Motherboard Striker II Formula
E3611 Third Edition V3 December 2007 Copyright © 2007 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).
Contents Contents....................................................................................................... iii Notices........................................................................................................ viii Safety information....................................................................................... ix About this guide........................................................................................... x Stricker II Formula specifications summary........
Contents 2.5.3 Interrupt assignments.................................................... 2-24 2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slots...................................................... 2-25 2.5.4 2.6 2.7 2.8 2.5.6 Audio card, I/O shield, and LCD Poster installation................ 2-28 2.7.1 2.7.2 Rear panel connectors................................................... 2-30 2.8.3 Onboard switches.......................................................... 2-42 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function.........
Contents 4.3.1 System Time.................................................................. 4-13 4.3.3 Language....................................................................... 4-13 4.3.2 4.3.4 4.3.5 4.3.8 Installed Memory............................................................ 4-17 4.3.10 Usable Memory.............................................................. 4-17 System Information........................................................ 4-17 4.4.1 AI Overclock Tuner...............
Contents 4.7.3 Hard Disk Drives............................................................ 4-41 4.7.5 Boot Settings Configuration .......................................... 4-42 4.7.4 4.8 4.9 4.7.6 5.2 4.8.1 4.8.3 5.2.1 Running the support DVD................................................ 5-1 5.2.3 Utilities menu................................................................... 5-3 5.2.6 5.2.7 5.2.8 Drivers menu....................................................................
Contents 5.5.2 Creating a RAID/SATA driver disk in Windows®. ........... 5-42 NVIDIA® SLI™ technology support Chapter 6: 6.1 Overview........................................................................................ 6-1 6.2 Graphics card setup..................................................................... 6-2 Requirements.................................................................................. 6-1 6.2.1 Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards......................... 6-2 6.2.
Notices Federal Communications Commission Statement This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: • • This device may not cause harmful interference, and This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Safety information Electrical safety • • • • • • To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system. When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
About this guide This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard. How this guide is organized This guide contains the following parts: • • • • • • • Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. Chapter 2: Hardware information This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components.
Conventions used in this guide To make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task. CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task. IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task. NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
Stricker II Formula specifications summary CPU LGA775 socket for Intel® Core™2 Quad / Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® Extreme / Pentium® D / Pentium® 4 processors Supports Intel® next-generation 45nm multi-core CPUs Compatible with Intel® 06/������������������ ��������������������� 05B/05A processors * Refer to www.asus.
Stricker II Formula specifications summary ROG Exclusive Overclocking features Extreme Tweaker 2-Phase DDR2 ROG BIOS Wallpaper Loadline Calibration Intelligent overclocking tools: - CPU Level Up - ASUS EPU (Energy Processing Unit) - AI Gear 3 - AI Overclocking (intelligent CPU frequency tuner) - AI Booster Utility - O.C. Profile Overclocking protection: - COP EX (Component Overheat Protection -EX) - Voltiminder LED - ASUS C.P.R.
Stricker II Formula specifications summary BIOS Features 8 Mb Flash ROM, Award BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, ������������������������������������������ SM BIOS 2.4, ACPI 2.0a Multi-Language BIOS Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, Chassis Intrusion, PXE Accessories LCD Poster ASUS Optional Fan SupremeFX II Audio Card 3 in 1 ASUS Q-connector kit UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable Floppy disk drive cable Serial ATA cables Serial ATA power cables 2-port USB2.
This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.
Chapter summary 1 1.1 Welcome!....................................................................................... 1-1 1.3 Special features............................................................................. 1-2 1.2 Package contents..........................................................................
1.1 Welcome! Thank you for buying an ASUS® Striker II Formula 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. Motherboard ROG Striker II Formula I/O module USB 2.
1.3 Special features 1.3.1 Product highlights Republic of Gamers The Republic of Gamers consists only the best of the best. We offer the best hardware engineering, the fastest performance, the most innovating ideas, and we welcome the best gamers to join in. In the Republic of Gamers, mercy rules are only for the weak, and bragging rights means everything. We believe in making statements and we excel in competitions.
PCIe 2.0 This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 device for twice the current speed and bandwidth. This enhances system performance while still providing backward compatibility to PCIe 1.0 devices. See page 2-25 for details. Native DDR2 1066 memory support To attain top performance, ASUS engineers have successfully unleashed the true potential of DDR2 memory.
Dual Gigabit LAN The integrated dual Gigabit LAN design allows a PC to serve as a network gateway for managing traffic between two separate networks. This capability ensures rapid transfer of data from WAN to LAN without any added arbitration or latency. See page 2-30 for details. IEEE 1394a support The IEEE 1394a interface provides high speed digital interface for audio/video appliances such as digital television, digital video camcorders, storage peripherals & other PC portable devices.
1.3.2 ROG Intelligent Performance & Overclocking features Pin-Fin Thermal Module Compared with traditional stacked-fin heatpipe solution, the new generation pin-fin thermal design results in better thermal performance, which enlarges the “heatexchange” surface area and breaks the “boundary-layer” phenomenon for effective airflow. The Pin-Fin Thermal Module is the most efficient thermal system ever on the motherboard.
Component Overheat Protection -EX (COP EX) The COP EX allows overclockers to increase chipset voltages without the worries of overheating. It can also be used to monitor and save an overheating GPU. The COP EX allows more freedom and less constraint for maximum performance achievement. 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 5-32 for details. ASUS O.C. Profile The motherboard features the ASUS O.C.
1.3.3 ROG unique features Supreme FX II features Supreme FX II delivers an excellent high definition audio experience to the gamers of ROG. The SupremeFX II features unique audio innovations for gamers to spot enemies in 3D environment during game play. SupremeFX II also provides a special tool to emphasize human voices in games to help make dialogues clearer.
Fanless Design–Stack Cool 2 ASUS Stack Cool 2 is a fan-less and zero-noise cooling solution that lowers the temperature of critical heat generating components. The motherboard uses a special design on the printed circuit board (PCB) to dissipate heat these critical components generate. 1.3.
ASUS MyLogo 3 ASUS MyLogo 3 is a new feature present in the motherboard that allows you to personalize and add style to your system with customizable and animated boot logos. See page 4-43 for details. ASUS Multi-language BIOS The multi-language BIOS allows you to select the language of your choice from the available options. The localized BIOS menus allow easier and faster configuration. See page 4-13 for details.
1-10 Chapter 1: Product Introduction
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It includes description of the jumpers and connectors on the motherboard.
Chapter summary 2 2.1 Before you proceed...................................................................... 2-1 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU).................................................... 2-8 2.2 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 Motherboard overview.................................................................. 2-4 System memory.......................................................................... 2-17 Expansion slots...........................................................................
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. Memory LED Refer to the illustration below for the location of the memory LED and the table below for LED definition. DDR_CRAZY DDR_HIGH DDR_NORMAL STRIKER II FORMULA ® STRIKER II FORMULA DDR LED Memory Voltage 3. Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red) 1.80~2.20 2.22~2.60 2.62~ Northbridge/Southbridge LEDs The northbridge and southbridge LEDs each have two different voltage displays. The northbridge LED displays either the NB Core Voltage or the CPU VTT Voltage.
4. Hard Disk LED The hard disk LED is designed to indicate the hard disk activity. It blinks when data is being written into or read from the hard disk drive. The LED does not light up when there is no hard disk drive connected to the motherboard or when the hard disk drive does not function. STRIKER II FORMULA ® HD_LED STRIKER II FORMULA Hard Disk LED 5. Power LED The motherboard comes with a power-on switch that lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft‑off mode.
2.2 Motherboard overview Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits into it. Make sure to 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, make sure that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation.
2.2.3 Motherboard layout 24.5cm (9.
2.2.5 Slots Layout contents 1. DDR2 DIMM slots 3. PCI Express x 1 slots 2. 4. Page 2-17 PCI slots 2-25 2-25 PCI Express x 16 slots 2-25 Jumper 1. Page Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC_SW) 2-27 Rear panel connectors Page 2. 2-30 1. PS/2 keyboard port (purple) 3. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port 4. 5.* 6.* 7.* 8.* 9.* 10.* 11. 12. 13. 14. 15.
Internal connectors Page 2. 2- 32 1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) 3. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1–6) 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA775 socket designed for the Intel® Core™2 Quad / Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® D / Pentium® 4 / Pentium® Extreme processors. • Make sure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU. • If installing a dual-core CPU, connect the chassis fan cable to the CHA_FAN1 connector to ensure system stability.
2.3.1 Installing the CPU To install a CPU: 1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard. STRIKER II FORMULA ® STRIKER II FORMULA CPU Socket 775 Before installing the CPU, make sure that the cam box is facing towards you and the load lever is on your left. 2. Press the load lever with your thumb (A), then move it to the left (B) until it is released from the retention tab. Retention tab Load lever A PnP cap B This side of the socket box should face you.
4. Lift the load plate with your thumb and forefinger to a 100º angle (A), then push the PnP cap from the load plate window to remove (B). B A Load plate Alignment key 5. Position the CPU over the socket, making sure that the gold triangle is on the bottom‑left corner of the socket then fit the socket alignment key into the CPU notch. CPU notch Gold triangle mark The CPU fits in only one correct orientation.
2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan The Intel LGA775 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance. ® • When you buy a boxed Intel® processor, the package includes the CPU fan and heatsink assembly. If you buy a CPU separately, make sure that you use only Intel®‑certified multi‑directional heatsink and fan. • Your Intel® LGA775 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design and requires no tool to install.
2. 3. Push down two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to secure the heatsink and fan assembly in place. A B B A B A A B Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN. GND CPU FAN PWR CPU FAN IN CPU FAN PWM CPU_FAN STRIKER II FORMULA ® STRIKER II FORMULA 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. Pull up two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to disengage the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard. 4. A B B A B A A B Carefully remove the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard.
5. Rotate each fastener clockwise to ensure correct orientation when reinstalling. Narrow end of the groove The narrow end of the groove should point outward after resetting. (The photo shows the groove shaded for emphasis.) Refer to the documentation in the boxed or stand-alone CPU fan package for detailed information on CPU fan installation.
2.3.4 Installing the optional fans Install TWO optional fans when you are using a water cooler ����������������� to obtain better heat dissipation�������������������������������������������������������������� . Installing the optional fans with an active CPU cooler will interfere with the airflow and destabilize the system. Optional fan on one side fins 1. Position the fan above the pipe and heatsink assembly. 2. Fit the fan to the grooved edge of the heatsink. 3.
5. Follow Step 1 to 4 to install the other optional fan. 6. The photo shows that two fans are installed to the motherboard. Plug the optional fan cable in the PWR_FAN connector on the motherboard.
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: STRIKER II FORMULA ® STRIKER II FORMULA 240-pin DDR2 DIMM sockets Channel Sockets Channel A DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2 Channel B • DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2 This chipset officially supports DDR2-800 MHz.
2.4.2 Memory configurations You may install 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB unbuffered non‑ECC DDR2 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. Recommended Memory Configurations Sockets Mode DIMM_A1 DIMM_A2 DIMM_B1 DIMM_B2 Populated – – – – – Populated – Dual-channel (1) Populated – Populated – Dual-channel (2) Populated Populated Populated Populated Single-Channel • You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B.
Striker II Formula Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-1066MHz capability Size Vendor Chip No. 512MB 1024MB 2048MB 1024MB KINGSTON MICRON MICRON CORSAIR Heat-Sink Package Z9JKJ Z9JKJ Heat-Sink Package SS/ DS SS SS DS DS Part No. KHX8500D2/512 MT8HTF12864AY-1GAEZES MT16HTF25664AY-1GAEZES CM2X1024-8500C5 DIMM support A* B* C* • • • • • SS - Single-sided / DS - Double-sided DIMM support: • A*: Supports one module inserted in any slot as Single-channel memory configuration.
Striker II Formula Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-800MHz capability 2-20 Size Vendor Chip No.
Striker II Formula Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-667MHz capability Size Vendor Chip No.
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 To install a DIMM: 1. 2. 3. 3 Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clips outward. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break on the socket. Firmly insert the DIMM into the socket until the retaining clips snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated.
2.5 Expansion slots In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub‑sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support. Make sure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. 2.5.1 Installing an expansion card To install an expansion card: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
2.5.
2.5.4 PCI slots 2.5.5 PCI Express x1 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. This motherboard supports PCI Express 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 • Install the audio card prior to other compatible cards to the black PCIe x1 slot.
2-26 • We recommend that you install a VGA card to the primary (blue) PCI Express x16 slots, and install any other PCI Express device to the universal (white) PCI Express x16 slot. • Currently, only NVIDIA® SLI™-Ready GeForce® 8800 Ultra and GeForce® 8800 GTX graphics cards support 3-Way SLI™ mode. • Connect a rear chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN1 or OPT_FAN1/3 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment. See page 2-36 for details.
2.6 Jumper 1. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC_SW) This jumper allows you to enable the clr CMOS switch. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The clr CMOS switch on the back I/O helps you easily to clear the system setup information such as system passwords. To erase the RTC RAM: 1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer. 2. 4. Press down the clr CMOS switch.
2-28 2.7 Audio card, I/O shield, and LCD Poster installation 2.7.1 Audio card Installation 1. Take out the Audio card from the package. 2. Locate the audio slot on the motherboard. 3. Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card sits on the slot completely. 4. The photo below shows the audio card installed on the motherboard.
2.7.2 I/O shield and LCD Poster Installation 1. Install the I/O shield to the chassis rear panel. Orient the I/O shield so that the openings of the ports fit the motherboard rear ports. Snaps the I/O shield into place. 2. Position the motherboard I/O side toward the chassis rear panel and install the motherboard to the chassis. Be cautious when installing the I/O shield. The I/O shield edge springs may damage the I/O ports. 3.
3 4 Line in 2 Front-out 1 5 6 Mic in Rear panel connectors 7 Cen/Sub 2.8.1 8 Rear-out Connectors 9 Side-out 2.8 10 clr CMOS 15 1. 2. 3. 4. 14 13 12 11 PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device via a coaxial S/PDIF cable. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub.
5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Line In port (light blue). This port connects the tape, CD, DVD player, or other audio sources. Line Out port (lime). This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In 4-channel, 6-channel, and 8-channel configuration, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out. Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone. Center/Subwoofer port (orange). This port connects the center/subwoofer speakers. Rear Speaker Out port (black).
2.8.2 1. Internal connectors Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) This connector is for the provided floppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert one end of the cable to this connector, then connect the other end to the signal connector at the back of the floppy disk drive. Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when using a FDD cable with a covered Pin 5. FLOPPY NOTE: Orient the red markings on the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.
PRI_IDE NOTE: Orient the red markings (usually zigzag) on the ID� cable to PIN 1. STRIKER II FORMULA ® STRIKER II FORMULA IDE connector 3. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1–6) These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk drives. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, or JBODconfiguration with the NVIDIA® MediaShield™ RAID controller. • These connectors are set to [Disabled] by default.
You must install the Windows® XP Service Pack 1 before using Serial ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature (RAID 0/RAID 1/RAID 5/RAID 10) is available only if you are using Windows® XP or later version. Connect the right-angle side of SATA signal cable to SATA device. Or you may connect the right-angle side of SATA cable to the onboard SATA port to avoid mechanical conflict with huge graphics cards.
5. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) This connector is for a IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. GND +12V TPB1GND TPA1- STRIKER II FORMULA ® IE1394_2 +12V TPB1+ GND TPA1+ PIN 1 STRIKER II FORMULA IEEE 1394a connector Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector.
7. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1–3, 3-pin PWR_FAN, 3‑pin OPT_FAN1–3) The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350 mA–1000 mA (24 W max.) or a total of 1 A–3.48 A (41.76 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.
8. 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.
10. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V) These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.
11. ROG connector (2-pin ROG) This connector is for the box labeled as Republic of Gamers on the heatpipe assembly. Connect the cable of the box to this connector, and the box lights up when the system is on.
12. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. +5V Ground Ground Speaker SPEAKER PLED- PLED+ PLED STRIKER II FORMULA RESET IDE_LED ® Reset Ground PWR Ground IDE_LED+ IDE_LED- PANEL PWRSW * Requires an ATX power supply.
ASUS Q-Connector (system panel) You can use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect chassis front panel cables in a few steps. Refer to the instructions below to install the ASUS QConnector. 1. Connect the front panel cables to the ASUS Q-Connector. Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector to know the detailed pin definitions, then match them to the respective front panel cable labels. 2.
2.8.3 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. Power-on switch Press the power-on switch to wake/power up the system. STRIKER II FORMULA ® STRIKER II FORMULA Power on switch 2. Reset switch Press the reset switch to reboot the system.
This chapter describes the power up sequence, the vocal POST messages, and ways of shutting down the system.
Chapter summary 3.1 3.2 3 Starting up for the first time......................................................... 3-1 Turning off the computer..............................................................
3.1 Starting up for the first time 1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. 3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. 2. 4. 5. Be sure that all switches are off. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector. Turn on the devices in the following order: a. Monitor c. System power b. 6. 7.
3.2 Turning off the computer 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function If you are using Windows® XP: 1. Click the Start button then select Turn Off Computer. 3. The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down. 2. Click the Turn Off button to shut down the computer. If you are using Windows® Vista™: 1. 2. Click the Start button then select ShutDown. The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down. 3.2.
This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
Chapter summary 4.1 4 Managing and updating your BIOS............................................. 4-1 4.2 BIOS setup program..................................................................... 4-9 4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu.............................................................. 4-18 4.6 Power menu................................................................................. 4-34 4.3 4.5 4.7 4.8 4.9 Main menu................................................................................
4.1 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.) 3. Award BIOS Flash Utility (Updates the BIOS using a bootable USB flash disk or a CD ROM.) ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS in DOS using a USB flash disk or the motherboard support DVD.) 2.
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility. Updating the BIOS through the Internet To update the BIOS through the Internet: 4-2 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears. 2. Select Update BIOS from the Internet option from the drop‑down menu, then click Next. 3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network traffic, or click Auto Select.
4. 5. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download. Click Next. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process. The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update the utility to avail all its features. Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file To update the BIOS through a BIOS file: 1. 2. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate.
4.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go through the long process of using a DOS‑based utility. The EZ Flash 2 utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing + during the Power-On Self Tests (POST). To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2: 1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for the motherboard. 2. 3. Save the BIOS file to a USB flash disk, then restart the system.
4.1.3 Updating the BIOS The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) can be updated using the AwardBIOS Flash Utility. Follow these instructions to update the BIOS using this utility. 1. Download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS web site. Rename the file to StrikerII.BIN and save it to a CD ROM or a USB flash disk in FAT 16/12 format. Save only the updated BIOS file in the disk to avoid loading the wrong BIOS file. 2. 3. 4. 5. Copy the AwardBIOS Flash Utility (awdflash.
7. 8. Press when the utility prompts you to save the current BIOS file. The following screen appears. The utility verifies the BIOS file in the CD ROM or a USB flash disk and starts flashing the BIOS file. AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.18 (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved For C55XEMCP55PXE-StrikerII-00 DATE:10/30/2007 Flash Type - PMC Pm49FL004T LPC/FWH File Name to Program: StrikerII.
4.1.4 Saving the current BIOS file You can use the AwardBIOS Flash Utility to save the current BIOS file. You can load the current BIOS file when the BIOS file gets corrupted during the flashing process. Make sure that the CD ROM or a USB flash disk has enough disk space to save the file. To save the current BIOS file using the AwardBIOS Flash Utility: 1. 2. Follow steps 1 to 6 of the previous section. Press when the utility prompts you to save the current BIOS file. The following screen appears.
4.1.5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 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 ������������������ that contains the updated BIOS file.
4.2 BIOS setup program This motherboard supports a programmable Low-Pin Count (LPC) chip that you can update using the provided utility described in section “4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS.” Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconfiguring your system, or prompted to “Run Setup.” This section explains how to configure your system using this utility. Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the configuration of your computer in the future.
4.2.1 BIOS menu screen Menu items Main Menu bar Configuration fields General help Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools System Time System Date Language Legacy Diskette A: Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave SATA 1 SATA 2 SATA 3 SATA 4 SATA 5 SATA 6 HDD SMART Monitoring Installed Memory Usable Memory System Information F1:Help ESC: Exit ↑↓ : Select Item →←: Select Menu 15 : 30 : 36 Thu, Oct 30 2007 [English] [1.44M, 3.5 in.
4.2.3 Legend bar At the bottom of the Setup screen is a legend bar. The keys in the legend bar allow you to navigate through the various setup menus. The following table lists the keys found in the legend bar with their corresponding functions.
4.2.7 Pop-up window Select a menu item then press to display a pop-up window with the configuration options for that item. Main Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit System Time 15 : 30 : 36 Select Menu System Date Thu, Oct 30 2007 Language [English] Item Specific Help Legacy Diskette A: [1.44M, 3.5 in.] Change the internal Legacy Diskette A: time. Primary IDE Master [None] Disabled [None] ..... [ ] Primary IDE Slave 720K , 3.5 in. .....
4.3 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 4.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them. Main Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools System Time System Date Language Legacy Diskette A: 15 : 30 : 36 Thu, Oct 30 2007 [English] [1.44M, 3.5 in.
4.3.5 Primary IDE Master/Slave While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of IDE devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each IDE device. Select a device item then press to display the device information.
Access Mode [Auto] The default [Auto] allows automatic detection of an IDE hard disk drive. Select [CHS] for this item if you set the IDE Primary Master/Slave to [Manual]. Configuration options: [CHS] [LBA] [Large] [Auto] Before attempting to configure a hard disk drive, make sure you have the correct configuration information supplied by the drive manufacturer. Incorrect settings may cause the system to fail to recognize the installed hard disk. Capacity Displays the auto-detected hard disk capacity.
4.3.6 SATA 1–6 While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of Serial ATA devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SATA device. Select a device item then press to display the SATA device information.
Sector Shows the number of sectors per track. This item is not configurable. After entering the IDE hard disk drive information into BIOS, use a disk utility, such as FDISK, to partition and format new IDE hard disk drives. This is necessary so that you can write or read data from the hard disk. Make sure to set the partition of the Primary IDE hard disk drives to active. 4.3.
4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu The Extreme Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related items. Take caution when changing the settings of the Extreme Tweaker menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction.
The following item becomes configurable when you set AI Overclock Tuner to [CPU Level Up]. CPU Level Up [Auto] Allows you to select a CPU level, and the related parameters will be automatically adjusted according to the selected CPU level. Configuration options: [Auto] [X6800] [E6850] [Crazy] • The configuration options may vary depending on your CPU type. • The option [Crazy] appears only when you use a CPU above E6600.
FSB & Memory Config This sub-menu allows you to adjust the system frequency-related items. Select an item, then press to edit. Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker FSB & Memory Config x x x CPU Level Up FSB - Memory Clock Mode FSB - Memory Ratio FSB (QDR), MHz Actual FSB (QDR), MHz MEM (DDR), MHz Actual MEM (DDR), MHz F1:Help ESC: Exit ↑↓ : Select Item →←: Select Menu Select Menu [Auto] [Auto] Auto Auto 1333.3 Auto 909.
Actual FSB (QDR), MHz This item reflects the actual frequency after the system reboots. The following item becomes configurable when you set FSB-Memory Clock Mode to [Unlinked]. MEM (DDR), MHz [800] Allows you to adjust memory frequency. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the frequency. You can also type the desired frequency using the numeric keypad. The values range from 400 to 2600. Actual MEM (DDR), MHz This item reflects the actual frequency after the system reboots.
4.4.2 Overclocking This sub-menu allows you to adjust the system frequency-related items. Select an item, then press to edit. Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Overclocking Select Menu CPU Type Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Duo CPU E6750 @ 2.66GHz CPU Speed 2.
tRAS [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]~[31] Command Per Clock (CMD) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 clock] [2 clock] tRRD [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]~[15] tRC [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]~[31] tWR [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] tWTR [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]~[15] tREF [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] tRD [Auto] Co
CPU Internal Thermal Control [Disabled] Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] Limit CPUID MaxVal [Disabled] Setting this item to [Enabled] allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs with extended CPUID functions. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Enhanced C1 (CIE) [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable C1E Support.
4.4.3 Over Voltage This sub-menu allows you to adjust the system voltage-related items. Select an item, then press to edit. Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Select Menu Over Voltage CPU Voltage Memory Voltage 1.
1.2V HT Voltage [Auto] Allows you to select the 1.2V HT voltage. The text color in the configuration field indicates voltage condition. When you set the SB LED Selection item to [SB_HT Volt], the onboard southbridge LED displays 1.2V HT voltage condition. Refer to page 2-2 for southbridge LED definition. Configuration options: [Auto] [1.20V] [1.25V] [1.30V] [1.35V]~[1.80V] [1.85V] [1.90V] [1.95V] NB Core Voltage [Auto] Allows you to select the northbridge voltage.
DDRII Controller Ref Voltage [Auto] Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to [Auto] for the safe mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [�������������������������� DDR2_REF������������������ ] [DDR2_REF+30mv] [DDR2_REF+20mv] [DDR2_REF+10mv] [DDR2_REF-10mv] [DDR2_REF-20mv] [DDR2_REF-30mv] DDRII Channel A Ref Voltage [Auto] Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to [Auto] for the safe mode.
4.4.7 Voltiminder LED [ON] Allows you to turn on/off the onboard Voltiminder LED. Configuration options: [ON] [OFF] 4.4.8 CPU LED Selection [CPU Volt] Allows you to switch the onboard CPU LED display between CPU voltage [CPU Volt] and CPU PLL voltage [PLL Volt]. Configuration options: [CPU Volt] [PLL Volt] 4.4.9 NB LED Selection [NB Volt] Allows you to switch the onboard northbridge LED display between NB Core Voltage [NB Volt] and CPU VTT Voltage [VTT Volt].
4.5 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Main Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools F1:Help ESC: Exit 4.5.1 ↑↓ : Select Item →←: Select Menu Exit Select Menu AI NET2 PCIPnP Onboard Device Configuration USB Configuration Item Specific Help Press [Enter] to set.
4.5.2 PCIPnP Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced PCIPnP Plug & Play O/S Primary Display Adapter Select Menu [No] [PCI] Item Specific Help Select Yes if you are using a Plug and Play capable operating system. Select No if you need the BIOS to configure non-boot devices. Plug & Play O/S [No] When set to [No], the BIOS configures all the devices in the system.
IDE Function Setup This sub-menu contains IDE function-related items. Select an item then press to edit. Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced Select Menu IDE Function Setup OnChip IDE Channel0 IDE DMA transfer access IDE Prefetch Mode [Enabled] [Enabled] [Enabled] Item Specific Help Press [Enter] to set. OnChip IDE Channel0 [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the onchip IDE channel 0 controller.
RAID Enabled [Disabled] Enables or disables the onboard RAID controller. When set to [Enabled], the succeeding items become user-configurable. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] SATA1/2/3/4/5/6 [Disabled] Enables or disables the RAID function of the first to sixth SATA drives. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] HD Audio [Auto] Allows you to disable or set the High-Definition audio function.
The following item becomes configurable when the LCD Poster Mode item is set to [User String]. LCD Poster String Allows you to enter a string shown on the LCD Poster after POST. USB Configuration The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an item then press to display the configuration options. Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced USB Configuration USB Controller USB Legacy support USB2.
4.6 Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) and the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press to display the configuration options. Main Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools ACPI Suspend Type ACPI APIC support APM Configuration Hardware Monitor F1:Help ESC: Exit 4.6.
4.6.
Alarm Time (hh:mm) [ X: X: X] To set the time of alarm: 1. 2. 3. 4. Highlight this item and press to display a pop-up menu for the hour field. Key-in a value (Min=0, Max=23), then press . Press to move to the minutes field then press . Key-in a minute value (Min=0, Max=59), then press .
Voltage Monitor Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Power Select Menu Voltage Monitor Vcore Voltage [ 1.32V] Memory Voltage [ 2.00V] 1.2V HT Voltage [ 1.23V] NB Voltage [ 1.26V] SB Voltage [ 1.50V] ������������������������� CPU PLL Voltage [ 1.52V] CPU VTT Voltage [ 1.20V] DDR2 Termination Voltage [ 0.99V] 3.3V Voltage [ 2.89V] 5V Voltage [ 4.66V] 12V Voltage [11.64V] F1:Help ESC: Exit ↑↓ : Select Item →←: Select Menu Item Specific Help Press [Enter] to set.
OPT1/2/3 Cable Overheat Protection [90] Allows you to set the temperature over which the system automatically shuts down when any of the thermal sensor cables connected to the motherboard detects device overheat to protect the device from damage.
CPU FAN Control [Duty Cycle Mode] Allows you to select the fan control mode. Configuration options: [Duty Cycle Mode] [Q-FAN Mode] CPU FAN Duty Cycle [100%] Allows you to set the fan duty cycle. This item becomes configurable when you set the CPU FAN Control item to [Duty Cycle Mode]. Configuration options: [60%] [70%] [80%] [90%] [100%] CHASSIS FAN Control [Duty Cycle Mode] Allows you to select the fan control mode.
CPU Fan Speed warning [600 RPM] Allows you to set the CPU fan warning speed function, which gives off a warning when the CPU fan speed is too low. If you set this item to [Disabled], the system will not warn you even if no fan is installed or if the fan is not functioning properly. Configuration options: [Disabled] [600 RPM] [1200 RPM] [1600 RPM] 4.7 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then press to display the sub-menu.
4.7.2 Main Removable Drives Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Select Menu Removable Drives Item Specific Help Use <↑> or <↓> to select a device, then press <+> to move it up, or <-> to move it down the list. Press to exit this menu. 1. Floppy Disks 1. Floppy Disks Allows you to assign a removable drive attached to the system. 4.7.3 Main Hard Disk Drives Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools 1.
4.7.
Typematic Delay (Msec) [250] Allows you to set the delay before keystrokes begin to repeat. Configuration options: [250] [500] [750] [1000] OS Select for DRAM > 64MB [Non-OS2] Set this item to OS2 only when you are running on an OS/2 operating system with an installed RAM of greater than 64 MB. Configuration options: [Non-OS2] [OS2] Full Screen LOGO [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature.
Supervisor Password User Password These fields allow you to set passwords: To set a password: 1. 2. 3. Select an item then press . Type in a password using a combination of a maximum of eight (8) alpha‑numeric characters, then press . When prompted, confirm the password by typing the exact characters again, then press . The password field setting is changed to Set. To clear the password: 1. Select the password field and press twice.
4.8 Tools menu The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item then press to display the sub-menu. Main Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools F1:Help ESC: Exit 4.8.1 Item Specific Help Press [Enter] to select ↑↓ : Select Item →←: Select Menu -/+: Change Value Enter: Select SubMenu F5: Setup Defaults F10: Save and Exit ASUS O.C. Profile CMOSBIOS Setupsettings.
Load from File Allows you to load the previous BIOS file saved in the hard disk/floppy disk/ USB flash disk with the FAT32/16/12 format. Follow the instructions below to load the BIOS file. 1. Insert the storage devices that contains the “xxx.CMO” file. 3. Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the “Tools” menu to select “Load from File.” Press then the setup screen will appear. 2. 4. 5. Turn on the system. Press to switch between drives before the correct “xxx.CMO” file is found.
ASUSTek O.C. Profile Utility B324 Current CMOS BOARD: STRIKER II FORMULA VER: 0201 DATE: 11/05/2007 Update CMOS BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown PATH: A:\ A: CMOS backup is done! Press any key to Exit. Note [Enter] Select [Tab] Switch [S] Save [ESC]: Exit [Up/Down/Home/End] Move The BIOS file will be saved as “xxx.CMO“. 4.8.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press , a confirmation message appears.
4.9 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 Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Load Setup Default Discard Changes Exit Select Menu Item Specific Help This option save data to CMOS and exiting the setup menu. Pressing does not immediately exit this menu.
This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.
Chapter summary 5 5.1 Installing an operating system.................................................... 5-1 5.3 Software information.................................................................... 5-9 5.2 5.4 5.5 Support DVD information............................................................. 5-1 RAID configurations................................................................... 5-34 Creating a RAID driver disk........................................................
5.1 Installing an operating system This motherboard supports Windows® XP/64-bit ������������������������������������������ XP/Vista/64-bit Vista����������� operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware. 5.2 • 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.
5.2.2 Drivers menu The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices. ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Drivers Launches the ASUS InstAll driver installation wizard. Nvidia Chipset Driver Program Installs the NVIDIA® chipset drivers for the NVIDIA® nForce® 780i SLI™ chipset. ASUS EPU Driver + AI Gear 3 Utility Installs the ASUS EPU Driver + AI Gear 3 Utility.
5.2.3 Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. Click to display the next screen Click to display the previous screen ASUS InstAll-Installation Wizard for Utilities Installs all of the utilities through the Installation Wizard. ASUS PC Probe II This smart utility monitors the fan speed, CPU temperature, and system voltages, and alerts you of any detected problems.
ASUS Update The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in Windows® environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP). 3DMark06 Software Installs the 3Dmark06 software. ASUS AI Suite Installs the ASUS AI Suite. Adobe Acrobat Reader V7.0 Installs the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader that allows you to open, view, and print documents in Portable Document Format (PDF). Microsoft DirectX 9.
5.2.4 Make Disk menu The Make Disk menu contains items to create the NVIDIA® nForce® 570 SLI™ SATA RAID driver disk. NVIDIA 32/64 bit XP/Vista SATA RAID Driver Allows you to create a NVIDIA® 32/64 bit XP/Vista™ SATA RAID driver disk.
5.2.5 Manuals menu The Manuals menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to open the folder of the user manual. Most user manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening a user manual file. 5.2.6 Video menu Click the Video tab to display a list of video clips. Click the Extreme OC Clip item to watch how an overclocking guru breaks 3DMark world record with an ROG motherboard.
5.2.7 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. 5.2.8 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.
5.3 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. 5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3™ The ASUS MyLogo3™ 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.
5.3.2 AI NET 2 The AI NET 2 features the Marvell® Virtual Cable Tester™ (VCT). VCT is a cable diagnostic utility that reports LAN cable faults and shorts using the Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) technology. The VCT detects and reports open and shorted cables, impedance mismatches, pair swaps, pair polarity problems, and pair skew problems of up to 64 ns at one meter accuracy. The VCT feature reduces networking and support costs through a highly manageable and controlled network system.
5.3.3 AI Audio 2 (SoundMAX® High Definition Audio utility) The ADI AD1988 High Definition Audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio capability through the SoundMAX® audio utility with AudioESP™ software to deliver the ultimate audio experience on your PC. The software implements high quality audio synthesis/rendering, 3D sound positioning, and advanced voice-input technologies.
A. SoundMAX BlackHawk (AI Audio 2) If you are using Windows Vista™ operating system, from the taskbar, double-click on the SoundMAX® BlackHawk icon to display the SoundMAX® control panel. Enabling AI Audio 2 Click the power button to activate digital signal processing. AI Audio 2, with the new SoundMAX® BlackHawk by Sonic Focus, brings you more multimedia enjoyment.
Playback Settings To configure the playback settings, click the Playback button on the control panel. You can adjust the volume of the Speakers and SPDIF Interface or mute the audio. Preset settings Click and expand the drop-down menu to select your preferred Digital Signal Processing (DSP) preset. Move the sliders to customize the values of Voice Clarity, Dynamics, Brilliance, and Deep Bass of each preset. Click Save to save the changes to the current preset.
Recording Settings To change the recording settings, click the Recording button on the control panel. You can adjust the speaker delay of Microphone or Line In by moving the slider rightward or leftward. Record testing Click the tab to perform test recording and play the test sample through the speakers or the SPDIF interface. Port settings Click the tab to display the rear panel ports for Microphone or Line In.
Speakers Allows you to adjust the Speaker Trim and Speaker Delay. Bass Allows you to do the Bass management. Preferences Displays the preference options for this utility, version information, AudioESP, etc.
B. SoundMAX If you are using Windows XP operating system, from the taskbar, double-click on the SoundMAX® icon to display the SoundMAX® Control Panel. Audio Setup Wizard By clicking the icon from the SoundMAX® control panel, you can easily configure your audio settings. Simply follow the succeeding screen instructions and begin enjoying High Definition Audio.
Jack configuration This screen helps you configure your computer’s audio ports, depending on the audio devices you have installed. Adjust speaker volume This screen helps you adjust speaker volume. Click the Test button to hear the changes you have made. Adjust microphone volume This screen helps you adjust microphone volume. You will be asked to read pre-written text to allow the AudioWizard to adjust the volume as you speak.
Audio preferences Click the icon to go to the Preferences page. This page allows you to change various audio settings. General options Click the General tab to choose your playback and recording devices, enable/ disable the AudioESP™ feature, and enable/disable digital output. Listening Environment options Click the Listening Environment tab to set up your speaker, acoustic environment, and enable/disable the Virtual Theater Surround function.
Microphone options Click the Microphone tab allows you to optimize your microphone input settings.
5.3.4 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.
5.3.5 ASUS AI Suite ASUS AI Suite allows you to launch AI Gear 3, AI Booster, AI Nap, and Q-Fan 2 utilities easily. Install the ASUS EPU Driver + AI Gear 3 Utility before the ASUS AI Suite utility. Otherwise, ASUS AI Suite will not function properly. Installing AI Suite To install AI Suite on your computer: 1. 2. 3. Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature. Click the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite.
Other feature buttons Click on right corner of the main window to open the monitor window. Displays the CPU/ system temperature, CPU/memory/PCIE voltage, and CPU/ chassis fan speed Displays the FSB/CPU frequency Click on right corner of the expanded window to switch the temperature from degrees Centigrade to degrees Fahrenheit.
5.3.6 ASUS EPU Utility—AI Gear 3 ASUS AI Gear 3 is a utility designed to configure and support all ASUS Energy Processing Unit (EPU) features. This easy-to-use utility provides four system performance profiles that adjust the processor frequency and vCore voltage for different computing needs.
5.3.7 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 quieter 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.
5.3.8 ASUS Q-Fan 2 This ASUS Q-Fan 2 Control feature allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU Q-Fan 2 or the Chassis Q-Fan 2 for more efficient system operation. After enabling the Q-Fan 2 function, the fans can be set to automatically adjust depending on the temperature, to decrease fan speed, or to achieve the maximum fan speed.
5.3.9 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.
5.3.10 CPU Level Up The CPU Level Up application allows you to overclock immediately with OC profile presets in WIndows® environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. This application provides comprehensive and detailed tuning to frequencies, voltagies, and even timings to create a real professional level of overclocking configuration.
5.4 RAID configurations The motherboard comes with the NVIDIA® nForce® 570 SLI™ Southbridge RAID controller that allows you to configure IDE and Serial ATA hard disk drives as RAID sets. 5.4.1 RAID definitions RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in parallel, interleaved stacks. Two hard disks perform the same work as a single drive but at a sustained data transfer rate, double that of a single disk alone, thus improving data access and storage.
5.4.2 NVIDIA® RAID configurations The motherboard includes a high performance SATA RAID controller integrated in the NVIDIA® nForce® 570 SLI™ southbridge chipset. It supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5 and JBOD for six independent Serial ATA channels. Installing Serial ATA (SATA) hard disks The motherboard supports Ultra DMA 133/100/66 and Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array.
Make sure to re-enter your NVRAID settings after the CMOS is cleared; otherwise, the system will not recognize your RAID setup. For detailed descriptions on the NVIDIA® RAID configuration, refer to the NVIDIA RAID User Guide found in your motherboard support DVD. Entering the NVIDIA® RAID utility To enter the NVIDIA® RAID utility: 1. 2. Boot up your computer. During POST, press to display the main menu of the utility.
Creating a RAID Volume To create a RAID volume: 1. From the NVIDIA® RAID utility Define a New Array menu, select RAID Mode then press . The following submenu appears. Use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID mode then press . 2. Press select the Striping Block then press .
NVIDIA RAID Utility Oct 5 2004 - Array List Boot Id Status Vendor Array Model Name No 4 Healthy NVIDIA MIRROR [Ctrl-X]Exit 6. [↑↓]Select [B]Set Boot XXX.XXG [N]New Array [ENTER]Detail A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen. Press to save settings and exit. Rebuilding a RAID array To rebuild a RAID array: 1. From the Array List menu, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array then press . The RAID Array details appear.
2. A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen. Press to rebuild a RAID array. The following screen appears. Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG - Select Disk Inside Array RAID Mode: Mirroring Striping Width: 1 Striping Block: 64K Adapt Channel M/S Index Disk Model Name Capacity 2 1 1 0 Master Master 0 1 XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XXGB XXX.XXGB [↑↓] Select [F6] Back 3.
Deleting a RAID array To delete a RAID array: 1. From the Array List menu, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array then press . The RAID Array details appear. Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG - Array Detail RAID Mode: Mirroring Striping Width: 1 Adapt Channel M/S Index Disk Model Name Capacity 2 1 1 0 Master Master 0 1 XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XXGB XXX.XXGB [R] Rebuild 2.
Clearing a disk data To clear disk data: 1. From the Array List menu, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array then press . The RAID Array details appear. Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG - Array Detail RAID Mode: Mirroring Striping Width: 1 Adapt Channel M/S Index Disk Model Name Capacity 2 1 1 0 Master Master 0 1 XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXX.XXGB XXX.XXGB [R] Rebuild 2.
5.5 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™ operating system, use either a floppy disk or a USB device with the RAID driver. 5.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS To create a RAID/SATA driver disk without entering the OS: 1. Boot your computer. 3. Set the optical drive as the primary boot device. 2. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
To install the RAID driver in Windows® Vista™: 1. 2. Insert the floppy disk/USB device with RAID driver into the floppy disk drive/USB port. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation. Due to chipset limitation, the Serial ATA ports supported by the NVIDIA chipset doesn’t support Serial Optical Disk Drives (Serial ODD) under DOS.
5-44 Chapter 5: Software support
This chapter tells how to install SLI‑ready PCI Express graphics cards.
Chapter summary 6.1 6.2 Overview........................................................................................ 6-1 Graphics card setup.....................................................................
6.1 Overview The motherboard supports the NVIDIA® SLI™ (Scalable Link Interface) technology that allows you to install up to three identical PCI Express™ x16 graphics cards. Follow the installation procedures in this section. Requirements • • • • In Dual SLI mode, you should have two identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA® certified. In 3-way SLI mode, you should have three identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA® certified.
6.2 Graphics card setup 6.2.1 Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards Install only identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA®-certified. Different types of graphics cards will not work together properly. To install the graphics cards: 1. Prepare three graphics cards. Each graphics card should have goldfingers for the 3-way SLI connector.
2. Insert the first graphics card into the PCIEX16_1 slot (blue), the second into the PCIEX16_3 slot (white), and the third into the PCIEX16_2 slot (blue). Make sure that the cards are properly seated on the slots. 3. Align and firmly insert the 3-way SLI bridge connector to the goldfingers on each graphics card. Make sure that the connector is firmly in place.
4. Connect auxiliary power source from the power supply to the three graphics cards separately. 5. Connect a VGA or a DVI-I cable to the graphics card/s. We recommend that you install an additional chassis fan for better thermal environment.
6.2.2 1. 2. 3. 4. Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards Insert one graphics card into the PCIEX16_1 slot (blue) and the other into the PCIEX16_2 slot (blue). Make sure that the cards are properly seated on the slots. Align and insert the SLI connector to the goldfingers on each graphics card. Make sure that the connector is firmly in place. Connect auxiliary power source from the power supply to he two graphics cards separately. Connect a VGA or a DVI-I cable to the graphics card/s.
6.2.3 Installing the device drivers Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device drivers. 6.2.4 • Make sure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology. Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www. nvidia.com). • If you are using s 3-way SLI system, make sure to install the 3-way SLI driver under Windows® Vista™ OS. The NVIDIA 3-way SLI technology is supported by Windows® Vista™ only.
From the Personalization window, select Display Settings. From the Display Settings dialog box, click Advanced Settings. Select the NVIDIA GeForce tab, and then click Start the NVIDIA Control Panel.
The NVIDIA Control Panel window appears. Enabling SLI configuration When installing two graphics gards: From the NVIDIA Control Panel window, select Set SLI Configuration. Click Enable SLI and set the display for viewing SLI rendered content. When done, click Apply. When installing three graphics gards: 1. 2. From the NVIDIA Control Panel window, select Set SLI Configuration, and then click Enable 3-way NVIDIA SLI. When done, click Apply.
The Appendix describes the CPU features and technologies that the motherboard supports as well as the debug code table for the LCD Poster.
Chapter summary A A.1 Intel EM64T...................................................................................A-1 A.3 Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology............................................A-3 A.2 A.4 ® Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST).........................A-1 Debug Code Table.........................................................................
A.1 Intel® EM64T • The motherboard is fully compatible with Intel® LGA775 processors running on 32-bit operating systems. • The motherboard comes with a BIOS file that supports EM64T. You can download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS website (www.asus.com/ support/download/) if you need to update the BIOS file. See Chapter 4 for details. • Visit www.intel.com for more information on the EM64T feature. • Visit www.microsoft.com for more information on Windows® 64-bit OS.
A.2.2 Using the EIST To use the EIST feature: 1. Turn on the computer, then enter the BIOS Setup. 3. Set the Enhanced Intel SpeedStep (tm) Tech. item to [Enabled], then press . See page 4-24 for details. 2. 4. 5. 6. Go to the Advanced Menu, highlight CPU Configuration, then press . Press to save your changes and exit the BIOS setup. After the computer restarts, right click on a blank space on the desktop, then select Properties from the pop-up menu.
A.3 Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology • The motherboard supports Intel® Pentium® 4 LGA775 processors with Hyper-Threading Technology. • Hyper-Threading Technology is supported under Windows® Vista/XP and Linux 2.4.x (kernel) and later versions only. Under Linux, use the HyperThreading compiler to compile the code. If you are using any other operating systems, disable the Hyper-Threading Technology item in the BIOS to ensure system stability and performance.
A.4 Debug code table Code CPU INIT DET CPU Description CPU Initiation Test CMOS R/W functionality. Early chipset initialization: -Disable shadow RAM CHIPINIT -Disable L2 cache -Program basic chipset registers Detect memory DET DRAM -Auto-detection of DRAM size, type and ECC. -Auto-detection of L2 cache Expand compressed BIOS code to DRAM DC FCODE EFSHADOW Call chipset hook to copy BIOS back to E000 & F000 shadow RAM. Initialize IO devices. INIT IO Initialize Hardware Monitor. INIT HWM 1.
8254TEST 8259MSK1 8259MSK2 8259TEST COUNTMEM MP INIT USB INIT TEST MEM SHOW MP PNP LOGO ONBD IO EN SETUP MSINSTAL CHK ACPI EN CACHE SET CHIP AUTO CFG INIT FDC DET IDE COM/LPT DET FPU CPU CHG EZ FLASH CPR FAIL FAN FAIL UCODEERR FLOPYERR KB ERROR HD ERR CMOS ERR MS ERROR SMARTERR HM ERROR AINETERR CASEOPEN PASSWORD Test 8254 Test 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 1. Test 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 2. Test 8259 functionality.
USB FINAL INIT ROM NUM LOCK UPDT DMI INT 19H A-6 Initialize PnP boot devices 1. USB final Initialization 2. NET PC: Build SYSID structure 3. Switch screen back to text mode 4. Set up ACPI table at top of memory. 5. Invoke ISA adapter ROMs 6. Assign IRQs to PCI devices 7. Initialize APM 8. Clear noise of IRQs. Initialize device option ROMs. 1. Program daylight saving 2. Update keyboard LED & typematic rate 1. Build MP table 2. Build & update ESCD 3. Set CMOS century to 20h or 19h 4.
