASUS EZ DIY ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings. ASUS Express Gate Just 5 seconds to boot up, the ASUS Express Gate allows you to instantly surf the Internet without entering Windows. You can now enjoy Skype, IM, YouTube, webmail and Internet file downloads and sharing whenever and wherever you want! See page 2-39 and 3-10 for details . • The bootup speed depends on system configurations.
ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS 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 2-4 for details. Smart Support DVD This feature provides a checklist that allows the user to know which drivers are already installed, as well as those that are not.
1.4 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.
1.5 Motherboard overview 1.5.1 Motherboard layout Refer to 1.10 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.
1.5.2 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. 1.5.3 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.
1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with an AM2+/AM2 socket designed for the AMD® Socket AM2+ Phenom™ FX / Phenom™ / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processors or for Socket AM2 Athlon Series / Sempron processors. The AM2 socket has a different pinout from the 940-pin socket designed for the AMD Opteron™ processor. Make sure you use a CPU is designed for the AM2 socket. The CPU fits in only one correct orientation.
3. Position the CPU above the socket such that the CPU corner with the gold triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle. 4. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place. Small triangle Gold triangle The CPU fits only in one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the pins and damaging the CPU! 5. When the CPU is in place, push down the socket lever to secure the CPU. The lever clicks on the side tab to indicate that it is locked.
1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan The AMD® Phenom™ FX / Phenom™ / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processors require a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance. Make sure that you use only qualified heatsink and fan assembly. Follow these steps to install the CPU heatsink and fan. 1. Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, making sure that the heatsink fits properly on the retention module base.
2. Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. 3. Align the other end of the retention bracket (near the retention bracket lock) to the retention module base. A clicking sound denotes that the retention bracket is in place. Make sure that the fan and heatsink assembly perfectly fits the retention mechanism module base; otherwise, you cannot snap the retention bracket in place. 4.
1.7 System memory 1.7.1 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. The figure illustrates the location of the DDR2 DIMM sockets: Channel Channel A Channel B 1.7.
• 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. • Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, it is recommended that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.
M3A78 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-800 MHz capability for AM2+ CPU DIMM socket support (Optional) Size •endor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No. 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.
M3A78 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-800 MHz capability for AM2+ CPU (continued) 1-18 DIMM socket support (Optional) Size •endor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No.
M3A78 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-667 MHz capability for AM2+ CPU DIMM socket support (Optional) Size •endor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No. 512MB A-DATA AD29608A8A-3EG 5 A-DATA SS M2OAD5G3H3166I1C52 1GB A-DATA AD29608A8A-3EG 5 A-DATA DS M2OAD5G3I4176I1C52 • 2GB A-DATA NT5TU128M8BJ-3C N/A N/A DS M2ONY5H3J4170I1C5Z • • • 512MB Apacer AM4B5708JQJS7E N/A APACER SS 78.91G92.9K5 • • • 1GB Apacer AM4B5808CQJS7E N/A APACER SS 78.01G9O.
M3A78 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-667 MHz capability for AM2+ CPU (continued) DIMM socket support (Optional) Size •endor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No.
M3A78 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-800 MHz capability for AM2 CPU (continued) DIMM socket support (Optional) Size Vendor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No.
M3A78 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-667 MHz capability for AM2 CPU (continued) DIMM socket support (Optional) Size Vendor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No.
1.7.3 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 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. Firmly insert the DIMM into the socket until the retaining clips snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated.
1.8 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. 1.8.1 Installing an expansion card To install an expansion card: 1.
Interrupt assignments IRQ 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Priority 1 2 – 11 12 13 14 15 Standard function System timer Keyboard controller Re-direct to IRQ#9 IRQ holder for PCI steering* Communications port (COM1)* IRQ holder for PCI steering* Floppy disk controller IRQ holder for PCI steering* 8 3 System CMOS/Real Time Clock 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 IRQ holder for PCI steering* IRQ holder for PCI steering* IRQ holder for PCI steering* PS/2 compatible mouse port* Numeric data processor IRQ holder for PCI
1.8.3 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. 1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slots This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other cards that comply with PCI Express specifications. Refer to the figure below for the location of the slot. 1.8.5 PCI Express 2.
1.9 1. Jumpers Clear RTC RAM (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. USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW1-4, USBPW5-8, USBPW9-12) Set these jumpers to +5V to wake up the computer from S1 sleep mode (CPU stopped, DRAM refreshed, system running in low power mode) using the connected USB devices. Set to +5VSB to wake up from S3 and S4 sleep modes. The USBPW1-4 jumpers are for the rear USB ports. The USBPW5-8 and USBPW9-12 jumpers are for the internal USB connectors that you can connect to additional USB ports. 3.
1.10 Connectors 1.10.1 Rear panel connectors 1. PS/2 mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse. 2. Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port. This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor or other VGA-compatible devices. 3. LAN (RJ-45) port. This port allows 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 Headset 2-channel Line In Line Out Mic In – – – Port Light Blue Lime Pink Orange Black Gray 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In – Rear Speaker Out – Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In Center/Subwoofer Rear Speaker Ou – Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In Center/Subwoofer Rear Speaker Out Side Speaker Out 10. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices. 11.
Troubleshooting on HDTV overscaling or underscaling: If your desktop is extending beyond the viewable display area or the desktop or image is not filling the entire display area while using the onboard HDMI out port and the HDMI cable, you can resize the desktop appearing on your HDTV screen. To resize your HDTV desktop: 1. Install AMD Chipset Driver from the motherboard support DVD. See section 3.3.2 Drivers menu for details. 2. Right-click the desktop and select ATI CATALYST(R) Control Center. 3.
1.10.2 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 an FDD cable with a covered Pin 5. 2.
3. IDE connectors (40-1 pin PRI_IDE) The onboard IDE connector is for an Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable. There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66 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(s).
4. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1-6) These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA 3Gb/s hard disk and optical disk drives. The Serial ATA 3Gb/s is backward compatible with Serial ATA 1.5Gb/s specification. The data transfer rate of the Serial ATA 3Gb/s is faster than the standard parallel ATA with 133 MB/s (Ultra DMA133). If you install Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID 10 configuration through the onboard controller.
5. CPU, Chassis and Power Fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1, 3-pin PWR_FAN) The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350mA~740mA (8.88W max.) or a total of 1A~2.22A (26.64W 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. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78, USB910, USB1112) 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.
9. Serial port connectors (10-1 pin COM1) The connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to the connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. The serial port bracket (COM1) is purchased separately. 10. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports either High Definition Audio or AC`97 audio standard.
11. ATX power connectors (24-pin ATX-PWRGD, 4-pin ATX12V) These connectors are for an ATX power supply. The plugs from the power supply are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit. 1-38 • 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.
12. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. • System power LED 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 This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable to this connector.
13. 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. 1-40 2.
This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. 1. ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk, USB Flash, or the motherboard support DVD during POST.) 2. ASUS AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable floppy disk.) 3. ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.) Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.
2.1.1 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.
2.1.2 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-Test (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.
2.1.3 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.
Updating the BIOS file To update the BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility: 1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) and download the latest BIOS file for the motherboard. Save the BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk. 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.
2.1.4 ASUS Update utility The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you to: • Save the current BIOS file • Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet • Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file • Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and • View the BIOS version information. This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.
Updating the BIOS through the Internet To update the BIOS through the Internet: 2-8 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. Click Next.
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.
2.2 BIOS setup program This motherboard supports a programmable firmware chip that you can update using the provided utility described in section 2.1 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.
2.2.1 BIOS menu screen Menu items Main Menu bar Advanced Configuration fields BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools Exit Power System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave SATA1 SATA2 SATA3 SATA4 SATA5 SATA6 Storage Configuration General help : : : : : : : : [17:41:19] [Mon 02/18/2008] [1.44M, 3.5 in.] Use [ENTER]. [TAB], or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a field.
Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another. 2.2.4 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. System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave SATA1 SATA2 SATA3 SATA4 SATA5 SATA6 Storage Configuration [WDC [Not [Not [Not [Not [Not [Not [Not Use [+] or [-] to configure system Time.
2.3 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 2.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them. Main Advanced BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools Exit Power System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave SATA1 SATA2 SATA3 SATA4 SATA5 SATA6 Storage Configuration : : : : : : : : [17:41:19] [Thu 05/15/2008] [1.
2.3.4 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. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Primary IDE Master Device Select the type of device connected to the system.
DMA Mode [Auto] Selects the DMA mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [SWDMA0] [SWDMA1] [SWDMA2] [MWDMA0] [MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2] [UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5] [UDMA6] 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] 2.3.
Block (Multi-sector Transfer) M [Auto] Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When set to [Auto], the data transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device supports multi-sector transfer feature. When set to [Disabled], the data transfer from and to the device occurs one sector at a time. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto] PIO Mode [Auto] Selects the PIO mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4] DMA Mode [Auto] Selects the DMA mode.
•����������������������������������������������������������������������������� If you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as Parallel ATA physical storage devices, keep the default setting [IDE]. 2.3.7 • If you want the Serial ATA hard disk drives to use the Advanced Host Controller Interface (AHCI), set this item to [AHCI].
2.4 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. The configuration options for this chapter vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you install on the motherboard.
The following item appears only when you set the Ai Overclocking item to [Overclock Profile]. Overclock Options [Overclock 5%] Allows you to set the overclocking options. Configuration options: [Overclock 3%] [Overclock 5%] [Overclock 10%] [Overclock 15%] [Overclock 20%] [Overclock 30%] The following two items appear only when you set the Ai Overclocking item to [Manual]. FSB Frequency [XXX] Displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and PCI bus.
The following three items appears only when you set the Ai Overclocking item to [Manual], [Standard], or [Overclock Profile] and are adjusted by typing the desired values using the numeric keypad and press the key. You can also use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press the key. DRAM Voltage [Auto] Allows selection of the DDR2 reference voltage. The values range from 1.90V to 2.25V with a 0.05V interval.
DRAM Timing Mode [Auto] Allows selection of the DRAM Timing Mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [DCT 0] The following sub-items appear only when you set the DRAM Timing Mode item to [DCT 0].
tRWTTO [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] [3 CLK] ~ [8 CLK] [9 CLK] tWRRD [Auto] Specifies the write to read delay when accessing different DIMMs. Configuration options: [Auto] [0 CLK] [1 CLK] [2 CLK] [3 CLK] tWRWR [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 CLK] [2 CLK] [3 CLK] tRDRD [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [2 CLk] [3 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] PLL1/2 Spread Spectrum [Disabled] Allows selection of the PLL1/2 Spread Spectrum settings for EMI control.
2.4.3 CPU Configuration BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced CPU Configuration Module Version: 13.28 AGESA Version:3.1.7.0 Physical Count: 1 Logical Count: 1 Enable/Disable Secure Virtual Machine Mode (SVM) AMD Athlon(tm) 64 Processor 3200+ Revision: F2 Cache L1: 128KB Cache L2: 512KB Cache L3: N/A Speed : 2000MHz, NB Clk: N/A Current FSB Multiplier: 10x Maximum FSB Multiplier: 10x Able to Change Freq.
PCI Express Configuration This menu allows you to change the PCI Express Configuration settings. Select an item then press to display the sub-menu. Advanced PCI Express Configuration GPP Slots Power Limit, W [25] Port #02 Features Port #04 Features Port #05 Features Port #06 Features Port #07 Features Port #09 Features Port #10 Features NB-SB Port Features GPP Slots Power Limit, W [25] Use the <+> and <-> keys to change the value or type the desired value using the numeric keypad.
Internal Graphics Configuration This menu allows you to change the onboard graphics configuration settings. Select an item then press to display the sub-menu.
ECC Mode [Disabled] Disables or sets the DRAM ECC mode that allows the hardware to report and correct memory errors. Set this item to [Basic] [Good] or [Max] to allow ECC mode auto-adjustment. Set this item to [Super] to adjust the DRAM BG Scrub sub-item manually. You may also adjust all sub-items by setting this item to [User].
2.4.6 Onboard Devices Configuration Advanced Onboard Devices Configuraiton Serial Port1 Address HD Audio Azalia Device Front Panel Support Type Onboard Lan Controller Onboard LAN Boot ROM Primary Display Adapter [3F8/IRQ4] [Auto] [HD Audio] [Enabled] [Disabled] [PCI-E] Allows BIOS to Select Serial Port1 Base Addresses. Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4] Allows you to select the Serial Port1 base address.
2.4.7 PCI PnP The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices. The menu includes setting IRQ and DMA channel resources for either PCI/PnP or legacy ISA devices, and setting the memory size block for legacy ISA devices. Take caution when changing the settings of the PCI PnP menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction.
IRQ-xx assigned to [PCI Device] When set to [PCI Device], the specific IRQ is free for use of PCI/PnP devices. When set to [Reserved], the IRQ is reserved for legacy ISA devices. Configuration options: [PCI Device] [Reserved] 2.4.8 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. Advanced BIOS SETUP UTILITY USB Configuration Options USB Devices Enabled: 1 Mouse USB Functions USB 2.
2.5 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 Advanced Power Suspend Mode Repost Video on S3 Resume ACPI 2.0 Support ACPI APIC Support BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools Exit [Auto] [No] [Disabled] [Enabled] Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend.
2.5.5 APM Configuration Power Power Button Mode Power On By PCI devices Power On By PCIE Devices Power On By External Modems Power On By RTC Alarm Power On By PS/2 Keyboard Power On By PS/2 Mouse Restore on AC Power Loss BIOS SETUP UTILITY [On/Off] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Power Off] Select Power button functionality. Power Button Mode [On/Off] Allows you to set the power button function.
Power On By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled] When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to use the PS/2 mouse to turn on the system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Restore On AC Power Loss [Power Off] When set to Power Off, the system goes into off state after an AC power loss. When set to Power On, the system goes on after an AC power loss.
2.5.6 Hardware Monitor Power BIOS SETUP UTILITY Hardware Monitor CPU Temperature CPU Temperature MB Temperature [37ºC/98.5ºF] [39ºC/102ºF] CPU Fan Speed Chassis Fan Speed Power Fan Speed [3292RPM] [N/A] [N/A] VCORE Voltage 3.3V Voltage 5V Voltage 12V Voltage [ 1.344V] [ 3.280V] [ 4.966V] [11.
2.6 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 Advanced Power BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools Exit Specifies the Boot Device Priority sequence. Boot Settings Boot Device Priority A virtual floppy disk drive (Floppy Drive B:) may appear when you set the DVD-ROM drive as the first boot device.
2.6.2 Boot Settings Configuration BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Boot Settings Configuration Quick Boot Full Screen Logo AddOn ROM Display Mode Bootup Num-Lock PS/2 Mouse Support Wait For ‘F1’ If Error Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display Chassis Intrusion [Enabled] [Enabled] [Force BIOS] [On] [Auto] [Enabled] [Enabled] [Enabled] Allows BIOS to skip certain tests while booting. This will decrease the time needed to boot the system.
2.6.3 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 User Password : Not Installed : Not Installed to change password. again to disable password. Change Supervisor Password Change User Passward Change Supervisor Password Select this item to set or change the supervisor password.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Security Settings Supervisor Password User Password : Installed : 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.
2.7 Main Tools menu Advanced Power BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools Exit Press ENTER to run the utility to select and update BIOS. This utility doesn’t support: 1. NTFS format ASUS EZ Flash 2 Express Gate ASUS O.C. Profile v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc. 2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press , a confirmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press to confirm your choice.
2.7.2 Express Gate BIOS SETUP UTILITY Tools Express Gate Express Gate Boot Out Timer Reset User Data Options [Enabled] [10] [No] Disabled Enabled You have to install the ASUS Express Gate application from the support DVD first before you can enable this feature. See page 3-5 for details. Express Gate [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Express Gate feature. ASUS Express Gate is a unique instant-on environment that provides quick access to the Internet browser and Skype.
2.7.3 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 Select Screen Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.
2.8 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 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. Pressing does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options from this menu or from the legend bar to exit.
2-42 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.
3.1 Installing an operating system This motherboard supports Windows® XP / Vista operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware. 3.2 • 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.
3.2.2 Drivers menu The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices. AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Driver (For Windows XP only) Installs the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet driver. AMD Chipset Driver Installs the AMD chipset driver. Realtek Audio Driver Installs the Realtek® ALC1200 audio driver and application. Realtek RTL8111C 10/100/1000M LAN Driver Installs the Realtek RTL8111C Gigabit LAN driver. USB 2.
3.2.3 Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. Click to display the next screen Click to display the previous screen AMD OverDrive Utility (AOD) Installs the AMD OverDrive Utility which allows configuration of system and overclocking settings in Windows environment. ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet Utility This item installs the ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet utility.
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. ASUS AI Suite Installs the ASUS AI Suite. ASUS Express Gate Installer Installs the ASUS Express Gate application. Adobe Acrobat Reader 8 Installs the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader that allows you to open, view, and print documents in Portable Document Format (PDF). Microsoft DirectX 9.
Anti-Virus Utility Download Installs to update your anti-virus utility version. 3.2.4 Make Disk menu The Make Disk menu allows you to make a RAID driver disk. ATI RAID/AHCI 32/64bit WinXP Driver Allows you to create an ATI RAID/AHCI driver disk for 32/64bit Windows® XP operating system. ATI RAID/AHCI 32/64bit Vista Driver Allows you to create an ATI RAID/AHCI driver disk for 32/64bit Windows® Vista operating system.
3.2.5 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. 3.2.6 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.
3.2.7 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.
3.3 ASUS Express Gate ASUS Express Gate is an instant-on environment that gives you quick access to the Internet. Within a few seconds of powering on your computer, you will be at the Express Gate menu where you can start the web browser, Skype, or other Express Gate softwares. Installing ASUS Express Gate • The bootup speed depends on system configurations. • Due to chipset limitation, ASUS Express Gate supports USB devices or SATA HDDs (IDE mode) connected to SATA port 1-4 only.
5. Select the target disk volume for you to install Express Gate. If you have multiple volumes and OS installed in your hard drive, it is recommended to install Express Gate in Volume C. Click Next to continue. 6. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. The First Screen Express Gate’s first screen appears within a few seconds after you power on the computer. From here, you can immediately start the web browser or Skype. You can also choose to continue booting normally (e.g.
Knowing the Express Gate hot-keys Here is a list of common-used hot-keys for Express Gate.
• The number of the LAN ports may differ from motherboards. • You can connect the LAN cable to either port, and Express Gate will automatically use the connected port. Also specify whether each port uses DHCP (most common) or static IP. For PPPoE and wireless (optional), set the login credentials (user name, password, SSID, etc.) as well.
In the rare case that one of the above softwares stops responding, you can rightclick on its icon and then select Close to force it to close. The smaller icons on the right side of the LaunchBar are: Click on this icon to open the File Manager window, which lets you conveniently access the files on a USB drive. If a USB device is detected, the icon contains a green arrow. ASUS Express Gate supports file uploading and downloading on USB drives in FAT16/32 format only.
How Do I Get on to the Internet If Internet doesn’t seem to be working in the Express Gate environment, check the following: 1. Open the Configuration Panel. Open Configuration Panel 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 will automatically use whichever port (LAN1 or LAN2) is connected. If you plug the network cable into a different port while Express Gate is running (e.g. move the cable from LAN1 to LAN2), you may need to press the “Refresh” button to detect the change. • The most common scenario is for your computer to automatically obtain network settings (i.e. DHCP).
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 the Tools menu. Refer to section 2.7.2 Express Gate for details. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Tools Express Gate Lite Express Gate Lite Options [Disabled] Disabled Enabled Updating Express Gate You may update your existing Express Gate software to new versions.
3.4 ATI® Hybrid CrossFireX™ The motherboard supports the ATI® Hybrid CrossFire™ technology that allows you to install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) CrossFireX cards. 3.4.
3.4.3 Installing AMD Chipset Driver To install the driver that supports Hybrid CrossFireX technology: 1. Insert the Support DVD that comes with your motherboard into the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer. If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the ASSETUP.EXE to run the DVD. 2.
Using the onboard graphics card 1. Right-click on the Windows® desktop, and then click ATI CATALYST(R) Control Center from the shortcut menu. The ATI CATALYST Control Center screen appears. 2. Click Graphics Settings > CrossFire™, then clear the Enable CrossFire™ check box. When a confirmation message pops up, click Yes. The screen blacks out for about one minute. 3. Click OK. 4. Right-click on the Windows® desktop, then click Personalize from the shortcut menu. 5. Click Display Settings.
1. Follow steps 1 to 3 on Using the onboard graphics card. 2. From the ATI CATALYST(R) Control Center screen, click Display Manager > Graphics Adapter. Select ATI Radeon HD 3200 Graphics [Gabbs, G HW173]. Click OK, and then Yes from the confirmation window. 3. Follow steps 6 to step 8 on Using the onboard graphics card to complete the process of setting up the onboard graphics card as your main monitor.
3-22 Chapter 3: Software support
