Motherboard M3A78
E4181 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 M3A78 specifications summary.................................................................. x Chapter 1: Product introduction 1.1 Welcome!......................
Contents Chapter 2: 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 iv BIOS setup Managing and updating your BIOS............................................. 2-2 2.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy disk........................................ 2-2 2.1.2 AFUDOS utility................................................................. 2-3 2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility....................................... 2-6 2.1.4 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility.................................................... 2-8 2.1.
Contents 2.6 2.7 2.8 2.5.4 APM Configuration......................................................... 2-30 2.5.5 HW Monitor Configuration.............................................. 2-31 Boot menu................................................................................... 2-32 2.6.1 Boot Device Priority....................................................... 2-33 2.6.2 Boot Settings Configuration........................................... 2-33 2.6.3 Security.............................
Notices Federal Communications Commission Statement This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: • This device may not cause harmful interference, and • This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Safety information Electrical safety • To prevent electric shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electric outlet before relocating the system. • When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
About this guide This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard. How this guide is organized This guide contains the following parts: • Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. 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 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.
M3A78 specifications summary CPU AMD® Socket AM2+ / AM2 for AMD Phenom™FX / Phenom / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processor Supports up to 140W CPU AMD Live!™ Ready AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology Chipset AMD 770 / SB700 System bus Up to 5200 MT/s HyperTransport™ 3.
M3A78 specifications summary ASUS special features ASUS Express Gate: - Access the Internet in 5-second* boot time without entering Windows - A built-in OS offers instant fun platform for Internet and Instant Messenger - User-friendly Picture Manager Interface * The actual boot time is subject to hardware configurations and product models.
M3A78 specifications summary Accessories User manual 1 x Serial ATA cable 1 x Serial ATA power cable 1 x UltraDMA 133/100 cable 1 x FDD cable 1 x I/O shield Support DVD Drivers Express Gate ASUS PC Probe II ASUS LiveUpdate Utility Anti-Virus software (OEM version) Form Factor ATX Form factor: 12’’ x 9.6’’ (30.5cm x 24.4cm) *Specifications are subject to change without notice.
This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.
1.1 Welcome! Thank you for buying an ASUS® M3A78 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.
HyperTransport™ 3.0 support 5200 MT/s HyperTransport 3.0 technology provides 2.6 times more bandwidth than HT1.0 that radically improves system efficiency for a smoother, faster computing environment. Native DDR2 1066 support This motherboard supports native DDR2 1066. It provides faster data transfer rate and more bandwidth to increase memory computing efficiency, enhancing system performance in 3D graphics and other memory demanding applications. See page 1-15 for details.
Dual-Core CPU Enjoy the extraordinary CPU power from the latest dual-core CPU. The advanced processing technology contains two physical CPU cores with individually dedicated L2 cache to satisfy the rising demand for more powerful processing capability. AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Technology The motherboard supports the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Technology, which monitors system operation and automatically adjusts CPU voltage and frequency for a cool and quiet operating environment. See page 2-23 for details.
USB 2.0 technology USB 2.0 is the latest connectivity standard for next generation components and peripherals. Backwards compatible with current USB 1.1 peripherals, USB 2.0 delivers transfer speeds up to 40 times faster at 480Mb/s, for easy connectivity and ultra-fast data transfers.
Express Gate Taking only 5 seconds to go online from bootup, Express Gate is the one-stop gateway to instant fun! It’s a unique motherboard built-in OS. You can utilize the most popular Instant Messengers (IM) like MSN, Skype, Google talk, QQ, and Yahoo! Messenger to keep in touch with friends, or quickly check on the weather and e-mails just before leaving your house.
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 Motherboard layout 24.4cm(9.6in) KB_USB56 CHA_FAN PWR_FAN PCIEX16 8Mb BIOS PCIEX1_1 R M3A78 PCIEX1_2 SB700 PCI1 CD PRI_IDE PCI2 VIA VT1708B CLRTC PCI3 AAFP 1- SPDIF_OUT SATA4 SATA5 SATA6 Super I/O SB_PWR SATA1 SATA2 SATA3 RTL 8111C EATXPWR AMD 770 RTM 880T-792 30.
1.5.2 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, make sure 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 nine (9) 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 an AM2+ / AM2 socket designed for AMD® Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processors. The AM2+/AM2 socket has a different pinout from the 940-pin socket designed for the AMD Opteron processor. Ensure you use a CPU designed for the AM2+/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. When the CPU is in place, push down the socket lever to secure the CPU. The lever clicks on the side tab to indicate that it is locked.
1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan The AMD Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processors 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, making sure 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.
• Due to AM2+ CPU limitation, only one DDR2 1066 DIMM is supported per channel. When four DDR2 1066 DIMMs are installed, all DIMMs run at 800MHz frequency by default for system stability. • The default DIMM frequency depends on its Serial Presence Detect (SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module. Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a lower frequency than the vendor-marked value.
DDR2-667MHz capability DIMM support (Optional) Part No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Chip No.
1.7.3 Installing a DIMM Ensure that you unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components. 1. Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clips outward. 2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break on the socket. 3. 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 that you 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.
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 (sing
IRQ assignments for this motherboard PCIEX1 Slot1 PCIEX1 Slot2 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.
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 photo 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 photo shows a network card installed on the PCI Express x1 slot. 1.8.
1.9 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. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3.
1.10 Connectors 1.10.1 Rear panel connectors 3 2 1 45 6 7 8 14 13 12 11 10 9 1. PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard. 2. LPT port. This 25-pin port connects a parallel printer, a scanner, or other devices. 3. LAN (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub.
Refer to the audio configuration table for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration.
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. 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 M3A78 PIN1 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, SATA6) 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, and 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.
6. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112) 1 USB+5V USB_P8USB_P8+ GND NC USB78 1 USB+5V USB_P7USB_P7+ GND USB+5V USB_P10USB_P10+ GND NC USB910 USB+5V USB_P9USB_P9+ GND M3A78 1 USB+5V USB_P11USB_P11+ GND USB1112 R USB+5V USB_P12USB_P12+ 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.
+5V GND SPDIFOUT R M3A78 SPDIF_OUT M3A78 Digital Audio Connector Ensure that the audio device of Sound playback is VIA High Definition Audio (the name may be different based on the OS). Go to Start > Control Panel > Sounds and Audio Devices > Sound Playback to configure the setting. 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.
9. 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.
10. 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. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.
11. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. PANEL SPEAKER +5V Ground Ground Speaker PLED- PLED+ PLED +IDE_LED M3A78 System Panel Connector 1-34 Reset Ground PWR Ground IDE_LED+ IDE_LED- R M3A78 Reset PWRSW • System power LED This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector.
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. ASUS AFUDOS: Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable floppy disk. 2. 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. 3. ASUS EZ Flash 2: Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk or a USB flash disk during POST. 4.
Windows® Vista environment 2. a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44MB floppy disk to the floppy disk drive. b. Click 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. E. Click Start. from the Windows® desktop, then select Computer. Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS file to the bootable floppy disk. 2.1.
1. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard Support DVD to the bootable floppy disk you created earlier. 2. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type: afudos /o[filename] where the [filename] is any user-assigned filename no more than eight alphanumeric characters for the main filename and three alphanumeric characters for the extension name. A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom Main filename 3. Extension name Press .
4. The utility verifies the file and starts updating the BIOS. A:\>afudos /iM3A78.rom AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB)) Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved. WARNING!! Do not turn off power during flash BIOS Reading file ....... done Reading flash ...... done Advance Check ...... Erasing flash ...... done Writing flash ...... 0x0008CC00 (9%) Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure! 5.
2.1.3 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. 2. Insert the Support DVD to the optical drive. 3. The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the floppy disk for the original or updated BIOS file. Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery... Checking for floppy...
2.1.4 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. Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS file for the motherboard. 2.
4. When the correct BIOS file is found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update process and automatically reboots the system when done. 2.1.5 • This function can support devices such as USB flash disk, or floppy disk with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only. • DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure! ASUS Update utility The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows® environment.
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. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download. Click Next. 5. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process. The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update the utility to avail all its features. Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file To update the BIOS through a BIOS file: 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate.
2.2 BIOS setup program This motherboard supports a programmable Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) chip that you can update using the provided utility described in section 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.
2.2.1 BIOS menu screen Menu items Main Menu bar Advanced Power Configuration fields BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools General help Exit Main Settings System Time [19:34:30] System Date [Mon 11/19/2007] Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.
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.
2.2.8 Pop-up window Select a menu item then press to display a pop-up window with the configuration options for that item. Main Advanced Power BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools Exit Main Settings System Time [19:34:30] System Date [Mon 11/19/2007] Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in] Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave SATA1 SATA2 SATA3 SATA4 SATA5 SATA6 SATA Configuration Options :[Not Detected] Disabled :[Not Detected] 360K, 5.25 in. :[Not Detected] 1.2M, 5.25 in.
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. Main Advanced Power BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools Exit Main Settings System Time [19:34:30] System Date [Mon 11/19/2007] Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.
2.3.4 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 [Enabled] Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 2.3.5 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.
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] 2.3.7 System Information This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS automatically detects the items in this menu.
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. Main Advanced Power BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools Exit Advanced Settings Adjust System Frequency/Voltage Adjust System etc. Frequency/Voltage etc.
CPU Overclocking [Auto] Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal frequency. Select any one of the preset overclocking. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual] [Overclock Profile] [Test Mode] PCIE Overclocking [Auto] Allows you to to configure overclocking of PCIE. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual] Processor Frequency Multiplier [Auto] Allows you to set the processor frequency multiplier. Configuration options: [Auto] [x4.0 800MHz] [x5.0 1000MHz] [x6.
2.4.2 CPU Configuration The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically detects. Advanced BIOS SETUP UTILITY CPU Configuration Module Version: 13.29 AGESA Version: 3.1.8.0 Physical Count: 1 Logical Count: 1 AMD Sempron(tm) Processor 3200+ Revision: F2 Cache L1: 128 KB Cache L2: 128 KB Cache L3: N/A Speed : 1800MHz NB Clk: N/A HT Frequency: 800MHz Current FSB Multiplier: 9x Maximum FSB Multiplier: 9x Able to change Freq.
2.4.3 Chipset Chipset Configuration MemoryOptions Options& & Memory Information Information NorthBridge Configuration Primary Display Adapter [GFX-GPP-PCI] NorthBridge Configuration NorthBridge Chipset Configuration Memory Configuration ECC Configuration Alternate VID [Auto] Memory CLK CAS Latency(Tc1) RAS/CAS Delay(Trcd) Row Precharge Time(Trp) Min Active RAS(Tras) RAS/RAS Delay(Trrd) Row Cycle(Trc) :333MHz :5.
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. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Address bits 6] [Address bits 12] [XOR of Address bits [20:16, 6]] [XOR of Address bits [20:16, 9]] MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable MemClk Tri-Stating during C3 and Alt VID.
Primary Display Adapter [GFX-GPP-PCI] Allows you to select which graphics controller to use as the primary boot device. Configuration options: [GFX-GPP-PCI] [GPP-GFX-PCI] [PCI-GFX-GPP] 2.4.
OnBoard LAN Controller [Enabled] Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 2.4.5 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 PCIPnP menu items.
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. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced USB Configuration Options Module Version - 2.24.3-13.4 USB Devices Enabled: None USB Functions USB 2.0 Controllers Legacy USB Support USB 2.
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. 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.
2.5.4 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.
2.5.5 HW Monitor Configuration Power BIOS SETUP UTILITY Hardware Monitor CPU Temperature MB Temperature [23ºC/73ºF] [30ºC/86ºF] CPU Fan Speed Chassis Fan Speed Power Fan Speed [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 [Enabled] Fan Auto Mode Start Voltage CPU Temperature [5.
VCORE Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage [xx.xxxV] or [Ignored] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard voltage regulators. Smart Q-Fan Function [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Q-Fan feature that smartly adjusts the CPU 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.
2.6.1 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.
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. 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.
2.7 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 Advanced BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Tools Exit Power Tools Settings Press ENTER to run the utility to select and update BIOS. This utility doesn't support : 1.
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. 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.
2-40 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
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® XP/ 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.
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 Launches the ASUS InstallAll - installation wizard for anti-virus and drivers. Norton Internet Security 2008 Installs the Norton Internet Security 2008. AMD Chipset Driver Installs the AMD chipset driver. VIA Audio Driver Installs the VIA audio driver.
3.2.3 Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. Click to display the next page ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities Launches the ASUS InstAll - installation wizard for utilities. ASUS Cool‘n’Quiet Utility This item guides you in installing the ASUS Cool‘n’Quiet utility. ASUS PC Probe II This smart utility monitors the fan speed, CPU temperature, and system voltages, and alerts you of any detected problems.
Microsoft DirectX 9.0c Installs the Microsoft® DirectX 9.0c driver. The Microsoft DirectX® 9.0c is a multimedia technology that enhances computer graphics and sound. DirectX® improves the multimedia features of you computer so you can enjoy watching TV and movies, capturing videos, or playing games in your computer. Visit the Microsoft website at www.microsoft.com for updates.
3.2.4 Make Disk menu The Make Disk menu allows you to make a RAID driver disk. Make ATI RAID/AHCI Vista32 Driver Allows you to create an ATI® Serial ATA (SATA) RAID/AHCI driver disk for 32bit Vista operation system. Make ATI RAID/AHCI Vista64 Driver Allows you to create an ATI® Serial ATA (SATA) RAID/AHCI driver disk for 64bit Vista operation system. Make ATI RAID/AHCI Driver for XP/XP 64bit Driver Allows you to create an ATI® Serial ATA (SATA) RAID/AHCI driver disk for 32/64bit XP operation system.
3.2.5 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). Install the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening a user manual file.
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. 3.2.7 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.
3.3 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. Select the target disk volume for you to install Express Gate. If you have multiple volumes and OS installed in your hard drive, it is recommended to install Express Gate in Volume C. Click Next to continue. 6. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. The First Screen Express Gate’s first screen appears within a few seconds after you power on the computer. From here, you can immediately start the web browser or Skype. You can also choose to continue booting normally (e.g.
Once inside the Express Gate environment, click on the icons on the LaunchBar, by default at bottom of the screen, to launch or switch between softwares. You can re-arrange, re-size and move windows. Bring a window to the foreground by clicking within it or by clicking on its corresponding software icon. Re-size a window by dragging any of its four corners. Move a window by dragging its title bar. Besides using the LaunchBar, you can also switch between softwares by pressing + on the keyboard.
Using the Configuration Panel Use the configuration panel to change various Express Gate settings. Click on an icon to open a particular configuration tool. The following tools are available: • Date and Time: set current date and time as well as time zone. • Input Method: choose your preferred input language and method. • Language and Keyboard: choose your language and keyboard preferences. • LaunchBar Settings: customize your LaunchBar (where it docks, whether it auto-hides, etc.
• Screen Settings: Choose the most optimal screen resolution for your display. • Volume Control: Control the volume for your speaker output, microphone input, etc. Using the LaunchBar The LaunchBar has several system icons that show you various system statuses and let you configure individual Express Gate settings. The LaunchBar can be configured to auto-hide, if you want more screen space for the softwares. It can also be configured to dock on any of the four sides of the screen.
Click to choose input language and method as well as keyboard shortcuts (Ctrl-Space by default). Click to change LaunchBar options (auto-hide, docking position, etc). Click to show the “ASUS Utility” panel. Click to show “About Express Gate ”. Click to open Express Gate Help. Click to bring up power options window to boot to OS, restart or power down. This window is also shown when you press Ctrl-Alt-Del on the keyboard.
2. Open Network. Network 3. Make the proper network configurations. Each network interface is enabled immediately when you check the box next to it. • If you use a network cable connected to a home router (which is then connected to your DSL/cable modem), enable both LAN1 and LAN2. Express Gate will automatically use whichever port (LAN1 or LAN2) is connected. If you plug the network cable into a different port while Express Gate is running (e.g.
• If you have wireless network, click Setup for the WiFi option. In the WiFi tab of the Advanced Network Settings box, enter the name of your wireless access point in the SSID field. If your wireless access point has security enabled, select the corresponding security algorithm from the drop-down list (e.g. WEPAUTO) in the Encryption Type field, and enter the password. Click OK to enable WiFi and establish the wireless connection.
Configuring Express Gate in BIOS Setup Enter BIOS setup by pressing DEL key after powering on or by clicking on the BIOS setup icon on Express Gate’s first screen. Express Gate configuration options are under the Tools menu. Main Ai Tweaker BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot ASUS EZ Flash 2 Express Gate Enter OS Timer Reset User Data [Enabled] [10 Seconds] [No] Tools Exit Press ENTER to run the utility to select and update BIOS. This utility doesn't support : 1.
