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Motherboard

Rampage

Formula

Summary of content (170 pages)

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Motherboard Rampage Formula
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E3559 Second Edition V2 January 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”).
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Contents Contents....................................................................................................... iii Notices......................................................................................................... vii Safety information..................................................................................... viii About this guide.......................................................................................... ix Rampage Formula specifications summary............
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Contents 2.5.3 Interrupt assignments.................................................... 2-22 2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slots...................................................... 2-23 2.5.4 2.6 2.7 2.8 2.5.6 Audio card, I/O shield, and LCD Poster installation................ 2-25 2.7.1 2.7.2 Rear panel connectors................................................... 2-27 2.8.3 Onboard switches.......................................................... 2-38 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function.........
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Contents 4.3.1 System Time...................................................................4-11 4.3.3 Legacy Diskette A...........................................................4-11 4.3.2 4.3.4 4.5 SATA 1–6..........................................................................................4-12 4.3.7 AHCI Configuration........................................................ 4-14 4.3.8 Configure System Performance Settings....................... 4-17 4.5.1 CPU Configuration...............
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Contents 5.2.1 Running the support DVD................................................ 5-1 5.2.3 Utilities menu................................................................... 5-3 5.2.2 5.2.4 5.2.5 5.2.6 5.2.7 5.3 5.2.8 5.3.8 5.3.9 5.3.10 5.3.11 ASUS PC Probe II.......................................................... 5-21 ASUS AI Suite................................................................ 5-27 ASUS EPU Utility—AI Gear 3........................................ 5-29 ASUS AI Nap.........
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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.
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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.
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About this guide This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard. How this guide is organized This guide contains the following parts: • • • • • • Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. Chapter 2: Hardware information This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components.
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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.
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Rampage Formula specifications summary CPU LGA775 socket for Intel® Core™2 Quad / Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® Extreme / Pentium® D / Pentium® 4 processors Supports Intel® next-generation 45nm multi-core CPUs Compatible with Intel® 06/�� 05B/05A processors * Refer to www.asus.
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Rampage Formula specifications summary ROG Exclusive Overclocking features Extreme Tweaker 2-Phase DDR2 Loadline Calibration Intelligent overclocking tools: - CPU Level Up - ASUS EPU (Energy Processing Unit) - AI Gear 3 - AI Overclocking (intelligent CPU frequency tuner) - AI Booster Utility - O.C. Profile Overclocking protection: - COP EX (Component Overheat Protection -EX) - Voltiminder LED - ASUS C.P.R.
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Rampage Formula specifications summary BIOS Features 16 Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, �� SM BIOS 2.4, ACPI 2.0a Multi-Language BIOS Manageability WOL by PME, WOR by PME, Chassis Intrusion, PXE Accessories LCD Poster ASUS Optional Fan SupremeFX II Audio Card 3 in 1 ASUS Q-connector kit UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable Floppy disk drive cable Serial ATA cables Serial ATA power cables 2-port USB2.
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xiv
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This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.
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Chapter summary 1 1.1 Welcome!....................................................................................... 1-1 1.3 Special features............................................................................. 1-2 1.2 Package contents..........................................................................
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1.1 Welcome! Thank you for buying an ASUS® Rampage Formula motherboard! The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards! Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in your package with the list below. 1.2 Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items. Motherboard ROG Rampage Formula I/O module USB 2.
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1.3 Special features 1.3.1 Product highlights Republic of Gamers The Republic of Gamers consists only the best of the best. We offer the best hardware engineering, the fastest performance, the most innovating ideas, and we welcome the best gamers to join in. In the Republic of Gamers, mercy rules are only for the weak, and bragging rights means everything. We believe in making statements and we excel in competitions.
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Dual-channel DDR2 800 memory support The motherboard supports DDR2 memory that features data transfer rates of 800/667 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR2 architecture doubles the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance, eliminating bottlenecks with peak bandwidths of up to 12.8 GB/s. Furthermore, this motherboard does not restrict the memory size across two channels.
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High Definition Audio Enjoy high-end sound quality on your PC! The onboard 8-channel HD audio (High Definition Audio, previously codenamed Azalia) CODEC enables high-quality 192KHz/24-bit audio output, jack-sensing feature, retasking functions, and multistreaming technology that simultaneously sends different audio streams to different destinations. You can now talk to your partners on the headphones while playing multi-channel network games. See pages 2-28 for details.
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Extreme Tweaker Extreme Tweaker is the one stop shop to fine-tune your system to optimal performance. No matter if you are looking for frequency adjustment, over-voltage options, or memory timing settings, they are all here! See page 4-16 for details. Voltiminder LED In the persuit of extreme performance, overvoltage adjustment is critical but risky. Acting as the “red zone” of a tachometer, the Voltiminder LED displays the voltage status for CPU, NB, SB, and Memory in a intuitive color-coded fashion.
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1.3.3 ROG unique features Supreme FX II features Supreme FX II delivers an excellent high definition audio experience to the gamers of ROG. The SupremeFX II features unique audio innovations for gamers to spot enemies in 3D environment during game play. SupremeFX II also provides a special tool to emphasize human voices in games to help make dialogues clearer.
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Fanless Design–Stack Cool 2 ASUS Stack Cool 2 is a fan-less and zero-noise cooling solution that lowers the temperature of critical heat generating components. The motherboard uses a special design on the printed circuit board (PCB) to dissipate heat these critical components generate. 1.3.
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ASUS MyLogo 3 ASUS MyLogo 3 is a new feature present in the motherboard that allows you to personalize and add style to your system with customizable and animated boot logos. See page 5-9 for details. ASUS Multi-language BIOS The multi-language BIOS allows you to select the language of your choice from the available options. The localized BIOS menus allow easier and faster configuration. See page 4-11 for details.
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This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It includes description of the jumpers and connectors on the motherboard.
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Chapter summary 2 2.1 Before you proceed...................................................................... 2-1 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU).................................................... 2-8 2.2 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 Motherboard overview.................................................................. 2-4 System memory.......................................................................... 2-16 Expansion slots...........................................................................
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2.1 Before you proceed Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. • Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. • Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity. • Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
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Memory LED Refer to the illustration below for the location of the memory LED and the table below for LED definition. ® 2. DDR_CRAZY DDR_HIGH DDR_NORMAL RAMPAGE FORMULA RAMPAGE FORMULA DDR LED DRAM Voltage High (yellow) Crazy (red) 1.80~2.20 2.22~2.60 2.62~ Northbridge/Southbridge LEDs The northbridge and southbridge LEDs each have two different voltage displays. The northbridge LED displays either the North Bridge Voltage or the FSB Termination Voltage.
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Hard Disk LED The hard disk LED is designed to indicate the hard disk activity. It blinks when data is being written into or read from the hard disk drive. The LED does not light up when there is no hard disk drive connected to the motherboard or when the hard disk drive does not function. ® 4. HD_LED RAMPAGE FORMULA RAMPAGE FORMULA Hard Disk LED Power LED The motherboard comes with a power-on switch that lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft‑off mode.
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2.2 Motherboard overview Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits into it. Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. 2.2.1 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, make sure that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation.
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2.2.3 Motherboard layout 24.5cm (9.
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2.2.5 Slots Layout contents 1. DDR2 DIMM slots 3. PCI Express x 1 slots 2. 4. Page 2-16 PCI slots 2-23 2-23 PCI Express x 16 slots 2-23 Slide switch Page 1. 2-24 Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC_SW) Rear panel connectors Page 2. 2-27 1. PS/2 keyboard port (purple) 3. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port 4. 5.* 6.* 7.* 8.* 9.* 10.* 11. 12. 13. 14. 15.
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Internal connectors Page 2. 2- 29 1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) 3. ICH9R Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1~6) 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.
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2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA775 socket designed for the Intel® Core™2 Quad / Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® D / Pentium® 4 / Pentium® Extreme processors. • Make sure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU. • If installing a dual-core CPU, connect the chassis fan cable to the CHA_FAN1 connector to ensure system stability.
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2.3.1 Installing the CPU To install a CPU: Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard. ® 1. RAMPAGE FORMULA RAMPAGE FORMULA CPU Socket 775 Before installing the CPU, make sure that the cam box is facing towards you and the load lever is on your left. 2. Press the load lever with your thumb (A), then move it to the left (B) until it is released from the retention tab. Retention tab Load lever A PnP cap B This side of the socket box should face you.
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4. Lift the load plate with your thumb and forefinger to a 100º angle (A), then push the PnP cap from the load plate window to remove (B). B A Load plate Alignment key 5. Position the CPU over the socket, making sure that the gold triangle is on the bottom‑left corner of the socket then fit the socket alignment key into the CPU notch. CPU notch Gold triangle mark The CPU fits in only one correct orientation.
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2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan The Intel LGA775 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance. ® • When you buy a boxed Intel® processor, the package includes the CPU fan and heatsink assembly. If you buy a CPU separately, make sure that you use only Intel®‑certified multi‑directional heatsink and fan. • Your Intel® LGA775 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design and requires no tool to install.
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2. 3. Push down two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to secure the heatsink and fan assembly in place. A B B A B A A B Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN. GND CPU FAN PWR CPU FAN IN CPU FAN PWM ® CPU_FAN RAMPAGE FORMULA RAMPAGE FORMULA CPU fan connector DO NOT forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector.
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2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan: 1. Disconnect the CPU fan cable from the connector on the motherboard. 2. Rotate each fastener counterclockwise. 3. Pull up two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to disengage the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard. 4. A B B A B A A B Carefully remove the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard.
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5. Rotate each fastener clockwise to ensure correct orientation when reinstalling. Narrow end of the groove The narrow end of the groove should point outward after resetting. (The photo shows the groove shaded for emphasis.) Refer to the documentation in the boxed or stand-alone CPU fan package for detailed information on CPU fan installation.
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2.3.4 Installing the optional fans Install the optional fan only if you are using a passive cooler or a water cooler. Installing the optional fan with an active CPU cooler will interfere with the airflow and destabilize the system. Optional fan on one side fins 1. Position the fan above the pipe and heatsink assembly. 2. Fit the fan to the grooved edge of the heatsink. 3. Carefully push down the fan until it snugly fits the heatsink, then connect the fan cable. 4.
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2.4 System memory 2.4.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. DIMM_B1 DIMM_B2 ® DIMM_A1 DIMM_A2 The figure illustrates the location of the DDR2 DIMM sockets: RAMPAGE FORMULA RAMPAGE FORMULA 240-pin DDR2 DIMM sockets Channel Sockets Channel A DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2 Channel B • DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2 This chipset officially supports DDR2-800 MHz.
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2.4.2 Memory configurations You may install 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB unbuffered ECC and non‑ECC DDR2 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. Recommended Memory Configurations Sockets Mode DIMM_A1 DIMM_A2 DIMM_B1 DIMM_B2 Populated – – – – – Populated – Dual-channel (1) Populated – Populated – Dual-channel (2) Populated Populated Populated Populated Single-Channel • You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B.
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Rampage Formula Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-800 MHz capability Size Vendor Chip No.
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Rampage Formula Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-667MHz capability Size Vendor Chip No.
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2.4.3 Installing a DIMM Unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so can cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components. 2 To install a DIMM: 1. 2. 3. 3 Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clips outward. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break on the socket. Firmly insert the DIMM into the socket until the retaining clips snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated.
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2.5 Expansion slots In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub‑sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support. Make sure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. 2.5.1 Installing an expansion card To install an expansion card: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
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2.5.
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2.5.4 PCI slots 2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slots The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI specifications. Refer to the figure below for the location of the slots. This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications. Refer to the figure below for the location of the slots. 2.5.6 • Install the audio card prior to other compatible cards to the black PCIe x1 slot.
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2.6 1. Slide switch Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC_SW) This onboard slide switch allows you to enable the clr CMOS switch on the back I/O. You can clear the CMOS memory and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The clr CMOS switch on the back I/O helps you easily to clear the system setup information such as system passwords. To erase the RTC RAM: 1. Press down the clr CMOS switch on the back I/O. Hold down the ~~key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter data.~~
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2.7 Audio card, I/O shield, and LCD Poster installation 2.7.1 Audio card Installation 1. Take out the Audio card from the package. 2. Locate the audio slot on the motherboard. 3. Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card sits on the slot completely. 4. The photo below shows the audio card installed on the motherboard.
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2.7.2 I/O shield and LCD Poster Installation 1. Install the I/O shield to the chassis rear panel. Orient the I/O shield so that the openings of the ports fit the motherboard rear ports. Snaps the I/O shield into place. 2. Position the motherboard I/O side toward the chassis rear panel and install the motherboard to the chassis. Be cautious when installing the I/O shield. The I/O shield edge springs may damage the I/O ports. 2-26 3.
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3 4 Line in 2 Front-out 1 5 6 Mic in Rear panel connectors 7 Cen/Sub 2.8.1 8 Rear-out Connectors 9 Side-out 2.8 10 clr CMOS 15 1. 2. 3. 4. 14 13 12 11 PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device via a coaxial S/PDIF cable. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub.
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5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Line In port (light blue). This port connects the tape, CD, DVD player, or other audio sources. Line Out port (lime). This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In 4-channel, 6-channel, and 8-channel configuration, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out. Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone. Center/Subwoofer port (orange). This port connects the center/subwoofer speakers. Rear Speaker Out port (black).
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2.8.2 1. Internal connectors Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) This connector is for the provided floppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert one end of the cable to this connector, then connect the other end to the signal connector at the back of the floppy disk drive. ® Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when using a FDD cable with a covered Pin 5. FLOPPY NOTE: Orient the red markings on the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.
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® PRI_EIDE NOTE: Orient the red markings (usually zigzag) on the IDE cable to PIN 1. RAMPAGE FORMULA RAMPAGE FORMULA IDE connector 3. ICH9R Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1~6) These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk drives. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10 configuration with the Intel® Matrix Storage Technology through the onboard Intel® ICH9R RAID controller.
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You must install the Windows® XP Service Pack 1 before using Serial ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature (RAID 0/RAID 1/RAID 5/RAID 10) is available only if you are using Windows® XP or later version. right angle side Connect the right-angle side of SATA signal cable to SATA device. Or you may connect the right-angle side of SATA cable to the onboard SATA port to avoid mechanical conflict with huge graphics cards.
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IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) This connector is for a IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. ® 5. GND +12V TPB1GND TPA1- IE1394_2 RAMPAGE FORMULA RAMPAGE FORMULA IEEE 1394a connector +12V TPB1+ GND TPA1+ PIN 1 Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector.
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7. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1~3, 3-pin PWR_FAN, 3‑pin OPT_FAN1~3) The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350 mA~1000 mA (24 W max.) or a total of 1 A~3.48 A (41.76 W max.) at +12V. Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, making sure that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector. DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors.
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8. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch. Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal is then generated as a chassis intrusion event.
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• • • • • • For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 400 W. Do not forget to connect the 4-pin/8pin EATX12V power plug; otherwise, the system will not boot. Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when configuring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.
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11. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. +5V Ground Ground Speaker SPEAKER PLED- ® PLED+ PLED RESET IDE_LED RAMPAGE FORMULA Reset Ground PWR Ground IDE_LED+ IDE_LED- PANEL PWRSW * Requires an ATX power supply.
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ASUS Q-Connector (system panel) You can use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect chassis front panel cables in a few steps. Refer to the instructions below to install the ASUS QConnector. 1. Connect the front panel cables to the ASUS Q-Connector. Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector to know the detailed pin definitions, then match them to the respective front panel cable labels. 2.
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2.8.3 Onboard switches Onboard switches allow you to fine-tune performance when working on a bare or open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. Power-on switch Press the power-on switch to wake/power up the system. ® 1. RAMPAGE FORMULA RAMPAGE FORMULA Power on switch Reset switch Press the reset switch to reboot the system. ® 2.
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This chapter describes the power up sequence, the vocal POST messages, and ways of shutting down the system.
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Chapter summary 3.1 3.2 3 Starting up for the first time......................................................... 3-1 Turning off the computer..............................................................
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3.1 Starting up for the first time 1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. 3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. 2. 4. 5. Be sure that all switches are off. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector. Turn on the devices in the following order: a. Monitor c. System power b. 6.
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3.2 Turning off the computer 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function If you are using Windows® XP: 1. Click the Start button then select Turn Off Computer. 3. The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down. 2. Click the Turn Off button to shut down the computer. If you are using Windows® Vista™: 1. 2. Click the Start button then select ShutDown. The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down. 3.2.
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This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
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Chapter summary 4.1 4 Managing and updating your BIOS............................................. 4-1 4.2 BIOS setup program..................................................................... 4-8 4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu.............................................................. 4-16 4.3 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8 4.9 Main menu................................................................................... 4-11 Advanced menu..........................................................................
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4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. 1. ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.) 3. ASUS AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk.) ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk or USB flash disk.) 2. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 (Updates the BIOS using a bootable USB flash disk or the motherboard support DVD when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted.) 4.
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Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility. Updating the BIOS through the Internet To update the BIOS through the Internet: 4-2 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears. 2. Select Update BIOS from the Internet option from the drop‑down menu, then click Next. 3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network traffic, or click Auto Select.
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4. 5. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download. Click Next. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process. The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update the utility to avail all its features. Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file To update the BIOS through a BIOS file: 1. 2. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate.
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4.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go through the long process of 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 (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for the motherboard. 2.
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4.1.3 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. • Make sure that the floppy disk is not write-protected and has at least 1024KB free space to save the file.
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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 /iFormula.ROM 4. The utility verifies the file and starts updating the BIOS. A:\>afudos /iFormula.
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4.1.4 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 or the USB flash disk that contains the updated BIOS file. Prepare the motherboard support DVD or the USB flash disk containing the updated motherboard BIOS before using this utility.
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4.2 BIOS setup program This motherboard supports a programmable Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) chip that you can update using the provided utility described in section “4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS.” Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconfiguring your system, or prompted to “Run Setup.” This section explains how to configure your system using this utility.
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4.2.1 BIOS menu screen Menu items Main Menu bar Extreme Tweaker Configuration fields BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A Language General help Tools [10:55:25] [Thur 10/04/2007] [1.44M, 3.
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4.2.4 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. 4.2.5 Sub-menu items System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A Language SATA SATA SATA SATA SATA SATA Use [ENTER], [TAB], or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a field. [06:22:54] [Thur 10/04/2007] [1.44M, 3.
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4.3 Main menu When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an overview of the basic system information. Refer to section 4.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them. Main Extreme Tweaker BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A Language SATA SATA SATA SATA SATA SATA 1 2 3 4 5 6 [10:55:25] [Thur 10/04/2007] [1.44M, 3.
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4.3.5 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. Select a device item then press to display the SATA device information. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main SATA 1 Device Select the type of device connected to the system.
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DMA Mode [Auto] Selects the DMA mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [SWDMA0] [SWDMA1] [SWDMA2] [MWDMA0] [MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2] [UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5] 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] 4.3.
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If you want the Serial ATA hard disk drives to use the Advanced Host Controller Interface (AHCI), set this item to [AHCI]. Hard Disk Write Protect [Disabled] Disables or enables device write protection. This will be effective only if device is accessed through BIOS. Confiuration option: [Disabled] [Enabled] SATA Detect Time Out (Sec) [35] Selects the time out value for detecting ATA/ATAPI devices. Configuration options: [0] [5] [10] [15] [20] [25] [30] [35] 4.3.
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SATA Port1 [Auto] Allows you to select the type of device connected to the system. Configuration options: [Auto] [Not Installed] SMART Monitoring [Enabled] Enables or disables the Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology (SMART). Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 4.3.8 System Information This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS automatically detects the items in this menu.
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4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu The Extreme Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related items. Take caution when changing the settings of the Extreme Tweaker menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction.
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4.4.1 Configure System Performance Settings CPU Level Up [Auto] Allows you to select a CPU level, and the related parameters will be automatically adjusted according to the selected CPU level. If you want to manually configure the settings in detail, set Ai Overclock Tuner to [Manual] after selecting a CPU level. Configuration options: [Auto] [E6400] [E6550] [E6600] [E6700] [X6800] [E6850] [Crazy] • The configuration options may vary depending on your CPU type.
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The following item appears when you set Ai Overclock Tuner to [Manual]. FSB Frequency [XXX] Displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and PCI bus. Use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the FSB frequency. You can also type the desired FSB frequency using the numeric keypad. The values range from 200 to 800. Refer to the table below for the correct Front Side Bus and CPU External Frequency settings.
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DRAM CMD Skew on Channel A/B [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 175ps] [Advance 150ps] [Advance 125ps] [Advance 100ps] [Advance 75ps] [Advance 50ps] [Advance 25ps] [Normal] [Delay 25ps] [Delay 50ps] [Delay 75ps] [Delay 100ps] [Delay 125ps] [Delay 150ps] [Delay 175ps] DRAM CLK Skew on Channel A/B [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [Advance 350ps] [Advance 300ps] [Advance 250ps] [Advance 200ps] [Advance 150ps] [Advance 100ps] [Advance 50ps] [Normal] [Delay 50ps] [Delay 100ps] [Delay 150ps] [Del
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WRITE to READ�� Delay (D) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks]�� –�� [15 DRAM Clocks] READ to READ Delay (S) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks]�� –�� [15 DRAM Clocks] READ to READ �� Delay (D) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks]�� –�� [15 DRAM Clocks] WRITE to WRITE Delay (S) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 DRAM Clocks]��
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Common Performance Level [05] (This value is auto-detected) Use the <+> and <-> keys or the numeric keypad to enter the desired �� value��. The values range from 0 to 31. Setting a low level leads to better system performance. Pull-In of CHA/B PH1/23/4/5 [Disabled] Configuraiton options: [Disabled] [Enabled] CPU Voltage [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU voltage. The text color in the configuration field corresponds to the onboard CPU LED color, both of which indicate voltage condition.
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FSB Termination Voltage [Auto] Allows you to select the front side bus (FSB) termination voltage. The text color in the configuration field indicates voltage condition. When you set the NB LED Selection item to [FSB Termination Voltage], the onboard northbridge LED displays FSB termination voltage condition. Refer to page 2-2 for northbridge LED definition. Configuration options: [Auto] [1.20V] [1.22V] [1.24V] [1.26V] [1.28V] [1.30V]– [1.90V] [1.92V] [1.94V] [1.96V] [1.98V] [2.
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DRAM Channel A Voltage REF [Auto] Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to [Auto] for the safe mode. Configuration options: [DDR2_REF-30mv] [DDR2_REF-20mv] [DDR2_REF-10mv] [DDR2_REF] [DDR2_REF+10mv] [DDR2_REF+20mv] [DDR2_REF+30mv] DDR2 Channel B Voltage REF [Auto] Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to [Auto] for the safe mode.
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4.5 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Main Extreme Tweaker BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot CPU Configuration Chipset Onboard Devices Configuration USB Configuration PCIPnP Tools Exit Configure CPU. +Tab F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Change Field Select Field General Help Save and Exit Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. 4.5.
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CPU Ratio Setting [Auto] Enter a ratio using the numeric keypad, and the system will detect possible values. Use the <+> and <-> keys to select a ratio. The valid value ranges differently according to your CPU model. C1E Support [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable C1E Support. Configuration options: [Disabled] �� [Enabled] CPU TM function [Enabled] When this item is set to [Enabled], the overheated CPU will throttle its clock speed to cool down.
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4.5.2 Chipset The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an item then press to display the sub-menu. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Advanced Chipset Settings Configure North Bridge features. WARMING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction.
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4.5.
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4.5.4 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 USB Devices Enabled: None USB Functions USB 2.0 Controller USB 2.
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Legacy USB Support [Auto] Allows you to enable or disable the support for legacy USB devices. Setting to [Auto] allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto] 4.5.5 PCI PnP The PCIPnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices.
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4.6 Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press to display the configuration options. Main Extreme Tweaker BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot Suspend Mode Repost Video on S3 Resume ACPI 2.0 Support ACPI APIC Support [Auto] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Enabled] Tools Exit Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend.
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4.6.5 APM Configuration BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power APM Configuration Restore on AC Power Loss Power On By RTC Alarm Power On By PCI Devices Power On By PCIE Devices Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Power Off] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] to select whether or not to restart the system after AC power loss. +F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Change Option General Help Save and Exit Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.
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4.6.6 Hardware Monitor BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power Hardware Monitor CPU Temperature CPU Temperature MB Temperature NB Temperature SB Temperature OPT1 Temperature OPT2 Temperature OPT3 Temperature [38.5ºC/102ºF] [36ºC/96.
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CPU Fan and Chassis Fan BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power CPU Fan Speed CPU Fan Control [4470RPM] [Disabled] Chassis Fan 1 Speed Chassis Fan 2 Speed Chassis Fan Controls [N/A] [N/A] [Disabled] Chassis Fan 3 Speed Chassis Fan 3 Control [N/A] [Disabled] CPU Fan Speed +F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Change Field General Help Save and Exit Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.
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Chassis Target Temperature [41ºC] Configuration options: [32ºC] [35ºC] [38ºC] [41ºC] [44ºC] [47ºC] [50ºC] Chassis Fan 3 Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the chassis fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the field shows N/A. Chassis Fan 3 Control [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the chassis fan3 controller.
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Fan Fix Ratio (%) [90%] Allows you to set the fan fix ratio. �� This item appears �� when the OPT_Fan1/2/3 Fan Control item is set to [Manual Mode]. Configuration options: [70%] [80%] [90%] [100%] Target Temperature [32] Allows you to set the temperature at which the optional fan starts up. This �� item appears�� when the OPT_Fan1/2/3 Fan Control item is set to [Enabled].
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4.7 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then press to display the sub-menu. Main Extreme Tweaker BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Specifies the Boot Device Priority sequence. Boot Device Priority Boot Settings Configuration Security A virtual floppy disk drive (Floppy Drive B:) may appear when you set the CD-ROM drive as the first boot device.
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4.7.2 Boot Settings Configuration BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Boot Settings Configuration Quick Boot Full Screen Logo AddOn ROM Display Mode Bootup Num-Lock Wait for ‘F1’ if Error Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display Interrupt 19 Capture [Enabled] [Enabled] [Force BIOS] [On] [Enabled] [Enabled] [Disabled] Allows BIOS to skip certain tests while booting. This will decrease the time needed to boot the system. +F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Change Option General Help Save and Exit Exit v02.
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4.7.3 Security The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item then press to display the configuration options. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Security Settings Supervisor Password User Password :Not Installed :Not Installed Boot to change password. again to disabled password. Change Supervisor Password Change User Password Enter F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Change General Help Save and Exit Exit v02.
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After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change other security settings. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Security Settings Supervisor Password User Password :Not Installed :Not Installed Change Supervisor Password User Access Level Change User Password Clear 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.
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Password Check [Setup] When set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup utility. When set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both when accessing Setup and booting the system. Configuration options: [Setup] [Always] 4.8 Tools menu The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item then press to display the sub-menu. Main Extreme Tweaker BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS O.C.
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4.8.2 ASUS O.C. Profile This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Tools O.C. PROFILE Configuration O.C. Profile 1 Status O.C. Profile 2 Status Save to Profile 1 :Not Installed :Not Installed Save to Profile 1 Load from Profile 1 Save to Profile 2 Load from Profile 2 Start O.C. Profile Enter F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Go to Sub Screen General Help Save and Exit Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc.
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4.8.3 Ai Net 2 BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced POST Check LAN cable Ai Net 2 Pair Status 1-2 3-6 4-5 7-8 N/A N/A N/A N/A 1-2 3-6 4-5 7-8 N/A N/A N/A N/A [Disabled] Check LAN cable during POST. Length +Tab F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Change Field Select Field General Help Save and Exit Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. POST Check LAN Cable [Disabled] Enables or disables checking of the LAN cable during the Power-On Self‑Test (POST).
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4.9 Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. Main Extreme Tweaker Exit Options Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Exit system setup after saving the changes. F10 key can be used for this operation.
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4-44 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
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This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.
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Chapter summary 5 5.1 Installing an operating system.................................................... 5-1 5.3 Software information.................................................................... 5-9 5.2 5.4 5.5 Support DVD information............................................................. 5-1 RAID configurations................................................................... 5-36 Creating a RAID driver disk........................................................
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5.1 Installing an operating system This motherboard supports Windows® XP/64-bit �� XP/Vista/64-bit Vista�� operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware. 5.2 • Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Use the setup procedures presented in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OS documentation for detailed information.
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5.2.2 Drivers menu The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices. ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Drivers Launches the ASUS InstAll driver installation wizard. Intel Chipset Inf Update Program Installs the Intel® chipset inf update program. SoundMAX ADI Audio Driver Installs the SoundMAX® ADI1988 audio driver and application.
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5.2.3 Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. Click to display the next screen Click to display the previous screen ASUS InstAll-Installation Wizard for Utilities Installs all of the utilities through the Installation Wizard. Marvell Yukon CPA Application Installs the Marvell Yukon CPA applications. Marvell Yukon VCT Application Installs the Marvell Yukon VCT applications.
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ASUS AI Suite Installs the ASUS AI Suite. ASUS AI Direct Link Installs the ASUS AI Direct Link utility. ASUS Update The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in Windows® environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP). Adobe Acrobat Reader V7.0 Installs the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader that allows you to open, view, and print documents in Portable Document Format (PDF). Microsoft DirectX 9.
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5.2.4 Make Disk menu The Make Disk menu contains items to create the Intel ICH9R RAID/AHCI driver disk. Intel ICH9 32/64 bit RAID/AHCI Driver Allows you to create an ICH9R 32/64bit RAID/AHCI driver disk.
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5.2.5 Manuals menu The Manuals menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to open the folder of the user manual. Most user manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening a user manual file. 5.2.6 Video menu Click the Video tab to display a list of video clips. Click the Extreme OC Clip item to watch how an overclocking guru breaks 3DMark world record with an ROG motherboard.
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5.2.7 ASUS Contact information Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. You can also find this information on the inside front cover of this user guide. 5.2.8 Other information The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on the motherboard and the contents of the support DVD. Click an icon to display the specified information. Motherboard Info Displays the general specifications of the motherboard.
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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.
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5.3 Software information Most of the applications in the support DVD have wizards that will conveniently guide you through the installation. View the online help or readme file that came with the software application for more information. 5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3™ The ASUS MyLogo3™ utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the image that appears on screen during the Power‑On Self-Tests (POST).
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7. When the logo images appear on the right window pane, select an image to enlarge by clicking on it. 8. Adjust the boot image to your desired size by selecting a value on the Ratio box. 9. When the screen returns to the ASUS Update utility, flash the original BIOS to load the new boot logo. 10. After flashing the BIOS, restart the computer to display the new boot logo during POST.
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5.3.2 AI NET 2 The AI NET 2 features the Marvell® Virtual Cable Tester™ (VCT). VCT is a cable diagnostic utility that reports LAN cable faults and shorts using the Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) technology. The VCT detects and reports open and shorted cables, impedance mismatches, pair swaps, pair polarity problems, and pair skew problems of up to 64 ns at one meter accuracy. The VCT feature reduces networking and support costs through a highly manageable and controlled network system.
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5.3.3 AI Audio 2 (SoundMAX® High Definition Audio utility) The ADI AD1988 High Definition Audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio capability through the SoundMAX® audio utility with AudioESP™ software to deliver the ultimate audio experience on your PC. The software implements high quality audio synthesis/rendering, 3D sound positioning, and advanced voice-input technologies.
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A. SoundMAX BlackHawk (AI Audio 2) If you are using Windows Vista™ operating system, from the taskbar, double-click on the SoundMAX® BlackHawk icon to display the SoundMAX® control panel. Enabling AI Audio 2 Click the power button to activate digital signal processing. AI Audio 2, with the new SoundMAX® BlackHawk by Sonic Focus, brings you more multimedia enjoyment.
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Playback Settings To configure the playback settings, click the Playback button on the control panel. You can adjust the volume of the Speakers and SPDIF Interface or mute the audio. Preset settings Click and expand the drop-down menu to select your preferred Digital Signal Processing (DSP) preset. Move the sliders to customize the values of Voice Clarity, Dynamics, Brilliance, and Deep Bass of each preset. Click Save to save the changes to the current preset.
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Recording Settings To change the recording settings, click the Recording button on the control panel. You can adjust the speaker delay of Microphone or Line In by moving the slider rightward or leftward. Record testing Click the tab to perform test recording and play the test sample through the speakers or the SPDIF interface. Port settings Click the tab to display the rear panel ports for Microphone or Line In.
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Speakers Allows you to adjust the Speaker Trim and Speaker Delay. Bass Allows you to do the Bass management. Preferences Displays the preference options for this utility, version information, AudioESP, etc.
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B. SoundMAX If you are using Windows XP operating system, from the taskbar, double-click on the SoundMAX® icon to display the SoundMAX® Control Panel. Audio Setup Wizard By clicking the icon from the SoundMAX® control panel, you can easily configure your audio settings. Simply follow the succeeding screen instructions and begin enjoying High Definition Audio.
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Jack configuration This screen helps you configure your computer’s audio ports, depending on the audio devices you have installed. Adjust speaker volume This screen helps you adjust speaker volume. Click the Test button to hear the changes you have made. Adjust microphone volume This screen helps you adjust microphone volume. You will be asked to read pre-written text to allow the AudioWizard to adjust the volume as you speak.
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Audio preferences Click the icon to go to the Preferences page. This page allows you to change various audio settings. General options Click the General tab to choose your playback and recording devices, enable/ disable the AudioESP™ feature, and enable/disable digital output. Listening Environment options Click the Listening Environment tab to set up your speaker, acoustic environment, and enable/disable the Virtual Theater Surround function.
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Microphone options Click the Microphone tab allows you to optimize your microphone input settings.
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5.3.4 ASUS PC Probe II PC Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer’s vital components, and detects and alerts you of any problem with these components. PC Probe II senses fan rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others. Because PC Probe II is software-based, you can start monitoring your computer the moment you turn it on. With this utility, you are assured that your computer is always at a healthy operating condition.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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PCI browser Click to display the PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) browser. This browser provides information on the PCI devices installed on your system. Click the plus sign (+) before the PCI Information item to display available information. Usage The Usage browser displays real-time information on the CPU, hard disk drive space, and memory usage. Click to display the Usage browser. CPU usage The CPU tab displays realtime CPU usage in line graph representation.
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Memory usage The Memory tab shows both used and available physical memory. The pie chart at the bottom of the window represents the used (blue) and the available Configuring PC Probe II Click to view and adjust the sensor threshold values. The Config window has two tabs: Sensor/Threshold and Preference. The Sensor/ Threshold tab enables you to activate the sensors or to adjust the sensor threshold values. The Preference tab allows you to customize sensor alerts, or change the temperature scale.
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5.3.5 ASUS AI Suite ASUS AI Suite allows you to launch AI Gear 3, AI Booster, AI Nap, and Q-Fan 2 utilities easily. Install the ASUS EPU Driver + AI Gear 3 Utility before the ASUS AI Suite utility. Otherwise, ASUS AI Suite will not function properly. Installing AI Suite To install AI Suite on your computer: 1. 2. 3. Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature. Click the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite.
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Other feature buttons Click on right corner of the main window to open the monitor window. Displays the CPU/ system temperature, CPU/memory/PCIE voltage, and CPU/ chassis fan speed Displays the FSB/CPU frequency Click on right corner of the expanded window to switch the temperature from degrees Centigrade to degrees Fahrenheit.
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5.3.6 ASUS EPU Utility—AI Gear 3 ASUS AI Gear 3 is a utility designed to configure and support all ASUS Energy Processing Unit (EPU) features. This easy-to-use utility provides four system performance profiles that adjust the processor frequency and vCore voltage for different computing needs.
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5.3.7 ASUS AI Nap This feature allows you to minimize the power consumption of your computer whenever you are away. Enable this feature for minimum power consumption and a quieter system operation. After installing AI Suite from the bundled Support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows OS taskbar and click the AI Nap button on the AI Suite main window. Click Yes on the confirmation screen.
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5.3.8 ASUS Q-Fan 2 This ASUS Q-Fan 2 Control feature allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU Q-Fan 2 or the Chassis Q-Fan 2 for more efficient system operation. After enabling the Q-Fan 2 function, the fans can be set to automatically adjust depending on the temperature, to decrease fan speed, or to achieve the maximum fan speed.
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5.3.9 ASUS AI Booster The ASUS AI Booster application allows you to overclock the CPU speed in WIndows® environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. After installing AI Suite from the bundled Support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows® OS taskbar and click the AI Booster button on the AI Suite main window.
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5.3.10 CPU Level Up The CPU Level Up application allows you to overclock immediately with OC profile presets in WIndows® environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. This application provides comprehensive and detailed tuning to frequencies, voltagies, and even timings to create a real professional level of overclocking configuration.
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5.3.11 ASUS AI Direct Link ASUS AI Direct Link allows you to form a computer-to-computer network via a network cable to share files with high transfer rate. You must first connect two computers (at least one of them is ASUS product) using a network cable, and then install the utility to both computers to avail the AI Direct Link feature. • • Turn off your firewall software other than Windows Firewall before launching AI Direct Link. The transfer rate is limited if you use a 10/100 LAN card.
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4. Right click on the AI Direct Link icon and select Incoming folder > Open incoming folder. The AIDirectLinkIncoming folder opens. Put the files you want to share into this folder. The authorized user has full access to this folder. The default path of the AIDirectLinkIncoming folder is C:\Program Files\ASUS\AI Direct Link. To change its location, disable the incoming folder first.
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5.4 RAID configurations The motherboard comes with the Intel® ICH9R Southbridge RAID controller that allows you to configure IDE and Serial ATA hard disk drives as RAID sets. 5.4.1 RAID definitions RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in parallel, interleaved stacks. Two hard disks perform the same work as a single drive but at a sustained data transfer rate, double that of a single disk alone, thus improving data access and storage.
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5.4.2 Installing Serial ATA hard disks The motherboard supports Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array. To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration: 1. Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays. 3. Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector on each drive. 2. Connect the SATA signal cables. 5.4.
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Intel® Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM Utility The Intel® Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM utility allows you to create RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 (RAID 0+1), and RAID 5 set(s) from Serial ATA hard disk drives that are connected to the Serial ATA connectors supported by the Southbridge. To enter the Intel® Application Accelerator RAID Option ROM utility: 1. Install all the Serial ATA hard disk drives. 3. During POST, press to display the utility main menu. 2. Turn on the system.
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Creating a RAID 0 set (striped) To create a RAID 0 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume, then press . This screen appears. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ CREATE ARRAY MENU ] Name: RAID Level: Disks: Strip Size: Capacity: Volume0 RAID0(Stripe) Select Disks 128KB 0.
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6. Use the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID 0 array, then press . The available stripe size values range from 4 KB to 128 KB. The default stripe size is 128 KB. TIP: We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size for multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing. 7. 8. Key in the RAID volume capacity that you want, then press . The default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity.
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Creating a RAID 1 set (mirrored) To create a RAID 1 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume, then press . This screen appears. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ CREATE ARRAY MENU ] Name: RAID Level: Disks: Strip Size: Capacity: Volume1 RAID1(Mirror) Select Disks N/A XX.
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Creating a RAID 10 set (RAID 0+1) To create a RAID 10 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume, then press . This screen appears. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ CREATE ARRAY MENU ] Name: RAID Level: Disks: Strip Size: Capacity: Volume10 RAID10(RAID0+1) Select Disks 128KB XXX.
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6. Press when the Create Volume item is highlighted. This warning message appears. WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST. Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N): 7. Press to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu or to go back to the Create Volume menu. Creating a RAID 5 set (parity) To create a RAID 5 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID Volume, then press . This screen appears.
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4. The Disks item is highlighted, press to select the hard disk drives to configure as RAID. The following pop‑up screen appears. [ SELECT DISKS ] Port 0 1 2 3 Drive Model XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX Serial # XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX Size XX.XGB XX.XGB XX.XGB XX.XGB Status Non-RAID Non-RAID Non-RAID Non-RAID Disk Disk Disk Disk Select 2 to 4 disks to use in creating the volume. [↑↓]-Previous/Next 5. 6.
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5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows® XP operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. For Windows® Vista™ operating system, use either a floppy disk or a USB device with the RAID driver. 5.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS To create a RAID/SATA driver disk without entering the OS: 1. Boot your computer. 3. Set the optical drive as the primary boot device. 2. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
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To install the RAID driver in Windows® Vista™: 1. 2. 3. 5-46 Insert the floppy disk/USB device with RAID driver into the floppy disk drive/USB port. During the OS installation, select Intel ICH9R. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.
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The Appendix describes the CPU features and technologies that the motherboard supports as well as the debug code table for the LCD Poster.
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Chapter summary A A.1 Intel EM64T...................................................................................A-1 A.3 Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology............................................A-3 A.2 A.4 ® Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST).........................A-1 Debug Code Table.........................................................................
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A.1 Intel® EM64T • The motherboard is fully compatible with Intel® LGA775 processors running on 32-bit operating systems. • The motherboard comes with a BIOS file that supports EM64T. You can download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS website (www.asus.com/ support/download/) if you need to update the BIOS file. See Chapter 4 for details. • Visit www.intel.com for more information on the EM64T feature. • Visit www.microsoft.com for more information on Windows® 64-bit OS.
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A.2.2 Using the EIST To use the EIST feature: 1. Turn on the computer, then enter the BIOS Setup. 3. Set the Intel(R) SpeedStep (TM) Tech. item to [Enabled], then press . See page 4-25 for details. 2. 4. 5. 6. Go to the Advanced Menu, highlight CPU Configuration, then press . Press to save your changes and exit the BIOS setup. After the computer restarts, right click on a blank space on the desktop, then select Properties from the pop-up menu.
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A.3 Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology • The motherboard supports Intel® Pentium® 4 LGA775 processors with Hyper-Threading Technology. • Hyper-Threading Technology is supported under Windows® Vista/XP and Linux 2.4.x (kernel) and later versions only. Under Linux, use the HyperThreading compiler to compile the code. If you are using any other operating systems, disable the Hyper-Threading Technology item in the BIOS to ensure system stability and performance.
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A.4 Debug code table Code CPU INIT DET CPU Description CPU Initiation Test CMOS R/W functionality. Early chipset initialization: -Disable shadow RAM CHIPINIT -Disable L2 cache -Program basic chipset registers Detect memory DET DRAM -Auto-detection of DRAM size, type and ECC. -Auto-detection of L2 cache Expand compressed BIOS code to DRAM DC FCODE EFSHADOW Call chipset hook to copy BIOS back to E000 & F000 shadow RAM. Initialize IO devices. INIT IO Initialize Hardware Monitor. INIT HWM 1.
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8254TEST 8259MSK1 8259MSK2 8259TEST COUNTMEM MP INIT USB INIT TEST MEM SHOW MP PNP LOGO ONBD IO EN SETUP MSINSTAL CHK ACPI EN CACHE SET CHIP AUTO CFG INIT FDC DET IDE COM/LPT DET FPU CPU CHG EZ FLASH CPR FAIL FAN FAIL UCODEERR FLOPYERR KB ERROR HD ERR CMOS ERR MS ERROR SMARTERR HM ERROR AINETERR CASEOPEN PASSWORD Test 8254 Test 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 1. Test 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 2. Test 8259 functionality.
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USB FINAL INIT ROM NUM LOCK UPDT DMI INT 19H A-6 Initialize PnP boot devices 1. USB final Initialization 2. NET PC: Build SYSID structure 3. Switch screen back to text mode 4. Set up ACPI table at top of memory. 5. Invoke ISA adapter ROMs 6. Assign IRQs to PCI devices 7. Initialize APM 8. Clear noise of IRQs. Initialize device option ROMs. 1. Program daylight saving 2. Update keyboard LED & typematic rate 1. Build MP table 2. Build & update ESCD 3. Set CMOS century to 20h or 19h 4.