Motherboard M3N78-VM
E4067 Third Edition V3 August 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 Notices.......................................................................................................... vi Safety information...................................................................................... vii About this guide........................................................................................ viii M3N78-VM specifications summary............................................................ x Chapter 1: Product introduction 1.1 Welcome!.........................
Contents Chapter 2: 2.1 2.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy disk........................................ 2-2 2.1.3 AFUDOS utility................................................................. 2-5 2.1.2 2.1.4 2.2 2.1.5 2.2.3 Navigation keys.............................................................. 2-14 2.2.6 2.2.7 2.2.8 2.2.9 Menu bar........................................................................ 2-13 Menu items....................................................................
Contents 2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support........................................................ 2-34 2.5.5 Hardware Monitor.......................................................... 2-36 APM Configuration......................................................... 2-35 2.5.4 2.6 Boot menu................................................................................... 2-37 Boot Device Priority....................................................... 2-37 2.6.1 Boot Settings Configuration.....................
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 ensure 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.
M3N78-VM specifications summary CPU AMD socket AM2+ / AM2 for AMD Phenom™FX / Phenom™ / Athlon™ / SempronTM processors AMD64 architecture enables simultaneous 32-bit and 64-bit computing Supports up to 140W CPU Supports AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology Chipset NVIDIA® GeForce® 8200 (MCP78S) System bus Up to 5200 MT/s HyperTransport™ 3.
M3N78-VM specifications summary USB 12 USB 2.0 / 1.
M3N78-VM specifications summary Rear panel I/O 1 x LAN (RJ-45) port 1 x HDMI port 1 x DVI port 1 x VGA port 6 x USB 2.0 / 1.1 ports 1 x External SATA port 1 x PS/2 keyboard / mouse combo port 8-channel audio ports Support DVD contents Device drivers Express Gate ASUS PC Probe II ASUS Update utility Anti-virus software (OEM version) Accessories 2 x SATA cables 1 x 2-port SATA power cable 1 x UltraDMA 133 / 100 / 66 cable 1 x Floppy Disk Drive cable 1 x I/O Shield User’s manual Form Factor MicroATX: 9.
This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.
1.1 Welcome! Thank you for buying an ASUS® M3N78-VM 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.
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Technology The motherboard supports the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Technology, which monitors system operation and automatically adjusts CPU voltage and frequency for a cool and quiet operating environment. See page 2-25 for details. 64-bit CPU support 64-bit computing, the technology to replace 32-bit architecture, delivers advanced system performance, faster memory access and increased productivity.
Gigabit LAN solution Gigabit LAN is the networking standard for the early future and is ideal for handling large amounts of data such as video, audio, and voice. See page 1-24 for details. PCI Express 2.0 support The motherboard supports the latest PCI Express 2.0 devices for double speed and bandwidth which enhances system performance.See page 1-22 for details.
1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features ASUS Q-Fan technology ASUS Q-Fan technology intelligently adjusts CPU fan speeds according to system loading to ensure quiet, cool and efficient operation. See page 2-36 for details. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 allows users to restore corrupted BIOS data from a USB flash disk containing the BIOS file. See page 2-7 for details. ASUS EZ Flash 2 EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility.
Green ASUS The 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 and packaging to safeguard consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment. Express Gate 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.
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 24.4cm (9.6in) KB_USB56 CPU_FAN ATX12V R SATA2 SATA1 PCIEX1_1 CHA_FAN SB_PWR CLRTC PCIEX16 CR2032 3V Lithium Cell CMOS Power M3N78-VM PCI1 8Mb BIOS PCI2 VT1708B SPDIF_OUT AAFP 1-8 Super I/O FLOPPY USB78 PANEL CHASSIS LPT PRI_IDE Realtek 8211CL-GR 24.4cm (9.
1.5.2 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, ensure 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 eight (8) 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 a 940-pin AM2+ / AM2 socket designed for the AMD Athlon™ 64 / Sempron™ / Athlon™ FX / Athlon™ 64 X2 / AM2+ / Phenom™ FX / Phenom™ processor. The AM2+ / AM2 socket has a different pinout from the 940-pin socket designed for the AMD Opteron™ processor. Ensure that you use a CPU is designed for the AM2+ / 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. 6. 7. When the CPU is in place, push down the socket lever to secure the CPU.
1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan The AMD Athlon™ 64 / Sempron™ / Athlon™ FX / Athlon™ 64 X2 / AM2+ / Phenom™ FX / Phenom™ processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance. Ensure 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, ensuring 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. Ensure 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.
• When using only one memory module, start installing the DDR2 DIMM from slot DIMM_A1 or DIMM_B1 for better overclocking capability.
Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-533 MHz capability Size Vendor Model CL Brand SS/ DS Component DIMM support B* C* N/A Infineon SS HYB18T512800AF3733336550 · · M378T6553BG0-CD5 4 Samsung SS K4T51083QB-GCD5 · · HY HYMP512U64CP8-C4 AB 4 Hynix DS HY5PS12821CFP-C4 · · 512MB Micron MT 16HTF6464AG-53EB2 4 Micron DS D9BOM · · 1G Corsair VS1GB533D2 N/A Corsair DS 64M8CFEGQIB0900718 · · 512MB Elpida EBE51UD8ABFA-5C-E N/A Elpida SS E5108AB-5C-E · · 512MB Tra
Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-800 MHz capability Size Vendor Model CL Brand SS/ DS Component DIMM support B* C* 1G Kingston KHX6400D2LL/1G N/A Kingston DS Heat-Sink Package · · 1G Samsung KR M378T2953CZ3-CE7 N/A Samsung DS K4T51083QC-ZCE7 · · 1G Samsung KR M391T2953CZ3-CE7 N/A Samsung DS K4T51083QC-ZCE7(ECC) · · 512MB Qimonda HYS64T64000EU-2.
1.7.3 Installing a DIMM Ensure 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. 2. 3. 2 Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clips outward. 3 DDR2 DIMM notch Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break on the socket. 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. Ensure 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. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Interrupt assignments IRQ 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Standard function Standard timer Keyboard High precision event timer IRQ holder for PCI steering COM1 IRQ holder for PCI steering Floppy controller Printer port High precision event timer AMD ACPI-Compliant system IRQ holder for PCI steering IRQ holder for PCI steering Microsoft PS/2 mouse Numeric data processor Primary IDE Slave IDE * These IRQs are usually available for ISA or PCI devices.
IRQ assignments for this motherboard LNKA LNKB LN0A LN2A LATA UB12 UB11 LUB2 LUB0 LPMU LSMB LMAC LSA0 LAZA SGRU PCI slot1 shared - - - - - - - - - - - - - - PCI slot2 - shared - - - - - - - - - - - - - PCI EX1 Slot - - - shared - - - - - - - - - - - PCI EX16 slot - - shared - - - - - - - - - - - - Onboard USB1.1 (OHCI) - - - - - - - - shared - - - - - - Onboard USB 1.
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. The figure shows a LAN card installed on a PCI slot. 1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slot This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications. The following figure shows a network card installed on the PCI Express x1 slot. 1.8.
1.9 1. Jumper 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. 3. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3.
1.10 Connectors 1.10.1 Rear panel connectors 1 2 3 4 56 7 8 9 16 1. 2. 3. 4. 15 14 13 12 11 PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard or mouse. Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port. This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor or other VGA-compatible devices. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices. LAN (RJ-45) port.
Refer to the audio configuration table below for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4, 6 or 8-channel configuration. Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration Port Headset 2-channel Line In Line Out Mic In – – – Light Blue Lime Pink Orange Black Gray 11. 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 Out – Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In Center/Subwoofer Rear Speaker Out Side Speaker Out USB 2.
Playback of HD DVD and Blu-Ray Discs The speed and bandwidth of the CPU/Memory, DVD player, and drivers will affect the playback quality. Using the CPU/Memory of higher speed and bandwidth with the higher-version DVD player and drivers will upgrade the playback quality. 15. Optical S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device via an optical S/PDIF cable. 16. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.
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. R FLOPPY PIN1 M3N78-VM NOTE: Orient the red markings on the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.
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 [red], SATA2 [red], SATA3 [red], SATA4 [black], SATA5 [black]) 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).
5. CPU, Chassis and Power Fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN, 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, ensuring 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.
R USB910 USB1112 1 USB+5V USB_P10USB_P10+ GND NC USB+5V USB_P7USB_P7+ GND 1 USB+5V USB_P11USB_P11+ GND USB78 USB+5V USB_P12USB_P12+ GND NC USB connectors (10-1 pin 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. USB+5V USB_P8USB_P8+ GND NC 7.
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. PIN1 COM1 R M3N78-VM M3N78-VM COM Port Connector 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. 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.
13. 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.
14. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. PANEL SPEAKER +5V Ground Ground Speaker PLED- PLED+ PLED +IDE_LED M3N78-VM System Panel Connector • • • • • Reset Ground M3N78-VM PWR Ground IDE_LED+ IDE_LED- R Reset PWRSW 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.
1-36 Chapter 1: Product introduction
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. 2. 3. 4. ASUS EZ Flash 2: Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk, USB Flash, or the motherboard support DVD during POST. ASUS AFUDOS: Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable floppy disk. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3: Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk, USB flash disk or the motherboard support DVD when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted.
Windows® Vista environment a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44 MB floppy disk to the floppy disk drive. b. Click from the Windows® desktop, then select Computer. c. Right-click Floppy Disk Drive then click Format to display the Format 3 1/2 Floppy dialog box . d. Select the Create an MS-DOS startup disk check box. 2. e. Click Start. Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS file to the bootable floppy disk.
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. 2. 3. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for the motherboard.
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: 1. 2. • Ensure 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. 3. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to the bootable floppy disk you created earlier.
2.1.4 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.
Recovering the BIOS from the support DVD To recover the BIOS from the support DVD: 1. Remove any floppy disk from the floppy disk drive, then turn on the system. 3. The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the floppy disk for the original or updated BIOS file. 2. Insert the support DVD to the optical drive. Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery... Checking for floppy...
2.1.5 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 • Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file • • • Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet 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: 2-10 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. 5. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download. Click Next. 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 Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) 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.
2.2.1 BIOS menu screen Menu items Menu bar System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave SATA1 SATA2 SATA3 ESATA Configuration fields General help [03: 29 : 55] [Mon 01/28/2002] [1.44M,3.5 in.] Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a field. : : : : : : Use [+] or [-] to configure system time. [Not Detected] [Not Detected] [ST380011AS] [Not Detected] [Not Detected] [Not Detected] Storage Configuration System Information Sub-menu items 2.2.
2.2.3 Navigation keys At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings. 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. The other items (Advanced, Power, Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items.
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. System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave SATA1 SATA2 SATA3 ESATA [03:30:50] [Mon 01/28/2002] [1.44M,3.5 in.] Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a field.
2.3.4 Primary IDE Master/Slave, SATA1~3, ESATA 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.
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.
2.3.5 Storage Configuration The items in this menu allow you to set or change the configurations for the IDE devices installed in the system. Select an item then press if you wish to configure the item. IDE Configuration Onboard PCI IDE Controller OnChip S-ATA Controller SATA Mode select [Enabled] [Enabled] [SATA Mode] DISABLED: disables the integrated IDE Controller. ENABLED: enables the integrated IDE Controller.
2.3.6 System Information This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS automatically detects the items in this menu.
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. Adjust System Frequency/Voltage etc. JumperFree Configuration CPU Configuration Chipset Onboard Devices Configuration PCIPnP USB Configuration Trusted Computing 2.4.
CPU Overclocking [Auto] Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal frequency. Select either one of the preset overclocking configuration options: [Auto] - allows you to set overclocking parameters automatically. [Manual] - allows you to individually set overclocking parameters. [Overclock Profile] - loads overclocking profiles with optimal parameters for stability when overclocking. The following item appear only when the CPU Overclocking item is set to [Manual].
PCIE Overclocking [Auto] Allows selection of PCIE overclocking options to achieve desired PCIE frequency. Select either one of the preset overclocking configuration options: [Auto] - allows you to set overclocking parameters automatically. [Manual] - allows you to individually set overclocking parameters. The following item appears only when the PCIE Overclocking item is set to [Manual]. PCIE Frequency [100] Allows you to enter an integer value from 100MHz to 150 MHz to over clock for PCIE.
The following item appears only when the Memory Clock Mode item is set to [Manual]. Memclock Value [266 MHz] Allows you to select the memclock value. Configuration options: [266 MHz] [333MHz] [400 MHz] [533 MHz] DRAM Timing Mode [Auto] Allows you to set the DRAM timing mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [DCT 0] The following items appear only when the DRAM Timing Mode item is set to [DCT 0]. CAS# Latency [ Auto] Allows you to set CAS# latency.
tRWTTO [ Auto] Allows you to set tRWTTO. Configuration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] [3 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [8 CLK] [9 CLK] tWRRD [ Auto] Allows you to specify the write to read delay when accessing different DRAMs. Configuration options: [Auto] [0 CLK] [1 CLK] [2 CLK] [3 CLK] tWTR [ Auto] Allows you to specify the write to read delay when accessing the same DRAM. Configuration options: [1 CLK] [2 CLK] [3 CLK] [Auto] tWRWR [ Auto] Allows you to specify the Twrwr time.
2.4.2 CPU Configuration CPU Configuration Module Version: 13.20 AGESA Version: 3.1.8.0 Physical Count: 1 Logical Count: 1 AMD Athlon(tm) Processor 3200+ Revision: F2 Cache L1: 128KB Cache L2: 128KB Cache L3: N/A Speed : 1800MHz, NB Clk: N/A HT Frequency : 800MHz Current FSB Multiplier: 9x Maximum FSB Multiplier: 9x Able to Change Freq.
2.4.3 Chipset The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an item then press to display the sub-menu. Advanced Chipset Setting Options for NB WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction.
Memory Configuration Memory Configuration Bank Interleaving Channel Interleaving Enable Clock to All DIMMs MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID Memory Hole Remapping DCT Unganged Mode Power Down Enable [Auto] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto] [Enabled] Enable Bank Memory Interleaving Bank Interleaving [Auto] Allows you to enable the bank memory interleaving. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto] Channel Interleaving [Disabled] Allows you to enable the channel memory interleaving.
ECC Configuration ECC Configuration ECC Mode DRAM ECC Enable DRAM SCRUB REDIRECT 4-Bit ECC Mode DRAM BG Scrub Data Cache BG Scrub L2 Cache BG Scrub L3 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] Set the level of ECC protection. Note: The ‘Super’ ECC mode dynamically sets the DRAM scrub rate so all of memory is scrubbed in 8 hours.
SouthBridge Configuration SouthBridge chipset Configuration Options Primary Graphics Adapter Hybrid SLI Mode Hybrid SLI Frame buffer Size [PCIE VGA Card Firs] [mGPU Auto] [128MB] PCIE 2.
OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the OnBoard LAN Boot ROM. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] SouthBridge ACPI HPET TABLE [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable SouthBridge ACPI HPET TABLE. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 2.4.
2.4.5 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. Advanced PCI/PnP Settings WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause 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] 2.4.6 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. USB Configuration Options Module Version - 2.24.3-13.
2.4.7 Trusted Computing The items in this menu allows you to configure Trusted Computing related settings. Select an item then press to display the configuration options. Trusted Computing TCG/TPM SUPPORT [No] Enable/Disable TPM TCG (TPM 1.1/1.2) supp in BIOS TCG/TPM SUPPORT [No] Allows you to enable or disable the TPM/TCG (TPM 1.1/1.2) support in BIOS.
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. Suspend Mode ACPI 2.0 Support ACPI APIC support [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend. APM Configuration Hardware Monitor 2.5.
2.5.4 APM Configuration APM Configuration Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off] Power Power Power Power [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] On On On On By By By By PCI Device Ring PS/2 KB/MS RTC Alarm Options Power On Power Off 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.
2.5.5 Hardware Monitor Hardware Monitor CPU Temperature CPU Temperature MB Temperature [46ºC/114.5ºF] [34ºC/93ºF] CPU Fan Speed Chassis Fan Speed Power Fsn Speed [3276RPM] [N/A] [N/A] VCORE Voltage 3.3V Voltage 5V Voltage 12V Voltage [ 1.232V] [ 3.328V] [ 4.915V] [11.916V] Smart Q-FAN Function [Disabled] CPU Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard and CPU temperatures.
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. Specifies the Boot Device Priority sequence. Boot settings Boot Device Priority A virtual floopy disk drive (Floppy Drive B:) may appear when you set the CD-ROM drive as the first boot device. Boot Settings Configuration Security 2.6.
2.6.2 Boot Settings Configuration 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 Interrupt 19 Capture [Enabled] [Enabled] [Force BIOS] [On] [Auto] [Enabled] [Enabled] [Disabled] Quick Boot [Enabled] Allows BIOS to skip certain tests while booting. This will decrease the time needed to boot the system.
Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled] When set to [Enabled], this function allows the option ROMs to trap Interrupt 19. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 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.
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] +F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Change Option General Help Save and Exit Exit This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items.
2.7 Tools menu ASUS EZ Flash 2 Express Gate Enter OS Timer Reset User Data AI NET 2 2.7.1 [Enabled] [10 Seconds] [No] Press ENTER to run the utility to select and update BIOS. This utility doesn’t support: 1. NTFS format 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. ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.
2.7.2 Express Gate [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Express Gate feature. The ASUS Express Gate feature is a unique instant-on environment that provides quick access to the Internet browser and Skype. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Enter OS Timer [10 Seconds] Allows you to set the countdown duration that the system waits at the Express Gate’s first screen before starting Windows or other installed OS.
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. 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.
2-44 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® 32-bit XP / 32-bit Vista / 64-bit XP / 64-bit 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. ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Drivers Launches the ASUS InstallAll installation wizard for drivers. AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Driver Installs the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet driver. NVIDIA nForce Chipset Driver Installs the NVIDIA nForce chipset driver. VIA Audio Driver Installs the VIA audio driver and application.
3.2.3 Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities Launches the ASUS InstallAll installation wizard for utilities. ASUS Update The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in a Windows® environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
Corel MediaOne Starter Installs theCorel MediaOne Starter application to easily manage, edit, share and protect your multimedia data. CyberLink PowerBackup Installs the CyberLink PowerBackup to back up and restore your data easily. WinZip 11 Installs the WinZip 11. Ulead Burn. Now Installs the Ulead Burn.Now application for Audio DVD, CD and data disc creation. Ulead PhotoImpact 12 SE Installs the PhotoImpact image editing software. Click to show the succeeding Utilities menu below.
3.2.4 Make Disk menu The Make Disk menu allows you to make a RAID driver disk. NVIDIA 32/64bit XP SATA RAID Driver (Disk1/2) Allows you to create the NVIDIA 32/64-bit XP SATA RAID Driver disks for Windows® XP Operating System (OS). NVIDIA 32/64bit Vista SATA RAID Driver Allows you to create the NVIDIA 32/64-bit Vista SATA RAID Driver disk for Windows® Vista Operating System (OS).
NVIDIA 32/64bit Vista AHCI Driver Allows you to create the NVIDIA 32/64-bit Vista AHCI Driver disk for Windows® Vista Operating System (OS). Due to floppy disk capacity limitation, when creating a RAID configuration under Windows® Vista, install the AHCI / RAID driver through the motherboard support DVD or a USB device. Find RAID driver in the support DVD through the path below: Drivers\Chipset\Disk\RAID Find AHCI driver in the support DVD through the path below: Drivers\Chipset\Disk\AHCI ASUS M3N78-VM 3
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 Creating a RAID driver disk A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows® XP operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. For Windows® VistaTM operating system, use either the motherboard support DVD or a USB device with the RAID driver. 3.3.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS To create a RAID driver disk without entering the OS: 1. Boot your computer. 3. Set the optical drive as the primary boot device. 2. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Using the driver disks you created: • Insert Disk1 when you see the following instruction in Windows Setup. DO NOT remove Disk1 until you are asked to insert Disk2. Windows Setup Please insert the disk labeled Manufacturer-supplied hardware support disk into Drive A: * Press ENTER when ready. ENTER=Continue • ESC=Cancel F3=Exit Remove Disk1, and insert Disk2 when you see the following instruction in Windows XP Setup.
To install the RAID driver in Windows® VistaTM: 1. Insert the motherboard support DVD or a USB device with RAID driver into the optical drive / USB port. Find RAID driver in the support DVD through the path below: Drivers\Chipset\Disk\RAID Find AHCI driver in the support DVD through the path below: 2. Drivers\Chipset\Disk\AHCI Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.
3. Select the language for installation and click OK. 4. The InstallShield Wizard for Express Gate appears. Click Next to continue. 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 Express Gate Environment The very first time you enter the Express Gate environment (by launching either web or Skype from the first screen), a first time wizard will guide you through basic Express Gate configurations. Basic configurations include language, date and time and screen resolution. Once inside the Express Gate 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.
Using the Configuration Panel Use the configuration panel to change various Express Gate 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. • Language and Keyboard: choose your language and keyboard preferences. • • • • Input Method: choose your preferred input language and method. 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 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 ”. Click to open Express Gate 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 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.
• • 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.
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. ASUS EZ Flash 2 Express Gate Enter OS Timer Reset User Data [Enabled] [10 Seconds] [No] Press ENTER to run the utility to select and update BIOS. This utility doesn’t support: 1.
3-22 Chapter 3: Software support
This chapter tells how to use the Hybrid SLI® feature.
4.1 NVIDIA® Hybrid SLI® Technology The motherboard supports the NVIDIA® Hybrid SLI® technology that includes two primary features: GeForce® Boost and HybridPower™. GeForce® Boost enhances the performance of NVIDIA discrete Graphics Process Units (dGPU) when they work with the onboard motherboard GPU (mGPU). HybridPower™ unleashes the graphics performance of the dGPU and enables low-power operation when the performance of the dGPU is not needed.
4.1.2 Enabling Hybrid SLI • • Before enabling GeForce Boost and HybridPower, ensure that you have installed a dGPU recommended for GeForce Boost on your motherboard. Ensure that you have connected your display to the dGPU. Otherwise, the motherboard cannot detect your display and no image appears. To enable Hybrid SLI 1. 2. Turn on the system and press during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the BIOS Setup Utility. Go to Advanced > Chipset > SouthBridge Configuration.
7. Save your changes and Exit Setup. 8. From the Windows® desktop, go to Start > Control Panel > User Accounts and Family Safety to turn off User Account Control. 9. Place the support DVD into the optical drive, and go to the Drivers menu to install the NVIDIA Chipset Driver Program. 10. Restart the system. 11. If the driver is correctly installed, you will find the Hybrid SLI icon on the taskbar. The Hybrid SLI icon indicates that the system is in Performance mode and that GeForce Boost is enabled.
