Motherboard P5QL
E4074 First Edition V1 September 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......................................................................................................... vii Safety information..................................................................................... viii About this guide.......................................................................................... ix P5QL specifications summary................................................................... xi Chapter 1: Product introduction 1.1 Welcome!.....................
Contents 2.6 Jumpers....................................................................................... 2-21 2.7 Connectors.................................................................................. 2-23 2.7.1 Rear panel connectors................................................... 2-23 2.7.2 Internal connectors........................................................ 2-25 2.8 Starting up for the first time....................................................... 2-33 2.
Contents 3.6 3.7 3.8 3.9 3.5.1 CPU Configuration......................................................... 3-23 3.5.2 Chipset........................................................................... 3-24 3.5.3 Onboard Devices Configuration..................................... 3-25 3.5.4 USB Configuration......................................................... 3-26 3.5.5 PCI PnP......................................................................... 3-27 Power menu..........................
Contents 4.3.6 Appendix: A.1 ASUS Express Gate...................................................... 4-21 CPU features Intel® EM64T...................................................................................A-1 Using the Intel® EM64T feature.......................................................A-1 A.2 A.3 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST).........................A-1 A.2.1 System requirements.......................................................A-1 A.2.2 Using the EIST...........
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 electric shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electric outlet before relocating the system. • When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
About this guide This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard. How this guide is organized This guide contains the following parts: • Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. • Chapter 2: Hardware information This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components.
Conventions used in this guide To make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task. CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task. IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task. NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
P5QL specifications summary CPU LGA775 Socket for Intel® Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Quad / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® Dual-Core / Celeron® Dual-Core / Celeron® processors Compatible with Intel® 05B/05A/06 processors Supports Intel® 45nm multi-core CPU Chipset Intel® P43 / ICH10 with Intel® Fast Memory Access Technology System bus 1600(O.C.
P5QL specifications summary ASUS exclusive overclocking features Intelligent overclocking tools: - ASUS AI Booster Precision Tweaker: - vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.00625V increment - vDIMM: 5-step DRAM voltage control SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection): - FSB tuning from 133MHz to 600MHz at 1MHz increment - Memory tuning from 667MHz to 1333MHz for DDR2 - PCI Express frequency tuning from 100MHz to 160MHz at 1MHz increment Overclocking protection: - ASUS C.P.R.
This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.
1 Chapter summary 1.1 Welcome!....................................................................................... 1-1 1.2 Package contents.......................................................................... 1-1 1.3 Special features.............................................................................
1.1 Welcome! Thank you for buying an ASUS® P5QL motherboard! The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards! Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in your package with the list below. 1.2 Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items.
1.3 Special features 1.3.1 Product highlights Green ASUS This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packaging to safeguard consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment.
Serial ATA 3Gb/s technology This motherboard supports hard drives based on the Serial ATA (SATA) 3Gb/s storage specifications, delivering enhanced scalability and doubling the bus bandwidth for high-speed data retrieval and save. 1.3.2 ASUS unique features ASUS AI Life Features 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.
ASUS Crystal Sound This feature can enhance speech-centric applications like Skype, online game, video conference and recording. Noise Filter This feature detects repetitive and stationary noises (non-voice signals) like computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates it in the incoming audio stream while recording. ASUS EZ DIY ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you with easy ways to install computer components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings.
1.3.3 ASUS Stylish features ASUS MyLogo2™ This feature allows you to convert your favorite photo into a 256-color boot logo for a more colorful and vivid image on your screen. See page 4-9 for details. 1.3.4 ASUS Intelligent Overclocking features AI Booster The ASUS AI Booster allows you to overclock the CPU speed in Windows® environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. See page 4-19 for details.
1- Chapter 1: Product Introduction
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It includes description of the jumpers and connectors on the motherboard.
2 Chapter summary 2.1 Before you proceed...................................................................... 2-1 2.2 Motherboard overview.................................................................. 2-2 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU).................................................... 2-5 2.4 System memory.......................................................................... 2-11 2.5 Expansion slots........................................................................... 2-18 2.
2.1 Before you proceed Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. • Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. • Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity. • Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
2.2 Motherboard overview Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits into it. Ensure that you unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. 2.2.1 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, ensure that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation.
2.2.
2.2.4 2- Layout contents Connectors/Jumpers/Slots 1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin EATX12V) 2. LGA775 CPU Socket 3. CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN, 3-pin PWR_FAN) 4. DDR2 DIMM slots 5. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) 6. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) 7. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1-6) Page 2-31 2-6 2-29 8. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE) 2-26 9. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112) 2-28 10.
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA775 socket designed for the Intel® Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Quad / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® Dual-Core / Celeron® Dual-Core / Celeron® processors. ASUS P5QL • Ensure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU. • Connect the chassis fan cable to the CHA_FAN connector to ensure system stability. • Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on the socket and the socket contacts are not bent.
2.3.1 Installing the CPU To install a CPU: 1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard. P5QL P5QL CPU Socket 775 Before installing the CPU, ensure that the cam box is facing towards you and the load lever is on your left. 2. Press the load lever with your thumb (A), then move it to the left (B) until it is released from the retention tab. To prevent damage to the socket pins, do not remove the PnP cap unless you are installing a CPU. 3.
5. Position the CPU over the socket, ensuring that the gold triangle is on the bottom‑left corner of the socket then fit the socket alignment key into the CPU notch. CPU notch The CPU fits in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the pins on the socket and damaging the CPU! Gold triangle mark Alignment key 6.
7. Close the load plate (A), then push the load lever (B) until it snaps into the retention tab. A B This motherboard supports Intel® LGA775 processors with the Intel® Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST) and Hyper-Threading Technology. Refer to the Appendix for more information on these CPU features.
2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan The Intel LGA775 processors require a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance. ® • When you buy a boxed Intel® processor, the package includes the CPU fan and heatsink assembly. If you buy a CPU separately, ensure that you use only Intel®‑certified multi‑directional heatsink and fan.
3. Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN. CPU_FAN GND CPU FAN PWR CPU FAN IN CPU FAN PWM P5QL P5QL CPU fan connector Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector. 2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan 1. Disconnect the CPU fan cable from the connector on the motherboard. 2. Rotate each fastener counterclockwise. 3.
2.4 System memory 2.4.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. DIMM_B1 DIMM_B2 DIMM_A1 DIMM_A2 The figure illustrates the location of the DDR2 DIMM sockets: P5QL P5QL 240-pin DDR2 DIMM sockets Channel Channel A Channel B 2.4.2 Sockets DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2 DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2 Memory configurations You may install 512MB, 1GB, 2GB, and 4GB unbuffered non‑ECC DDR2 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.
• When using only one DDR2 DIMM, start installing it from DIMM_A1 or DIMM_B1 for better overclocking capability. • For dual-channel configuration (1), install two identical DIMMs in DIMM_A1 and DIMM_B1. • For dual-channel configuration (2), you can: - install four identical DIMMs in all four slots; or - install one identical DIMM pair in DIMM_A1 and DIMM_B1 (yellow slots) and another identical DIMM pair in DIMM_A2 and DIMM_B2 (black slots). • Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency.
P5QL Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-1066MHz capability Size Vendor Part No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Chip No.
DDR2-800MHz capability 2-14 Size Vendor Part No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Chip No.
DDR2-667MHz capability Size Vendor Part No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Chip No.
SS - Single-sided / DS - Double - sided DIMM support: • A*: Supports one module inserted into any slot as Single-channel memory configuration. • B*: Supports one pair of modules inserted into either the yellow slots or the black slots as one pair of Dual-channel memory configuration. • C*: Supports four modules inserted into both the yellow slots and the black slots as two pairs of Dual-channel memory configuration. Visit the ASUS website for the latest DDR2-1066/800/667MHz QVL.
2.4.3 Installing a DIMM Unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so can cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components. 2 1. Unlock a DDR2 DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clips outward. 2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break on the socket. DDR2 DIMM notch 1 1 Unlocked retaining clip A DDR2 DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it fits in only one direction.
2.5 Expansion slots In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub‑sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support. 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 To install an expansion card: 1.
2.5.3 Interrupt assignments Standard interrupt assignments IRQ 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Standard function System timer Standard 101/102-Key or Microsoft Natural Keyboard Free Free Communications port (COM1) Free Standard floppy Free System CMOS/Real Time Clock Microsoft ACPI-compliant system Free Free Microsoft PS/2 mouse port Numeric data processor Free Intel® ICH10 Family SM Bus controller-3A30 IRQ assignments for this motherboard PCIE X1 slot PCIE X1 slot PCIE X16 slot Onboard USB1.
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. The photo shows a LAN card installed on a PCI slot. 2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slots This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications. The following photo shows a network card installed on the PCI Express x1 slot. 2.5.
2.6 1. Jumpers Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords. To erase the RTC RAM: 1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3.
2. Keyboard/mouse power (3-pin PS2_USBPW56) This jumper allows you to enable or disable the keyboard/mouse and USB port 5-6 wake-up feature. When you set this jumper to pins 2-3 (+5VSB), you can wake up the computer by pressing a key on the keyboard (the default is the Space Bar), clicking the mouse, or using a USB device. This feature requires an ATX power supply that can supply at least 1A on the +5VSB lead, and a corresponding setting in the BIOS. The USBPW56 jumper is for the rear USB ports.
• The USB device wake-up feature requires a power supply that can provide 500mA on the +5VSB lead for each USB port; otherwise, the system would not power up. • The total current consumed must NOT exceed the power supply capability (+5VSB) whether under normal condition or in sleep mode. 2.7 Connectors 2.7.1 Rear panel connectors 1 13 2 12 11 10 9 3 4 5 6 8 7 1. PS/2 mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse. 2. LAN (RJ-45) port.
7. Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone. 8. Side Speaker Out port (gray). This port connects the side speakers in an 8-channel audio configuration. Refer to the audio configuration table on the next page for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration. Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration Port Light Blue Lime Pink Orange Black Gray 9.
2.7.2 1. Internal connectors Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) This connector is for a floppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Connect one end of a FDD cable to this connector and the other end to the signal connector at the back of the floppy disk drive. • Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when using a FDD cable with a covered Pin 5. • The FDD cable is purchased separately.
3. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE) 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.
4. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1-6) These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk drives.
5. 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.
7. 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 350 mA~2000 mA (24 W max.) or a total of 1 A~7 A (84 W max.) at +12V. Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, making sure that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector. Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components.
9. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch. Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal is then generated as a chassis intrusion event.
11. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin EATX12V) These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.
12. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. SPEAKER +5V Ground Ground Speaker PLED- PLED+ PLED PANEL IDE_LED PWRSW Reset Ground PWR Ground IDE_LED+ IDE_LED- PIN 1 P5QL RESET * Requires an ATX power supply P5QL System panel connector • System power LED (2-pin PLED) This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector.
2.8 Starting up for the first time 1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. 2. Ensure that all switches are off. 3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. 4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector. 5. Turn on the devices in the following order: 6. a. Monitor b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain) c.
2.9 Turning off the computer 2.9.1 Using the OS shut down function If you are using Windows® XP: 1. Click the Start button then select Turn Off Computer. 2. Click the Turn Off button to shut down the computer. 3. The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down. If you are using Windows® Vista: 1. Click the Start button then select Shut Down. 2. The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down. 2.9.
This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
3 Chapter summary 3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS............................................. 3-1 3.2 BIOS setup program................................................................... 3-10 3.3 Main menu................................................................................... 3-13 3.4 Ai Tweaker menu......................................................................... 3-17 3.5 Advanced menu.......................................................................... 3-22 3.
3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. 1. ASUS Update: Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment. 2. ASUS EZ Flash 2: Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a floppy disk or USB flash disk. 3. ASUS AFUDOS: Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable floppy disk. 4.
Updating the BIOS through the Internet To update the BIOS through the Internet: 3- 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears. 2. Select Update BIOS from the Internet option from the drop‑down menu, then click Next. 3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network traffic, or click Auto Select. Click Next.
4. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download. Click Next. 5. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process. The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update the utility to avail all its features. Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file To update the BIOS through a BIOS file: 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate.
3.1.2 1. Creating a bootable floppy disk To create a bootable floppy disk: DOS environment a. Insert a 1.44MB floppy disk into the floppy disk drive. b. At the DOS prompt, type format A:/S then press . Windows® XP environment a. Insert a 1.44MB floppy disk into the floppy disk drive. b. Click Start from the Windows® desktop, then select My Computer. c. Right-click the 3 1/2 Floppy Drive icon, then select Format. d. Select the Create an MS-DOS startup disk checkbox. e. Click Start.
3.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go through the long process of booting from a floppy disk and using a DOS‑based utility. The EZ Flash 2 utility is built in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing + during the Power-On Self-Test (POST). To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2: 1. Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS file for this motherboard. 2.
3.1.4 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: • Ensure that the floppy disk is not write-protected and has at least 1024KB free space to save the file.
Write down the BIOS filename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS filename at the DOS prompt. 2. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard Support DVD to the bootable floppy disk you created earlier. 3. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type: afudos /i[filename] The [filename] is the latest or the original BIOS file on the bootable floppy disk. A:\>afudos /iP5QL.ROM The utility verifies the file and starts updating the BIOS. A:\>afudos /iP5QL.
3.1.5 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, a floppy disk or USB flash disk that contains the updated BIOS file. • Prepare the motherboard Support DVD, a floppy disk or 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. Turn on the system. 2. Insert the motherboard Support DVD into the optical drive. The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the DVD for the BIOS file. Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery... Checking for floppy... When no floppy disk is found, the utility automatically checks the optical drive for the original or updated BIOS file. The utility then updates the corrupted BIOS file.
3.2 BIOS setup program This motherboard supports a programmable Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) chip that you can update using the provided utility described in section 3.1 Managing and updating your BIOS. Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconfiguring your system, or prompted to “Run Setup.” This section explains how to configure your system using this utility.
3.2.1 BIOS menu screen Menu items Main Menu bar Ai Tweaker BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A SATA SATA SATA SATA SATA SATA Configuration fields 1 2 3 4 5 6 [14:14:35] [Wed 04/16/2008] [1.44M, 3.5 in] [Not [Not [Not [Not [Not [Not Storage Configuration System Information Detected] Detected] Detected] Detected] Detected] Detected] General help Tools Exit Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a field.
3.2.4 Menu items The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific items for that menu. For example, selecting Main shows the Main menu items. The other items (Ai Tweaker, Advanced, Power, Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items. 3.2.
3.3 Main menu When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an overview of the basic system information. Refer to section 3.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them. Main Ai Tweaker BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A SATA SATA SATA SATA SATA SATA 1 2 3 4 5 6 Tools [14:14:35] [Wed 04/16/2008] [1.44M, 3.
3.3.4 SATA 1-6 While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of IDE devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each IDE device. Select a device item then press to display the IDE device information. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main SATA 1 Device : Not Detected Type [Auto] LBA/Large Mode [Auto] Block(Multi-Sector Transfer)M [Auto] PIO Mode [Auto] DMA Mode [Auto] SMART Monitoring [Auto] 32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled] Select the type of device connected to the system.
DMA Mode [Auto] Selects the DMA mode. Configuration options: [Auto] SMART Monitoring [Auto] Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] 32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled] Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 3.3.5 Storage Configuration The items in this menu allow you to set or change the configurations for the SATA devices installed in the system.
3.3.6 System Information This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS automatically detects the items in this menu. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Bios Information Version : 0304 Build Date : 09/01/08 Processor Type Speed Count : Intel(R) Core(TM)2 CPU 6300 @ 1.86GHz : 1866MHz : 2 System Memory Installed Size: 512MB Usable Size : 512MB F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item General Help Save and Exit Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.
3.4 Ai Tweaker menu The Ai Tweaker menu items allow you to configure system performance settings. Select an item then press to display the configuration options. Take caution when changing the settings of the Ai Tweaker menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction.
FSB Frequency [xxx] Displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and PCI bus. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the FSB frequency. You can also type the desired FSB frequency using the numeric keypad. The values range from 200 to 600. Refer to the table below for the correct Front Side Bus and CPU External Frequency settings.
1st Information: 5-5-5-15-3-36-5-3 CAS# Latency [5 DRAM Clocks] Configuration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] ~ [11 DRAM Clocks] DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [5 DRAM Clocks] Configuration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] ~ [18 DRAM Clocks] DRAM RAS# Precharge [5 DRAM Clocks] Configuration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] ~ [18 DRAM Clocks] RAS# Activate to Precharge [15 DRAM Clocks] Configuration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] ~ [34 DRAM Clocks] RAS# to RAS# Delay [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] ~ [15 DRAM Clocks]
WRITE to PRE Delay [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] ~ [31 DRAM Clocks] READ to PRE Delay [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] ~ [15 DRAM Clocks] PRE to PRE Delay [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] ~ [3 DRAM Clocks] ALL PRE to ACT Delay [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] ~ [15 DRAM Clocks] ALL PRE to REF Delay [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks] ~ [15 DRAM Clocks] DRAM Static Read Control [Auto] Adjusting this ite
Pull-In of CHA/B PH1/2/3/4 [Disabled] Set this item to [Enabled] to apply enhancement on DRAM Channel A and B, Phase 1 to 4. The number of phases is determined by DRAM frequency and FSB strap. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] CPU Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the CPU VCore voltage. The values range from 0.8500V to 1.7500V with a 0.00625V interval. Configuration options: [Auto] Refer to the CPU documentation before setting the CPU Vcore voltage.
CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto] Allows you to set the CPU spread spectrum. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto] Allows you to set the PCIE spread spectrum. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] CPU Clock Skew [Auto] Allows you to set the CPU clock skew.
3.5.1 CPU Configuration The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically detects. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Configure advanced CPU settings Manufacturer:Intel Brand String:Intel(R) Core(TM)2 CPU 6300 @ 1.86GHz Frequency :1.
CPU TM function [Enabled] Enables or disables Intel® CPU Thermal Monitor (TM) function, a CPU overheating protection function. When enabled, the CPU core frequency and voltage are reduced when the CPU overheats. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Execute-Disable Bit Capability [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the No-Execution Page Protection Technology. Setting this item to [Disabled] forces the XD feature flag to always return to zero (0).
Memory Remap Feature [Enabled] Allows you to enabled or disable the remapping of the overlapped PCI memory above the total physical memory. Enable this option only when you install 64-bit operating system. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Memory Hole [Disabled] Allows you to configure the memory hole. Configuration options: [Disabled] [15MB-16MB] Initiate Graphic Adapter [PEG/PCI] Allows you to decide which graphics controller to use as the primary boot device.
Onboard PCIE GbE LAN [Enabled] Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] LAN Option ROM [Disabled] This item appears only when you enable the Onboard PCIE GbE LAN item. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4] Allows you to select the Serial Port1 base address. Configuration options: [Disabled] [3F8/IRQ4] [2F8/IRQ3] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3] 3.5.4 USB Configuration The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features.
USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed] Allows you to set the USB 2.0 controller mode to HiSpeed (480 Mbps) or FullSpeed (12 Mbps). This item appears only when you enable the USB 2.0 Controller item. Configuration options: [FullSpeed ] [HiSpeed ] BIOS EHCI Hand-off [Enabled] Allows you to enable support for operating systems without an EHCI hand‑off feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Legacy USB Support [Auto] Allows you to enable or disable support for legacy USB devices.
3.6 Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press to display the configuration options. Main Ai Tweaker BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot Suspend Mode ACPI 2.0 Support ACPI APIC Support [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] Tools Exit Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend. APM Configuration Hardware Monitor +F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Change Option General Help Save and Exit Exit v02.
3.6.4 APM Configuration BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power APM Configuration Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off] Power Power Power Power Power Power [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] On On On On On On By By By By By By RTC Alarm External Modems PCI Devices PCIE Devices PS/2 Keyboard PS/2 Mouse to select whether or not to restart the system after AC power loss.
Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled] Allows you to disable the Power On by PS/2 keyboard function or set specific keys on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Ctrl-Esc] [Power Key] Power On By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled] When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to use the PS/2 mouse to turn on the system.
CPU Fan Profile [Standard] Allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU Q-Fan. Configuration options: [Standard] [Silent] [Turbo] Chassis Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the chassis fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the field shows N/A.
3.7.1 Boot Device Priority BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Boot Device Priority 1st Boot Device 2nd Boot Device 3rd Boot Device [1st FLOPPY DRIVE] [Hard Drive] [ATAPI CD-ROM] Specifies the boot sequence from the availabe devices. A device enclosed in parenthesis has been disabled in the corresponding type menu. +- F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Change Option General Help Save and Exit Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.
3.7.2 Boot Settings Configuration BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Boot Settings Configuration Quick Boot Full Screen Logo AddOn ROM Display Mode Bootup Num-Lock 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] Allows BIOS to skip certain tests while booting. This will decrease the time needed to boot the system.
Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled] When set to [Enabled], the system displays the message Press DEL to run Setup during POST. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled] When set to [Enabled], this function allows the option ROMs to trap Interrupt 19. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 3.7.3 Security The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item then press to display the configuration options.
To clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then press . The message Password uninstalled appears. If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM. See section 2.6 Jumpers for information on how to erase the RTC RAM. After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change other security settings.
The message Password Installed appears after you set your password successfully. To change the user password, follow the same steps in setting a user password. Clear User Password Select this item to clear the user password. Password Check [Setup] When set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup utility. When set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both when accessing Setup and booting the system. Configuration options: [Setup] [Always] 3.
3.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press , a confirmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press to confirm your choice. See section 3.1.3 for details. ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.
3.8.3 AI NET 2 BIOS SETUP UTILITY Tools AI NET 2 Pair Status Check Realtek LAN cable during POST. Length Check Realtek LAN cable [Disabled] v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc. Check Realtek LAN cable [Disabled] Enables or disables checking of the Realtek LAN cable during the Power-On Self‑Test (POST).
3.9 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. Main Ai Tweaker BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot Exit Options Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes Load Setup Defaults Tools Exit Exit system setup after saving the changes. F10 key can be used for this operation. Select Screen Pressing does not immediately exit this menu.
3-40 Chapter 3: BIOS setup
This chapter describes the contents of the Support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.
4 Chapter summary 4.1 Installing an operating system.................................................... 4-1 4.2 Support DVD information............................................................. 4-1 4.3 Software information....................................................................
4.1 Installing an operating system This motherboard supports Windows® XP/Vista operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware. 4.2 • Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Use the setup procedures presented in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OS documentation for detailed information.
4.2.2 Drivers menu The Drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices. ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Anti-Virus and Drivers Utility Installs all of the drivers. Norton Internet Security 2008 Installs Norton Internet Security 2008. Intel Chipset Inf Update Program Installs the Intel® chipset Inf update program. VIA Audio Driver Installs the VIA audio drive.
4.2.3 Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. Click to display the next page ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities Installs all of the utilities. ASUS PC Probe II This smart utility monitors the fan speed, CPU temperature, and system voltages, and alerts you of any detected problems. This utility helps you keep your computer in healthy operating condition.
Microsoft DirectX 9.0c Installs the Microsoft® DirectX 9.0c driver. The Microsoft DirectX® 9.0c is a multimedia technology that enhances computer graphics and sound. DirectX® improves the multimedia features of you computer so you can enjoy watching TV and movies, capturing videos, or playing games in your computer. Visit the Microsoft website at http://www.microsoft.com for updates.
WinZip 11 Installs the Winzip utility for easy file-compression and protection. 4.2.4 Manual menu The Manual menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to open the folder of the user manual. The user manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening a user manual file. ASUS Motherboard Installation Guide Allows you to open the ASUS Motherboard Installation Guide.
4.2.5 ASUS Contact information Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. You can also find this information on the inside front cover of this user guide.
4.2.6 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.
4.3 Software information Most of the applications in the Support DVD have wizards that will conveniently guide you through the installation. View the online help or readme file that came with the software application for more information. 4.3.1 ASUS MyLogo2™ The ASUS MyLogo2™ utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the image that appears on screen during the Power‑On Self-Tests (POST).
7. When the logo images appear on the right window pane, select an image to enlarge by clicking on it. 8. Adjust the boot image to your desired size by selecting a value on the Ratio box. 9. When the screen returns to the ASUS Update utility, flash the original BIOS to load the new boot logo. 10. After flashing the BIOS, restart the computer to display the new boot logo during POST.
4.3.2 ASUS PC Probe II PC Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer’s vital components, and detects and alerts you of any problem with these components. PC Probe II senses fan rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others. Because PC Probe II is software-based, you can start monitoring your computer the moment you turn it on. With this utility, you are assured that your computer is always at a healthy operating condition.
Button Function Opens the Configuration window Opens the Report window Opens the Desktop Management Interface window Opens the Peripheral Component Interconnect window Opens the Windows Management Instrumentation window Opens the hard disk drive, memory, CPU usage window Shows/Hides the Preference section Minimizes the application Closes the application Sensor alert When a system sensor detects a problem, the main window right handle turns red, as the illustrations below show.
Hardware monitor panels The hardware monitor panels display the current value of a system sensor such as fan rotation, CPU temperature, and voltages. The hardware monitor panels come in two display modes: hexagonal (large) and rectangular (small). When you check the Enable Monitoring Panel option from the Preference section, the monitor panels appear on your computer’s desktop.
Monitoring sensor alert The monitor panel turns red when a component value exceeds or is lower than the threshold value. Refer to the illustrations below. Small display Large display WMI browser Click to display the WMI (Windows Management Instrumentation) browser. This browser displays various Windows® management information. Click an item from the left panel to display on the right panel. Click the plus sign (+) before WMI Information to display the available information.
PCI browser Click to display the PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) browser. This browser provides information on the PCI devices installed on your system. Click the plus sign (+) before the PCI Information item to display available information. Usage The Usage browser displays real-time information on the CPU, hard disk drive space, and memory usage. Click to display the Usage browser. CPU usage The CPU tab displays realtime CPU usage in line graph representation.
Memory usage The Memory tab shows both used and available physical memory. The pie chart at the bottom of the window represents the used (blue) and the available Configuring PC Probe II Click to view and adjust the sensor threshold values. The Config window has two tabs: Sensor/Threshold and Preference. The Sensor/ Threshold tab enables you to activate the sensors or to adjust the sensor threshold values. The Preference tab allows you to customize sensor alerts, or change the temperature scale.
4.3.3 ASUS AI Suite ASUS AI Suite allows you to launch the AI Booster and AI Nap utilities easily. Installing AI Suite To install AI Suite on your computer: 1. Place the Support DVD into the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears if the Autorun feature is enabled on your computer. 2. Click the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite. 3. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.
Other feature buttons Click on right corner of the main window to open the monitor window. Displays the FSB/CPU frequency Click on right corner of the expanded window to switch the temperature from degrees Centigrade to degrees Fahrenheit.
4.3.4 ASUS AI Booster The ASUS AI Booster application allows you to overclock the CPU speed in WIndows® environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. After installing AI Suite from the bundled Support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows® OS taskbar and click the AI Booster button on the AI Suite main window.
4.3.5 ASUS AI Nap This feature allows you to minimize the power consumption of your computer whenever you are away. Enable this feature for minimum power consumption and a more quiet system operation. After installing AI Suite from the bundled Support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows OS taskbar and click the AI Nap button on the AI Suite main window. Click Yes on the confirmation screen.
4.3.6 ASUS Express Gate ASUS Express Gate is an instant-on environment that gives you quick access to the Internet. Within a few seconds of powering on your computer, you will be at the Express Gate menu where you can start the web browser, Skype, or other Express Gate softwares. Installing ASUS Express Gate • ASUS Express Gate supports installation on SATA HDDs in IDE mode only. • ASUS Express Gate supports HDDs connected to motherboard chipsetcontrolled onboard SATA ports only.
5. Select the target disk volume for you to install Express Gate. If you have multiple volumes and OS installed in your hard drive, it is recommended to install Express Gate in Volume C. Click Next to continue. 6. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. The First Screen Express Gate’s first screen appears within a few seconds after you power on the computer. From here, you can immediately start the web browser or Skype. You can also choose to continue booting normally (e.g.
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. Bring a window to the foreground by clicking within it or by clicking on its corresponding software icon. Re-size a window by dragging any of its four corners. Move a window by dragging its title bar. Besides using the LaunchBar, you can also switch between softwares by pressing + on the keyboard.
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. • Input Method: choose your preferred input language and method. • Language and Keyboard: choose your language and keyboard preferences. • LaunchBar Settings: customize your LaunchBar (where it docks, whether it auto-hides, etc.
• Screen Settings: Choose the most optimal screen resolution for your display. • Volume Control: Control the volume for your speaker output, microphone input, etc. Using the LaunchBar The LaunchBar has several system icons that show you various system statuses and let you configure individual Express Gate 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. Main Ai Tweaker BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot ASUS EZ Flash 2 Express Gate Enter OS Timer Reset User Data [Enabled] [10 Seconds] [No] Tools Exit Press ENTER to run the utility to select and update BIOS. This utility doesn't support : 1.
4-30 Chapter 4: Software support
The Appendix describes the CPU features and technologies that this motherboard supports.
A Chapter summary A.1 A.2 A.3 ® Intel EM64T...................................................................................A-1 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST).........................A-1 Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology............................................
A.1 Intel® EM64T • This motherboard is fully compatible with Intel® LGA775 processors running on 32-bit operating systems. • This motherboard comes with a BIOS file that supports EM64T. You can download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS website at www.asus.com if you need to update the BIOS file. See Chapter 3 for details. • Visit www.intel.com for more information on the EM64T feature. • Visit www.microsoft.com for more information on Windows® 64-bit OS.
A.2.2 Using the EIST To use the EIST feature: 1. 2. Turn on the computer, then enter the BIOS Setup utility. Go to Advanced > CPU Configuration, then press . 3. Set the Intel® SpeedStep Technology item to [Enabled]. See page 3-24 for details. 4. Press to save your changes and exit the BIOS Setup utility. 5. After the computer restarts, right-click a blank space on the Windows® desktop, then select Properties from the pop-up menu. 6. Click the Screen Saver tab. 7.
A.3 Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology • This motherboard supports Intel® Pentium® 4 LGA775 processors with the Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology. • The Hyper-Threading Technology is supported under Windows® Vista/XP/ Linux 2.4.x (kernel) and later versions only. Under Linux, use the Hyper-Threading compiler to compile the code. If you are using any other operating systems, disable the Hyper-Threading Technology item in the BIOS to ensure system stability and performance.
A- Appendix: CPU features
