® V4-M3A3200 ASUS PC (Desktop Barebone) User Manual
E4186 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”).
ASUS contact information ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. Address Telephone Fax E-mail Web site Technical Support Telephone Online support 15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259 +886-2-2894-3447 +886-2-2890-7798 info@asus.com.tw www.asus.com.tw +86-21-38429911 support.asus.
Contents ASUS contact information.......................................................................... iii Notices......................................................................................................... vii Safety information..................................................................................... viii About this guide.......................................................................................... ix System package contents........................................
Contents 2.8 Reinstalling the front panel assembly and side cover............ 2-21 Chapter 3 Starting up 3.1 Installing an operating system.................................................... 3-2 3.3 Support DVD information............................................................. 3-2 3.2 Powering up................................................................................... 3-2 3.3.1 Running the support DVD................................................ 3-3 3.3.3 Manual menu.........
5.3 Main menu................................................................................... 5-13 5.3.1 System Time.................................................................. 5-13 5.3.3 Legacy Diskette A.......................................................... 5-13 5.3.2 5.3.4 5.3.5 5.3.6 5.4 5.3.7 Chipset........................................................................... 5-22 5.4.6 CPU Configuration.........................................................
Notices Federal Communications Commission Statement This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: • • This device may not cause harmful interference, and This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Safety information Electrical safety • • • To prevent electric 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 the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.
About this guide Audience This guide provides general information and installation instructions about the ASUS Vintage V4-M3A3200 barebone system. This guide is intended for experienced users and integrators with hardware knowledge of personal computers. How this guide is organized This guide contains the following parts: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Chapter 1: System introduction This chapter gives a general description of the ASUS V4-M3A3200.
Conventions used in this guide To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this guide. 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 aid in completing a task.
System package contents Check your V4-M3A3200 system package for the following items. Item description 1. ASUS V4-M3A3200 barebone system with • ASUS motherboatd • Power supply unit • ASUS chassis 2. Cable • AC power cable 3. Support DVD 4. User guide 5. Telecom Adapter Card (Optional) If any of the items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer immediately.
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This chapter gives you a general description of the ASUS V4-M3A3200. The chapter lists the system features including introduction on the front and rear panel, and internal components.
1.1 Welcome! Thank you for buying the ASUS V4-M3A3200! The ASUS V4-M3A3200 is an all-in-one barebone system with a versatile home entertainment feature. The motherboard comes with an AM2+/AM2 socket designed for AMD® Socket AM2+ Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™ 64 / Sempron™ processor or for Socket AM2 Athlon 64 X2 / Athlon 64 FX / Athlon 64 / Sempron processor. The system supports up to 8 GB of system memory using DDR2-1066/800/667 DIMMs.
1.3 Rear panel The system rear panel includes the power connector and several I/O ports that allow convenient connection of devices. 16 1 12 17 10 SPDIF_OUT 5 1394 SATA 20 DVI 11 HDMI 13 DP 2 14 19 18 3 4 6 9 8 7 15 1. 2. PS/2 keyboard/Mouse Combo port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard or mouse. HDMI port. This port is for a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) connector, and is HDCP compliant allowing playback of HD DVD, Blu-Ray and other protected content.
• This motherboard comes with dual-VGA output that features different display on 2 monitors at the same time if you connect 2 monitors to both the onboard VGA and DVI-D/HDMI out ports. • DVI-D can't be converted to output RGB Signal to CRT and isn't compatible with DVI-I. • To play HD DVD or Blu-Ray Disc, make sure to use an HDCP compliant monitor. 3. ���������������������� USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices. 4.
Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration Headset 2-channel Line In Line Out Mic In – – – Port Light Blue Lime Pink Orange Black Gray 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In – Rear Speaker Out – Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In Center/Subwoofer Rear Speaker Ou – Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In Center/Subwoofer Rear Speaker Out Side Speaker Out 11. ������������������ External SATA port. This port connects to an external Serial ATA hard disk drive. 12.
Voltage selector The PSU has a 115 V/230 V voltage selector switch located beside the power connector. Use this switch to select the appropriate system input voltage according to the voltage supply in your area. If the voltage supply in your area is 100‑127 V, set this switch to 115 V. If the voltage supply in your area is 200‑240 V, set this switch to 230 V.
1.4 Internal components 2 5 1 3 7 4 6 9 R M3A78-EM 8 1. 2. 3. 4. Front panel cover 5.25-inch optical drive bays 2.5-inch portable hard disk drive bay (optional) 3.5-inch hard disk drive bay ASUS V4-M3A3200 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Power supply unit Chassis fan slot ASUS motherboard Expansion slot metal brackets 3.
1- Chapter 1: System introduction
Chapter 2 Basic installation This chapter provides step-by-step instructions on how to install components into the system.
2.1 Preparation Before you proceed, ensure that you have all the components you plan to install into the system. Basic components to install 1. Central Processing Unit (CPU) 3. Expansion cards 2. 4. Tool 2- 5.
2.2 Before you proceed Take note of the following precautions before you install components into the system. • 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. • Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component.
2.3 Removing the side cover and front panel assembly Follow the steps below to remove the side cover and front panel assembly. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Remove the cover screws on the rear panel. Pull the side cover toward the rear panel until its hooks disengage from the chassis tab holes. Set the side cover aside. Locate the front panel assembly hooks, then lift them until they disengage from the chassis.
2.4 Central Processing Unit (CPU) 2.4.1 Overview The motherboard comes with an AM2+/AM2 socket designed for AMD® Socket AM2+ Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™ 64 / Sempron™ processor or for Socket AM2 Athlon 64 X2 / Athlon 64 FX / Athlon 64 / Sempron processor. • Make sure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU. • Connect the chassis fan cable to the CHA_FAN connector to ensure system stability.
2. Unlock the socket by pressing the lever sideways, then lift it up to a 90º angle. Socket lever Make sure that the socket lever is lifted up to a 90º angle; otherwise, the CPU will not fit in completely. 3. 4. Position the CPU above the socket such that the CPU corner with the gold triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place. Please make sure your CPU is fully plugged-in to reduce abnormal symptom. 5. 6.
7. Connect the CPU fan cable to the CPU_FAN connector on the motherboard. CPU FAN PWM CPU FAN IN CPU FAN PWR GND CPU_FAN R M3A78-EM M3A78-EM CPU Fan Connector Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector. 2.4.
CPU Fan CPU Heatsink Retention bracket Retention Module Base Retention bracket lock Your boxed CPU heatsink and fan assembly should come with installation instructions for the CPU, heatsink, and the retention mechanism. If the instructions in this section do not match the CPU documentation, follow the latter. 2. Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base.
3. Align the other end of the retention bracket (near the retention bracket lock) to the retention module base. A clicking sound denotes that the retention bracket is in place. Make sure that the fan and heatsink assembly perfectly fits the retention mechanism module base, otherwise you cannot snap the retention bracket in place. 4. 5. Push down the retention bracket lock on the retention mechanism to secure the heatsink and fan to the module base.
2.5� ������������� Installing a ���� DIMM 2.5.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. A DDR2 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR DIMM but has a 240-pin footprint compared to the 184-pin DDR DIMM. DDR2 DIMMs are notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR DIMM socket.
• When using only one memory module, start installing the DDR2 DIMM from slot DIMM_A1 or DIMM_B1 for better overclocking capability. • For dual-channel configuration (2), you may: - • install identical DIMMs in all four sockets OR install identical DIMM pair in DIMM_A1 and DIMM_B1 (yellow sockets) and another identical DIMM pair in DIMM_A2 and DIMM_B2 (black sockets) Always use identical DDR2 DIMM pairs for dual channel mode.
M3A78-EM Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-1066 MHz capability DIMM support (Optional) Size Vendor Part No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Chip No.
DDR2-667MHz capability DIMM support (Optional) Part No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Chip No.
2.5.3 Installing a DDR2 DIMM Ensure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components. To install a DDR2 DIMM: 1. 2. 2 DDR2 DIMM notch Unlock a DDR2 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.
2.6 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. 2.6.1 Installing an expansion card To install an expansion card: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Interrupt assignments IRQ 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Standard function System timer Standard 101/102-Key or Microsoft Natural Keyboard Programmable interrupt controller Standard OpenHCI USB Host Controller Communications Port (COM 1) ACPI IRQ Holder for PCI IRQ Steering (free) (free) System CMOS / Real Time Clock SCI IRQ used by ACPI bus Standard PCI Graphics Adapter (VGA) (free) Microsoft PS/2 Port Mouse Numeric data processor Primary IDE controller (single fifo) Secondary IDE controller (singl
IRQ assignments for this motherboard PCIEX1 Slot PCIEX16 Slot Onboard USB1.1 Controller 1 Onboard USB1.1 Controller 2 Onboard USB1.1 Controller 3 Onboard USB1.1 Controller 4 Onboard USB1.1 Controller 5 Onboard USB2.0 Controller 1 Onboard USB2.
2.6.3 PCI slots The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI specifications. The figure shows a LAN card installed on a PCI slot. 2.6.4 PCI Express x1 slot This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications. The following figure shows a network card installed on the PCI Express x1 slot. 2.6.
2.7 Installing storage drives 2.7.1 Installing an optical drive 1. 2. 3. 4. Place the chassis upright, then remove the upper 5.25” drive bay metal plate cover. Insert the optical drive to the bay, then carefully push the drive until its screw holes align with the holes on the bay. 2 3 3 Secure the optical drive with two screws on both sides of the bay. Connect the IDE (A) and power (B) plugs to connectors at the back of the drive. B A 2.7.
2.7.3 1. Installing a hard disk drive Remove the 3.5-inch hard drive holder out of the chassis. The 3.5-inch hard drive holder is optional. 3 3 2 2. 3. 4. Insert the hard disk drive to the 3.5-inch hard drive holder, then carefully push the drive until its screw holes align with the holes on the holder. Secure the hard disk drive with two screws on both sides of the bay. Replace the hard drive holder to the chassis and secure the screws.
2.8 Reinstalling the front panel assembly and side cover To reinstall the front panel assembly and side cover: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Insert the front panel assembly hinge-like tabs to the holes on the right side of the chassis. Swing the front panel assembly to the left, then insert the hooks to the chassis until the front panel assembly fits in place. Insert the six side cover hooks into the chassis tab holes . Push the side cover to the direction of the front panel until it fits in place.
2-22 Chapter 2: Basic installation
This chapter helps you power up the system and install drivers and utilities from the support DVD.
3.1 Installing an operating system The barebone system supports Windows® XP/Vista operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates so you can maximize the features of your hardware. Because motherboard settings and hardware options vary, use the setup procedures presented in this chapter for general reference only. Refer to your OS documentation for more information. 3.2 • Windows XP OS setup cannot recognize Serial ATA hard drives without the necessary drivers.
3.3.1 Running the support DVD To begin using the support DVD, place the DVD in your optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer. Click an icon to display support DVD/motherboard information Click an item to install If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the ASSETUP.EXE to run the DVD.
3.3.2 Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. ASUS InstAll-Installation Wizard for Utilities Installs all of the utilities through the Installation Wizard. ASUS Update Allows you to download the latest version of the BIOS from the ASUS website. Before using the ASUS Update, make sure that you have an Internet connection so you can connect to the ASUS website.
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 (www.microsoft.com) for updates.
ASUS AI Nap Installs the ASUS AI Nap. Marvell 61xx SATA RAID Controller Driver Installs the Marvell 61xx SATA RAID controller driver. FarStone Utility Installs the FarStone utility. ASUS Screen Saver Installs the ASUS Screen saver. 3.3.3 Manual menu The Manual menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to open the folder of the user manual. Most user manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF).
Realtek HD Audio User’s Manual Allows you to open the Realtek HD Audio User’s manual. 3.3.4 ASUS Contact information Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. You can also find this information on the inside front cover of this user guide.
3.3.5 Other information The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on the motherboard and the contents of the support DVD. Click an icon to display the specified information. Motherboard Info Displays the general specifications of the motherboard. Browse this DVD Displays the support DVD contents in graphical format.
Technical support Form Displays the ASUS Technical Support Request Form that you have to fill out when requesting technical support. Filelist Displays the contents of the support DVD and a brief description of each in text format.
3.4 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 for more information. ASUS PC Probe II PC Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer’s vital components and alerts you of any problem with these components. PC Probe II senses fan rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others.
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 real-time 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 physical memory. 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.
3-16 Chapter 3: Starting up
This chapter gives information about he motherboard that comes with the system. This chapter includes the motherboard layout, jumper settings, and connector locations.
4.1 Introduction The Vintage V4-M3A3200 barebone system comes with an ASUS motherboard. This chapter provides technical information about the motherboard for future upgrades or system reconfiguration. 4.2 Motherboard layout 24.4cm (9.6in) PWR_FAN KB_USB56 CPU_FAN JMB 381 24.4cm (9.
4.3 1. Jumpers Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC) This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords. To erase the RTC RAM: 1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2. Remove the onboard battery. 3.
4.3 1. Connectors Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) This connector is for the provided floppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert one end of the cable to this connector, then connect the other end to the signal connector at the back of the floppy disk drive. Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when using an FDD cable with a covered Pin 5. FLOPPY R PIN1 M3A78-EM NOTE: Orient the red markings on the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.
3. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE) The onboard IDE connector is for an Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable. There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable: blue, black, and gray. Connect the blue connector to the motherboard’s IDE connector, then select one of the following modes to configure your device(s).
4. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, SATA4, SATA5) These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA 3Gb/s hard disk and optical disk drives. The Serial ATA 3Gb/s is backward compatible with Serial ATA 1.5Gb/s specification. The data transfer rate of the Serial ATA 3Gb/s is faster than the standard parallel ATA with 133 MB/s (Ultra DMA133).
5. Power, CPU, and Chassis Fan connectors (3-pin PWR_FAN, 4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN) The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350mA~740mA (8.88W max.) or a total of 1A~2.22A (26.64W max.) at +12V. Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, making sure that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector. Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components.
USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112) 1 1 USB+5V USB_P9USB_P9+ GND USB+5V USB_P7USB_P7+ GND M3A78-EM USB1112 USB+5V USB_P12USB_P12+ GND NC USB910 R 1 USB+5V USB_P11USB_P11+ GND USB78 USB+5V USB_P10USB_P10+ GND NC 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.
8. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s). Connect the HDMI module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. GND SPDIFOUT +5V R M3A78-EM SPDIF_OUT M3A78-EM Digital Audio Connector Ensure the audio device of Sound playback is Realtek High Definition Audio (the name may be different based on the OS).
10. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports either High Definition Audio or AC’97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector.
11. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch. Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal is then generated as a chassis intrusion event.
You can attach a FireWire/1394 cable to this connector if your chassis suppots the front panel IEEE1394 port. Connect the 1394 cable to ASUS Q-Connector (1394, red) first, and then install the Q-Connector (1394) to the 1394 connector onboard. 13. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V) These connectors are for an ATX power supply. The plugs from the power supply are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation.
14. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. PANEL +IDE_LED M3A78-EM System Panel Connector • • • • • +5V Ground Ground Speaker Reset Ground R M3A78-EM SPEAKER PWR Ground PLED- IDE_LED+ IDE_LED- PLED+ PLED Reset PWRSW System power LED This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector.
Q-Connector (system panel) You can use ASUS Q-Connector to connect / disconnect chassis front panel cables by only a few steps. Directions below shows how to install ASUS Q-Connector. Step1. Connect correct front panel to ASUS Q-Connector first. You can refer to the marking on Q-Connector itself to know the detail pin definition. Step2. Properly install the ASUS Q-Connector to the System panel connctor. Step3. Front panel functions are enabled.
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus and describes the BIOS parameters.
5.1 Managing and updating your BIOS The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. ASUS AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable floppy disk.) 1. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 (Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk, a USB flash disk or the motherboard support DVD when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted.) 2. ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk or a USB flash disk during POST.) 3.
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: 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. ASUS V4-M3A3200 3.
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. 3. 4. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate.
5.1.2 1. Creating a bootable floppy disk Do either one of the following to create a bootable floppy disk. DOS environment a. Insert a 1.44MB floppy disk into the drive. b. At the DOS prompt, type format A:/S then press . Windows® XP environment a. Insert a 1.44 MB floppy disk to the floppy disk drive. b. Click Start from the Windows® desktop, then select My Computer. c. Select the 3 1/2 Floppy Drive icon. d. Click File from the menu, then select Format.
5.1.3 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 Tests (POST). To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2: 1. 2. 3. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for the motherboard.
5.1.4 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: 1. 2. • Ensure that the floppy disk is not write-protected and has at least 1.2 MB free space to save the file.
Write the BIOS filename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS filename at the DOS prompt. 2. 3. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to the bootable floppy disk you created earlier. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type: afudos /i[filename] where [filename] is the latest or the original BIOS file on the bootable floppy disk. A:\>afudos /iM3A78EM.ROM 4. The utility verifies the file and starts updating the BIOS. A:\>afudos /iM3A78EM.
5.1.5 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 , the floppy disk or the USB flash disk that contains the updated BIOS file. • Prepare the motherboard support DVD, the floppy disk or the USB flash disk containing the updated motherboard BIOS before using this utility.
5.2 BIOS setup program This motherboard supports a programmable firmware chip that you can update using the provided utility described in section 5.1 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.
5.2.1 BIOS menu screen Menu items Main Menu bar Advanced Power General help Configuration fields BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools Exit Main Settings System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave SATA1 SATA2 SATA3 SATA4 SATA5 SATA6 E-SATA SATA Configuration [19:34:30] [Mon 11/19/2007] [1.44M, 3.
5.2.4 Menu items The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific items for that menu. For example, selecting Main shows the Main menu items. The other items (Advanced, Power, Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items. 5.2.5 System Time System Date Floppy Diskette A SATA1 SATA2 SATA3 SATA4 SATA5 SATA6 Use [ENTER], [TAB], or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a field. [11:56:54] [Tue 07/15/2008] [1.44M, 2.5 in.] [Not [Not [Not [Not [Not [Not Use [+] or [-] to configure system Time.
5.3 Main menu When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an overview of the basic system information. Refer to section 2.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them. Main Advanced Power BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools Exit Main Settings System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave SATA1 SATA2 SATA3 SATA4 SATA5 SATA6 E-SATA SATA Configuration [19:34:30] [Mon 11/19/2007] [1.
5.3.4 Primary IDE Master/Slave While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of IDE devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each IDE device. Select a device item then press to display the IDE device information. 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 [Disabled] Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 5.3.5 SATA 1-6 and E-SATA While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of Serial ATA devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SATA device.
Block (Multi-sector Transfer) M [Auto] Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When set to [Auto], the data transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device supports multi-sector transfer feature. When set to [Disabled], the data transfer from and to the device occurs one sector at a time. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto] PIO Mode [Auto] Selects the PIO mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4] DMA Mode [Auto] Selects the DMA mode.
OnChip SATA Type [SATA] This item appears only when you set the OnChip SATA Channel item to [Enabled]. Allows you to set the OnChip SATA Type. Configuration options: [SATA] [RAID] [AHCI] 5.3.7 System Information This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS automatically detects the items in this menu.
5.4 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. Main Advanced Power BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools Exit Advanced Settings Adjust System Frequency/Voltage etc.
CPU Overclocking [Auto] Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal frequency. Select either one of the preset overclocking configuration options: [Auto] - allows you to set overclocking parameters automatically. [Manual] - allows you to individually set overclocking parameters. [Overclock Profile] - loads overclocking profiles with optimal parameters for stability when overclocking.
PCIE Clock [100] Allows you to select PCI Express frequency. Configuration options: [100] [101] [102] [103] ... [150] Processor Frequency Multiplier [Auto] Allows you to select Processor frequency. Configuration options: [Auto] [x4.0 800 MHz] [x5.0 1000 MHz] [x6.0 1200 MHz] [x7.0 1400 MHz] [x8.0 1600 MHz] [x9.0 1800 MHz] Processor Voltage [Auto] Allows you to select the Processor voltage or set it to auto for safe mode.
Memclock Value [200 MHz] Allows you to set the Memclock value. Configuration options: [200 MHz] [266 MHz] [333 MHz] [400 MHz] [533 MHz] DRAM Timing Mode [Auto] Allows you to set the DRAM timing mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [DCT 0] Memory Over Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the memory over voltage. The value ranges from 1.85000V to 2.24375V with a 0.00625V interval. Configuration options: [Auto] Chipset Over Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the chipset over voltage.
Microcode Updation [Enabled] Enables or disables Microcode Updation. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Secure Virtual Machine Mode [Enabled] Enables or disables Secure Virtual Machine Mode (SVM) Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Cool ‘n’ Quiet [Enabled] Enables or disables the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet technology. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] 5.4.
Memory Configuration Advanced Memory Configuration Bank Interleaving Channel Interleaving Enabled Clock to ALL DIMMs MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID Memory Hole Remapping DCT Unganged Mode Power Down Enable [Auto] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto] [Enabled] Bank Interleaving [Auto] Allows you to enable the bank memory interleaving. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto] Channel Interleaving [Disabled] Allows you to enable the channel memory interleaving.
ECC Configuration Advanced ECC Configuration ECC Mode DRAM ECC Enable DRAM SCRUB REDIRECT 4-Bit ECC Mode DRAM BG Scrub Data Cache BG Scrub L2 Cache BG Scrub L3 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] ECC Mode [Disabled] Enables or disables the DRAM ECC that allows the hardware to report and correct memory errors automatically.
L2 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] Disables or sets the L2 Cache BG Scrub. This item allows the L2 data cache RAM to be corrected while idle. Configuration options: [Disabled] [40ns] [80ns] [160na] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us] [20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us] L3 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] Disables or sets the L2 Cache BG Scrub. This item allows the L3 data cache RAM to be corrected while idle.
5.4.4 Onboard Devices Configuration BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Configure ITE8712 Super IO Chipset Serial Port1 Address Parallel Port Address Parallel Port Mode Parallel Port IRQ [3F8/IRQ4] [378] [Normal] [IRQ7] HDAudio Controller Front Panel Select SPDIF_OUT Mode Setting OnBoard LAN Controller Onboard LAN Boot ROM 1394 Controller [Enabled] [HD Audio] [SPDIF OutPut] [Enabled] [Disabled] [Enabled] Allows BIOS to Select Serial Port1 Base Addresses.
1394 Controller [Enabled] Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 5.4.5 PCIPnP The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices. The menu includes setting IRQ and DMA channel resources for either PCI/PnP or legacy ISA devices, and setting the memory size block for legacy ISA devices. Take caution when changing the settings of the PCI PnP menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction.
5.4.6 USB Configuration The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an item then press to display the configuration options. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Enanbles USB host controllers. USB Configuration Module Version - 2.24.3-13.4 USB Devices Enabled: None USB Function USB 2.0 Controllers Legacy USB Support USB 2.0 Controller Mode [Enabled] [Enabled] [Auto] [HiSpeed] +- F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Change Option General Help Save and Exit Exit v02.
5.5 Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) and the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press to display the configuration options. Main Advanced Power BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools Exit Power Settings Suspend Mode ACPI Support ACPI APIC support [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend.
5.5.4 APM Configuration Power BIOS SETUP UTILITY APM Configuration Restore on AC Power on From Power on From Power on From Power on From Power S5 By S5 By S5 By S5 By Options Loss PME# Ring PS/2 KB/MS RTC Alarm [Always Off] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] Always Off Always On Last State +F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Change Option General Help Save and Exit Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.
5.5.5 Hardware Monitor Power BIOS SETUP UTILITY Hardware Monitor CPU Temperature CPU Temperature MB Temperature CPU Fan Speed Chassis Fan Speed Power Fan Speed [23ºC/73ºF] [30ºC/86ºF] [4891RPM] [N/A] [N/A] VCORE Voltage 3.3V Voltage 5V Voltage 12V Voltage [ 1.344V] [ 3.152V] [ 4.838V] [11.712V] Smart Q-FAN Function [Disabled] Fan Auto Mode Start Voltage [5.
Smart Q-Fan Function [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Q-Fan feature that smartly adjusts the fan speeds for more efficient system operation. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Fan Auto Mode Start Voltage [5.0V] Allows you to set the fan auto mode start voltage. Configuration options: [4.0V] [4.5V] [5.0V] [5.5V] [6.0V] Fan Auto Mode Start Speed Temp [25ºC] Allows you to set the smart Q-Fan start working temperature.
5.6.1 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 available 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.
Quick Boot [Enabled] Enabling this item allows the BIOS to skip some power on self tests (POST) while booting to decrease the time needed to boot the system. When set to [Disabled], BIOS performs all the POST items. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Full Screen Logo [Enabled] This allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo2™ feature.
5.6.3 Security The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item then press to display the configuration options. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Security Settings Supervisor Password User Password :Not Installed :Not Installed to change password. again to disabled password. Change Supervisor Password Change User Password Select Screen Select Item Enter Change F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Security Settings Supervisor Password User Password :Installed :Installed Change Supervisor Password User Access Level Change User Password Password Check to change password. again to disabled password. [Full Access] [Setup] Enter F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Change General Help Save and Exit Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.
5.7 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 Ai Tweaker BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot Exit Press ENTER to run the utility to select and update BIOS. This utility doesn't support : 1.
5.7.2 Express Gate Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Express Gate feature. The ASUS Express Gate feature is a unique instant-on environment that provides quick access to the Internet browser and Skype. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Enter OS Timer [10 Seconds] Sets countdown duration that the system waits at the Express Gate’s first screen before starting Windows or other installed OS. Choose [Prompt User] to stay at the first screen of Express Gate for user action.
5.8 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. Main Advanced Power Exit Options Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools Exit Exit system setup after saving the changes. F10 key can be used for this operation. Load Setup Defaults Enter F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Go to Sub Screen General Help Save and Exit Exit v02.
5-40 Chapter 5: BIOS setup
