M4A89TD PRO/USB3 M4A89TD PRO Motherboard M4A89TD PRO Series
E5796 First Edition (V1) April 2010 Copyright © 2010 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).
Contents Notices ....................................................................................................................... vii Safety information..................................................................................................... viii About this guide.......................................................................................................... ix M4A89TD PRO Series specifications summary.......................................................
Contents 2.7 Connectors................................................................................................ 2-23 2.7.1 Rear panel connectors............................................................... 2-23 2.7.2 Audio I/O connections................................................................ 2-24 2.7.3 Internal connectors.................................................................... 2-27 2.7.4. ASUS Q-Connector (system panel)...........................................
Contents 3.6 3.7 3.8 3.9 3.10 3.5.9 DRAM Driving Configuration...................................................... 3-18 3.5.10 CPU & NB Voltage Mode........................................................... 3-19 3.5.11 CPU VDDA Voltage . ................................................................. 3-19 3.5.12 DRAM Voltage .......................................................................... 3-19 3.5.17 CPU Load-Line Calibration ....................................................
Contents Chapter 4: 4.1 4.2 4.3 Software support Installing an operating system.................................................................. 4-1 Support DVD information........................................................................... 4-1 4.2.1 Running the support DVD............................................................ 4-1 4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals.................................................. 4-2 Software information...............................................
Notices Federal Communications Commission Statement This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: • This device may not cause harmful interference, and • This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Safety information Electrical safety • To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system. • When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
About this guide This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard. How this guide is organized This guide contains the following parts: • Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. • Chapter 2: Hardware information This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components.
Conventions used in this guide To 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.
M4A89TD PRO Series specifications summary CPU AMD® Socket AM3*; Phenom™ II / Athlon™ II / Sempron™ 100 Series Processors AMD® 140W CPU Support AMD® Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology Supports 45nm CPU Chipset AMD® 890FX / SB850 System bus Up to 5200 MT/s; HyperTransport™ 3.0 Memory 4 x DIMM, max. 16 GB, DDR3 2000(O.C.)/1600/1333/1066 MHz ECC / non-ECC, un-buffered memory Dual channel memory architecture * Due to the CPU spec., AMD AM3 100 and 200 series CPUs support up to DDR3 1066MHz.
M4A89TD PRO Series specifications summary IEEE 1394 VIA® 6315N controller supports 2 x IEEE 1394a ports (one at midboard, one at back panel) ASUS unique features ASUS Xtreme Design ASUS Hybrid Processor – TurboV EVO - TurboV, Auto Tuning, CPU Level UP ASUS Hybrid OS – Express Gate ASUS Hybrid Switches - Turbo Key II - Core Unlocker ASUS Power Solutions - 6+2 Phase Power Design - ASUS EPU ASUS Exclusive Features - MemOK! ASUS Quiet Thermal Solutions - ASUS Fanless Design: Heat pipe solution -
M4A89TD PRO Series specifications summary Back panel I/O ports 1 x PS/2 keyboard port (purple) 1 x PS/2 mouse port (green) 1 x Optical S/PDIF Out port 1 x Power eSATA port 1 x IEEE 1394a port 1 x LAN (RJ-45) port 1 x Clear CMOS button For M4A89TD PRO/USB3 model: - 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports (blue), 6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports For M4A89TD PRO model: - 8 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports 8-channel Audio I/O ports Internal I/O connectors 3 x USB connectors support additional 6 USB ports 1 x IDE connector 6 x SATA 6.
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Chapter 1 Chapter 1: Product introduction 1.1 Welcome! Thank you for buying an ASUS® M4A89TD PRO Series motherboard! Chapter 1 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 Chapter 1 AMD® Phenom™ II / Athlon™ II / Sempron™ 100 Series Processors (socket AM3) This motherboard supports AMD® AM3 multi-core processors with unique L3 cache and delivers better overclocking capabilities with less power consumption. It features dual-channel DDR3 1333 memory support and accelerates data transfer rate up to 5200MT/s via HyperTransport™ 3.0 based system bus. This motherboard also supports AMD® CPUs in the new 45nm manufacturing process.
Auto Tuning 1.3.3 Chapter 1 Auto Tuning is an intelligent tool that automates overclocking to achieve a total system level up. This tool also provides stability testing. Even O.C. beginners can achieve extreme yet stable overclocking results with Auto Tuning! ASUS Xtreme Design—Hybrid Switches* Turbo Key II Enjoy superb performance by auto-tuning your processor to an extreme yet stable state. Simply activate a dedicated switch on the motherboard to unleash extra processing capabilities.
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solutions Chapter 1 ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the overclocking capability. ASUS Fanless Design—Heat pipe solution The ASUS heat pipe features 0-dB thermal solution that offers users a noiseless PC environment. Not only the beautiful shape upgrades the visual enjoyment for motherboard users, but also the heat pipe design lowers the temperature of the chipset and power phase area through high efficient heat-exchange.
Chapter 2 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.1 Before you proceed Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. • Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due to static electricity.
2.2 Motherboard overview 2.2.1 Motherboard layout Chapter 2 Refer to 2.8 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. The NEC USB3.0 controller is for M4A89TD PRO/USB3 model only.
Layout contents Connectors/Jumpers/Slots Page 1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V) 2-33 2. AM3 CPU Socket 2-5 3. CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 4-pin CHA_FAN1, 3-pin CHA_FAN2, 3-pin PWR_FAN) 2-31 4. DDR3 DIMM slots 2-10 5. Core Unlocker switch (CORE_UNLOCKER) 2-22 6. Turbo Key II switch (TURBO_KEY_II) 2-21 7. MemOK! switch 2-20 8. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1) 2-29 9. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE) 2-27 10.
2.2.3 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. 2.2.4 Screw holes Place nine screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis. DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with an AM3 socket designed for AMD® Phenom™ II / Athlon™ II / Sempron™ 100 Series Processors. Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU. The AM3 socket has a different pinout from the 940-pin socket designed for the AMD Opteron processor. Ensure that you use a CPU designed for the AM3 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. Gold triangle Small triangle Chapter 2 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. 6.
2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan The AMD AM3 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance. ® Ensure that you use only AMD-certified heatsink and fan assembly. To install the CPU heatsink and fan: Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, ensuring that the heatsink fits properly on the retention module base. • The retention module base is already installed on the motherboard upon purchase.
Chapter 2 2. Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. 3. Align the other end of the retention bracket 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. 2-8 Push down the retention bracket lock on the retention mechanism to secure the heatsink and fan to the module base.
When the fan and heatsink assembly is in place, connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN. • Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector. • This connector is backward compatible with old 3-pin CPU fan. ASUS M4A89TD PRO Series Chapter 2 5.
2.4 System memory 2.4.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR2 DIMM but is notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR2 DIMM socket. DDR3 modules are developed for better performance with less power consumption.
2.4.2 Memory configurations • 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. • We recommend that you install the memory modules from the blue slots for better overclocking capability. • Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency.
M4A89TD PRO Series Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1066 MHz capability Chapter 2 Vendor Part No. Size SS/ Chip Brand DS Chip NO. Timing Voltage DIMM socket support (Optional) Crucial CT12864BA1067.8FF 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT 7 - • • Crucial CT12864BA1067.8SFD 1GB SS MICRON D9JNL 7 - • • Crucial CT12872BA1067.9FF 1GB SS MICRON D9KPT(ECC) 7 - • • • Crucial CT25664BA1067.16FF 2GB DS MICRON D9KPT 7 - • • • Crucial CT25664BA1067.
Vendor Part No. Size SS/ Chip DS Brand Chip NO. Timing Voltage A-DATA AD3133301GOU 1GB SS A-DATA AD30908C8D-15IG - - DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM • • • A-DATA AD31333002GOU 2GB DS A-DATA AD30908C8D-15IG - - • • A-DATA AD3U1333B2G9-2 2GB DS A-DATA AD30908C8D-15IG - - • • A-DATA AX3U1333PB2G7-2P 4GB DS (2 x 2GB) - 7-7-7-20 1.65-1.
M4A89TD PRO Series Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1600 MHz capability Chapter 2 2-14 DIMM socket support (Optional) Vendor Part No. Size Chip SS/DS Chip Brand NO. Timing A-DATA AD31600G001GMU 1GB SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 • • A-DATA AX3U1600GB1G9-AG 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.65~1.85 • • A-DATA AX3U1600PB1G8-2P 2GB(2 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85 • • • A-DATA AD31600E001GMU 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.
Vendor Part No. Size Chip SS/DS Chip Brand NO. Timing Voltage OCZ OCZ3X1600LV6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.65 DIMM socket support (Optional) 1 DIMM 2 DIMM 4 DIMM • • • OCZ OCZ3X1600LV6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8 1.
2.4.3 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. Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clip outward. 2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the DIMM slot key on the socket. DIMM notch 2 1 Unlocked retaining clip DIMM slot key Chapter 2 A DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it fits in only one direction.
2.5 Expansion slots In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following subsections 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. 2.5.1 Installing an expansion card 1. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card. 2.
2.5.
2.5.4 PCI slots The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI specifications. Refer to the figure below for the location of the slots. 2.5.5 PCI Express 2.0 x4 / x1 slots This motherboard supports PCI Express x4 / x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications. Refer to the figure below for the location of the slots. 2.5.6 PCI Express 2.
2.6 Onboard switches Onboard switches allow you to fine-tune performance when working on a bare or open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. 1. MemOK! switch Installing DIMMs that are incompatible with the motherboard may cause system boot failure, and the DRAM_LED near the MemOK! switch lights continuously.
2. Turbo Key II switch This switch allows you to auto-tune your CPU to enhance the system performance. Chapter 2 For ensuring the system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when the system is powered off. • The O2LED5 LED near the Turbo Key II switch lights when the switch setting is turned to Enable. Refer to section 2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the O2LED5 LED.
3. Core Unlocker switch This switch allows you to unlock the extra cores of your CPU. For ensuring the system performance, turn the switch setting to Enable when the system is powered off. Chapter 2 2-22 • The O2LED4 LED near the Core Unlocker switch lights when the switch setting is turned to Enable. Refer to section 2.8 Onboard LEDs for the exact location of the O2LED4 LED.
Connectors 2.7.1 Rear panel connectors Chapter 2 2.7 Rear panel connectors 7. USB 3.0 ports 7 and 8 (M4A89TD PRO/USB3) USB 2.0 ports 7 and 8 (M4A89TD PRO) Optical S/PDIF Out port 8. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6 USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4 9. IEEE 1394a port 4. LAN (RJ-45) port* 10. Power External SATA port 5. PS/2 keyboard port (purple) 11. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2 6. Clear CMOS switch 12. Audio I/O ports** 1. PS/2 mouse port (green) 2. 3.
* LAN port LED indications ACT/LINK SPEED LED LED Activity Link LED Speed LED Status Description Status Description OFF No link OFF 10 Mbps connection ORANGE Linked ORANGE 100 Mbps connection BLINKING Data activity GREEN 1 Gbps connection LAN port ** Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration Port Headset 2-channel 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Line In Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Chapter 2 Pink Mic
Connect to Stereo / 2.1-channel Speakers Chapter 2 Connect to 4.1 channel Speakers Connect to 5.
Connect to 7.
2.7.3 1. Internal connectors IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE) Chapter 2 The onboard IDE connector is for the 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.
2. AMD® SB850 Serial ATA Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA 1-6) These connectors are for the Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk drives and optical disc drives. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, or RAID 10 configuration through the onboard AMD® SB850 controller. Chapter 2 2-28 • These connectors are set to IDE mode by default. In IDE mode, you can connect Serial ATA boot/data hard disk drives to these connectors.
3. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1) Chapter 2 This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. The COM module is purchased separately. 4. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) This connector is for an IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.
5. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB910; USB1112; USB1314) 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. Chapter 2 Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors.
6. CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 4-pin CHA_FAN1; 3-pin CHA_FAN2; 3-pin PWR_FAN) Chapter 2 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.
7. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port. Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. Chapter 2 The S/PDIF module is purchased separately. 8. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard.
9. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin EATX12V) • 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 450 W. • Do not forget to connect the 8-pin EATX12 V power plug; otherwise, the system will not boot. • We recommend that you use a PSU with higher power output when configuring a system with more power-consuming devices.
10. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. Chapter 2 • System power LED (2-pin PLED) This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode. • Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED) This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED.
2.7.4. ASUS Q-Connector (system panel) Use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect the chassis front panel cables. To install the ASUS Q-Connector: Connect the front panel cables to the ASUS Q-Connector. Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector to know the detailed pin definitions, and then match them to their respective front panel cable labels. The labels on the front panel cables may vary depending on the chassis model. 2.
2.8 1. Onboard LEDs Standby Power LED The motherboard comes with a standby power LED. The green LED lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft‑off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED. Chapter 2 2.
3. Turbo Key II LED Chapter 2 The Turbo Key II LED lights when the Turbo Key II switch is turned to Enable. 4. Core Unlocker LED The Core Unlocker LED lights when the Core Unclocker switch is turned to Enable. The Core Unlocker LED keeps on lighting even though the ASUS Core Unlocker item in the BIOS menu is set to [Disabled].
2.9 Starting up for the first time 1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. 2. Be sure that all switches are off. 3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. 4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector. 5. Turn on the devices in the following order: 6. a. Monitor b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain) c.
Chapter 3 Chapter 3: 3.1 BIOS setup Knowing BIOS BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) stores system hardware settings such as storage device configuration, overclocking settings, advanced power management, and boot device configuration that are needed for system startup in the motherboard CMOS. In normal circumstances, the default BIOS settings apply to most conditions to ensure optimum performance.
3.2.1 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 • View the BIOS version information This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.
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 onscreen 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 1. 2.
3.2.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to use a bootable floppy disk or an OS‑based utility. Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS from the ASUS website at www.asus.com. To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2: 1. Insert the USB flash disk that contains the latest BIOS file to the USB port, and then launch EZ Flash 2 in any of these two ways: • Press + during POST to display the following.
3.2.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility 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 restore a corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD or a USB flash drive that contains the BIOS file. The BIOS file in the motherboard support DVD may be older than the BIOS file published on the ASUS official website. If you want to use the newer BIOS file, download the file at support.asus.
3.2.4 ASUS BIOS Updater The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update BIOS in DOS environment. This utility also allows you to copy the current BIOS file that you can use as a backup when the BIOS fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. The succeeding utility screens are for reference only. The actual utility screen displays may not be same as shown. Before updating BIOS 1. Prepare the motherboard support DVD and a USB flash drive in FAT32/16 format and single partition. 2.
Backing up the current BIOS To backup the current BIOS file using the BIOS Updater Ensure that the USB flash drive is not write-protected and has enough free space to save the file. 1. At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /o[filename] and press . D:\>bupdater /oOLDBIOS1.rom Filename Extension The [filename] is any user-assigned filename with no more than eight alphanumeric characters for the filename and three alphanumeric characters for the extension. 2.
Updating the BIOS file To update the BIOS file using BIOS Updater 1. At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /pc /g and press . D:\>bupdater /pc /g 2. The BIOS Updater screen appears as below. ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.00b [09/06/22] FLASH TYPE: MXIC 25L1605A Current ROM BOARD: M4A89TD PRO Series VER: 0206 Update ROM BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown PATH: A:\ M4A89GTD.ROM A: Note [Enter] Select or Load [Up/Down/Home/End] Move 3.
3.3 BIOS setup program A BIOS Setup program is provided for BIOS item modification. When you start up the computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility. Otherwise, POST continues with its test routines. If you wish to enter Setup after POST, restart the system by pressing + + , or by pressing the reset button on the system chassis.
3.3.3 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. The navigation keys may differ from one screen to another. 3.3.4 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.
3.4 Main menu When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an overview of the basic system information. Select an item and press to display the submenu. Refer to section 3.3.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them.
Type [Auto] Allows you to select the type of device installed. [Not Installed] [Auto] [CDROM] [ARMD] Select this option if no device is installed. Allows automatic selection of the appropriate device type. Select this option if you are specifically configuring a CD-ROM drive. Select [ARMD] (ATAPI Removable Media Device) if your device is either a ZIP, LS-120, or MO drive. This item appears in SATA 5/SATA 6 only.
3.4.2 Storage Configuration The Storage Configuration menu allows you to configure your storage devices. Select an item then press to display the submenu. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Storage Configuration OnChip SATA Channel SATA Port1 - Port4 SATA Port5 - Port6 [Enabled] [IDE] [IDE] OnChip SATA Channel [Enabled] [Enabled] [Disabled] Enables the onboard channel SATA port. Disables the onboard channel SATA port.
3.4.3 System Information This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS automatically detects the BIOS information, CPU specification, and system memory in this menu.
3.5 Ai Tweaker menu The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related items. Be cautious when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker 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 installed on the motherboard.
3.5.2 OC Tuner Utility OC Tuner utility automatically overclocks the frequency and voltage of the CPU and DRAM. Press to start auto tuning. It takes around five minutes, and the system will reboot for several times until auto tuning is completed. 3.5.3 Ai Overclock Tuner [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal frequency.
3.5.4 CPU Ratio [Auto] Allows you to set the ratio between the CPU Core Clock and the FSB Frequency. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the ratio. The valid value ranges vary according to your CPU model. 3.5.5 DRAM Frequency [Auto] Allows you to set the DDR3 operating frequency. The configuration options vary with the CPU Bus Frequency item settings. Selecting a very high DRAM frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this happens, revert to the default setting. 3.5.
DRAM WRITE Recovery Time [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [8 CLK] [10 CLK] [12 CLK] DRAM RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] DRAM READ to WRITE Delay [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] – [17 CLK] DRAM WRITE to READ Delay(DD) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] – [10 CLK] DRAM WRITE to READ Delay(SD) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] DRAM WRITE to WRITE Timing [Auto] Conf
Data drive strength [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [0.75x] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] DQS drive strength [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [0.75x] [1x] [1.25x] [1.5x] Processor ODT [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [240 ohms +/- 20%] [120 ohms +/- 20%] [60 ohms +/- 20%] Some of the following items 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.
3.5.13 HT Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the HyperTransport voltage. The values range from 0.80000V to 1.40000V with a 0.00625V interval. 3.5.14 NB Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the Northbridge voltage. The values range from 0.80000V to 2.00000V with a 0.00625V interval. 3.5.15 NB 1.8V Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the Northbridge 1.8V voltage. The values range from 1.80V to 2.10V with a 0.05V interval. 3.5.16 SB Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the Southbridge voltage.
3.6 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Be cautious when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. Main Ai Tweaker BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Configure CPU.
Cool‘n’Quiet [Enabled] [Enabled] [Disabled] Enables the AMD Cool’n’Quiet function. Disables this function. ASUS Core Unlocker [Disabled] [Enabled] [Disabled] Enables the ASUS Core Unlocker to get the full computing power of the processor. Disables this function. C1E Support [Enabled] [Enabled] [Disabled] 3.6.2 Enables the C1E support function. This item should be enabled in order to enable the Enhanced Halt Sate. Disables this function.
DCT Unganged Mode [Always] Configuration options: [Auto] [Always] Power Down Enable [Disabled] Enables or disables the DDR power down mode. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Power Down Mode [Channel] This item appears only when you enable the previous item and allows you to set the DDR power down mode.
3.6.3 Onboard Devices Configuration Advanced BIOS SETUP UTILITY Onboard Devices Configuration HD Audio Azalia Device Front Panel Type SPDIF OUT Type POST State LEDs Serial Port1 Address Serial Port1 Mode Onboard LAN Onboard LAN Boot ROM Onboard 1394 Controller On Board ATA Controller On Board ATA Controller ROM Onboard USB 3.
Onboard LAN [Enabled] [Enabled] [Disabled] Enables the onboard LAN controller. Disables the controller. Onboard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] This item appears only when you set the previous item to [Enabled]. [Enabled] Enables the onboard Gigabit LAN Boot ROM. [Disabled] Disables the LAN Boot ROM. Onboard 1394 Controller [Enabled] [Enabled] [Disabled] Enables the onboard IEEE 1394a controller. Disables the controller.
USB Support [Enabled] [Enabled] [Disabled] Enables the USB Host Controllers. Disables the controllers. The following items appear only when you set USB Support to [Enabled]. Legacy USB Support [Auto] [Auto] [Enabled] [Disabled] Allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled. Enables the support for USB devices on legacy operating systems (OS).
3.7 Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press to display the configuration options. Main Ai Tweaker BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot Suspend Mode Repost Video on S3 Resume ACPI 2.0 Support ACPI APIC Support [Auto] [No] [Disabled] [Enabled] Tools Exit Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend.
3.7.5 APM Configuration BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power APM Configuration EuP Ready Restore on AC Power Loss Power On By PCI/PCIE Device Power On By PS/2 Devices Power On By Ring Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled] [Power Off] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] EuP Ready [Disabled] [Disabled] [Enabled] Disables the Energy Using Products (EuP) Ready function. Allows BIOS to switch off some power at S5 state to get system ready for the EuP requirement.
3.7.6 Hardware Monitor BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power Hardware Monitor CPU Temperature CPU Temperature MB Temperature [35ºC/95ºF] [34ºC/93ºF] CPU Fan Speed Power Fan Speed Chassis Fan 1 Speed Chassis Fan 2 Speed [3590RPM] [N/A] [N/A] [N/A] VCORE Voltage 3.3V Voltage 5V Voltage 12V Voltage [ 1.040V] [ 3.008V] [ 4.776V] [11.
CPU Q-Fan Mode [Optimal] [Turbo] Sets to [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed. [Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the CPU fan automatically adjust depending on the CPU temperature. [Silent] Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.] [Manual] Sets to [Manual] to assign detailed fan speed control parameters. The following four items appear only when you set CPU Q-Fan Mode to [Manual]. CPU Upper Temperature [70˚C/158˚F] Sets the upper limit of the CPU temperature.
The following four items appear only when you set Chassi Q-Fan Mode to [Manual]. CPU Upper Temperature [70˚C/158˚F] Sets the upper limit of the system temperature. Configuration options: [30˚C/86˚F] [40˚C/104˚F] [50˚C/122˚F] [60˚C/140˚F] [70˚C/158˚F] [80˚C/176˚F] [90˚C/194˚F] CHA Fan Max. Duty Cycle [100%] Sets the maximum chassis fan duty cycle. When the system temperature reaches the upper limit, the chassis fan will operate at the maximum duty cycle.
1st – xxth Boot Device [Removable Dev.] These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system. Configuration options: [Removable Dev.] [Hard Drive] [ATAPI CD-ROM] [Disabled] 3.8.2 • To select the boot device during system startup, press when ASUS Logo appears. • To access Windows OS in Safe Mode, do any of the following: - Press when ASUS Logo appears.
3.8.3 Security The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item and 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 Password Change Supervisor Password Select this item to set or change the supervisor password.
Change User Password Select this item to set or change the user password. The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed. To set a User Password: 1. Select the Change User Password item and press . 2. On the password box that appears, type a password composed of at least six letters and/or numbers, then press . 3. Confirm the password when prompted.
3.9 Tools menu The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item then press to display the submenu. Main Ai Tweaker BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit ASUS EZ Flash 2 Express Gate Enter OS Timer Reset User Data [Auto] [10 Seconds] [No] ASUS O.C. Profile AI NET 2 ←→ ↑↓ Enter F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Go to Sub Screen General Help Save and Exit Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2010, American Megatrends, Inc. 3.9.
[No] Sets to [No] to disable the Reset User Data function when entering the Express Gate. The first time wizard will run again when you enter the Express Gate environment after clearing its settings. 3.9.3 ASUS O.C. Profile This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. BIOS SETUP UTILITY O.C. PROFILE Configuration O.C. O.C. O.C. O.C. O.C. O.C. O.C. O.C.
Start O.C. Profile Allows you to run the utility to save and load CMOS. Press to run the utility. ASUSTek O.C. Profile Utility V2.14 Current CMOS BOARD: M4A89TD PRO Series VER: 0206 Restore CMOS BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown PATH: A:\ A: [Enter] Select or Load [Up/Down/Home/End] Move 3.9.4 [Tab] Switch [B] Backup [V] Drive Info [Esc] Exit • This function can support devices such as a USB flash disk with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only.
3.10 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. Main Ai Tweaker Exit Options Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes Load Setup Defaults BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Exit system setup after saving the changes. F10 key can be used for this operation.
Chapter 4 Chapter 4: 4.1 Software support Installing an operating system This motherboard supports Windows® XP/ 64-bit XP/ Vista / 64-bit Vista / 7 / 64-bit 7 operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware. 4.2 • Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Use the setup procedures presented in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OS documentation for detailed information.
4.2.2 Obtaining the software manuals The software manuals are included in the support DVD. Follow the instructions below to get the necessary software manuals. The software manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening the files. 1. Click the Manual tab. Click ASUS Motherboard Utility Guide from the manual list on the left. 2. The Manual folder of the support DVD appears. Double-click the folder of your selected software.
4.3 Software information Most of the applications in the support DVD have wizards that will conveniently guide you through the installation. View the online help or readme file that came with the software application for more information. 4.3.1 ASUS PC Probe II PC Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer’s vital components, and detects and alerts you of any problem with these components. PC Probe II senses fan rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others.
4.3.2 ASUS AI Suite ASUS AI Suite allows you to launch several ASUS utilities easily. Launching AI Suite 1. Install AI Suite from the motherboard support DVD. 2. Launch AI Suite by clicking Start > All Programs > ASUS > AI Suite > AI Suite v1.xx. xx. The AI Suite main window appears. 3. The AI Suite icon appears in the Windows® notification area. If you minimize the application main window, click this icon to restore the window.
4.3.3 ASUS Fan Xpert Asus Fan Xpert allows you to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan speeds according to different ambient temperatures and your PC’s system loading. The various fan profiles offer flexible controls of fan speeds to achieve a quiet and cool system environment. Launching Fan Xpert After installing AI Suite from the motherboard support DVD, launch Fan Xpert by doubleclicking the AI Suite tray icon and then clicking the Fan Xpert button on the AI Suite main window.
4.3.4 ASUS EPU ASUS EPU is an energy-efficient tool that provides you with a total system power-saving solution. It detects the current computer loading and intelligently adjusts the power in realtime.
4.3.5 ASUS Express Gate ASUS Express Gate is an ASUS exclusive OS that provides you with quick access to the Internet and key applications before entering the Windows® OS. Notices about ASUS Express Gate • Install ASUS Express Gate from the motherboard support DVD before use. • ASUS Express Gate does not support SATA devices in RAID mode. See chapter 3 for BIOS setup details. • ASUS Express Gate does not support SATA 6Gb/s devices. Please visit http://support.asus.
4.3.6 Audio configurations The Realtek audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio capability to deliver the ultimate audio experience on your computer. The software provides Jack-Detection function, S/PDIF Out support, and interrupt capability. The CODEC also includes the Realtek® proprietary UAJ® (Universal Audio Jack) technology for all audio ports, eliminating cable connection errors and giving users plug and play convenience.
4.4 ASUS Unique Overclocking Utility— TurboV EVO ASUS TurboV EVO introduces TurboV, CPU Level UP and Turbo Key—three powerful tools that allow you to overclock your system effectively. Install ASUS TurboV EVO from the support DVD that came with the motherboard package. If the TurboV EVO is correctly installed, you will find the TurboV EVO icon on the Windows® notification area. Click on the icon to display the TurboV EVO control panel. 4.4.
4.4.2 Using ASUS TurboV Auto Tuning Mode The Auto Tuning Mode allows smart auto-overclocking. Follow the instructions below to let TurboV EVO detect and overclock your system. Chapter 4 4-10 1. Click the Auto Tuning tab and then click Start. You can also click More Settings first to configure more overclocking parameters before starting auto-overclocking. 2. Read through the warning messages and click Yes to start auto-overclocking. 3.
4.4.3 Using CPU Level UP CPU Level UP allows you to upgrade your CPU at no additional cost. Pick a CPU level you want to overclock to, and CPU Level UP will do the rest for you. Click the CPU Level UP tab, pick a CPU level you want to overclock to by adjusting the slider, and then click Apply. 1. The CPU options vary depending on the CPU model you install on the motherboard. 2. Read through the warning messages and click Yes to start upgrading the CPU and restart the system. 4.4.
4.5 RAID configurations The motherboard comes with the AMD® SB850 chipset that allows you to configure Serial ATA hard disk drives as RAID sets. The motherboard supports the following RAID configurations: RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5 and RAID 10. 4.5.1 • You must install Windows® XP Service Pack 2 or later versions before using Serial ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using Windows® XP SP2 or later versions.
4.5.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks The motherboard supports Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array. To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration: 1. Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays. 2. Connect the SATA signal cables. 3. Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector on each drive. 4.5.
4.5.4 AMD® Option ROM Utility To enter the AMD® Option ROM utility: 1. Boot up your computer. 2. During POST, press + to display the utility main menu. Option ROM Utility (c) 2009 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. [ Main Menu ] View Drive Assignments .......[ 1 ] LD View / LD Define Menu ......[ 2 ] Delete LD Menu ...............[ 3 ] Controller Configuration ......[ 4 ] [ Keys Available ] Press 1..
Creating a RAID volume To create a RAID volume: 1. In the Main Menu, press <2> to enter the LD View / LD Define Menu function. 2. Press + , and the following screen appears. Option ROM Utility (c) 2009 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
Deleting a RAID configuration Take caution when deleting a RAID volume. You will lose all data on the hard disk drives when you delete a RAID volume. To delete a RAID volume: 1. In the Main Menu, press <3> to enter the Delete LD function. 2. Select the RAID item you want to delete and press or + . Option ROM Utility (c) 2009 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. [ Delete LD Menu ] LD No LD 1 [↑] Up 3.
4.6 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® Vista or later operating systems, use either a USB flash drive with the RAID driver or the support DVD. 4.6.1 • The motherboard does not provide a floppy drive connector. You have to use a USB floppy disk drive when creating a SATA RAID driver disk.
3. When prompted to select the SCSI adapter to install, select the RAID driver for the corresponding OS version. 4. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation. To install the RAID driver for Windows® Vista or later OS 1. During the OS installation, click Load Driver to allow you to select the installation media containing the RAID driver. 2. Insert the USB flash drive with RAID driver into the USB port or the support DVD into the optical drive, and then click Browse. 3.
5. Browse the contents of the RAID driver disk to locate the file txtsetup.oem. 6. Double-click the file. A window appears, allowing you to select the program for opening the oem file. 7. Use Notepad to open the file. 8. Find the [HardwareIds.SCSI.Napa_i386_ahci8086] and [HardwareIds.SCSI.Napa_amd64_ahci] sections in the txtsetup.oem file. 9. Type the following line to the bottom of the two sections: id = “USB\VID_xxxx&PID_xxxx”, “usbstor” [HardwareIds.SCSI.
Chapter 4 4-20 Chapter 4: Software support
Chapter 5 ATI® CrossFireX™ technology support Chapter 5: 5.1 ATI® CrossFireX™ technology 5.1.1 Requirements • Prepare two identical CrossFireX-ready graphics cards or one CrossFireX-ready dualGPU graphics card that are ATI® certified. • Ensure that your graphics card driver supports the ATI CrossFireX technology. Download the latest driver from the AMD website at www.amd.com. • Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power required by your system.
5.1.3 Installing two CrossFireX™ graphics cards The following pictures are for reference only. The graphics cards and the motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same. Chapter 5 1. Prepare two CrossFireX-ready graphics cards. 2. Insert the two graphics card into the PCIEX16 slots. If your motherboard has more than two PCIEX16 slots, refer to Chapter 2 in this user manual for the locations of the PCIEX16 slots recommended for multi-graphics card installation. 3.
5.1.4 Installing the device drivers Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device drivers. 5.1.5 Chapter 5 Ensure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the ATI® CrossFireX™ technology. Download the latest driver from the AMD website (www.amd.com). Enabling the ATI® CrossFireX™ technology After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the CrossFireX™ feature through the ATI Catalyst™ Control Center in Windows environment.
Chapter 5 5-4 Chapter 5: ATI® CrossFireX™ technology support
ASUS contact information ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. Address Telephone Fax E-mail Web site Technical Support Telephone Online support 15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259 +886-2-2894-3447 +886-2-2890-7798 info@asus.com.tw www.asus.com.tw +86-21-38429911 support.asus.
(510)739-3777/(510)608-4555 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539. Asus Computer International Date : Signature : Representative Person’s Name : Apr. 16, 2010 Steve Chang / President This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
