Motherboard M2N68-VM
E4160 Second Edition V2 August 2008 Copyright © 2008 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).
Contents Notices.......................................................................................................... vi Safety information...................................................................................... vii About this guide........................................................................................ viii M2N68-VM specifications summary............................................................ x Chapter 1: Product introduction 1.1 Welcome!.........................
Contents Chapter 2: 2.1 2.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy disk........................................ 2-2 2.1.3 AFUDOS utility................................................................. 2-5 2.1.2 2.1.4 2.2 2.1.5 2.2.3 Navigation Keys............................................................. 2-14 2.2.6 2.2.7 2.2.8 2.2.9 Menu bar........................................................................ 2-13 Menu items....................................................................
Contents 2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support........................................................ 2-33 2.5.5 Hardware Monitor.......................................................... 2-35 2.5.4 2.6 Boot menu................................................................................... 2-36 2.6.1 2.6.2 2.7 2.6.3 3.2 Security.......................................................................... 2-38 ASUS EZ Flash 2........................................................... 2-40 2.7.3 AI NET 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 manual contains the following parts: • Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. This chapter also lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It includes description of the jumpers and connectors on the motherboard.
Conventions used in this guide To ensure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task. CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task. IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task. NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
M2N68-VM specifications summary CPU Support AMD socket AM2 for AMD Athlon™ 64 FX / Athlon™ 64 X2 / Athlon™ 64 / Phenom / Phenom FX / Sempron / AM2+ processors AMD64 architecture enables simultaneous 32-bit and 64-bit computing Supports AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology Chipset Nvidia® GeForce® 7050PV / nForce 630a (MCP68PVNT) System bus 2000/1600MT/s Memory Dual-channel memory architecture 4 x 240-pin DIMM sockets support up to 8 GB of unbufferred ECC and non-ECC 1066 / 800 / 667 / 533 MHz DDR2
M2N68-VM specifications summary USB Supports up to 12 USB 2.0 / 1.1 ports (6 on the board, 6 at rear panel) High Definition Audio VT1708B High Definition Audio 8-channel CODEC Supports S/PDIF out interface, Jack-detect and multi- streaming Supports Anti Pop Function and Vista Basic BIOS features 8 Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 2.4 Manageability WfM2.0, DMI2.0, WOR by Ring, PME Wake Up, WO_USB, WO_KB/MS ASUS Special Features ASUS Express Gate: 1.
Accessories 1 x SATA cable 1 x SATA power cable 1 x UltraDMA 133 / 100 cable 1 x I/O Shield User manual Note: The floppy disk drive cable is purchased separately ASUS Overclocking Features SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection) from 200MHz to 300MHz at 1MHz increment Adjustable CPU Voltage at 0.025V increment ASUS C.P.R.
This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.
1.1 Welcome! Thank you for buying an ASUS® M2N68-VM motherboard! The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards! Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in your package with the list below. 1.2 Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items.
64-bit CPU support 64-bit computing, the technology to replace 32-bit architecture, delivers advanced system performance, faster memory access and increased productivity. This motherboard provides excellent compatibility and flexibility by supporting either 64-bit or 32-bit architecture. NVIDIA® GeForce™ 7050PV+nForce™ 630a The NVIDIA® GeForce™ 7 Series GPU Northbridge supports Microsoft® DirectX 9.0 Shader Model 3.
PCI Express™ interface The motherboard fully supports PCI Express, the latest I/O interconnect technology that speeds up the PCI bus. PCI Express features point‑to‑point serial interconnections between devices and allows higher clockspeeds by carrying data in packets. This high speed interface is software compatible with existing PCI specifications. See page 1-20 for details.
C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) The C.P.R. feature of the motherboard BIOS allows automatic re-setting to the BIOS default settings in case the system hangs due to overclocking. When the system hangs due to overclocking, C.P.R. eliminates the need to open the system chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut down and reboot the system, and the BIOS automatically restores the CPU default setting for each parameter.
1.4 Before you proceed Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. • Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. • Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity • Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
1.5 Motherboard overview 1.5.
1.5.2 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, ensure that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis as indicated in the image below. 1.5.3 Screw holes Place eight (8) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis. Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with a 940-pin AM2 socket designed for the AMD Athlon™ 64 X2 / Athlon™ 64 / Athlon™ FX / Sempron™ / Phenom FX / Phenom. The AM2 socket has a different pinout from the 940-pin socket designed for the AMD Opteron™ processor. Ensure that you use a CPU is designed for the AM2 socket. The CPU fits in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU! 1.6.
3. Position the CPU above the socket such that the CPU corner with the gold triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle. 4. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place. Small triangle Gold triangle The CPU fits only in one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the pins and damaging the CPU! 5. 6. 7. When the CPU is in place, push down the socket lever to secure the CPU.
1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan The AMD Athlon™ 64 X2 / Athlon™ FX / Athlon™ 64 / Sempron™ / Phenom FX / Phenom require a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance. Ensure that you use only qualified heatsink and fan assembly. Follow these steps to install the CPU heatsink and fan. 1. Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, ensuring that the heatsink fits properly on the retention module base.
2. Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. 3. Align the other end of the retention bracket (near the retention bracket lock) to the retention module base. A clicking sound denotes that the retention bracket is in place. Ensure that the fan and heatsink assembly perfectly fits the retention mechanism module base. Otherwise, you cannot snap the retention bracket in place. 4.
1.7 System memory 1.7.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. A DDR2 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR DIMM but has a 240-pin footprint compared to the 184-pin DDR DIMM. DDR2 DIMMs are notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR DIMM socket.
• When using only one memory module, start installing the DDR2 DIMM from slot DIMM_A1 or DIMM_B1 for better overclocking capability. • 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.
DDR2-667 MHz capability Size Vendor Part No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Chip No.
DDR2-800 MHz capability DIMM support Size Vendor Part No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Chip No.
DIMM support Size Vendor Part No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Chip No.
DDR2-1066 MHz capability (for AM2+ platform only) DIMM support Size Vendor Part No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Chip No.
1.7.3 Installing a DIMM Ensure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components. 1. 2. 3. 2 Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clips outward. 3 DDR2 DIMM notch Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break on the socket. Firmly insert the DIMM into the socket until the retaining clips snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated.
1.8 Expansion slots In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub‑sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support. Ensure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. 1.8.1 Installing an expansion card To install an expansion card: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Interrupt assignments IRQ 0 1 4 6 8 9 12 13 14 10 16 20 21 21 22 22 23 Standard function High precision event timer Standard 101/102-Key or Microsoft Natural PS/2 keyboard Communications Port (COM1)* Standard floppy disk controller High precision event timer Microsoft ACPI-Compliant System PS/2 Compatible Mouse Numeric data processor Primary IDE Channel NVIDIA nForce PCI System Management NVIDIA nForce 6800 LE Microsoft UAA Bus Driver for High Definition Audio Standard Enhanced PCI to USB Host Controller S
1.8.3 PCI slots The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI specifications. The figure shows a LAN card installed on a PCI slot. 1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slot This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications. The following figure shows a network card installed on the PCI Express x1 slot. 1.8.
1.9 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. 3. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3.
1.10 Connectors 1.10.1 Rear panel connectors 1 2 3 4 56 7 8 9 16 15 14 13 12 10 11 1. PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard. 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. 2. 4. Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port. This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor or other VGA-compatible devices. LAN (RJ-45) port.
Refer to the audio configuration table below for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4, 6 or 8-channel configuration. Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration Port Headset 2-channel Line In Line Out Mic In – – – Light Blue Lime Pink Orange Black Gray 11. 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In – Rear Speaker Out – Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In Center/Subwoofer Rear Speaker Out – Line In Front Speaker Out Mic In Center/Subwoofer Rear Speaker Out Side Speaker Out USB 2.
15. Optical S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device via an optical S/PDIF cable. 16. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices. 1.10.2 1. Internal connectors Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) This connector is for the provided floppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable.
3. IDE connectors (40-1 pin PRI_IDE) The onboard IDE connector is for an Ultra DMA 133/100 signal cable. There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100 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) These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA 3Gb/s hard disk and optical disk drives. The Serial ATA 3Gb/s is backward compatible with Serial ATA 1.5Gb/s specification. The data transfer rate of the Serial ATA 3Gb/s is faster than the standard parallel ATA with 133 MB/s (Ultra DMA133).
5. CPU and Chassis Fan connectors (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, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector. Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components.
M2N68-VM USB 2.0 Connectors 1 USB1112 USB+5V USB_P12USB_P12+ GND NC USB910 1 USB+5V USB_P11USB_P11+ GND 1 USB+5V USB_P9USB_P9+ GND USB78 USB+5V USB_P7USB_P7+ GND M2N68-VM USB+5V USB_P10USB_P10+ GND NC USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112) These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.
9. Serial port connectors (10-1 pin COM1) The connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to the connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. The serial port bracket (COM1) is purchased separately. PIN1 COM1 M2N68-VM M2N68-VM COM Port Connector 10. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports either High Definition Audio or AC`97 audio standard.
11. ATX power connectors (24-pin ATX-PWRGD, 4-pin ATX12V) These connectors are for an ATX power supply. The plugs from the power supply are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.
12. LPT connector The LPT (Line Printing Terminal) connector supports devices such as a printer. LPT standardizes as IEEE 1284, which is the parallel port interface on IBM PC-compatible computers.
13. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. M2N68-VM M2N68-VM System Panel Connector • • • • • 1-34 System power LED (2-pin PLED) This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode. Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin +IDE_LED) This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED.
This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. 1. 2. 3. 4. ASUS EZ Flash 2: Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk, USB Flash, or the motherboard support DVD during POST. ASUS AFUDOS: Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable floppy disk. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3: Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk, USB flash disk or the motherboard support DVD when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted.
Windows® Vista environment a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44 MB floppy disk to the floppy disk drive. b. Click from the Windows® desktop, then select Computer. c. Right-click Floppy Disk Drive then click Format to display the Format 3 1/2 Floppy dialog box . d. Select the Create an MS-DOS startup disk check box. 2. e. Click Start. Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS file to the bootable floppy disk.
2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go through the long process of booting from a floppy disk and using a DOS‑based utility. The EZ Flash 2 utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing + during the Power-On Self-Test (POST). To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2: 1. 2. 3. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for the motherboard.
2.1.3 AFUDOS utility The AFUDOS utility allows you to update the BIOS file in DOS environment using a bootable floppy disk with the updated BIOS file. This utility also allows you to copy the current BIOS file that you can use as backup when the BIOS fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. Copying the current BIOS To copy the current BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility: 1. 2. • Ensure that the floppy disk is not write-protected and has at least 1024KB free space to save the file.
Updating the BIOS file To update the BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility: 1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) and download the latest BIOS file for the motherboard. Save the BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk. Write the BIOS filename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS filename at the DOS prompt. 2. 3. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to the bootable floppy disk you created earlier.
2.1.4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can update a corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support DVD , the floppy disk or the USB flash disk that contains the updated BIOS file. • Prepare the motherboard support DVD, the floppy disk or the USB flash disk containing the updated motherboard BIOS before using this utility.
Recovering the BIOS from the support DVD To recover the BIOS from the support DVD: 1. Remove any floppy disk from the floppy disk drive, then turn on the system. 3. The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the floppy disk for the original or updated BIOS file. 2. Insert the support DVD to the optical drive. Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery... Checking for floppy...
2.1.5 ASUS Update utility The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you to: • Save the current BIOS file • Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file • • • Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and View the BIOS version information. This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.
Updating the BIOS through the Internet To update the BIOS through the Internet: 2-10 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears. 2. Select Update BIOS from the Internet option from the drop‑down menu, then click Next. 3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network traffic, or click Auto Select. Click Next.
4. 5. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download. Click Next. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process. The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update the utility to avail all its features. Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file To update the BIOS through a BIOS file: 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate.
2.2 BIOS setup program This motherboard supports a programmable Low-Pin Count (LPC) chip that you can update using the provided utility described in section “2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS.” Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconfiguring your system, or prompted to“Run Setup.” This section explains how to configure your system using this utility. Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the configuration of your computer in the future.
2.2.1 BIOS menu screen Menu items Menu bar Configuration fields System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A [00: 38 : 56] [Mon 05/12/2008] [1.44M,3.5in.] General help Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a field. Use [+] or [-] to configure system time. IDE Configuration Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave SATA1 SATA2 SATA3 ESATA : : : : : : [Not [Not [Not [Not [Not [Not Detected] Detected] Detected] Detected] Detected] Detected] System Information Sub-menu items 2.2.
2.2.3 Navigation keys At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings. Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another. 2.2.4 Menu items The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific items for that menu. For example, selecting Main shows the Main menu items. The other items (Advanced, Power, Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items.
2.3 Main menu When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an overview of the basic system information. Refer to section “2.2.1 BIOS menu screen” for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them. System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A [21: 50 : 03] [Mon 05/12/2008] [1.44M,3.5in.
2.3.4 IDE Configuration The items in this menu allow you to set or change the configurations for the IDE devices installed in the system. Select an item then press if you wish to configure the item. IDE Configuration Onboard IDE Controller Serial-ATA Devices SATA Mode select [Enabled] [Enabled] [SATA Mode] Disabled: disables the integrated IDE Controller. Enabled: enable the integrated IDE Controller. Onboard IDE Controller [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the onboard IDE controller.
2.3.5 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 IDE device information.
PIO Mode [Auto] Selects the PIO mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4] DMA Mode [Auto] Selects the DMA mode. Configuration options: [Auto] SMART Monitoring [Auto] Enables or disables the S.M.A.R.T. (Self Monitoring and Reporting Technology) capability of your hard drive. This features allows your system to report read/write errors of the hard drive and to issue warnings when a third party hardware monitor utility is installed.
2.3.6 SATA1, SATA2, SATA3 While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SATA device. Select a device item then press to display the SATA device information. SATA1 Device : Hard Disk Vendor : ST380011AS Size : 80.
DMA Mode [Auto] Selects the DMA mode. Configuration options: [Auto] SMART Monitoring [Auto] Enables or disables the S.M.A.R.T. (Self Monitoring and Reporting Technology) capability of your hard drive. This features allows your system to report read/write errors of the hard drive and to issue warnings when a third party hardware monitor utility is installed. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] 32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled] Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer.
2.4 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. Adjust System Frequency etc. JumperFree Configuration CPU Configuration Chipset Onboard Devices Configuration PCIPnP USB Configuration 2.4.
The following item appears only when the CPU Overclocking item is set to [MANUAL]. CPU Frequency (MHz) [200.0] Displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and PCI bus. The value of this item is auto-detected by the BIOS. Use the < > and < > keys to adjust the CPU frequency. Refer to the table below for the correct Front Side Bus and CPU External Frequency settings. The following two items appear only when the CPU Overclocking item is set to [Overclock Profile].
Memory Clock Mode [Auto] Allows you to set the memory clock mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual] The following two items appear only when the Memory clock mode item is set to [Manual]. 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.
2.4.2 CPU Configuration CPU Configuration Module Version: 13.29 AGESA Version: 3.1.8.0 Physical Count: 1 Logical Count: 1 This option should remain disabled for the normal operation. The driver developer may enable it for testing purpose. AMD Athlon(tm) Processor 3200+ Revision: F2 Cache L1: 128KB Cache L2: 128KB Cache L3: N/A Speed : 1800MHz HT Frequency:800MHz Current FSB Multiplier: 9x Maximum FSB Multiplier: 9x Able to Change Freq.
2.4.3 Chipset The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an item then press to display the sub-menu. Advanced Chipset Setting WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction.
Enable Clock to All DIMMs [Disabled] Enables or disables clock to all DIMMs. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] MemClk Tristate C3/ALTVID [Disabled] Enables or disables the MemClk Tristate C3/ALTVID. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled] Enables or disables the memory remapping around memory hole. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] DCT Unganged Mode [Auto] Allows you to enable or disable Unganged mode.
ECC Configuration ECC Configuration ECC Mode DRAM ECC Enable DRAM SCRUB REDIRECT 4-Bit ECC Mode DRAM BG Scrub Date Cache BG Scrub L2 Cache BG Scrub L3 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] DRAM ECC allows hardware to report and correct memory errors automatically maintaining system integrity. ECC Enable [Disabled] Enables or disables the DRAM ECC that allows the hardware to report and correct memory errors automatically.
SouthBridge Configuration SouthBridge chipset Configuration Primary Graphics Adapter iGPU Frame Buffer Detect iGPU Frame Buffer Size AZALIA AUDIO Front Panel Select [PCIE-> PCI -> IGP] [Auto] [128MB] [Enabled] [HD Audio] OnBoard LAN OnBoard LAN Boot ROM SouthBridge ACPI HPET TABLE [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] Internal codec is included in chipset it is for HDMI AUDIO function. External codec is a onboard codec ex. VT1708B...
2.4.4 Onboard Devices Configuration Configure ITE8712 Super IO Chipset Serial Port1 Address Parallel Port Address Parallel Port Mode Parallel Port IRQ [3F8/IRQ4] [378] [Normal] [IRQ7] Allows BIOS to select Serial Port1 Base Address. Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4] Allows you to select the Serial Port1 base address. Configuration options: [Disabled] [3F8/IRQ4][2F8/IRQ3] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3] Parallel Port Address [378] Allows you to select the Parallel Port base addresses.
2.4.5 PCI PnP The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices. The menu includes setting IRQ and DMA channel resources for either PCI/PnP or legacy ISA devices, and setting the memory size block for legacy ISA devices. Take caution when changing the settings of the PCI PnP menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. Advanced PCI/PnP Settings WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction.
IRQ-xx assigned to [PCI Device] When set to [PCI Device], the specific IRQ is free for use of PCI/PnP devices. When set to [Reserved], the IRQ is reserved for legacy ISA devices. Configuration options: [PCI Device] [Reserved] 2.4.6 USB Configuration The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an item then press to display the configuration options. USB Configuration Options Module Version - 2.24.2-13.
USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed] Allows you to configure the USB 2.0 controller in HiSpeed (480 Mbps) or Full Speed (12 Mbps).
2.5 Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) and the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press to display the configuration options. Suspend Mode ACPI Version Features ACPI APIC support [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend. APM Configuration Hardware Monitor 2.5.
2.5.4 APM Configuration APM Configuration Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off] Power Power Power Power [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] On On On On By By By By PCI (-E) Device Ring PS/2 KB/MS RTC Alarm Go into On/Off or Suspend when Power button is pressed. Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off] When set to Power Off, the system goes into off state after an AC power loss. When set to Power On, the system goes on after an AC power loss.
2.5.5 Hardware Monitor Hardware Monitor CPU Temperature CPU Temperature MB Temperature [45ºC/113ºF] [34ºC/93ºF] CPU Fan Speed Chassis Fan Speed Power Fan Speed [3308RPM] [N/A] [N/A] VCORE Voltage 3.3V Voltage 5V Voltage 12V Voltage [ 1.232V] [ 3.328V] [ 4.915V] [11.916V] Smart Q-FAN Function [Disabled] CPU Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard and CPU temperatures.
2.6 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then press to display the sub-menu. Specifies the Boot Device Priority sequence. Boot settings Boot Device Priority A virtual floopy disk drive (Floppy Drive B:) may appear when you set the CD-ROM drive as the first boot device. Boot Settings Configuration Security 2.6.
2.6.2 Boot Settings Configuration Boot Settings Configuration Quick Boot Full Screen Logo AddOn ROM Display Mode Bootup Num-Lock PS/2 Mouse Support Wait For ‘F1’ If Error Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display Interrupt 19 Capture [Enabled] [Enabled] [Force BIOS] [On] [Auto] [Enabled] [Enabled] [Disabled] Quick Boot [Enabled] Allows BIOS to skip certain tests while booting. This will decrease the time needed to boot the system.
Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled] When set to [Enabled], this function allows the option ROMs to trap Interrupt 19. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 2.6.3 Security The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item then press to display the configuration options.
Security Settings Supervisor Password User Password : Not Installed : Not Installed Change Supervisor Password User Access Level Change User Password Clear User Password Password Check [Full Access] [Setup] User Access Level [Full Access] +F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Change Option General Help Save and Exit Exit This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items.
2.7 Tools menu ASUS EZ Flash 2 Express Gate Enter OS Timer Reset User Data AI NET 2 2.7.1 [Enabled] [10 Seconds] [No] Press ENTER to run the utility to select and update BIOS. This utility doesn’t support: 1. NTFS format ASUS EZ Flash 2 Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press , a confirmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press to confirm your choice. ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.
2.7.2 Express Gate [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Express Gate feature. The ASUS Express Gate feature is a unique instant-on environment that provides quick access to the Internet browser and Skype. Configuration options: [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.
2.8 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. Exit Options Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes Load Setup Defaults Exit system setup after saving the changes. F10 key can be used for this operaton. Pressing does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options from this menu or from the legend bar to exit.
This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.
3.1 Installing an operating system This motherboard supports Windows® 32-bit XP / 32-bit Vista / 64-bit XP / 64-bit Vista operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware. 3.2 • Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Use the setup procedures presented in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OS documentation for detailed information.
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. 3.2.2 Drivers menu The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices. ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Anti-Virus and Drivers Utility Launches the ASUS InstallAll driver installation wizard.
3.2.3 Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities Launches the ASUS InstallAll utilities installation wizard. ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet Utility This item installs the ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet utility. ASUS Update The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in a Windows® environment.
Norton Internet Security 2008 Installs the Norton Internet Security 2008. Ulead Burn. Now Installs the Ulead Burn. Now application for Audio DVD,CD and data disc creation. Corel MediaOne Plus Installs the Corel MediaOne plus application to easily manage, edit share and protect your multimedia data. Ulead Photolmpact 12 SE Installs the Photolmpact image editing software. You can also install the following utilities from the ASUS Superb Software Library DVD.
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. 3.2.4 Make Disk menu The Make Disk menu allows you to make a RAID driver disk.
NVIDIA 32bit XP SATA RAID Driver Allows you to create the NVIDIA SATA RAID Driver disk for Windows® 32-bit XP Operationg System (OS). NVIDIA 64bit XP SATA RAID Driver Allows you to create the NVIDIA SATA RAID Driver disk for Windows® 64-bit XP OS. NVIDIA 32bit Vista SATA RAID Driver Allows you to create the NVIDIA SATA RAID Driver disk for Windows® 32-bit Vista OS. NVIDIA 64bit Vista SATA RAID Driver Allows you to create the NVIDIA SATA RAID Driver disk for Windows® 64-bit Vista OS. 3.2.
3.2.6 ASUS Contact information Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. You can also find this information on the inside front cover of this user guide.
3.3 ASUS Express Gate ASUS Express Gate is an instant-on environment that gives you quick access to the Internet. Within a few seconds of powering on your computer, you will be at the Express Gate menu where you can start the web browser, Skype, or other Express Gate softwares. Installing ASUS Express Gate • ASUS Express Gate supports installation on SATA HDDs in IDE mode only. • ASUS Express Gate supports HDDs connected to motherboard chipsetcontrolled onboard SATA ports only.
5. 6. Select the target disk volume for you to install Express Gate. If you have multiple volumes and OS installed in your hard drive, it is recommended to install Express Gate in Volume C. Click Next to continue. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. The First Screen Express Gate’s first screen appears within a few seconds after you power on the computer. From here, you can immediately start the web browser or Skype. You can also choose to continue booting normally (e.g.
Once inside the Express Gate environment, click on the icons on the LaunchBar, by default at bottom of the screen, to launch or switch between softwares. You can re-arrange, re-size and move windows. Bring a window to the foreground by clicking within it or by clicking on its corresponding software icon. Re-size a window by dragging any of its four corners. Move a window by dragging its title bar. Besides using the LaunchBar, you can also switch between softwares by pressing + on the keyboard.
Using the Configuration Panel Use the configuration panel to change various Express Gate settings. Click on an icon to open a particular configuration tool. The following tools are available: • Date and Time: set current date and time as well as time zone. • Language and Keyboard: choose your language and keyboard preferences. • • • • Input Method: choose your preferred input language and method. LaunchBar Settings: customize your LaunchBar (where it docks, whether it auto-hides, etc.
• • Screen Settings: Choose the most optimal screen resolution for your display. Volume Control: Control the volume for your speaker output, microphone input, etc. Using the LaunchBar The LaunchBar has several system icons that show you various system statuses and let you configure individual Express Gate settings. The LaunchBar can be configured to auto-hide, if you want more screen space for the softwares. It can also be configured to dock on any of the four sides of the screen.
Click to choose input language and method as well as keyboard shortcuts (Ctrl-Space by default). Click to change LaunchBar options (auto-hide, docking position, etc). Click to show the “ASUS Utility” panel. Click to show “About Express Gate ”. Click to open Express Gate Help. Click to bring up power options window to boot to OS, restart or power down. This window is also shown when you press Ctrl-Alt-Del on the keyboard.
2. Open Network. Network 3. • Make the proper network configurations. Each network interface is enabled immediately when you check the box next to it. If you use a network cable connected to a home router (which is then connected to your DSL/cable modem), enable both LAN1 and LAN2. Express Gate will automatically use whichever port (LAN1 or LAN2) is connected. If you plug the network cable into a different port while Express Gate is running (e.g.
• • If you have wireless network, click Setup for the WiFi option. In the WiFi tab of the Advanced Network Settings box, enter the name of your wireless access point in the SSID field. If your wireless access point has security enabled, select the corresponding security algorithm from the drop-down list (e.g. WEPAUTO) in the Encryption Type field, and enter the password. Click OK to enable WiFi and establish the wireless connection.
Configuring Express Gate in BIOS Setup Enter BIOS setup by pressing DEL key after powering on or by clicking on the BIOS setup icon on Express Gate’s first screen. Express Gate configuration options are under the Tools menu. Refer to section 2.7.2 Express Gate for details. Main Advanced Power BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools ASUS EZ Flash 2 Express Gate Enter OS Timer Reset User Data [Enabled] [10 Seconds] [No] Exit Press ENTER to run the utility to select and update BIOS.
3-18 Chapter 3: Software support
