Contents
iv
Contents
v
Contents
vi
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. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with manufacturer’s
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:
•
•
•
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
•
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is
required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications
to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance
could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.
Canadian Department of Communications Statement
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions
from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the
Canadian Department of Communications.
This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
vii
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.
•
•
•
Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure
that all power cables are unplugged.
Seek professional assistance before using an adpater or extension cord.
These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.
Make sure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If
you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact
your local power company.
•
If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified
service technician or your retailer.
Operation safety
•
Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all
the manuals that came with the package.
•
Before using the product, make sure all cables are correctly connected and the
power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer
immediately.
•
•
To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from
connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry.
Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in
any area where it may become wet.
•
Place the product on a stable surface.
•
If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified
service technician or your retailer.
This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical,
electronic equipment, and mercury-containing button cell battery) should not
be placed in municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic
products.
viii
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. It includes description of the switches,
jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard.
•
•
•
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup
menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
Chapter 4: Software support
This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the
motherboard package and the software.
Chapter 5: nVIDIA Hybrid SLI™ support
This chapter describes the nVIDIA Hybrid SLI™ feature and shows the
graphics card installation procedures.
Where to find more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and
software updates.
1.
2.
ASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and
software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
Optional documentation
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty
flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not
part of the standard package.
ix
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.
Typography
Bold text
Italics
Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
<Key>
Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign
means that you must press the enclosed key.
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the
Enter or Return key.
<Key1+Key2+Key3>
If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the
key names are linked with a plus sign (+).
Example: <Ctrl+Alt+D>
Command
Means that you must type the command exactly
as shown, then supply the required item or value
enclosed in brackets.
Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:
awdꢀasꢁ M3N WS.bin
x
M3N WS specifications summary
CPU
AMD® Socket AM2/AM2+ for AMD Phenom™ FX /
Phenom / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processors
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology
AMD Live!™ Ready
Support CPU up to 140W
Chipset
NVIDIA® GeForce® 8200
PCI-X bridge: NEC uPD720404
System Bus
Up to 5200 MT/s; HyperTransport™ 3.0 interface
for AM2+ CPU
2000 / 1600 MT/s for AM2 CPU
Memory
Dual-channel memory architecture
-
4 x 240-pin DIMM sockets support unbufferred ECC/
non-ECC DDR2 1066*/800/667/533 MHz memory
modules
-
Supports up to 8 GB system memory
* Due to AMD CPU limitation, DDR2 1066 is supported
by AM2+ CPU for one DIMM per channel only. Refer to
www.asus.com or this user manual for the memory
QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists).
** When installing total memory of 4GB capacity or more,
Windows® 32-bit operation system may only recognize
less than 3GB. Hence, a total installed memory of less
than 3GB is recommended.
VGA
Integrated NVIDIA® 8 Series GPU
-
-
Maximum shared memory of 512MB
Supports HDMI™ Technology with HDCP
compliant with max. resolution up to 1920 x 1200
Supports DVI Technology with max. resolution up to
1920 x 1440 @ 60 Hz
-
-
Supports D-Sub with max. resolution up to 1920 x
1440 @ 75 Hz
-
-
Multi VGA output support: HDMI/DVI & D-Sub
Hybrid SLI Support (For Windows Vista only)
Expansion Slots
Storage
1 x PCIe 2.0 x16 slot at full x16 speed
2 x PCIe x1 slots
1 x PCI-X slot
2 x PCI 2.2 slots
1 x Ultra DMA 133/100 interface
6 x SATA 3Gb/s ports (Use SATA1-4 for IDE mode)
NVIDIA® MediaShield™ RAID supports RAID 0, 1, 0+1,
5, and JBOD
LAN
2 x Realtek® 8111C Gigabit LAN controllers support
teaming function
(continued on the next page)
xi
M3N WS specifications summary
High Definition Audio
Realtek® ALC888 8-channel High Definition audio
CODEC
-
-
Supports Jack-Detection and Multi-Streaming
Coaxial S/PDIF Out port at back I/O
IEEE 1394a
USB
Agere® FW3227 controller supports 2 x IEEE 1394a ports
(1 at mid-board; 1 on the rear panel)
12 x USB 2.0 ports (6 at mid-board; 6 on the rear panel)
ASUS AI Lifestyle
Unique Features
ASUS Workstation Features:
-
-
G.P. Diagnosis card
ASUS SASsaby cards support
ASUS Power Saving Solution:
-
-
ASUS AI Nap
ASUS AI Gear 2
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:
-
-
-
ASUS Heat-pipe thermal solution
ASUS Q-Fan 2
ASUS Stack Cool 2
ASUS EZ DIY:
-
-
-
-
ASUS Q-Shield
ASUS Q-Connector
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
Other Features
ASUS MyLogo 2™
Multi-language BIOS
ASUS AI NET 2
Rear panel I/O ports
1 x PS/2 keyboard port (purple)
1 x Coaxial S/PDIF Out port
1 x Optical S/PDIF Out port
1 x HDMI Out port
1 x D-sub Out port
2 x LAN ports (RJ-45)
6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
8-channel audio I/O
(continued on the next page)
xii
M3N WS specifications summary
Internal I/O connectors
3 x USB connectors support additional 6 USB ports
1 x Floppy disk drive connector
1 x IDE connector
6 x SATA connectors
1 x CPU Fan connector
2 x Chassis Fan connectors
1 x Power Fan connector
2 x IEEE1394a connectors
1 x Front panel audio connector
1 x Chassis Intrusion connector
1 x CD audio in
1 x 24-pin ATX Power connector
1 x 4-pin ATX 12V Power connector
1 x System Panel (Q-Connector)
BIOS features
8 Mb Flash ROM, Award BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM2.0,
SM BIOS 2.3
Support DVD contents
Drivers
BIOS flash utility under DOS
ASUS Update
Anti-virus Utility (OEM version)
Form factor
ATX form factor: 12 in x 9.6 in (30.5 cm x 24.5 cm)
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.
xiii
xiv
Chapter summary
1
1.1
1.2
1.3
Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1
Package contents......................................................................... 1-1
Special features............................................................................ 1-2
ASUS M3N WS
1.1
Welcome!
Thank you for buying an ASUS® M3N WS 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
I/O module
Cables
ASUS M3N WS
1 x 2-port USB + 1-port IEEE 1394a module
2 x 2-port Serial ATA power cable
6 x Serial ATA signal cables
1 x Ultra DMA 133/100 cable
1 x Floppy disk drive cable
1 x HDMI to DVI cable
Accessories
1 x I/O Shield
1 x ASUS Q-Connector Kit (USB, 1394, system
panel; Retail version only)
1 x G.P. Diagnosis Card (Retail version only)
Application DVD
Documentation
ASUS motherboard support DVD
User guide
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
ASUS M3N WS
1-1
1.3
Special features
1.3.1
Product highlights
Green ASUS
This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s Restriction
on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision
of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packaging to safeguard
consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment.
AMD® Socket AM2+ Phenom™ FX / Phenom /
Athlon™ / Sempron™ CPU support
This motherboard supports AMD® Socket AM2+ multi-core processors with
unique L3 cache and delivers better overclocking capabilities with less power
consumption. It features dual-channel DDR2 1066 memory support and
accelerates data transfer rate up to 5200MT/s via HyperTransport™ 3.0 based
system bus. See page 2-5 for details.
HyperTransport™ 3.0 support
HyperTransport™ 3.0 technology provides 2.6 times more bandwidth than
HyperTransport™ 1.0, radically improving system efficiency to create a smoother,
faster computing environment.
AMD® Socket AM2 Athlon™ Series / Sempron™
CPU support
This motherboard supports AMD® Socket AM2 Athlon™ Series / Sempron™
processors. It features 2000/1600 MT/s HyperTransport™-based system bus,
dual-channel un-buffered DDR2 800 memory support, and AMD® Cool ‘n’ Quiet™
Technology. See page 2-5 for details.
NVIDIA® GeForce 8200
NVIDIA® GeForce 8200 offers the latest support of Hybrid SLI Technology,
DirectX® 10 graphics features, HD video playback with HDMI/DVI output. It also
supports HyperTransport™ 3.0 interface, PCI Express™ 2.0 bus architecture,
Serial ATA 3 Gb/s devices and is optimized with AMD’s latest AM2+ and multi-core
CPUs to provide excellent system performance.
Native DDR2 1066 support
This motherboard is the first AMD® platform with native DDR2 1066 support.
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 2-10 for details.
DDR2 1066 is supported by AM2+ CPUs only.
1-2
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
NVIDIA® Hybrid SLI Technology
Hybrid SLI™ Technology is a unique hybrid multi-GPU technology. It includes
two primary features: GeForce Boost and HybridPower™. GeForce Boost
turbo-charges performance of discrete graphics cards when combined with M3N
series motherboard GPUs. HybridPower™ unleashes graphics performance
for demanding 3D applications and enables low-power operation for everyday
computing needs. You can switch from the discrete GeForce GPU(s) to the
motherboard GPU for a quiet, low power PC experience. See page 2-20 and
Chapter 5 for details.
Geforce Boost and HybridPower™ are independent on select GeForce GPUs.
Visit www.nvidia.com/hybridsli for more information.
HDMI/DVI/D-Sub Interface
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a set of digital video standards that
delivers multi-channel audio and uncompressed digital video through a single
cable for full HD 1080p visuals. Supporting HDCP copy protection such as HD
DVD and Blu-ray Discs, HDMI provides you with the highest-quality home theater
experience.
DVI (Digital Visual Interface) provides high quality visuals for digital display devices
like LCD monitors. See page 2-24 for details.
This motherboard is bundled with an HDMI-to-DVI conversion adaptor.
PCIe 2.0 support
This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 devices for double speed and
bandwidth which enhances system performance. See page 2-19 for details.
Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s technology
This motherboard supports the next-generation hard disk drives based on the
Serial ATA (SATA) 3Gb/s storage specifications, delivering enhanced scalability
and doubling the bus bandwidth for high-speed data retrieval and save. It allows
RAID 0, 1, 0+1 and 5 configurations for two SATA connectors. See page 2-28 for
details.
ASUS M3N WS
1-3
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 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 page 2-23 and 2-24 for details.
1.3.2
ASUS unique features
ASUS Power Saving Solution
ASUS Power Saving solution intelligently and automatically provides balanced
computing power and energy consumption.
AI Gear 2
AI Gear 2 allows you to choose from profiles to adjust CPU frequency and
vCore voltage, minimizing system noise and saving CPU power consumption
at most. You can real-time chnage the mode under operating system to suit
your needs. See page 4-30 for details.
AI Nap
With AI Nap, the system can continue running at minimum power and noise
when you are temporarily away. To wake the system and return to the OS
environment, simply click the mouse or press a key. See page 4-31 for
details.
ASUS Workstation Features
ASUS Workstation features provide complete support to system maintenance and
storage technology.
G.P. Diagnosis card
Bundled with M3N WS motherboard (retail version), the G.P. Diagnosis card
assists users in system checking by effortlessly and quickly providing precise
system checks right after they switch on their PCs. See page 2-38 for details.
ASUS SASsaby cards support
This motherboard is fully compatible with ASUS SASsaby cards (optional).
Faster, safer and more stable, SAS will provide users with a better choice for
storage expansion and upgrade needs. See page 2-20 for details.
1-4
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution
ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the
overclocking capability.
ASUS Stack Cool 2
Stack Cool 2 is a fan-less and zero-noise cooling solution offered exclusively
by ASUS. It effectively transfers heat generated by the critical components
to the other side of the specially designed PCB (printed circuit board) for
effective heat dissipation.
Fanless Design - Heat-pipe
The Heat Pipe design effectively directs the heat generated by the chipsets to
the heatsink near the back IO ports, where it can be carried away by existing
airflow from CPU fan or bundled optional fan. The purpose of the innovative
heat pipe design on this motherboard is that the groundbreaking fanless
design does not have lifetime problems as a chipset fan does. Furthermore, it
provides options for users to install side-flow fan or passive cooler. The Heat
Pipe design is the most reliable fanless thermal solution to date.
DO NOT uninstall the heat-pipe by yourself. Doing so may bend the tubing and
affect the heat dissipation performance.
Q-Fan 2
ASUS Q-Fan2 technology intelligently adjusts both CPU fan and chassis
fan speeds according to system loading to ensure quiet, cool and efficient
operation. See page 3-33 and 4-33 for details.
ASUS EZ DIY
ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer
components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings.
ASUS Q-Shield
The specially designed ASUS Q-Shield does without the usual “fingers”—
making it convenient and easy to install. With better electric conductivity,
it ideally protects your motherboard against static electricity and shields it
against Electronic Magnetic Interference (EMI).
ASUS M3N WS
1-5
ASUS Q-Connector
ASUS Q-Connector allows you to easily connect or disconnect the chassis
front panel cables to the motherboard. This unique module eliminates the
trouble of connecting the system panel cables one at a time and avoiding
wrong cable connections. See page 2-37 for details.
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility. Simply press the
predefined hotkey to launch the utility and update the BIOS without entering
the OS. Update your BIOS easily without preparing a bootable diskette or
using an OS-based flash utility. See page 3-5 and 3-41 for details.
ASUS MyLogo 2™
This feature allows you to convert your favorite photo into a 256-color boot logo for
a more colorful and vivid image on your screen. See page 3-37 and 4-9 for details.
1.3.3
ASUS intelligent performance and overclocking
features
Precision Tweaker
This feature allows you to fine tune the CPU/memory voltage and gradually
increase the memory, Front Side Bus (FSB) and PCI Express frequency at 1MHz
increment to achieve maximum system performance.
AI Booster
The ASUS AI Booster allows you to overclock the CPU speed in Windows
environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. See page 4-30 for details.
C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)
The C.P.R. feature of the motherboard BIOS allows automatic re-setting to the
BIOS default settings in case the system hangs due to overclocking. When the
system hangs due to overclocking, C.P.R. eliminates the need to open the system
chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut down and reboot the system, and the
BIOS automatically restores the CPU default setting for each parameter.
1-6
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
Chapter summary
2
2.3
2.8
2.9
2.10
G.P. Diagnosis card installation................................................ 2-38
Starting up for the first time...................................................... 2-41
Turning off the computer........................................................... 2-42
ASUS M3N WS
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 to a metal
object, such as the power supply case, before handling components to
avoid damaging them due to static electricity.
•
•
Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic
pad or in the bag that came with the component.
•
Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power
supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power
supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard,
peripherals, and/or components.
Onboard LED
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED. The green LED lights up
to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a
reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before
removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows
the location of the onboard LED.
ASUS M3N WS
2-1
2.2.2
Layout contents
Connectors/Jumpers/Slots
Page
2-33
2-10
2-5
1.
2.
3.
4.
ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V)
DDR2 DIMM slots
CPU Socket AM2/AM2+
CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN;
3-pin CHA_FAN1-2; 3-pin PWR_FAN)
2-31
5.
6.
IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE)
2-27
2-28
NVIDIA GeForce 8200 Serial ATA connectors
(7-pin SATA 1-4 [red], 7-pin SATA5-6 [black])
7.
Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY)
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)
2-26
2-21
2-36
2-32
2-1
8.
9.
System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)
Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)
Standby power LED (SB_PWR)
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112)
IEEE 1394a port connectors (10-1 pin IE1394_1, IE1394_2)
PCI-X speed setting (3-pin PCIX_SPEED1)
TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)
2-29
2-30
2-22
2-35
2-32
2-34
Optical drive audio connector (4-pin CD)
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
ASUS M3N WS
2-3
2.2.3
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.
2.2.4
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.
Place this side towards
the rear of the chassis
2-4
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with an AM2+/AM2 socket designed for AMD® Socket
AM2+ Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processors or for Socket
AM2 Athlon series / Sempron processors.
The AM2+/AM2 socket has a different pinout from the 940-pin socket designed
for the AMD Opteron processor. Make sure 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!
2.3.1
Installing the CPU
To install a CPU:
1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.
2.
Unlock the socket by pressing the
lever sideways, then lift it up to a
90º angle.
Socket lever
Make sure that the socket lever is lifted up to a 90º angle; otherwise, the CPU
will not fit in completely.
ASUS M3N WS
2-5
3.
4.
Position the CPU above the socket
such that the CPU corner with the
gold triangle matches the socket
corner with a small triangle.
Carefully insert the CPU into the
socket until it fits in place.
Gold triangle
Small triangle
5.
6.
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.
Install a CPU heatsink and fan
following the instructions that came
with the heatsink package.
2-6
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3.2
Installing the heatsink and fan
The AMD® Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™/ Sempron™ processor requires a
specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition
and performance.
Make sure that you use only AMD-certified heatsink and fan assembly.
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.
•
•
•
The retention module base is already installed on the motherboard upon
purchase.
You do not have to remove the retention module base when installing the
CPU or installing other motherboard components.
If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, make sure
that a Thermal Interface Material is properly applied to the CPU heatsink or
CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly.
CPU fan
CPU heatsink
Retention module base
Retention bracket
Retention bracket lock
Your boxed CPU heatsink and fan assembly should come with installation
instructions for the CPU, heatsink, and the retention mechanism. If the
instructions in this section do not match the CPU documentation, follow the
latter.
ASUS M3N WS
2-7
2.
Attach one end of the retention bracket
to the retention module base.
3.
Align the other end of the retention
bracket (near the retention bracket
lock) to the retention module base.
A clicking sound denotes that the
retention bracket is in place.
Make sure that the fan and
heatsink assembly perfectly fits
the retention mechanism module
base, otherwise you cannot snap
the retention bracket in place.
4.
Push down the retention bracket lock
on the retention mechanism to secure
the heatsink and fan to the module
base.
2-8
Chapter 2: Hardware information
5.
When the fan and heatsink assembly is in place, connect the CPU fan cable
to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN.
•
Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring
errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector.
•
This connector is backward compatible with 3-pin CPU fans .
ASUS M3N WS
2-9
2.4
System memory
2.4.1
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.
The figure illustrates the location of the DDR2 DIMM sockets:
Channel
Sockets
Channel A
Channel B
DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2
DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2
2-10
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.4.2
Memory configurations
You may install 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
(yellow)
DIMM_A2
(black)
DIMM_B1
(yellow)
DIMM_B2
(black)
–
–
–
Populated
–
–
–
Single-Channel
Populated
Dual-channel (1)
Dual-channel (2)
Populated
Populated
–
Populated
Populated
–
Populated
Populated
•
You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The
system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel
configuration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then
mapped for single-channel operation.
•
Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum
compatibility, it is recommended that you obtain memory modules from the
same vendor.
•
If you install four 1 GB memory modules, the system may only recognize
less than 3GB because the address space is reserved for other critical
functions. This limitation appears on Windows® XP/Vista 32-bit operation
system which does not support Physical Address Extension (PAE).
•
•
If you install Windows® XP/Vista 32-bit operation system, a total memory of
less than 3GB is recommended.
This motherboard does not support memory modules made up of 128 Mb
chips.
Due to OS limitation, this motherboard can only support up to 8 GB on the
operating systems listed below. You may install a maximum of 2 GB DIMMs on
each slot.
64-bit
Windows® XP Professional x64 Edition
Windows® Vista x64 Edition
ASUS M3N WS
2-11
M3N WS Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR2-800MHz capability for AM2 CPU
DIMM socket
support (Optional)
SS/
DS
Chip
Brand
Vendor
Part No.
Size
Chip No.
CL
A*
•
B*
C*
A-DATA
A-DATA
A-DATA
Apacer
Apacer
Apacer
CORSAIR
Crucial
M2OAD6G3H3160G1E53
M2OAD6G3I4170I1E58
M2OAD6H3J4171Q1E52
78.91G9I.9K5
512MB
1GB
2GB
512MB
1GB
2GB
1GB
1GB
1GB
1GB
1GB
1GB
1GB
SS
DS
DS
SS
SS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
SS
DS
DS
AD29608A8A-25EG
AD26908A8A-25EG
AD20908A8A-25EG
AM4B5708JQJS8E
AM4B5808CQJS8E
AM4B5808CQJS8E
Heat-Sink Package
Heat-Sink Package
Heat-Sink Package
Heat-Sink Package
E1108AB-8E-E(ECC)
Heat-Sink Package
Heat-Sink Package
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
5
N/A
•
•
N/A
•
A-DATA
APACER
APACER
APACER
N/A
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
78.01GA0.9K5
•
78.A1GA0.9K4
•
CM2X1024-6400C4
BL12864AA804.16FD
BL12864AL804.16FD3
BL12864AA804.16FD3
EBE10EE8ABFA-8E-E
F2-6400CL4D-2GBPK
F2-6400PHU2-2GBNR
4
•
4
N/A
•
Crucial
4
N/A
•
•
•
Crucial
4
N/A
•
•
•
•
•
ELPIDA
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
5
ELPIDA
N/A
•
N/A
N/A
•
•
•
N/A
•
4GB
(Kit of 2)
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
F2-6400CL4D-4GBPK
F2-6400CL5D-4GBPQ
DS
DS
Heat-Sink Package
Heat-Sink Package
4
5
N/A
N/A
•
•
•
•
•
•
4GB
(Kit of 2)
GEIL
Heat-Sink Package
Heat-Sink Package
Heat-Sink Package
Heat-Sink Package
GL2L128M88BA25AB
HYMP564U64CP8-S5
HYMP512U64CP8-S5
KLDC28F-A8KI5
2GB
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
SS
DS
SS
DS
DS
SS
SS
GE24GB800C5DC
GE28GB800C5QC
GE28GB800C4QC
GE24GB800C4DC
GB24GB6400C5DC
HY5PS12821CFP-S5
HY5PS12821CFP-S5
KKA8FEIBF-HJK-25A
KKA8FEIBF-HJK-25A
KKB8FFBXF-CFA-25A
E5108AJBG-8E-E
5-5-5-15
5-5-5-15
4-4-4-12
4-4-4-12
5-5-5-15
5-5-5
N/A
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
GEIL
2GB
N/A
GEIL
2GB
N/A
GEIL
2GB
N/A
GEIL
2GB
GEIL
Hynix
512MB
1GB
Hynix
Hynix
5-5-5
Hynix
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
512MB
1GB
N/A
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
KLDD48F-ABKI5
N/A
•
•
•
•
KLDE88F-B8KB5
2GB
N/A
KVR800D2N5/512
KVR800D2N6/512
512MB
512MB
N/A
E5108AJBG-8E-E
1.8
KHX6400D2LLK2/
1GN(EPP)
KINGSTON
1GB
SS
Heat-Sink Package
4-4-4-12
N/A
•
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
NANYA
KHX6400D2ULK2/1G
KVR800D2N5/1G
1GB
1GB
1GB
2GB
512MB
1GB
1GB
SS
DS
DS
DS
SS
DS
DS
Heat-Sink Package
V59C1512804QBF25
E5108AJBG-8E-E
N/A
N/A
1.8
N/A
5
N/A
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
N/A
KVR800D2N6/1G
ELPIDA
ELPIDA
NANYA
NANYA
NANYA
•
•
•
•
•
KVR800D2N5/2G
E1108ACBG-8E-E
NT5TU64M8BE-25C
NT5TU64M8BE-25C
NT5TU64M8CE-25D
NT512T64U880BY-25C
NT1GT64U8HB0BY-25C
NT1GT64U8HCOBY-25D
NANYA
5
NANYA
N/A
2-12
Chapter 2: Hardware information
M3N WS Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR2-800MHz capability for AM2 CPU (continued)
DIMM socket
support (Optional)
SS/
DS
Vendor
Part No.
Size
Chip No.
CL
Chip Brand
A*
•
B*
•
C*
•
NANYA
OCZ
NT2GT64U8HC0BY-AC
OCZ2T8002GK
2GB
1GB
1GB
DS
DS
DS
NT5TU128M8CE-AC
Heat-Sink Package
Heat-Sink Package
5
NANYA
N/A
N/A
N/A
•
•
•
OCZ
OCZ2FX800C32GK
N/A
•
•
2GB
(Kit of 2)
OCZ
OCZ
OCZ2P800R22GK
OCZ2P8004GK
DS
DS
Heat-Sink Package
Heat-Sink Package
4
N/A
N/A
•
•
•
•
•
4GB
(Kit of 2)
5-4-4
•
•
PSC
AL8E8F73C-8E1
2GB
2GB
2GB
512MB
1GB
1GB
1GB
4GB
2GB
2GB
DS
DS
DS
SS
SS
SS
DS
DS
DS
DS
A3R1GE3CFF734MAA0E
HYB18T1G800C2F-25F
HYB18T1G800C2F-2.5
K4T51083QG
5
5
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
PSC
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Qimonda
HYS64T256020EU-25F-C2
HYS64T256020EU-2.5-C2
M378T6553GZS-CF7
M378T2863QZS-CF7
M391T2863QZ3-CF7
M378T2953GZ3-CF7
M378T5263AZ3-CF7
M391T5663QZ3-CF7
M378T5663QZ3-CF7
QIMONDA
QIMONDA
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
Qimonda
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
K4T1G084QQ
K4T1G084QQ(ECC)
K4T51083QG
K4T2G084QA-HCF7
K4T1G084QQ
K4T1G084QQ(ECC)
Super
Talent
T800UA12C4
T800UB1GC4
512MB
1GB
SS
DS
Heat-Sink Package
Heat-Sink Package
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
•
•
•
•
•
•
Super
Talent
Aeneon
Aeneon
Aeneon
Aeneon
Asint
AET760UD00-25DC08X
AET760UD00-25DB97X
AET860UD00-25DC08S
AET860UD00-25DC08X
SLY2128M8-JGE
SLZ2128M8-JGE
28V2H8
1GB
1GB
2GB
2GB
1GB
2GB
512MB
1GB
1GB
1GB
1GB
2GB
1GB
2GB
SS
DS
DS
DS
SS
DS
SS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
AET03R25DC
5
Aeneon
Aeneon
Aeneon
Aeneon
Asint
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
AET93R25DB
N/A
N/A
5
AET02R25DC
AET03R25DC
DDRII1208-GE
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
5
Asint
DDRII1208-GE
Asint
CENTURY
CENTURY
Elixir
HY5PS12821BFP-S5
HY5PS12821BFP-S5
N2TU51280BE-25C
64M8PC6400
Hynix
28VOH8
Hynix
M2Y1G64TU8HB0B-25C
04701G16CZ5D2A
PSD21G8002
Elixir
•
•
Oci
5
Jnfinity
Patriot
Patriot
UMAX
UMAX
Patriot
Patriot
UMAX
UMAX
PM64M8D2BU-25PAC
PM128M8D2BU-25KC
U2S12D30TP-8E
U2S12D30TP-8E
5
PSD22GB002
5
•
•
•
•
•
D48001GP3-63BJU
D48002GP0-73BCU
N/A
N/A
ASUS M3N WS
2-13
M3N WS Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR2-667MHz capability for AM2 CPU
DIMM socket
support (Optional)
SS/
DS
Chip
Brand
Vendor
Part No.
Size
Chip No.
CL
A*
•
B*
C*
A-DATA
A-DATA
A-DATA
Apacer
M2OAD5G3H3166I1C52
M2OAD5G3I4176I1C52
M2ONY5H3J4170I1C5Z
78.01G9O.9K5
512MB
1GB
SS
DS
DS
SS
SS
DS
SS
DS
SS
DS
SS
AD29608A8A-3EG
AD29608A8A-3EG
NT5TU128M8BJ-3C
AM4B5808CQJS7E
AM4B5708JQJS7E
AM4B5808CQJS7E
64M8CFEG
5
A-DATA
A-DATA
N/A
•
5
•
2GB
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
3
•
1GB
APACER
APACER
APACER
N/A
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Apacer
78.91G92.9K5
512MB
2GB
Apacer
78.A1G9O.9K4
•
•
•
•
•
•
CORSAIR
CORSAIR
crucial
VS 512MB667D2
512MB
1GB
VS1GB667D2
64M8CFEG
N/A
BL6464AA663.8FD
BL12864AA663.16FD
EBE51UD8AEFA-6E-E
512MB
1GB
Heat-Sink Package
Heat-Sink Package
E5108AE-6E-E
N/A
crucial
3
N/A
•
•
ELPIDA
512MB
5
ELPIDA
4GB
(Kit of 2)
G.SKILL
G.SKILL
F2-5300CL5D-4GBMQ
F2-5400PHU2-2GBNT
DS
DS
Heat-Sink Package
D264M8GCF
5-5-5-15
5-5-5-15
N/A
•
•
•
2GB
(Kit of 2)
G.SKILL
•
GEIL
GEIL
GX21GB5300SX
GX22GB5300LX
1GB
2GB
DS
DS
Heat-Sink Package
Heat-Sink Package
3-4-4-8
N/A
N/A
•
•
•
•
•
•
5-5-5-15
4GB
(Kit of 2)
GEIL
GX24GB5300LDC
DS
Heat-Sink Package
5-5-5-15
N/A
•
•
•
Hynix
HYMP 512U64CP8-Y5
KLCC28F-A8KB5
1GB
DS
SS
DS
SS
DS
DS
DS
DS
DS
SS
DS
DS
DS
SS
DS
DS
HY5PS12821CFP-Y5
KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX
KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX
D6408TEBGGL3U
E5108AGBG-6E-E
D9HNL
5
Hynix
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Kingmax
512MB
1GB
5
KINGMAX
KINGMAX
KINGSTON
ELPIDA
Kingmax
KLCD48F-A8KB5
5
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
KINGSTON
NANYA
KVR667D2N5/ 512
KVR667D2E5/1G
512MB
1GB
5
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
5
•
•
•
KVR667D2E5/2G
2GB
MICRON
KINGSTON
ELPIDA
KVR667D2N5/1G
1GB
E5108AGBG-6E-E
E1108AB-6E-E
KVR667D2N5/2G
2GB
KVR667D2N5/2G
2GB
HY5PS1G831CFP-Y5
NT5TU64M8BE-3C
NT5TU128M8BJ-3C
A3R12E3JFF719A9T02
HYB18T1GB00C2F-3S
K4T51083QE
Hynix
•
•
•
•
NT 512T64U88B0BY-3C
NT2GT64U8HB0JY-3C
AL7E8E63J-6E1
512MB
2GB
NANYA
NANYA
5
NANYA
PSC
1GB
5
PSC
Qimonda
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
HYS64T256020EU-3S-C2
M378T6553EZS-CE6
M378T2953EZ3-CE6
M378T5263AZ3-CE6
2GB
5
QIMONDA
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
SAMSUNG
512MB
1GB
5
K4T51083QE
5
•
•
4GB
K4T2G084QA-HCE6
5
Super
Talent
T6UA 512C5
512MB
SS
Heat-Sink Package
5
N/A
•
•
Super
Talent
T6UB1GC5
1GB
1GB
DS
SS
Heat-Sink Package
TQ243ECF8
5
5
N/A
•
•
•
•
Transcend
JM667QLU-1G
Transcend
2-14
Chapter 2: Hardware information
M3N WS Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR2-667MHz capability for AM2 CPU (continued)
DIMM socket
support (Optional)
SS/
DS
Chip
Brand
Vendor
Part No.
Size
Chip No.
CL
A*
B*
C*
•
Transcend
TwinMOS
Aeneon
Aeneon
Aeneon
Aeneon
Asint
JM667QLU-2G
8D-23JK5M2ETP
AET660UD00-30DB97X
AET760UD00-30B97X
AET860UD00-30D
AET860UD00-30DB08X
SLX264M8-J6E
SLY2128M8-J6E
26V2H8
2GB
DS
SS
SS
DS
DS
DS
SS
SS
SS
DS
SS
DS
DS
SS
DS
DS
SS
DS
DS
DS
TQ243ECF8
5
Transcend
TwinMOS
AENEON
AENEON
AENEON
AENEON
Asint
•
•
512MB
512MB
1GB
TMM6208G8M30C
AET93R300B
5
•
5
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
AET93R30DB
5
2GB
AET02R30DC
5
•
2GB
AET03F30DB
5
512MB
1GB
DDRII6408-6E
N/A
N/A
5
Asint
DDRII1208-6E
Asint
•
•
•
CENTURY
CENTURY
Kingbox
Kingbox
Kingbox
MDT
512MB
1GB
HY5PS12821CFP-Y5
HY5PS12821CFP-Y5
EPD2128082200E-4
EPD264082200E-4
EPD264082200N-4
18D 51280D-30648
18D 51280D-30646E
18 51200D-30646
PM64M8D2BU-3KC
PM64M8D2BU-3PAC
U2S12D30TP-6E
U2S24D30TP-6E
Hynix
26VOH8
5
Hynix
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
N/A
1GB
N/A
N/A
N/A
4
Kingbox
N/A
•
N/A
1GB
N/A
1GB
Kingbox
MDT
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
M 512-667-8
512MB
1GB
MDT
M924-667-16
4
MDT
MDT
M924-667-16A
PSD2 51266781
PSD21G6672
D46701GP3-63BJU
D46702GP0-73BCU
1GB
4
MDT
•
•
•
•
•
Patriot
512MB
1GB
N/A
5
N/A
•
•
•
Patriot
Patriot
UMAX
UMAX
UMAX
1GB
N/A
N/A
UMAX
2GB
Side(s): SS - Single-sided DS - Double-sided
DIMM support:
•
•
•
A*: Supports one module inserted into either slot as Single-channel
memory configuration.
B*: Supports two modules inserted into either the yellow slots or the black
slots as one pair of Dual-channel memory configuration.
C*: Supports four modules inserted into both the yellow slots and the
black slots as two pairs of Dual-channel memory configuration.
Visit the ASUS website for the latest QVL.
ASUS M3N WS
2-15
2.4.3
Installing a DDR2 DIMM
Make sure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or
other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both
the motherboard and the components.
2
1.
2.
Unlock a DDR2 DIMM socket
by pressing the retaining clips
outward.
DDR2 DIMM notch
Align a DIMM on the socket
1
such that the notch on the DIMM
matches the break on the socket.
1
Unlocked retaining clip
A DDR2 DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it fits in only one direction. DO NOT
force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the DIMM.
3.
Firmly insert the DIMM into the
socket until the retaining clips snap
back in place and the DIMM is
properly seated.
Locked Retaining Clip
2.4.4
Removing a DDR2 DIMM
2
Follow these steps to remove a DIMM.
1
1.
Simultaneously press the
retaining clips outward to unlock
the DIMM.
1
DDR2 DIMM notch
Support the DIMM lightly with your fingers when pressing the retaining clips.
The DIMM might get damaged when it flips out with extra force.
2.
Remove the DIMM from the socket.
2-16
Chapter 2: Hardware information
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.
Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with
it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card.
Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a
chassis).
Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw
for later use.
Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is
completely seated on the slot.
5.
6.
Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.
Replace the system cover.
2.5.2
Configuring an expansion card
After installing the expansion card, configure the it by adjusting the software
settings.
1.
Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See
Chapter 3 for information on BIOS setup.
2.
3.
Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the next page.
Install the software drivers for the expansion card.
When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share
IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments; otherwise, conflicts will
arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card
inoperable.
ASUS M3N WS
2-17
2.5.3
Interrupt assignments
Standard interrupt assignments
IRQ
0
Priority Standard function
1
2
System Timer
1
Keyboard Controller
Redirect to IRQ#9
2
–
3
11
12
13
14
15
3
Reserved
4
Reserved
5
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering*
Floppy Disk Controller
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering*
System CMOS/Real Time Clock
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering*
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering*
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering*
Reserved
6
7
8
9
4
10
11
12
13
14
5
6
7
8
Numeric Data Processor
Primary IDE Channel
9
* These IRQs are usually available for ISA or PCI devices.
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
A
B
C
D
E
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
F
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
G
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
H
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
PCIE x16_1
shared shared shared shared
USB 1.0 controller 1
USB 1.0 controller 2
USB 1.0 controller 3
USB 1.0 controller 4
USB 2.0 controller
HD audio
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared
shared
shared
shared
shared
–
–
–
–
–
shared
2-18
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.5.4
PCI 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 on the next page for
the location of the slots.
2.5.5
PCI-X slot
The PCI-X slot supports cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and
other cards that comply with PCI-X 1.0 specifications. Refer to the figure below for
the location of the slot.
2.5.6
PCI Express x1 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 on the
next page for the location of the slots.
2.5.7
PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot
This motherboard supports PCI Express 2.0 x16 graphics cards that complies with
the PCI Express specifications. Refer to the figure below for the location of the slot.
PCI Express 2.0 x16_1 slot
PCI Express x1_1 slot
PCI Express x1_2 slot
PCI-X slot
PCI_1 slot
PCI_2 slot
ASUS M3N WS
2-19
•
•
•
•
•
•
Currently, only Windows® Vista operation system supports Hybrid SLI™
mode.
Currently, only NVIDIA® GeForce® 8500 GT and GeForce® 8400 GS
graphics cards support GeForce Boost function under Hybrid SLI™ mode.
Currently, only NVIDIA® GeForce® 9800 GX2 and GeForce® 9800 GTX
graphics cards support Hybrid Power function under Hybrid SLI™ mode.
Use only the onboard HDMI/DVI/D-Sub port for video signal output when
activating the Hybird Power function under Hybrid SLI™ mode.
Visit www.nvidia.com/hybridsli for more information about Hybrid SLI™
support.
This motherboard supports the ASUS SASsaby SAS RAID card series
(optional) for SAS hard disk drive expansion. Install the card to the PCIe
x16 2.0 slot (blue) only.
2-20
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.6
Jumpers
1.
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin 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. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on
pins 2-3 for about 5–10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.
3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.
4. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup
to re-enter data.
Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper
default position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!
•
•
If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move
the jumper again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After the CMOS
clearance, reinstall the battery.
You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to
overclocking. For system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU
Parameter Recall) feature. Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS
can automatically reset parameter settings to default values.
•
Due to the chipset limitation, AC power off is required prior using C.P.R.
function. You must turn off and on the power supply or unplug and plug the
power cord before reboot the system.
ASUS M3N WS
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2.
PCI-X Speed setting (3-pin PCIX_SPEED1)
This jumper allows you to set the PCI-X slot’s maximum frequency capability.
The jumper cap on pins 1-2: 133 MHz capability for the PCI-X slot.
The jumper cap on pins 2-3: 100 MHz capability for the PCI-X slot.
2-22
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.7
Connectors
2.7.1
Rear panel connectors
1.
2.
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.
3.
LAN2 (RJ-45) port. Supported by Realtek® 8111C Gigabit LAN controller,
this port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a
network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.
4.
5.
VGA port. This port is for a VGA monitor or other VGA-compatible devices.
LAN1 (RJ-45) port. Supported by Realtek® 8111C Gigabit LAN controller,
this port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a
network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.
LAN port LED indications
ACT/LINK SPEED
LED LED
Activity/Link LED
Speed LED
Status
Status
Description
No link
Description
OFF
OFF
10 Mbps connection
100 Mbps connection
1 Gbps connection
ORANGE
BLINKING
Linked
ORANGE
GREEN
Data activity
LAN port
6.
7.
8.
9.
Center/Subwoofer port (orange). This port connects the center/subwoofer
speakers.
Rear Speaker Out port (black). This port connects the rear speakers in a
4-channel, 6-channel, or 8-channel audio configuration.
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.
10. Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone.
11. Side Speaker Out port (gray). This port connects the side speakers in an
8-channel audio configuration.
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Refer to the audio configuration table below for the function of the audio ports in
2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration.
Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration
Headset
2-channel
Light Blue Line In
Port
4-channel
6-channel
8-channel
Line In
Line In
Line In
Lime
Line Out
Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out
Front Speaker Out
Mic In
Pink
Mic In
Mic In
Mic In
Orange
Black
Gray
–
–
–
–
Center/Subwoofer
Rear Speaker Ou
–
Center/Subwoofer
Rear Speaker Out
Side Speaker Out
Rear Speaker Out
–
12. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are
available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.
13. HDMI Out port. This port is for a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI)
connector.
•
This motherboard comes with dual-VGA outputs that features different
displays on 2 monitors at the same time if you connect 2 monitors to both
the onboard VGA and HDMI ports.
•
•
With the bundled HDMI-to-DVI conversion adapter, this motherboard can
also support DVI output.
Playback of HD DVD and Blu-Ray Discs
The speed and bandwidth of the CPU/Memory, DVD player, and drivers will
affect the playback quality. Following is a configuration example for your
reference. Using the CPU/Memory of higher speed and bandwidth with the
higher-version DVD player and drivers will upgrade the playback quality.
CPU: AMD K8 M2 Athlon64 ADH1600IAA5DH/1M Rev.F3
DIMM: DDR2-800 1G x1
HDD: Maxtor 6Y120M0 (SATA150)
ODD: LG GBW-H10N
•
To play HD DVD or Blu-Ray Disc, make sure to use an HDCP compliant
monitor.
Before enabling the HybridPower™ function, ensure that you have connected
your display to the onboard VGA port or the HDMI/DVI port at the rear panel.
14. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are
available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.
15. Optical S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device
via a optical S/PDIF cable.
16. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are
available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.
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Chapter 2: Hardware information
Troubleshooting on HDTV overscaling or underscaling:
If your desktop is extending beyond the viewable display area or the desktop or
image is not filling the entire display area while using the onboard HDMI out port
and the HDMI cable, you can resize the desktop appearing on your HDTV screen.
To resize your HDTV desktop:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Install NVIDIA Chipset Driver Program from the motherboard support DVD.
Right-click the desktop and select NVIDIA Control Panel.
Under Video & Television, select Resize HDTV desktop.
Select Resize my desktop and click Resize Desktop.
5.
A full-screen adjustment tool
appears. Use the scroll bar to
resize the desktop to fit your display
device. Click OK to exit.
The Resize my desktop function in the NVIDIA Control Panel appears only
when you are using an HDTV compliance resolution such as 480i, 720i, or
1080i.
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2.7.2
Internal connectors
1.
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.
2-26
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.
IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE)
The onboard IDE connector is for the Ultra DMA 133/100 signal cable. There
are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100 signal cable: blue, black,
and gray. Connect the blue connector to the motherboard’s IDE connector,
then select one of the following modes to configure your device.
Drive jumper setting
Mode of
Cable connector
device(s)
Single device
Two devices
Cable-Select or Master
Cable-Select
–
Black
Master
Slave
Master
Slave
Black
Gray
Master
Slave
Black or gray
•
•
Pin 20 on the IDE connector is removed to match the covered hole on the
Ultra DMA cable connector. This prevents incorrect insertion when you
connect the IDE cable.
Use the 80-conductor IDE cable for Ultra DMA 133/100 IDE devices.
If any device jumper is set as “Cable-Select,” make sure all other device
jumpers have the same setting.
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3.
NVIDIA® GeForce 8200 Serial ATA connectors
(7-pin SATA1-4 [red], 7-pin SATA5-6 [black])
These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk
and optical disk drives.
If you install SATA hard disk drives to the SATA connectors, you can create
a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, or JBOD configuration through the
onboard NVIDIA® GeForce 8200 controller.
•
SATA1-4 connectors are set to [IDE] by default. If you intend to create
a Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Operation
Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID].
•
•
Before creating a RAID set, refer to the manual bundled in the motherboard
support DVD.
SATA 5-6 connectors support AHCI mode and RAID mode only. Make sure
to install the AHCI driver or RAID driver in the bundled support DVD before
connecting devices to SATA 5-6 connectors. Otherwise, the devices will not
work.
•
•
Due to chipset limitation, when set any of SATA ports to RAID mode, all
SATA ports run at RAID mode together.
You must install the Windows XP® Service Pack 1 before using Serial ATA
hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature (RAID 0 and RAID 1) 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.
2-28
Chapter 2: Hardware information
4.
USB connectors (10-1 pin USB 78, USB910, USB1112)
These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable
to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the
back of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0
specification that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed.
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the
motherboard!
You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB,
blue) first, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector
onboard if your chassis supports front panel USB ports.
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2-29
5.
IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_1, 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.
Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector. Doing so will damage
the motherboard!
You can connect the front panel 1394 cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (1394,
red) first, and then install the Q-Connector (1394) to the 1394 connector
onboard if your chassis supports front panel 1394 ports.
2-30
Chapter 2: Hardware information
6.
CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 3-pin
CHA_FAN1-2; 3-pin PWR_FAN)
The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350 mA~2000 mA (24 W max.)
or a total of 1 A~7 A (84 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. Insufficient air
flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are
not jumpers! Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors!
Only the CPU_FAN and CHA_FAN1-2 connectors support the ASUS Q FAN2
feature.
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7.
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.
By default , the pin labeled “Chassis Signal” and “Ground” are shorted with
a jumper cap. Remove the jumper caps only when you intend to use the
chassis intrusion detection feature.
8.
Optical drive audio connector (4-pin CD)
These connectors allow you to receive stereo audio input from sound sources
such as a CD-ROM, TV tuner, or MPEG card.
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Chapter 2: Hardware information
9.
ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 4-pin ATX12V)
These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs
are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper
orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.
•
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 600 W.
•
Do not forget to connect the 4-pin ATX +12 V 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.
•
If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your
system, refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator
at http://support.asus.com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.
aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.
•
The ATX 12 V Specification 2.0-compliant (500W) PSU has been tested
to support the motherboard power requirements with the following
configuration:
CPU: AMD FX-62
Memory 1024 MB DDR2-800 (x4)
Graphics card: PCI Express x16 NVIDIA 7900GTX
Serial ATA device: SATA hard disk drive (x2)
Optical drives: DVD-RW
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2-33
10. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that
supports HD Audio standard. Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O
module cable to this connector.
We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to
this connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-definition audio capability.
2-34
Chapter 2: Hardware information
11. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM) [Optional]
This connector supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which can
securely store keys, digital certificates, passwords, and data. A TPM system
also helps enhance network security, protects digital identities, and ensures
platform integrity.
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2-35
12. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.
•
•
System power LED (2-pin PLED)
This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis
power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when
you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.
Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED)
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity
LED cable to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or flashes when data is
read from or written to the HDD.
•
•
System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)
This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The
speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.
ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSR)
This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button
turns the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending
on the BIOS settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds
while the system is ON turns the system OFF.
•
Reset button (2-pin RESET)
This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system
reboot without turning off the system power.
2-36
Chapter 2: Hardware information
13. 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 Q-Connector.
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. Install the ASUS Q-Connector to the
system panel connector, making sure
the orientation matches the labels on
the motherboard.
3. The front panel functions are now
enabled. The figure shows the
Q-Connector properly installed on the
motherboard.
ASUS M3N WS
2-37
2.8
G.P. Diagnosis card installation
2.8.1
G.P. Diagnosis card layout
LED 0 and 1
Power Switch. Press
to turn ON or OFF the
computer.
Reset Button.
Press to restart the
computer.
Card connector
2.8.2
Installing G.P. Diagnosis card
Make sure to turn off the power supply unit before instaling the diagnosis card to
avoid electrical shock hazard.
1.
Locate the TPM connector (20-1
pin TPM) on the motherboard.
2.
With the LEDs of the diagnosis
card facing to the DIMM sockets,
align the card connector with the
TPM connector and press firmly
until the card sits on the connector
completely.
2-38
Chapter 2: Hardware information
3.
You may also install the G.P.
Diagnosis card via a bundled 90-
degree TPM adaptor for a more
flexible application.
2.8.3
G.P. Diagnosis card check codes
C0
C1
C3
25
26
Early chipset initialization
Detect memory
Expand compressed BIOS code to DRAM
Early PCI initialization
1. Set clock generator and disable unnecessary or unused clock
2. Init onboard PWM
3. Init onboard H/W monitor devices
2B
2D
Invoke Video BIOS
1. Initialize double-byte language font (optional)
2. Put information on screen display, including Award title, CPU type, Cpu speed, full
screen logo.
4E
1. Program MTRR of CPU
2. Initialize L2 cache for CPU & program CPU with proper cacheable range.
3. Initialize APIC
50
52
75
7F
Initialize USB Keyboard & Mouse.
Test all memory
Detect & install all IDE devices: HDD, LS120, ZIP, CD-ROM...
Switch back to text mode if full screen logo is supported.
- If errors occur, report errors & wait for keys.
- If no errors occur or F1 key is pressed to continue: Clear EPA or customizatoin
logo.
8B
1. Invoke all ISA adapter ROMs
2. Invoke all PCI ROMs (except VGA)
(continued on the next page)
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94
96
1. Enable L2 cache
2. Program Daylight Saving
3. Program boot up speed
4. Chipset final initialization
5. Power management final initialization
6. Clear screen & display summary table.
1. Build MP table.
2. Builid & update ESCD.
3. Set CMOS century to 20h or 19h
4. Load CMOS time into DOS timer tick.
5. Build MSIRQ routing table.
0F
F1
F3
F4
Reserved
Sleep state S1
Sleep state S3
Sleep state S4
F5
Sleep state S5
2-40
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.9
Starting up for the first time
1.
2.
3.
After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.
Be sure that all switches are off.
Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system
chassis.
4.
5.
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
b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)
c. System power
6.
After applying power, the system power LED on the system front panel case
lights up. For systems with ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up
when you press the ATX power button. If your monitor complies with “green”
standards or if it has a “power standby” feature, the monitor LED may light up
or switch between orange and green after the system LED turns on.
The system then runs the power-on self tests or POST. While the tests are
running, the BIOS beeps or additional messages appear on the screen.
If you do not see anything within 30 seconds from the time you turned on
the power, the system may have failed a power-on test. Check the jumper
settings and connections or call your retailer for assistance.
BIOS beep codes
BIOS Beep
Description
One short beep
No keyboard detected
No memory detected
One continuous beep followed by two
short beeps then a pause (repeated)
One continuous beep followed by three
short beeps
No VGA detected
One continuous beep followed by four
short beeps
Hardware component failure
7.
At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the
instructions in Chapter 3.
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2.10 Turning off the computer
2.10.1
Using the OS shut down function
If you are using Windows® XP:
1.
2.
3.
Click the Start button then select Turn Off Computer.
Click the Turn Off button to shut down the computer.
The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down.
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.
2.10.2
Using the dual function power switch
While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts
the system to sleep mode or to soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting.
Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the
soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. Refer to section 3.5 Power Menu in
Chapter 3 for details.
2-42
Chapter 2: Hardware information
3.1
Managing and updating your BIOS
The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic
Input/Output System (BIOS) setup.
1.
2.
3.
ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.)
ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk or USB flash disk.)
AwardBIOS Flash Utility (Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk or
a USB flash disk.)
4.
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 (Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk,
USB flash disk or the motherboard support DVD when the BIOS file fails or
gets corrupted.)
Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a bootable USB flash
disk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original
motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update or Award BIOS Flash utilities.
3.1.1
ASUS Update utility
The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the
motherboard BIOS in Windows® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you
to:
•
•
•
•
•
Save the current BIOS file
Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet
Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file
Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and
View the BIOS version information.
This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard
package.
ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an
Internet Service Provider (ISP).
Installing ASUS Update
To install ASUS Update:
1.
2.
3.
Place the support DVD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears.
Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update.
The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system.
ASUS M3N WS
3-1
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.
Updating the BIOS through the Internet
To update the BIOS through the Internet:
1.
Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start
> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update
main window appears.
2.
Select Update BIOS from the
Internet option from the drop-down
menu, then click Next.
3.
Select the ASUS FTP site nearest
you to avoid network traffic, or
click Auto Select. Click Next.
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Chapter 3: BIOS setup
4.
5.
From the FTP site, select the BIOS
version that you wish to download.
Click Next.
Follow the screen instructions to
complete the update process.
The ASUS Update utility is
capable of updating itself through
the Internet. Always update the
utility to avail all its features.
Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file
To update the BIOS through a BIOS file:
1.
Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows® desktop by clicking Start
> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update
main window appears.
2.
Select Update BIOS from a file
option from the drop-down menu,
then click Next.
3.
Locate the BIOS file from the Open win
4.
Follow the screen instructions to compl
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ASUS M3N WS
3-3
3.1.2
Creating a bootable floppy disk
1.
Do either one of the following to create a bootable floppy disk.
DOS environment
a. Insert a 1.44MB floppy disk into the drive.
b. At the DOS prompt, type format A:/Sthen press <Enter>.
Windows® XP environment
a. Insert a 1.44 MB floppy disk to the floppy disk drive.
b. Click Start from the Windows® desktop, then select My Computer.
c. Select the 3 1/2 Floppy Drive icon.
d. Click File from the menu, then select Format. A Format 3 1/2 Floppy
Disk window appears.
e. Select Create an MS-DOS startup disk from the format options field,
then click Start.
Windows® Vista environment
a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44 MB floppy disk to the floppy disk
drive.
b. Click
from the Windows® desktop, then select Computer.
c. Right-click Floppy Disk Drive then click Format to display the Format 3
1/2 Floppy dialog box .
d. Select the Create an MS-DOS startup disk check box.
e. Click Start.
2.
Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS file to the bootable floppy
disk.
3-4
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.1.3
ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go
through the long process of booting from a floppy disk and using a DOS-based
utility. The EZ Flash 2 utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing
<Alt> + <F2> during the Power-On Self Tests (POST).
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:
1.
2.
3.
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for
the motherboard.
Save the BIOS file to a floppy disk or a USB flash disk, then restart the
system.
You can launch the EZ Flash 2 by two methods.
(1) Insert the floppy disk / USB flash disk that contains the BIOS file to the
floppy disk drive or the USB port.
Press <Alt> + <F2> during POST to display the following.
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility B328
FLASH TYPE: Winbond W25X80 8Mb SPI
Current ROM
Update ROM
BOARD: Unknown
BOARD: M3N WS
VER: Unknown
DATE: Unknown
VER: 0202
DATE: 05/02/2008
PATH: A:\
A:
Note
[Enter] Select
[S] Save
[ESC] Exit
[Tab] Switch
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move
(2) Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the Tools menu to select EZ Flash 2
and press <Enter> to enable it.
You can switch between drives by pressing <Tab> before the correct file
is found. Then press <Enter>.
4.
When the correct BIOS file is found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update
process and automatically reboots the system when done.
•
This function can support devices such as USB flash disks, or floppy disks
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 M3N WS
3-5
3.1.4
Updating the BIOS
The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) can be updated using the AwardBIOS
Flash Utility. Follow these instructions to update the BIOS using this utility.
1.
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) and download the latest BIOS file for
the motherboard. Save the BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk or a USB flash
disk in FAT 16/12 format.
Save only the updated BIOS file in the disk to avoid loading the wrong BIOS file.
2.
Copy the AwardBIOS Flash Utility (awdflash.exe) from the Software folder of
the support DVD to the floppy disk or the USB flash disk with the latest BIOS
file.
3.
Boot the system in DOS mode using the floppy disk or the USB flash disk you
created earlier.
4.
Under the DOS mode, use <X:> (X stands for the name of the disk
assignment) to switch to the folder of the floppy disk or the USB flash disk
you saved the BIOS file and AwardBIOS Flash Utility.
5.
At the prompt, type
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.33
awdflash then press
(C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved
<Enter>. The AwardBIOS
Flash Utility screen
appears.
For MCP78-M3N WS-00
Flash Type -
DATE:01/08/2008
File Name to Program:
Message: Please input File Name!
3-6
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
6.
Type the BIOS file name in
the File Name to Program
field, then press <Enter>.
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.33
(C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved
For MCP78-M3N WS-00
Flash Type -
DATE:01/08/2008
File Name to Program: M3N WS.bin
Message: Do You Want To Save Bios (Y/N)
7.
8.
Press <N> when the utility prompts you to save the current BIOS file. The
following screen appears.
The utility verifies the BIOS
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.33
(C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved
file in the floppy disk or the
USB flash disk and starts
flashing the BIOS file.
For MCP78-M3N WS-00
Flash Type -
DATE:01/08/2008
File Name to Program: M3N WS.bin
Programming Flash Memory - OFE00 OK
Write OK
No Update
Write Fail
Warning: Don’t Turn Off Power Or Reset System!
Do not turn off or reset the system during the flashing process!
9.
The utility displays a
Flashing Complete
message indicating that
you have successfully
flashed the BIOS file.
Remove the disk then
press <F1> to restart the
system.
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.33
(C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved
For MCP78-M3N WS-00
Flash Type -
DATE:01/08/2008
File Name to Program: M3N WS.bin
Flashing Complete
Press <F1> to Continue
Write OK
F1 Reset
No Update
Write Fail
ASUS M3N WS
3-7
3.1.5
Saving the current BIOS file
You can use the AwardBIOS Flash Utility to save the current BIOS file. You can
load the current BIOS file when the BIOS file gets corrupted during the flashing
process.
Make sure that the floppy disk or the USB flash disk has enough disk space to
save the file.
To save the current BIOS file using the AwardBIOS Flash Utility:
1.
2.
Follow steps 1 to 6 of the
previous section.
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.33
(C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved
For MCP78-M3N WS-00
Flash Type -
DATE:01/08/2008
Press <Y> when the utility
prompts you to save the
current BIOS file. The
File Name to Program: 0112.bin
Save current BIOS as:
following screen appears.
Message:
3.
Type a filename for the
current BIOS file in the
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.33
(C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved
Save current BIOS as field, For MCP78-M3N WS-00
then press <Enter>.
DATE:01/08/2008
Flash Type -
File Name to Program: 0112.bin
Checksum: 810DH
Save current BIOS as: 0113.bin
Message: Please Wait!
4.
The utility saves the
current BIOS file to the
floppy disk or the USB
flash disk, and then returns
to the BIOS flashing
process.
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.33
(C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved
For MCP78-M3N WS-00
Flash Type -
DATE:01/08/2008
File Name to Program: 0113.bin
Now Backup System BIOS to
File!
Message: Please Wait!
3-8
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.1.6
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.
You can monitor the BIOS recovery process on your display only when
installing an external graphics card.
If you use the onboard VGA output, your display does not show when the
BIOS recovery is proceeding. Insert the support DVD to the optical drive
and wait for a few minutes to restart your system.
Recovering the BIOS from the support DVD
To recover the BIOS from the support DVD:
1.
2.
3.
Turn on the system.
Insert the motherboard support DVD to the optical drive.
The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the DVD
for the BIOS file.
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...
Checking for floppy...
When found, the utility reads the BIOS file and starts flashing the corrupted
BIOS file.
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...
Checking for floppy...
Floppy found!
Reading file “M3N WS.ROM”. Completed.
Start flashing...
4.
Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.
ASUS M3N WS
3-9
Recovering the BIOS from the USB flash disk
To recover the BIOS from the USB flash disk:
1.
2.
3.
Insert the USB flash disk that contains the BIOS file to the USB port.
Turn on the system.
The utility will automatically checks the devices for the BIOS file. When
found, the utility reads the BIOS file and starts flashing the corrupted BIOS
file.
4.
Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.
•
•
Only the USB flash disk with FAT 32/16/12 format and single partition can
support ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3. The device size should be smaller than
8GB.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so
can cause system boot failure!
3-10
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.2
BIOS setup program
This motherboard supports a programmable firmware chip that you can update
using the provided utility described in section 3.1 Managing and updating your
BIOS.
Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconfiguring
your system, or prompted to “Run Setup.” This section explains how to configure
your system using this utility.
Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the
configuration of your computer in the future. For example, you can enable the
security password feature or change the power management settings. This
requires you to reconfigure your system using the BIOS Setup program so that the
computer can recognize these changes and record them in the CMOS RAM.
The firmware chip on the motherboard stores the Setup utility. When you start up
the computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program.
Press <Del> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility;
otherwise, POST continues with its test routines.
If you wish to enter Setup after POST, restart the system by pressing
<Ctrl+Alt+Delete>, or by pressing the reset button on the system chassis. You can
also restart by turning the system off and then back on. Do this last option only if
the first two failed.
The Setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Being a
menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various sub-menus and make
your selections from the available options using the navigation keys.
•
The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply for most conditions
to ensure optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after
changing any BIOS settings, load the default settings to ensure system
compatibility and stability. Select the Load Default Settings item under the
Exit Menu. See section 3.8 Exit Menu.
•
The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes
only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.
•
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for
this motherboard.
ASUS M3N WS
3-11
3.2.1
BIOS menu screen
Menu items
Menu bar
Configuration fields
General help
Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Power Boot Tools Exit
Main
Advanced
System Time
System Date
Language
21 : 45 : 36
Wed, Apr 2 2008
[English]
Select Menu
Item Specific Help
Legacy Diskette A:
[1.44M, 3.5 in.]
Change the internal
time.
Primary IDE Master
Primary IDE Slave
SATA1
[ST321122A]
[ASUS DVDS520/A]
[None]
SATA3
[None]
SATA2
[None]
SATA4
[None]
HDD SMART Monitoring
[Disabled]
Installed Memory
Usable Memory
1024MB
895MB
F1:Help
ESC: Exit
↑↓ : Select Item
→←: Select Menu
-/+: Change Value
Enter: Select SubMenu
F5: Setup Defaults
F10: Save and Exit
Sub-menu items
Legend bar
3.2.2
Menu bar
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:
Main
For changing the basic system configuration
Advanced
Power
For changing the advanced system settings
For changing the advanced power management (APM)
configuration
Boot
Tools
Exit
For changing the system boot configuration
For configuring options for special functions
For selecting the exit options and loading default
settings
To select an item on the menu bar, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard
until the desired item is highlighted.
•
•
The BIOS setup screens shown in this chapter are for reference purposes
only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS
information.
3-12
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.2.3
Legend bar
At the bottom of the Setup screen is a legend bar. The keys in the legend bar allow
you to navigate through the various setup menus. The following table lists the keys
found in the legend bar with their corresponding functions.
Navigation Key
<F1>
Function
Displays the General Help screen
Loads setup default values
<F5>
<Esc>
Exits the BIOS setup or returns to the main menu from a
sub-menu
Left or Right arrow
Up or Down arrow
Page Down or – (minus)
Page Up or + (plus)
<Enter>
Selects the menu item to the left or right
Moves the highlight up or down between fields
Scrolls backward through the values for the highlighted field
Scrolls forward through the values for the highlighted field
Brings up a selection menu for the highlighted field
Saves changes and exit
<F10>
3.2.4
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.
3.2.5
Sub-menu items
A solid triangle before each item on any menu screen means that the item has a
sub-menu. To display the sub-menu, select the item and press <Enter>.
3.2.6
Configuration fields
These fields show the values for the menu items. If an item is user-configurable,
you can change the value of the field opposite the item. You cannot select an item
that is not user-configurable.
A configurable field is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. To
change the value of a field, select it then press <Enter> to display a list of options.
Refer to 3.2.7 Pop-up window.
ASUS M3N WS
3-13
3.2.7
Pop-up window
Select a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the
configuration options for that item.
Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Main
Advanced
Power
Boot
Tools
Exit
System Time
System Date
15 : 30 : 36
Select Menu
Thu, Apr 6 2006
[1.44M, 3.5 in.]
Item Specific Help
Legacy Diskette A:
ecifies the capacity
d physical size of
skette drive A.
Legacy Diskette A:
Primary IDE Mast
Primary IDE Slav
SATA1
Disabled
..... [ ]
..... [ ]
..... [ ]
SATA3
720K , 3.5 in.
SATA2
SATA4
1.44M, 3.5 in.
HDD SMART Monito
Installed Memory
Usable Memory
↑↓ :Move ENTER:Accept ESC:Abort
F1:Help
ESC: Exit
↑↓ : Select Item
→←: Select Menu
-/+: Change Value
Enter: Select SubMenu
F5: Setup Defaults
F10: Save and Exit
Pop-up menu
3.2.8
General help
At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected
item.
3-14
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.3
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 3.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen
items and how to navigate through them.
Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Main
Advanced
Power
Boot
Tools
Exit
System Time
System Date
Language
19 : 49 : 36
Thu, Apr 3 2008
[English]
Select Menu
Item Specific Help
Change the internal
time.
Legacy Diskette A:
[1.44M, 3.5 in.]
Primary IDE Master
Primary IDE Slave
SATA1
[None]
[None]
[HDT722516DLA380]
SATA3
[ASUS
CRW-5232]
SATA2
SATA4
HDD SMART Monitoring
[None]
[None]
[Disabled]
Installed Memory
Usable Memory
1024MB
895MB
F1:Help
ESC: Exit
↑↓ : Select Item
→←: Select Menu
-/+: Change Value
Enter: Select SubMenu
F5: Setup Defaults
F10: Save and Exit
3.3.1
System Time [xx:xx:xx]
Allows you to set the system time.
3.3.2
System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]
Allows you to set the system date.
3.3.3
Language [English]
Allows you to select the display language for the BIOS setup screen.
Configuration options: [English] [French] [Deutsch] [Chinese(Trad.)]
[Chinese(Simp.)] [Japanese]
3.3.4
Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]
Sets the type of floppy drive installed.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [720K , 3.5 in.] [1.44M, 3.5 in.]
ASUS M3N WS
3-15
3.3.5
Primary IDE Master/Slave
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of IDE devices.
There is a separate sub-menu for each IDE device. Select a device item then
press <Enter> to display the IDE device information.
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Main
Primary IDE Master
Select Menu
PIO Mode
UDMA Mode
[Auto]
[Auto]
Item Specific Help
Primary IDE Master
Access Mode
[Auto]
[Auto]
Capacity
0 GB
Cylinder
Head
0
0
0
Sector
Transfer Mode
None
F1:Help
ESC: Exit
↑↓ : Select Item
→←: Select Menu
-/+: Change Value
Enter: Select SubMenu
F5: Setup Defaults
F10: Save and Exit
The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items
(Capacity, Cylinder, Head, Sector and Transfer Mode). These values are not
user-configurable. These items show N/A if no IDE device is installed in the
system.
PIO Mode [Auto]
Sets the PIO mode for the IDE device.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Mode 0] [Mode 1] [Mode 2] [Mode 3] [Mode 4]
UDMA Mode [Auto]
Disables or sets the UDMA mode.
Configuration options: [Disable] [Auto]
Primary IDE Master/Slave [Auto]
Select [Auto] to automatically detect an IDE hard disk drive. If automatic detection
is successful, the BIOS automatically fills in the correct values for the remaining
fields on this sub-menu. If the hard disk was already formatted on a previous
system, the setup BIOS may detect incorrect parameters. Select [Manual] to
manually enter the IDE hard disk drive parameters. If no drive is installed select
[None].
Configuration options: [None] [Auto] [Manual]
3-16
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Access Mode [Auto]
The default [Auto] allows automatic detection of an IDE hard disk drive.
Select [CHS] for this item if you set the IDE Primary Master/Slave to [Manual].
Configuration options: [CHS] [LBA] [Large] [Auto]
Before attempting to configure a hard disk drive, make sure you have the
correct configuration information supplied by the drive manufacturer. Incorrect
settings may cause the system to fail to recognize the installed hard disk.
Capacity
Displays the auto-detected hard disk capacity. This item is not configurable.
Cylinder
Shows the number of the hard disk cylinders. This item is not configurable.
Head
Shows the number of the hard disk read/write heads. This item is not configurable.
Sector
Shows the number of sectors per track. This item is not configurable.
Transfer Mode
Shows the Transfer mode. This item is not configurable.
After entering the IDE hard disk drive information into BIOS, use a disk utility,
such as FDISK, to partition and format new IDE hard disk drives. This is
necessary so that you can write or read data from the hard disk. Make sure to
set the partition of the Primary IDE hard disk drives to active.
ASUS M3N WS
3-17
3.3.6
SATA1/2/3/4
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 <Enter> to display the SATA device information.
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Main
SATA1
Select Menu
Extended IDE Drive
Access Mode
[Auto]
Item Specific Help
[Auto]
164 GB
Selects the type of
fixed disk connected
to the system.
Capacity
Cylinder
Head
Landing Zone
Sector
65535
16
65534
255
F1:Help
ESC: Exit
↑↓ : Select Item
→←: Select Menu
-/+: Change Value
Enter: Select SubMenu
F5: Setup Defaults
F10: Save and Exit
The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Capacity,
Cylinder, Head, Landing Zone and Sector). These values are not user-
configurable. These items show 0 if no SATA device is installed in the system.
Extended IDE Drive [Auto]
Selects the type of fixed disk connected to the system.
Configuration options: [None] [Auto]
Access Mode [Auto]
Sets the sector addressing mode.
Configuration options: [Large] [Auto]
Before attempting to configure a hard disk drive, make sure you have the
correct configuration information supplied by the drive manufacturer. Incorrect
settings may cause the system to fail to recognize the installed hard disk.
Capacity
Displays the auto-detected hard disk capacity. This item is not configurable.
Cylinder
Shows the number of the hard disk cylinders. This item is not configurable.
3-18
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Head
Shows the number of the hard disk read/write heads. This item is not configurable.
Landing Zone
Shows the number of landing zone per track. This item is not configurable.
Sector
Shows the number of sectors per track. This item is not configurable.
After entering the IDE hard disk drive information into BIOS, use a disk utility,
such as FDISK, to partition and format new IDE hard disk drives. This is
necessary so that you can write or read data from the hard disk. Make sure to
set the partition of the Primary IDE hard disk drives to active.
3.3.7
HDD SMART Monitoring [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the HDD Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting
Technology (SMART) feature.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3.3.8
Installed Memory [xxx MB]
Shows the size of installed memory. This item is not configurable.
3.3.9
Usable Memory [XXX MB]
Shows the size of usable memory. This item is not configurable.
ASUS M3N WS
3-19
3.4
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.
The configuration options for the Advanced menu items vary depending on the
CPU and DIMMs you install on the motherboard.
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Main
Advanced
Power
Boot
Tools
Exit
JumperFree Configuration
Select Menu
AI NET 2
Item Specific Help
CPU Configuration
Chipset
PCIPnP
Onboard Device Configuration
USB Configuration
Adjust system
frequency/voltage.
F1:Help
ESC: Exit
↑↓ : Select Item
→←: Select Menu
-/+: Change Value
Enter: Select SubMenu
F5: Setup Defaults
F10: Save and Exit
3.4.1
JumperFree Configuration
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Advanced
JumperFree Configuration
Select Menu
Item Specific Help
AI Tuning
[Auto]
Disabled
Disabled
200
x
x
x
x
Overclock Options
N.O.S. Option
CPU Frequency
PCIE Clock
Press [Enter] to
select overclock
profile
100
CPU Core Voltage
VDDNB Voltage
VDDA Voltage
NB Core Voltage
Memory Voltage
HT Voltage
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
AI Tuning [Auto]
Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal
frequency. Select either one of the preset overclocking configuration options:
Manual
Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.
Loads the optimal settings for the system.
Auto
Standard
AI Overclock
Loads the standard settings for the system.
Loads overclocking profiles with optimal parameters for stability when
overclocking.
AI N.O.S.
The ASUS Non-delay Overclocking System feature intelligently
determines the system load and automatically boosts the performance for
the most demanding tasks.
3-20
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Overclock Options [Disabled]
This item becomes user-configurable only when you set the AI Tuning item to [AI
Overclock] and allows you to set the overclocking options.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Overclock 3%] [Overclock 5%] [Overclock 8%]
[Overclock 10%]
N.O.S. Option [Disabled]
This item becomes user-configurable only when you set the AI Tuning item to [AI
N.O.S.] and allows you to set the overclocking options.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Overclock 3%] [Overclock 5%] [Overclock 8%]
[Overclock 10%]
CPU Frequency [200]
This item becomes user-configurable only when you set the AI Tuning item to
[Manual] and allows configuration of the CPU frequency. This item is adjusted by
typing the desired values using the numeric keypad and press the <Enter> key.
The values range from 200 to 600.
PCIE Clock [100]
This item becomes user-configurable only when you set the AI Tuning item to
[Manual] and is adjusted by typing the desired values using the numeric keypad
and press the <Enter> key. The values range from 100 to 200.
CPU Core Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the CPU Core voltage.
Configuration options: [Auto] [+ 12.5mv] [+100.0mv] [+112.5mv] [+200.0mv]
[+212.5mv] [+300.0mv] [+312.5mv]
VDDNB Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the VDDNB Voltage.
Configuration options: [Auto] [+ 12.5mv] [+100.0mv] [+112.5mv] [+200.0mv]
[+212.5mv] [+300.0mv] [+312.5mv]
VDDA Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the VDDA Voltage.
Configuration option: [Auto] [2.622V] [2.728V] [2.830V]
NB Core Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the NB Core Voltage.
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.10V] [1.12V] [1.14V] ~ [1.34V] [1.36V] [1.38V]
ASUS M3N WS
3-21
Memory Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the memory voltage.
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.800V] [1.820V] [1.840V] ~ [2.460V] [2.480V]
[2.500V]
HT Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the 1.2V HyperTransport voltage.
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.20V] [1.22V] [1.24V] ~ [1.46V] [1.48V] [1.50V]
3.4.2
Ai Net 2
This menu displays the status of the Local Area Network (LAN) cable connected to
the LAN (RJ-45) port.
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Advanced
AI NET 2
Select Menu
Item Specific Help
POST Check LAN Cable
[Disabled]
Enable or Disable LAN
cable check during
POST.
Pair
Status Length
LAN1(1-2)
LAN1(3-6)
LAN1(4-5)
LAN1(7-8)
Open
Open
Open
Open
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
LAN2(1-2)
LAN2(3-6)
LAN2(4-5)
LAN2(7-8)
Open
Open
Open
Open
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
POST Check LAN cable [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable LAN cable check during POST. When enabled, the
menu reports the cable faults or shorts, and displays the point (length) where the
faults or shorts are detected.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3.4.3
CPU Configuration
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Advanced
CPU Configuration
Select Menu
Item Specific Help
CPU Type
AMD Phenom(tm)9600 Quad-Core
Processor
2300MHz
512K x4
DRAM timing and
control
CPU Speed
Cache RAM(L2)
Cache RAM(L3) 2048K
DRAM Configuration
AMD Virtualization
AMD Live!
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
AMD Cool’n’Quiet Function [Disabled]
3-22
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
DRAM Configuration
This sub-menu allows you to adjust the DRAM-related items. Select an item, then
press <Enter> to edit.
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Advanced
DRAM Configuration
Select Menu
Item Specific Help
Memory clock Frequency
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Enabled]
Tcl
Auto, no user limit
MaxMemClk, limit by
Memory clock value
Manual, use Memory
Clock value
Trcd
Trp
Tras
Trc
1T/2T Memory Timing
Memory Hole Remapping
Advance Memory Settings
Memory Clock Frequency [Auto]
This item allows you to adjust the memory clock frequency.
Configuration options: [Auto] [DDR2 533] [DDR2 667] [DDR2 800] [DDR2
1066]
Tcl [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]
Trcd [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [3] [4] [5] [6]
Trp [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [3] [4] [5] [6]
Tras [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [5] [6] [7] ~ [16] [17] [18]
Trc [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [11] [12] [13] ~ [24] [25] [26]
1T/2T Memory Timing [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1T] [2T]
Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable memory hole remapping support.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Advance Memory Settings
This sub-menu allows you to adjust the Advance Memory Settings. Select an
item, then press <Enter> to edit.
ASUS M3N WS
3-23
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Advanced
Advance Memory Settings
Select Menu
Item Specific Help
Twr
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Auto]
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
Trrd
Trwt
Twtr
Trtp
Twrrd
Twrwr
Trdrd
Tref
Trfc
Auto, no user limit
MaxMemClk, limit by
Memory clock value
Manual, use Memory
Clock value
Max Async Latency
R/W Queue Bypass
Dynamic Idle Cycle Counter
DCQ Bypass Maximum
RdPadPcvFIFO Delay
Disable Jitter
DRAM Bank Interleaving
Bank Swizzle Mode
Twr [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [3] [4] [5] [6]
Trrd [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [2] [3] [4] [5]
Trwt [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [2] [3] ~ [8] [9]
Twtr [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3]
Trtp [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [2/4] [3/5]
Twrrd [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3]
Twrwr [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3]
Trdrd [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [2] [3] [4] [5]
Tref [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [7.8 us] [3.9 us]
Trfc [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]
Max Async Latency [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0 ns] [1 ns] [2 ns] ~ [13 ns] [14 ns] [15 ns]
R/W Queue Bypass [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [2x] [4x] [8x] [16x]
3-24
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Dynamic Idle Cycle Counter [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
DCQ Bypass Maximum[Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [0x] [1x] [2x] ~ [13x] [14x ] [15x]
RdPadRcvFIFO Delay [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.5] [2] [2.5] [3] [3.5]
Disable Jitter [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [OFF] [ON]
DRAM Bank Interleaving [Enabled]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Bank Swizzle Mode [Enabled]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
AMD Virtualization [Enabled]
The Vanderpool Technology allows a hardware platform to run multiple operating
systems separately and simultaneously, enabling one system to virtually function
as several systems.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
AMD Live! [Disabled]
Enables or disables the AMD® Live! Technology.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
AMD Cool’n’Quiet Function [Disabled]
Enables or disables the AMD Cool’n’Quiet function.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3.4.4
Chipset
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Chipset
Advanced
Select Menu
Item Specific Help
Hybrid Support
[Auto]
iGPU Frame Buffer Control [Auto]
x
Frame Buffer Size
Onboard GPU
128M
[Auto]
K8<->NB HT Speed
[Auto]
K8<->NB HT Width
[Auto]
CPU Spread Spectrum
PCIE Spread Spectrum
SATA Spread Spectrum
Primary Display Adapter
[Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Disabled]
[PCI-E]
Hybrid Support [Auto]
Allows you to enable or disable the Hybrid SLI function if you install a Hybrid SLI-
support graphics card.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled].
ASUS M3N WS
3-25
iGPU Frame Buffer Control [Auto]
Allows you to set the onboard GPU frame buffer control mode.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]
Frame Buffer Size [128M]
This item becomes user-configurable when you set the iGPU Frame Buffer
Control item to [Manual] and allows you to set frame buffer size for onboard GPU.
Configuration options: [64M] [128M] [256M] [512M]
The configuration options for this item vary depending on the total memory size
you install on the motherboard.
Onboard GPU [Auto]
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard GPU. Set this item to [Auto] to disable
the onboard GPU if the system detects any external graphics card. Set this item
to [Always Enable] to enable the onboard GPU even if the system detects any
external graphics card.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Always Enable]
K8<->NB HT Speed [Auto]
Allows you to set the HyperTransport speed between the CPU and the
Northbridge.
Configuration options: [Auto] [200 MHz] [400 MHz] [600 MHz].[800 MHz] [1 GHz]
[1.2 GHz] [1.4 GHz] [1.6 GHz] [1.8 GHz] [2 GHz] [2.2 GHz] [2.4 GHz] [2.6 GHz]
K8<->NB HT Width [Auto]
Allows you to set the HyperTransport width between the CPU and the Northbridge..
Configuration options: [↓ 8 ↑ 8 ] [↓16 ↑16 ] [Auto]
CPU Spread Spectrum [Disabled]
Set to [Disabled] to enhance FSB overclocking ability or [Enabled] for EMI control.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
PCIE Spread Spectrum [Disabled]
Set to [Disabled] to enhance PCIE overclocking ability or [Down Spread] for EMI
control.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Down Spread]
SATA Spread Spectrum [Disabled]
Allows you to adjust the SATA spread spectrum setting.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Down Spread]
Primary Display Adapter [PCI-E]
Allows you to select which graphics controller to use as the primary boot device.
Configuration options: [PCI] [PCI-E]
3-26
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.4.5
PCIPnP
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Advanced
PCIPnP
Select Menu
Item Specific Help
Plug & Play O/S
[No]
Select Yes if you are
using a Plug and Play
capable operating
system Select No if
you need the BIOS to
configure non-boot
devices
Resources Controlled By
IRQ Resources
[Auto]
x
**PCI Express relative items **
Maximum Payload Size [4096]
Plug & Play O/S [No]
When set to [No], the BIOS configures all the devices in the system. When set to
[Yes] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system
configures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot.
Configuration options: [No] [Yes]
Resources Controlled By [Auto]
When set to [Auto], the BIOS automatically configures all the boot and Plug and
Play compatible devices. Set to [Manual] if you want to assign the IRQ DMA and
memory base address fields.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]
When the item Resources Controlled By is set to [Auto], the item IRQ
Resources is grayed out and not user-configurable. Refer to the section IRQ
Resources for information on how to enable this item.
IRQ Resources
This sub-menu is activated only when the Resources Controlled By item is set to
[Manual].
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Advanced
Select Menu
IRQ Resources
Item Specific Help
IRQ-5 assigned to
IRQ-7 assigned to
IRQ-9 assigned to
IRQ-10 assigned to
IRQ-11 assigned to
IRQ-14 assigned to
[PCI Device]
[PCI Device]
[PCI Device]
[PCI Device]
[PCI Device]
[PCI Device]
Legacy ISA for devices
compliant with the
original PC AT bus
specification, PCI/
ISA PnP for devices
compliant with the
Plug and Play standard
IRQ-xx assigned to [PCI Device]
When set to [PCI Device], the specific IRQ is free for use of PCI/PnP
devices. When set to [Reserved], the IRQ is reserved for legacy ISA devices.
Configuration options: [PCI Device] [Reserved]
Maximum Payload Size [4096]
Sets maximum TLP payload size for the PCI Express devices. The unit is byte.
Configuration options: [128] [256] [512] [1024] [2048] [4096]
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3.4.6
Onboard Device Configuration
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Advanced
Onboard Device Configuration
Select Menu
Item Specific Help
IDE Function Setup
MCP Storage Config
Onboard 1394
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
[Auto]
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
HD Audio
HDMI Audio
Onboard LAN
Onboard LAN Boot ROM
Onboard 2nd LAN
Onboard LAN2 Boot ROM
IDE Function Setup
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Advanced
IDE Function Setup
Select Menu
OnChip IDE Channel0
IDE DMA transfer access
SATA Controller
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
Item Specific Help
IDE Prefetch Mode
OnChip IDE Channel 0 [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the onchip IDE channel 0 controller .
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
IDE DMA transfer access [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the IDE DMA transfer access.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
SATA Controller [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard SATA controller.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
IDE Prefetch Mode [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the IDE PIO read prefetch mode.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
MCP Storage Config
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Advanced
MCP Storage Config
SATA Operation Mode
Select Menu
[IDE]
Item Specific Help
3-28
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
SATA Operation Mode [IDE]
Allows you to select the onboard Serial ATA type.
Configuration options: [IDE] [RAID] [AHCI]
•
•
If you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as Parallel ATA physical
storage devices, keep the default setting [IDE].
If you want the Serial ATA hard disk drives to use the Advanced Host
Controller Interface (AHCI), set this item to [AHCI]. The AHCI allows
the onboard storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that
increases storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive
to internally optimize the order of commands.
•
If you want to create a RAID 0, 1, 0+1, 5, or JBOD configuration from the
Serial ATA hard disk drives, set this item to [RAID].
•
SATA 5-6 connectors support AHCI mode and RAID mode only. Make sure
to install the AHCI driver or RAID driver in the bundled support DVD before
connecting devices to SATA 5-6 connectors. Otherwise, the devices will not
work.
•
Due to chipset limitation, when set any of SATA ports to RAID mode, all
SATA ports run at RAID mode together.
Onboard 1394 [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard 1394 device support.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
HD Audio [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the High-Definition audio CODEC.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
HDMI Audio [Auto]
Allows you to disable or enable the HDMI Audio function.
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]
Make sure to set the HDMI Audio item to [Auto] to enable HDMI audio output.
Onboard LAN / Onboard 2nd LAN [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard LAN devices.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Onboard LAN / LAN2 Boot ROM [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard LAN boot ROM.
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
ASUS M3N WS
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3.4.7
USB Configuration
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Advanced
USB Configuration
Select Menu
USB Controller
USB 2.0 Controller
USB Legacy support
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
Item Specific Help
USB Controller [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the USB 1.1 and 2.0 controller.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the USB 2.0 controller.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
USB Legacy support [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable support for USB devices on legacy operating
systems (OS).
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3-30
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.5
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 <Enter> to display the configuration options.
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Main
Advanced
Power
Boot
Tools
Exit
ACPI Suspend Type
ACPI APIC support
APM Configuration
Hardware Monitor
[S1&S3]
[Enabled]
Select Menu
Item Specific Help
Select the ACPI state
used for System
Suspend.
F1:Help
ESC: Exit
↑↓ : Select Item
→←: Select Menu
-/+: Change Value
Enter: Select SubMenu
F5: Setup Defaults
F10: Save and Exit
3.5.1
ACPI Suspend Type [S1&S3]
Allows you to select the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) state
to be used for system suspend.
Configuration options: [S1(POS)] [S3(STR)] [S1&S3]
3.5.2
ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface
(ACPI) support in the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). When
set to [Enabled], the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3.5.3
APM Configuration
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Power
APM Configuration
Select Menu
Restore on AC Power Loss
[Power-Off]
[Instant-Off]
[Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Disabled]
0
0 : 0 : 0
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
Item Specific Help
PWR Button < 4 secs
Power Up On PCI/PCIE Devices
Power On By External Modems
Power On by RTC Alarm
Date(of Month) Alarm
Alarm Time(hh:mm)
HPET Support
Power On By PS/2 Keyboard
Press [Enter] to
select whether or not
to restart the system
after AC power loss
x
x
Restore on AC Power Loss [Power-Off]
Allows you to enable or disable the Restore on AC Power Loss function.
Configuration options: [Power-Off] [Power-On] [Last State]
ASUS M3N WS
3-31
PWR Button < 4 secs [Instant-Off]
When set to [Instant-Off], the system goes into Soft-off mode after you press the
power button for less than 4 seconds. When set to [Suspend], the system goes
into Suspend mode after you press the power button for less than 4 seconds.
Configuration options: [Suspend] [Instant-Off]
Power Up On PCI/PCIE Devices [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the PME to wake up from S5 by PCI/PCIE devices
and the NVIDIA® onboard LAN.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Power On By External Modems [Disabled]
When set to [Enabled], this item allows you to power on the computer in Soft-off
mode with an external modem.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
When a computer is off, turning an external modem off and then on causes an
initialization string that turns on the computer.
Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable RTC to generate a wake event. When this item
is set to [Enabled], the items Date (of Month) Alarm and Alarm Time (hh:mm)
become user-configurable with set values.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Date (of Month) Alarm [XX]
To set the date of alarm, highlight this item and press <Enter> to display the Date
(of Month) Alarm pop-up menu. Key-in a value within the specified range then
press <Enter>. Value ‘0’ means everyday. Configuration options: [Min=0] [Max=31]
Alarm Time (hh:mm) [ XX: XX: XX]
To set the time of alarm, highlight this item and press <Enter> to display the Alarm
Time pop-up menu. Key-in a value within the specified range then press <Enter>.
Configuration options: [Min=0] [Max=23]---hour
[Min=0] [Max=59]---minute
[Min=0] [Max=59]---second
HPET Support [Enabled]
The hardware High Precision Efficient Timer (HPET) is to increase the
performance of the Vista Multimedia player and can meet Vista’s requirement.
Disable this feature if your system is running under XP environment.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
3-32
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Power Up By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]
Allows you to disable the Power On by PS/2 keyboard function or set specific keys
on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature requires an ATX power
supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Ctrl-ESC] [Power Key]
3.5.4
Hardware Monitor
The items in this sub-menu displays the hardware monitor values automatically
detected by the BIOS. It also allows you to change CPU Q-Fan feature-related
parameters. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Power
Hardware Monitor
Select Menu
CPU Fan Type
[DC]
Item Specific Help
CPU Q-Fan Control
CPU Q-Fan Profile
Chassis Q-Fan Control
Chassis Q-Fan Profile
Vcore Voltage
[Disabled]
Performance
[Disabled]
Performance
[ 1.16V]
[ 3.31V]
[ 4.97V]
[11.96V]
Press [Enter] to
enable or disable
3.3V Voltage
5V Voltage
12V Voltage
CPU Temperature
M/B Temperature
CPU Fan Speed
39ºC
33ºC
2922 RPM
0 RPM
CHA_FAN1 Speed
CHA_FAN2 Speed
PWR_FAN Speed
0 RPM
0 RPM
CPU Fan Speed Warning
[600 RPM]
CPU Fan Type [DC]
Allows you to select the CPU fan type you installed on the motherboard.
Configuration options: [DC] [PWM]
•
•
If you install a PWM (4-pin) fan but set this item to [DC], the fan you
installed may not work.
If you install a DC (3-pin) fan but set this item to a [PWM], the Q-Fan
Control function will not work and the fan you install will always run at full
speed.
CPU Q-Fan Control [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the CPU Q-Fan controller.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
The CPU Q-Fan Profile item becomes user-configurable when you enable the
CPU Q-Fan Control feature.
ASUS M3N WS
3-33
CPU Q-Fan Profile [Performance]
Allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU Q-Fan. When
set to [Optimal], the CPU fan automatically adjusts depending on the CPU
temperature. Set this item to [Silent] to minimize fan speed for quiet CPU fan
operation, or [Performance] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.
Configuration options: [Performance] [Optimal] [Silent]
Chassis Q-Fan Control [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Chassis Q-Fan controller.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
The Chassis Q-Fan Profile item becomes user-configurable when you enable
the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature.
Chassis Q-Fan Profile [Auto]
Allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the Chassis Q-Fan.
Configuration options: [Performance] [Optimal] [Silent]
Vcore Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through
the onboard voltage regulators. Select [Ignored] if you do not want to detect this
item.
CPU Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]
M/B Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard
and CPU temperatures. These items are not user-configurable.
CPU Fan Speed [xxxxRPM]
CHA_FAN1 Speed [xxxxRPM]
CHA_FAN2 Speed [xxxxRPM]
PWR_FAN Speed [xxxxRPM]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU/
Chassis/Power fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected
to the motherboard, the field shows 0 RPM. These items are not user-configurable.
CPU Fan Speed Warning [600 RPM]
Allows you to set the CPU fan warning speed function, which gives off a warning
when the CPU fan speed is too low. If you set this item to [Disabled], the system
will not warn you even if no fan is installed or if the fan is not functioning properly.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [600 RPM] [800 RPM] [1200 RPM]
3-34
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.6
Boot menu
The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item
then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Main
Advanced
Power
Boot
Tools
Exit
Boot Device Priority
Removable Drives
Select Menu
Boot Settings Configuration
Item Specific Help
Security
Select Boot Device
Priority
F1:Help
ESC: Exit
↑↓ : Select Item
→←: Select Menu
-/+: Change Value
Enter: Select SubMenu
F5: Setup Defaults
F10: Save and Exit
3.6.1
Boot Device Priority
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Boot
Select Menu
Boot Device Priority
Item Specific Help
1st Boot Device
[Removable]
[Hard Disk]
[CDROM]
2nd Boot Device
3rd Boot Device
4th Boot Device
[Disabled]
Select Your Boot
Device Priority
1st ~ 4th Boot Device [Removable]
These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices.
The number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of
devices installed in the system.
Configuration options: [Removable] [Hard Disk] [CDROM] [Disabled]
3.6.2
Removable Drives
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Boot
Removable Drives
Select Menu
1. Floppy Disks
Item Specific Help
1. Floppy Disks
Allows you to assign a removable drive attached to the system.
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3-35
3.6.3
Boot Settings Configuration
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Boot
Boot Settings Configuration
Select Menu
Case Open Warning
[Enabled]
[Enabled]
[Disabled]
[On]
Item Specific Help
Quick Boot
Allows the system to
skip certain tests
while booting. This
will decrease the time
needed to boot the
system
Boot Up Floppy Seek
Bootup Num-Lock
Typematic Rate Setting
Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec)
Typematic Delay (Msec)
OS Select For DRAM > 64MB
Full Screen LOGO
[Disabled]
6
x
x
250
[Non-OS2]
[Enabled]
[All, But Keyboard]
Halt On
Case Open Warning [Enabled]
Enables or disables the chassis open status feature. Setting to [Enabled] to send
warning messages when the chassis is opened.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Quick Boot [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the system quick boot feature. When Enabled, the
system skips certain tests while booting.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Boot Up Floppy Seek [Disabled]
Enable this item to run floppy drives test during POST to determine whether they
have 40 or 80 tracks.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Bootup Num-Lock [On]
Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock.
Configuration options: [Off] [On]
Typematic Rate Setting [Disabled]
Allows you to set the keystroke rate. Enable this item to configure the Typematic
Rate (Chars/Sec) and the Typematic Delay (Msec) items.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec) [6]
Allows you to select the rate at which a character repeats when you hold a key.
Configuration options: [6] [8] [10] [12] [15] [20] [24] [30]
Typematic Delay (Msec) [250]
Allows you to set the delay before keystrokes begin to repeat.
Configuration options: [250] [500] [750] [1000]
3-36
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
OS Select for DRAM > 64MB [Non-OS2]
Set this item to OS2 only when you are running on an OS/2 operating system with
an installed RAM of greater than 64 MB.
Configuration options: [Non-OS2] [OS2]
Full Screen LOGO [Enabled]
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 MyLogo 2™ feature.
Halt On [All, But Keyboard]
Allows you to set the error report type.
Configuration options: [All Errors] [No Errors] [All, But Keyboard] [All, But Diskette]
[All, But Disk/Key]
3.6.4
Security
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Boot
Security
Select Menu
Supervisor Password
User Password
Password Check
Clear
Item Specific Help
Clear
[Setup]
Supervisor Password
User Password
These fields allow you to set passwords:
To set a password:
1.
2.
Select an item then press <Enter>.
Type in a password using a combination of a maximum of eight (8)
alpha-numeric characters, then press <Enter>.
3.
When prompted, confirm the password by typing the exact characters again,
then press <Enter>. The password field setting is changed to [Set].
To clear the password:
1.
Select the password field and press <Enter> twice. The following message
appears:
PASSWORD DISABLED !!!
Press any key to continue...
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3-37
2.
Press any key to continue. The password field setting is changed to [Clear].
A note about passwords
The Supervisor password is required to enter the BIOS Setup program
preventing unauthorized access. The User password is required to boot the
system preventing unauthorized use.
Forgot your password?
If you forget your password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real Time
Clock (RTC) RAM. The RAM data containing the password information is
powered by the onboard button cell battery. If you need to erase the CMOS
RAM, refer to section 2.6 Jumpers for instructions.
Password Check
This field requires you to enter the password before entering the BIOS setup or the
system. Select [Setup] to require the password before entering the BIOS Setup.
Select [System] to require the password before entering the system.
Configuration options: [Setup] [System]
3-38
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
3.7
Tools menu
The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select
an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Main
Advanced
Power
Boot
Tools
Exit
ASUS O.C. Profile
ASUS EZ Flash 2
Select Menu
Item Specific Help
F1:Help
ESC: Exit
↑↓ : Select Item
→←: Select Menu
-/+: Change Value
Enter: Select SubMenu
F5: Setup Defaults
F10: Save and Exit
3.7.1
ASUS O.C. Profile
This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Tools
ASUS BIOS Profile
Select Menu
Load BIOS Profile
Save BIOS Profile
Item Specific Help
Press [Enter] to
select.
Load BIOS Profile
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Tools
Load BIOS Profile
Select Menu
Load from Profile 1
Load from Profile 2
Load from File
Item Specific Help
Load BIOS Profile
from Profile 1.
Load from Profile 1/2
Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Press
<Enter> to load the file.
ASUS M3N WS
3-39
Load from File
Allows you to load the previous BIOS file saved in the hard disk/floppy disk/USB
flash disk with the FAT32/16/12 format. Follow the instructions below to load the
BIOS file.
1. Insert the storage devices that contains the “xxx.CMO” file.
2. Turn on the system.
3. Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the “Tools” menu to select ASUS O.C.
Profile > Load from File. Press <Enter> then the setup screen will
appear.
4. Press <Tab> to switch between drives before the correct “xxx.CMO” file
is found. Then press <Enter> to load the file.
5. A pop-up message will inform you when the loading process finishes.
•
•
Suggest only to update the BIOS file coming from the same memory/CPU
configuration and BIOS version.
Only the “xxx.CMO” file can be loaded.
Save BIOS Profile
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Tools
Save BIOS Profile
Select Menu
Save to Profile 1
Save to Profile 2
Save to File
Item Specific Help
Save current BIOS
Profile to Profile 1.
Save to Profle 1/2
Allows you to save the current BIOS file to the BIOS Flash. Press <Enter> to save
the file.
Save to File
Allows you to save the current BIOS file to the hard disk/floppy disk/USB flash disk
with FAT32/16/12 format. Follow the instructions below to save the BIOS file.
1. Insert the storage devices with enough space.
2. Turn on the system.
3. Enter the BIOS setup program. Go to the “Tools” menu to select “Save to
File.” Press <Enter> then the setup screen will appear.
4. Press <Tab> to switch between the drives. Press hot-key <S> to save
the file.
5. Key in the file name. Then press <Enter>.
6. A pop-up message will inform you when the saving process finishes.
3-40
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
ASUSTek O.C. Profile Utility B328
Current CMOS
Update CMOS
BOARD: M3N WS
BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
DATE: Unknown
VER: 0202
DATE: 05/02/2008
PATH: A:\
A:
CMOS backup is done! Press any key to Exit.
Note
[Enter] Select
[S] Save
[ESC] Exit
[Tab] Switch
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move
The BIOS file will be saved as “xxx.CMO“.
3.7.2
ASUS EZ Flash 2
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation
message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No],
then press <Enter> to confirm your choice.
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility B328
FLASH TYPE: Winbond W25X80 8Mb SPI
Current ROM
Update ROM
BOARD: Unknown
BOARD: M3N WS
VER: Unknown
DATE: Unknown
VER: 0202
DATE: 05/02/2008
PATH: A:\
A:
Note
[Enter] Select
[Tab] Switch
[S] Save
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move
[ESC] Exit
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3.8
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.
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Main
Advanced
Power
Boot
Tools
Exit
Exit & Save Changes
Exit & Discard Changes
Load Setup Default
Discard Changes
Select Menu
Item Specific Help
This option save data
to CMOS and exiting
the setup menu.
F1:Help
ESC: Exit
↑↓ : Select Item
→←: Select Menu
-/+: Change Value
Enter: Select SubMenu
F5: Setup Defaults
F10: Save and Exit
Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options
from this menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit.
Exit & Save Changes
Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit
menu to ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard
backup battery sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turned
off. When you select this option, a confirmation window appears. Select YES to
save changes and exit.
If you attempt to exit the Setup program without saving your changes, the
program prompts you with a message asking if you want to save your changes
before exiting. Press <Enter> to save the changes while exiting.
Exit & Discard Changes
Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to the
Setup program. If you made changes to fields other than System Date, System
Time, and Password, the BIOS asks for a confirmation before exiting.
Load Setup Default
This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the
Setup menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a confirmation
window appears. Select YES to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes
or make other changes before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM.
Discard Changes
This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the
previously saved values. After selecting this option, a confirmation appears. Select
YES to discard any changes and load the previously saved values.
3-42
Chapter 3: BIOS setup
Chapter summary
4
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
Software information ................................................................... 4-9
RAID configurations .................................................................. 4-35
Creating a RAID driver disk....................................................... 4-43
ASUS M3N WS
4.1
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.
•
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.
•
Make sure that you install Windows® 2000 Service Pack 4 or the Windows®
XP Service Pack 2 or later versions before installing the drivers for better
compatibility and system stability.
4.2
Support DVD information
The support DVD that came with the motherboard package contains the drivers,
software applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard
features.
The contents of the support DVD are subject to change at any time without
notice. Visit the ASUS website(www.asus.com) for updates.
4.2.1
Running the support DVD
Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the
Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer.
Click an icon to
display support
DVD/motherboard
information
Click an item to install
If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support
DVD to locate the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the
ASSETUP.EXE to run the DVD.
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4-1
4.2.2
Drivers menu
The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed
devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices.
ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Anti-Virus and Drivers Utility
Installs all of the drivers and anti-virus utility through the installation wizard.
NVIDIA Chipset Driver Program
Installs the NVIDIA® chipset drivers for the NVIDIA GeForce 8200 chipset.
Realtek Audio Driver
Installs the Realtek® ALC888 audio driver and application.
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Driver (Windows® XP only)
Installs the AMD® Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ technology driver.
Realtek RTL8111C LAN Driver
Installs the Realtek® RTL8111C LAN driver.
NVIDIA Hybrid SLI Driver
Installs the NVIDIA® Hybrid SLI Driver. This item appears only when you are
running Windows Vista® OS.
Uninstall the onboard NVIDIA display driver BEFORE installing the Hybrid SLI
driver.
NVIDIA HDMI Audio Driver
Installs the NVIDIA® HDMI audio driver.
4-2
Chapter 4: Software support
4.2.3
Utilities menu
The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard
supports.
Click to display the
next page
Click to return to the
previous page
ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities
Installs all of the utilities through the Installation Wizard.
ASUS Cool‘n’Quiet Utility
This item installs 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. This utility helps you keep your computer
in healthy operating condition.
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4-3
ASUS Update
Allows you to download the latest version of the BIOS from the ASUS website.
Before using the ASUS Update, make sure that you have an Internet connection
so you can connect to the ASUS website.
ASUS AI Suite
Installs the ASUS AI Suite.
Adobe Acrobat Reader 8
Installs the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader that allows you to open, view, and print
documents in Portable Document Format (PDF).
Realtek Teaming Utility
Installs the Realtek LAN Teaming Utility.
InterVideo WinDVD 8 Trial
Installs the InterVideo WinDVD 8 Trial to enjoy your DVD entertainment.
Ulead PhotoImpact 12 SE
Installs the PhotoImpact image editing software.
CyberLink PowerBackup
Installs CyberLink PowerBackup to back up and restore your data easily.
Corel Snapfire Plus SE
Installs Corel Snapfire Plus SE.
Anti-Virus Utility
The anti-virus application detects and protects your computer from viruses that
destroys data.
Anti-Virus Utility Download
Updates your anti-virus utility version.
4-4
Chapter 4: Software support
4.2.4
Make Disk menu
The Make Disk menu contains items to create the NVIDIA® GeForce™ 8200
SATA/RAID driver disk.
Click to display the
next page
Click to return to the
previous page
NVIDIA 32/64bit XP SATA RAID Driver (Disk 1/2)
Allows you to create NVIDIA SATA RAID driver disks for 32/64bit Windows® XP.
NVIDIA 32/64bit XP AHCI Driver (Disk 1/2)
Allows you to create an NVIDIA AHCI driver disk for 32/64bit Windows® XP.
Due to floppy disc capacity limitation, when creating a RAID configuration
under 32/64bit Windows® Vista, please install the AHCI/RAID driver through the
motherboard support DVD or a USB device.
Find RAID driver in the support DVD through the path below:
Drivers\Chipset\Disk\RAID
Find AHCI driver in the support DVD through the path below:
Drivers\Chipset\Disk\AHCI
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4-5
4.2.5
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.
4.2.6
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.
4-6
Chapter 4: Software support
4.2.7
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.
ASUS M3N WS
4-7
Technical support Form
Displays the ASUS Technical Support Request Form that you have to fill out when
requesting technical support.
File list
Displays the contents of the support DVD and a brief description of each in text
format.
4-8
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3
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.
4.3.1
ASUS MyLogo2™
The ASUS MyLogo2™ utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the
image that appears on screen during the Power-On Self-Tests (POST). The ASUS
MyLogo2™ is automatically installed when you install the ASUS Update utility from
the support DVD. See section 4.2.3 Utilities menu for details.
•
Before using the ASUS MyLogo2™, use the AwardBIOS Flash Utility to
make a copy of your original BIOS file, or obtain the latest BIOS version
from the ASUS website. See section 3.1.4 Updating the BIOS and 3.1.5
Saving the current BIOS file.
•
Make sure that the BIOS item Full Screen Logo is set to [Enabled]
if you wish to use ASUS MyLogo2. See section 3.6.3 Boot Settings
Configuration.
•
•
You can create your own boot logo image in GIF file format.
The file size should be smaller than 150 K.
To launch the ASUS MyLogo2™
1.
Launch the ASUS Update utility. Refer to section 3.1.1 ASUS Update utility
for details.
2.
3.
Select Options from the drop down menu, then click Next.
Check the option Launch MyLogo to replace system boot logo before
flashing BIOS, then click Next.
4.
5.
Select Update BIOS from a file from the drop down menu, then click Next.
When prompted, locate the new
BIOS file, then click Next. The ASUS
MyLogo window appears.
6.
From the left window pane, select the
folder that contains the image you
intend to use as your boot logo.
ASUS M3N WS
4-9
7.
8.
9.
When the logo images appear on the
right window pane, select an image to
enlarge by clicking on it.
Adjust the boot image to your desired
size by selecting a value on the Ratio
box.
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.
4-10
Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.2
Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology
The motherboard supports the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology that dynamically
and automatically change the CPU speed, voltage, and amount of power
depending on the task the CPU performs.
Enabling Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology
To enable Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology:
1.
2.
Turn on the system and enter BIOS by pressing the <Del> key during the
Power On Self-Tests (POST).
Go to Advanced > CPU Configuration > AMD Cool ‘n’Quiet Function and
set it to [Enabled]. See section 3.4 Advanced menu.
3.
4.
Save your changes and exit BIOS Setup.
Reboot your computer and set your Power Option Properties depending on
your operating system.
Windows® XP
1.
From the Windows® XP operating system, click Start. Select Settings >
Control Panel.
2.
3.
Make sure the Control Panel is set to Classic View.
Double-click the Display icon in the Control Panel then select the Screen
Saver tab.
4.
5.
Click the Power button. The following dialogue box appears.
From the Power schemes combo list box, select Minimal Power
Management.
6.
Click OK to effect settings.
ASUS M3N WS
4-11
Windows® Vista
1.
From the Windows® Vista operating system, click Start. Select Control
Panel.
2.
3.
Make sure the Control Panel is set to Classic View.
Double-click the Personalization icon in the Control Panel then click the
Screen Saver item.
4.
5.
6.
Click “Change power settings...”. The following dialogue box appears.
From the Preferred plans, select Power saver.
Close all windows.
•
•
•
Make sure to install the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ driver and application before
using this feature.
The AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ technology feature works only with the AMD
heatsink and fan assembly with monitor chip
If you purchased a separate heatsink and fan package, use the ASUS
Q-Fan technology feature to automatically adjust the CPU fan speed
according to your system loading.
4-12
Chapter 4: Software support
Launching the Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ software
The motherboard support CD/DVD includes the Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ software that
enables you to view your system’s real-time CPU Frequency and voltage.
Make sure to install the Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ software from the motherboard support
CD/DVD. Refer to section 4.2.3 Utilities menu for details.
To launch the Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ program:
1.
2.
3.
If you are using Windows® XP, click the Start button. Select Programs >
ASUS > Cool & Quiet > Cool & Quiet.
If you are using Windows® Vista, click the Start button. Select All Programs
> ASUS > Cool & Quiet > Cool & Quiet.
The Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ technology screen appears and displays the current
CPU Frequency and CPU Voltage.
ASUS M3N WS
4-13
4.3.3
Audio configurations
The Realtek® audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio capability to deliver the
ultimate audio experience on your computer. The software provides Jack-Sensing
function, S/PDIF Out support, and interrupt capability. The CODEC also includes
the Realtek® proprietary UAJ® (Universal Audio Jack) technology for all audio ports,
eliminating cable connection errors and giving users plug and play convenience.
Follow the installation wizard to install the Realtek® Audio Driver from the support
CD/DVD that came with the motherboard package.
If the Realtek audio software is correctly installed, you will find the Realtek HD
Audio Manager icon on the taskbar.
From the taskbar, double-click on the SoundEffect icon to display the Realtek HD
Audio Manager.
Realtek HD Audio Manager
A.
Realtek HD Audio Manager for Windows Vista™
Set default Minimize
Exit button
Device
device button
button
advanced
settings
Configuration
option tabs
Connector
settings
Analog
and digital
connector
status
Control
settings
window
Information
button
4-14
Chapter 4: Software support
Information
Click the Information button (
) to
display information about the audio driver
version, DirectX version, audio controller,
audio codec, and language setting.
Device advanced settings
Click Device advanced settings to show
further settings for the playback and
recording device.
Connector settings
Click the Connector Settings button (
) to show further settings for the
analog/digital output/input ports.
Exit
Click the Exit button or the OK button (
) to exit the Realtek HD Audio
Manager.
Configuration options
Click any of the tabs in this area to configure your audio settings.
The Configuration options shown in this section are for reference purposes
only and may not exactly match what you see on your screen. In the Windows
Vista™ environment, Realtek HD Audio Manager automatically detects devices
connected to the analog/digital ports and shows corresponding configuration
options tabs.
ASUS M3N WS
4-15
Digital Output
The Realtek® audio CODEC allows you to
connect an external audio output device
via the coaxial/digital S/PDIF port. You
can set your listening environment, set
the karaoke, or select pre-programmed
equalizer settings for your listening
pleasure.
To set the digital output options
1.
From the Realtek HD Audio
Manager, click the Digital Output
tab.
2.
3.
Click Set Default Device to set the digital output port as the default audio
output device.
Click the Sound Effects sub-tab for options on changing the acoustic
environment and karaoke settings, or click the Default Format sub-tab for
options on changing the default audio output format.
4.
Click
to effect the Digital Output settings and exit.
Speakers
The Speakers tab allows you to configure
audio output settings using the analog
audio ports.
To set the speakers options
1.
From the Realtek HD Audio
Manager, click the Speakers tab.
2.
Click Set Default Device to set the
analog ports as the default audio
output device.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Click the Speaker Configuration
sub-tab for audio channel options and test.
Click the Sound Effects sub-tab for options on changing the acoustic
environment and karaoke settings.
Click the Room Correction sub-tab for individual speaker distance
adjustment.
Click the Default Format sub-tab for options on changing the default audio
output format.
7.
Click
to effect the Speakers settings and exit.
4-16
Chapter 4: Software support
Line In
The Line In tab allows you to configure
audio input settings using the analog line
in port.
To set the analog line in options
1.
From the Realtek HD Audio
Manager, click the Line In tab.
2.
Click Set Default Device to set the
analog line in port as the default
audio input device.
3.
4.
The Line In tab allows you to adjust
the recording and playback volume and set a default format for audio input.
Click
to effect the Line In settings and exit.
Microphone
The Microphone tab allows you to
configure the audio input settings using
the analog microphone port and to check
if your microphone device is connected
properly.
To set the Microphone options
1.
From the Realtek HD Audio
Manager, click the Microphone tab.
2.
In the Microphone Effects sub-
tab, click the Noise Suppression
option button to reduce the static background noise when recording. Click the
Acoustic Echo Cancellation option button to reduce the echo from the front
speakers when recording. Click the Beam Forming option button to eliminate
surrounding noise interferences.
3.
4.
Click the Default Format sub-tab for options on changing the default audio
input format.
Click
to effect the Microphone settings and exit.
ASUS M3N WS
4-17
B.
Realtek HD Audio Manager for Windows XP™
Exit button
Configuration
options
Minimize
button
Control settings
window
Information
button
Information
Click the information button (
) to
display information about the audio driver
version, DirectX version, audio controller,
audio codec, and language setting.
Minimize
Click the minimize button (
) to minimize the window.
Exit
Click the exit button (
) to exit the Realtek HD Audio Manager.
4-18
Chapter 4: Software support
Configuration options
Click any of the tabs in this area to configure your audio settings.
Sound Effect
The Realtek® audio CODEC allows you
to set your listening environment, adjust
the equalizer, set the karaoke, or select
pre-programmed equalizer settings for
your listening pleasure.
To set the sound effect options
1.
From the Realtek HD Audio
Manager, click the Sound Effect
tab.
2.
Click the shortcut buttons or the
drop-down menus for options on changing the acoustic environment, adjust
the equalizer, or set the karaoke to your desired settings.
3.
Click
to effect the Sound Effect settings and exit.
Mixer
The Mixer option allows you to configure
audio output (playback) volume and audio
input (record) volume.
To set the mixer options
1.
From the Realtek HD Audio
Manager, click the Mixer tab.
2.
Turn the volume buttons to adjust
the Playback and/or Record volume.
The Mixer option activates voice input from all channels by default. Make sure
to set all channels to mute (
) if you do not want voice input.
3.
4.
Make adjustments to Wave, SW Synth, Front, Rear, CD volume, Mic volume,
Line Volume, and Stereo mix, etc. by clicking the control tabs and dragging
them up and down until you get the desired levels.
Click the next button (
) to display more menu options.
Click
to effect the Mixer settings and exit.
ASUS M3N WS
4-19
Audio I/O
The Audio I/O option allows you configure
your input/output settings.
To set the Audio I/O options
1.
2.
3.
From the Realtek HD Audio
Manager, click the Audio I/O tab.
Click the drop-down menu to select
the channel configuration.
The control settings window displays
the status of connected devices.
Click
for analog and digital options.
4.
Click <OK> to effect the Audio I/O settings and exit
Microphone
The Microphone option allows you
configure your input/output settings
and to check if your audio devices are
connected properly.
To set the Microphone options
1.
From the Realtek HD Audio
Manager, click the Microphone
tab.
2.
3.
4.
Click the Noise Suppression
option button to reduce the static background noise when recording.
Click the Acoustic Echo Cancellation option button to reduce the echo from
the front speakers when recording.
Click the Beam Forming option button to eliminate surrounding noise
interferences. Click
to start microphone calibration.
5.
Click to effect the Microphone settings and exit.
4-20
Chapter 4: Software support
3D Audio Demo
The 3D Audio Demo option gives you a
demonstration of the 3D audio feature.
To start the 3D Audio Demo
1.
From the Realtek HD Audio
Manager, click the 3D Audio Demo
tab.
2.
Click the option buttons to change
the sound, moving path, or
environment settings.
3.
4.
Click
Click
to test your settings.
to effect the 3D Audio Demo settings and exit.
ASUS M3N WS
4-21
4.3.4
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.
Installing PC Probe II
To install PC Probe II on your computer:
1.
Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab
appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature.
If Autorun is not enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support
DVD to locate the setup.exe file from the ASUS PC Probe II folder. Double-click
the setup.exe file to start installation.
2.
3.
Click the Utilities tab, then click ASUS PC Probe II.
Follow the screen instructions to complete installation.
Launching PC Probe II
You can launch the PC Probe II right after installation or anytime from the
Windows® desktop.
To launch the PC Probe II from the Windows® desktop, click Start > All Programs
> ASUS > PC Probe II > PC Probe II v1.xx.xx. The PC Probe II main window
appears.
After launching the application, the PC Probe II icon appears in the Windows®
taskbar. Click this icon to close or restore the application.
Using PC Probe II
Main window
The PC Probe II main window
allows you to view the current
status of your system and change
the utility configuration. By
default, the main window displays
the Preference section. You can
close or restore the Preference
section by clicking on the triangle on the main window right handle.
Click to close the
Preference panel
4-22
Chapter 4: Software support
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.
When displayed, the monitor panel for that sensor also turns red. Refer to the
Monitor panels section for details.
Preference
You can customize the application using
the Preference section in the main window.
Click the box before each preference to
activate or deactivate.
ASUS M3N WS
4-23
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.
Small display
Large display
Changing the monitor panels position
To change the position of the monitor panels in the desktop,
click the arrow down button of the Scheme options, then select
another position from the list box. Click OK when finished.
Moving the monitor panels
All monitor panels move together using a magnetic effect. If
you want to detach a monitor panel from
the group, click the horseshoe magnet
icon. You can now move or reposition the
panel independently.
Adjusting the sensor threshold value
You can adjust the sensor threshold
value in the monitor panel by
clicking the or buttons. You can
also adjust the threshold values
Click to
increase
value
using the Config window.
Click to
You cannot adjust the sensor
threshold values in a small
monitoring panel.
decrease
value
4-24
Chapter 4: Software support
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.
You can enlarge or reduce the browser size by dragging the bottom right corner
of the browser.
DMI browser
Click to display the DMI
(Desktop Management Interface)
browser. This browser displays various
desktop and system information.
Click the plus sign (+) before DMI
Information to display the available
information.
ASUS M3N WS
4-25
PCI browser
Click
to display the PCI
(Peripheral Component Interconnect)
browser. This browser provides
information on the PCI devices installed
on your system. Click the plus sign
(+) before the PCI Information item to
display available information.
Usage
The Usage browser displays real-time information on the CPU, hard disk drive
space, and memory usage. Click
to display the Usage browser.
CPU usage
The CPU tab displays real-
time CPU usage in line graph
representation. If the CPU has
an enabled Hyper-Threading,
two separate line graphs display
the operation of the two logical
processors.
Hard disk drive space usage
The Hard Disk tab displays the
used and available hard disk
drive space. The left panel of the
tab lists all logical drives. Click
a hard disk drive to display the
information on the right panel.
The pie chart at the bottom of
the window represents the used
(blue) and the available HDD
space.
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Chapter 4: Software support
Memory usage
The Memory tab shows both used
and available physical memory. The
pie chart at the bottom of the window
represents the used (blue) and the
available physical memory.
Configuring PC Probe II
Click
to view and adjust the sensor threshold values.
The Config window has two tabs: Sensor/Threshold and Preference. The Sensor/
Threshold tab enables you to activate the sensors or to adjust the sensor threshold
values. The Preference tab allows you to customize sensor alerts, or change the
temperature scale.
Loads the default
Loads your saved
configuration
threshold values for
each sensor
Cancels or
ignores your
changes
Applies your
changes
Saves your
configuration
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4.3.5
ASUS AI Suite
ASUS AI Suite allows you to launch AI Gear2, AI N.O.S., AI Booster, AI Nap, and
Q-Fan2 utilities easily.
Installing AI Suite
To install AI Suite on your computer:
1.
Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab
appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature.
2.
3.
Click the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite.
Follow the screen instructions to complete installation.
Launching AI Suite
You can launch the AI Suite right after installation or anytime from the Windows®
desktop.
To launch the AI Suite from the Windows® desktop, click Start > All Programs >
ASUS > AI Suite > AI Suite v1.xx.xx. The AI Suite main window appears.
After launching the application, the AI Suite icon appears in the Windows® taskbar.
Click this icon to close or restore the application.
Using AI Suite
Click the AI N.O.S., AI Gear2, AI Nap, AI Booster, or Q-Fan2 icon to launch the
utility, or click the Normal icon to restore the system to normal state.
Press to restore to normal
Press to launch AI Nap
Press to launch AI Gear2
Press to launch AI N.O.S.
Press to launch AI Booster
Press to launch Q-Fan2
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Chapter 4: Software support
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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4.3.6
ASUS AI Gear 2
ASUS AI Gear 2 provides four system performance options that allows you to
select the best performance setting for your computing needs. This easy-to-use
utility adjusts the processor frequency and vCore voltage to minimize system noise
and power consumption.
After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch AI Gear 2
by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on your Windows OS taskbar and then click the
AI Gear 2 button on the AI Suite main window.
Shift the gear to the performance setting that you like.
Maximum
Medium
Performance
Performance
High
Maximum
Performance
Power Saving
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Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.7
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 more quiet 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.
To exit AI Nap mode, press the system power or mouse button then click Yes on
the confirmation screen.
To switch the power button functions from AI Nap to shutting down, just right
click the AI Suite icon on the OS taskbar, select AI Nap and click Use power
button. Unclick the the item to switch the function back.
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4.3.8
ASUS AI N.O.S.
This ASUS Non-delay Overclocking System feature intelligently determines the
system load and automatically boosts the performance for the most demanding
tasks.
After installing AI Suite from the bundled support CD, you can launch the utility
by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows OS taskbar and click the AI
N.O.S. button on the AI Suite main window.
drop-down menu
button
Click the drop-down menu button and select Disable or Manual.
select an N.O.S.
mode
Click Apply at the bottom to save the configuration.
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Chapter 4: Software support
4.3.9
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.
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 Q-Fan
2 button on the AI Suite maIn window.
Click the drop-down menu button and display the fan names. Select CPU Q-Fan 2
or CHASSIS Q-Fan 2. Click the box of Enable Q-Fan 2 to activate this function.
drop-down list
button
Enable Q-Fan 2 box
Profile list appears after clicking the Enable Q-Fan 2 box. Click the drop-down
list button and select a profile. Optimal mode makes the fans adjust speed
with the temperature; Silent mode minimizes fan speed for quiet fan operation;
Performance mode boosts the fan to achieve maximal fan speed for the best
cooling effect.
click to display the drop-
down list and select a
Q-Fan 2 mode
Click Apply at the bottom to save the setup.
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4.3.10
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.
The options on the taskbar allow you to use the default settings, adjust CPU/
Memory/PCI-E frequency manually, or create and apply your personal overclocking
configurations.
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Chapter 4: Software support
4.4
RAID configurations
The motherboard comes with the NVIDIA GeForce 8200 chipset that allows you to
configure Serial ATA hard disk drives as RAID sets. The motherboard supports the
following RAID configurations: RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5 and JBOD.
4.4.1
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. Use of two new identical hard disk drives
is required for this setup.
RAID 1 (Data mirroring) copies and maintains an identical image of data from
one drive to a second drive. If one drive fails, the disk array management software
directs all applications to the surviving drive as it contains a complete copy of
the data in the other drive. This RAID configuration provides data protection and
increases fault tolerance to the entire system. Use two new drives or use an
existing drive and a new drive for this setup. The new drive must be of the same
size or larger than the existing drive.
RAID 0+1 is data striping and data mirroring combined without parity (redundancy
data) having to be calculated and written. With the RAID 0+1 configuration you get
all the benefits of both RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations. Use four new hard disk
drives or use an existing drive and three new drives for this setup.
RAID 5 stripes both data and parity information across three or more hard
disk drives. Among the advantages of RAID 5 configuration include better
HDD performance, fault tolerance, and higher storage capacity. The RAID
5 configuration is best suited for transaction processing, relational database
applications, enterprise resource planning, and other business systems. Use a
minimum of three identical hard disk drives for this setup.
JBOD (Spanning) stands for Just a Bunch of Disks and refers to hard disk drives
that are not yet configured as a RAID set. This configuration stores the same data
redundantly on multiple disks that appear as a single disk on the operating system.
Spanning does not deliver any advantage over using separate disks independently
and does not provide fault tolerance or other RAID performance benefits.
For Windows XP, If you want to boot the system from a hard disk drive included
in a RAID set, first copy the RAID driver from the support DVD to a floppy disk
before you install an operating system to a selected hard disk drive. Refer to
section 4.5 Creating a RAID driver disk for details.
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4.4.2
NVIDIA® RAID configurations
The motherboard includes a high performance SATA RAID controller integrated in
the NVIDIA® GeForce 8200 chipset. It supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5
and JBOD for six independent Serial ATA channels.
Installing Serial ATA (SATA) hard disks
The motherboard supports Ultra DMA 133/100/66 and Serial ATA hard disk drives.
For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity
when creating a disk array.
To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration:
1.
2.
3.
Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays.
Connect the SATA signal cables.
Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector on each drive.
Refer to the RAID controllers user manual in the motherboard support DVD for
detailed information on RAID configurations. See section 4.2.5 Manuals menu.
Setting the BIOS RAID items
After installing the hard disk drives, make sure to set the necessary RAID items in
the BIOS before setting your RAID configuration.
To set the BIOS RAID items:
1.
2.
3.
Boot the system and press <Del> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to
enter the BIOS Setup Utility.
Set the SATA Operation Mode item to [RAID]. See section 3.4.6 Onboard
Device Configuration > MCP Storage Config for details.
Save your changes and Exit Setup.
•
Due to chipset limitation, when set any of SATA ports to RAID mode, all
SATA ports run at RAID mode together.
•
Make sure to re-enter your NVRAID settings after the CMOS is cleared;
otherwise, the system will not recognize your RAID setup.
When using Windows® XP operating system, make sure to install the Windows®
XP Service Pack 2 or later versions.
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Chapter 4: Software support
Entering the NVIDIA® MediaShield BIOS RAID utility
To enter the NVIDIA® MediaShield BIOS RAID utility
1.
2.
Boot up your computer.
During POST, press <F10> to display the main menu of the utility.
The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only, and
may not exactly match the items on your screen.
MediaShield BIOS
Dec 13 2007
- Define a New Array -
RAID Mode: Mirrored
Striping Block:
Optimal
Disk Model Capacity
Free Disks
Port Disk Model
Array Disks
Port
Capacity
0.0. WDC WD2500AAJS 232.88GB
0.1. WDC WD2500AAJS 232.88GB[ ] Add
→
1.0. WDC WD2500AAJS 232.88GB
1.1. WDC WD2500AAJS 232.88GB
[ ] Del
←
[ESC] Quit [F6] Back [F7] Finish [TAB] Navigate [ ] Select [ENTER] Popup
↑↓
At the bottom of the screen are the navigation keys. These keys allow you to move
through and select menu options.
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Creating a RAID Volume
To create a RAID volume:
1.
From the Define a New Array screen, use the <TAB> key to highlight the
RAID Mode field, and then press <Enter>. The following sub-menu appears.
Use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID mode,
and then press <Enter>.
Mirrored
↑
Striped
Spanned
Striped Mirror
↓
2.
Press <TAB> to highlight the Stripe Block field, and then press <Enter>. The
following sub-menu appears:
Use the up or down arrow keys to select the stripe size for your
8K
↑
16K
32K
64K
128K
RAID array, and then press <Enter>.The available values range
from 8 KB to 128 KB. The default selection is Optimal. The strip
value should be chosen based on the planned drive usage.
Optim↓
•
•
•
8 /16 KB - low disk usage
64 KB - typical disk usage
128 KB - performance disk usage
For server systems, we recommend using a lower array block size. For
multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing, we
recommend a higher array block size for optimum performance.
•
•
Stripe block size selection is not available for Mirrored or Spanned RAID
arrays.
3.
4.
Press <TAB> to highlight the Free Disks field. Use the left or right arrow keys
to assign the array disks.
Press <F7> to create RAID set. The following message box appears.
All data on new (or added) disks will be overwritten. Continue?
[Y] YES
[N] NO
5.
Press <Y> to clear the selected disks or <N> to proceed without clearing the
disks. The following screen appears.
Take caution in using this option. All data on the RAID drives will be lost!
Clear MBR?
[Y] YES
[N] NO
6.
Press <Y> to clear the MBR.
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Chapter 4: Software support
The Array List screen appears, where you can review the RAID arrays that
you have set up.
Mediashield BIOS
Dec 13 2007
- Array List -
Boot
Status
Vendor
NVIDIA
Array
Size
Healthy
MIRROR
149.04G
[Ctrl-X] Exit [↑↓] Select [B] Set Bootable [N] New Array [ENTER] Detail
A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen.
Press <Ctrl+X> to save settings and exit.
7.
Rebuilding a RAID array
To rebuild a RAID array
1.
From the Array List screen, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID
array, and then press <Enter>. The RAID Array details appear.
Array 4 : NVIDIA MIRROR 149.04G
- Array Detail -
RAID Mode: Mirrored
Striping Width: 1
Striping Block: 64K
Port Index Disk Model
0.0 WDC1600AAJS-22PSA0
Capacity
0
149.05G
149.05G
0.1 WDC1600AAJS-22PSA0
1
[R] Rebuild [D] Delete [C] Clear MBR [ENTER] Return
A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen.
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2.
Press <R> to rebuild a RAID array. The following screen appears.
Array 4 : NVIDIA MIRROR 149.04G
- Select Disk Inside Array -
RAID Mode: Mirrored
Striping Width: 1
Striping Block: 64K
Port Index Disk Model
Capacity
0.0
0.1
0
1
WDC1600AAJS-22PSA0
WDC1600AAJS-22PSA0
149.05G
149.05G
[↑↓] Select [F6] Back [F7] Finish
3.
Use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array to rebuild, then press
<F7>. The following confirmation message appears.
Rebuild array?
[ENTER] OK [ESC] Cancel
4.
5.
Press <Enter> to start rebuilding array or press <Esc> to cancel.
After the rebuild process, the Array list menu appears.
You will need to enter Window® XP/Vista and run the NVIDIA utility in order to
complete the rebuilt process.
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Chapter 4: Software support
Deleting a RAID array
To delete a RAID array
1.
From the Array List screen, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID
array, and then press <Enter>. The RAID Array details appear.
Array 4 : NVIDIA MIRROR 149.04G
- Array Detail -
RAID Mode: Mirrored
Striping Width: 1
Striping Block: 64K
Port Index Disk Model
0.0 WDC1600AAJS-22PSA0
Capacity
0
149.05G
149.05G
0.1 WDC1600AAJS-22PSA0
1
[R] Rebuild [D] Delete [C] Clear MBR [ENTER] Return
A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen.
2.
Press <D> to delete a RAID array. The following confirmation message
appears.
Delete array?
[ENTER] OK [ESC] Cancel
3.
4.
Press <Y> to delete array or press <N> to cancel.
Take caution in using this option. All data on the RAID drives will be lost!
If you deleted all existing arrays, the Define a New Array screen appears
again.
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Clearing a disk MBR
To clear disk MBR
1.
From the Array List screen, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID
array, and then press <Enter>. The RAID Array details appear.
Array 4 : NVIDIA MIRROR 149.04G
- Array Detail -
RAID Mode: Mirrored
Striping Width: 1
Striping Block: 64K
Port Index Disk Model
0.0 WDC1600AAJS-22PSA0
Capacity
0
149.05G
149.05G
0.1 WDC1600AAJS-22PSA0
1
[R] Rebuild [D] Delete [C] Clear MBR [ENTER] Return
A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen.
2.
Press <C> to clear disk MBR. The following confirmation message appears.
Clear MBR?
[ENTER] OK [ESC] Cancel
3.
Press <Y> to clear the disk MBR or press <N> to cancel.
Take caution in using this option. All data on the RAID drives will be lost!
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Chapter 4: Software support
4.5
Creating a RAID driver disk
A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows® XP/Vista
operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set.
4.5.1
Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS
To create a RAID/SATA driver disk without entering the OS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Boot your computer.
Press <Del> during POST to enter the BIOS setup utility.
Set the optical drive as the primary boot device.
Insert the support DVD into the optical drive.
Save changes and exit BIOS.
Press any key when the system prompts “Press any key to boot from the
optical drive.”
7.
8.
9.
When the menu appears, press <1> to create a RAID driver disk.
Insert a formatted floppy disk into the floppy drive then press <Enter>.
Follow succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.
4.5.2
Creating a RAID/SATA driver disk in Windows®
1.
2.
3.
Start Windows®.
Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive.
Go to the Make Disk menu, and then click NVIDIA 32/64bit XP SATA RAID
Driver to create a NVIDIA® 32/64 bit XP SATA RAID driver disk.
4.
Insert a floppy disk into the floppy disk drive.
5.
Follow succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.
Write-protect the floppy disk to avoid computer virus infection.
To install the RAID driver in Windows® XP:
1.
2.
3.
During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6 key to
install third-party SCSI or RAID driver.
Press <F6> then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the floppy disk
drive.
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.
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4-43
To install the RAID driver in Windows® Vista™:
1.
Insert the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive.
Find RAID driver in the support DVD through the path below:
Drivers\Chipset\Disk\RAID
Find AHCI driver in the support DVD through the path below:
Drivers\Chipset\Disk\AHCI
2.
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.
Due to chipset limitation, the Serial ATA ports supported by the NVIDIA chipset
doesn’t support Serial Optical Disk Drives (Serial ODD) under DOS.
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Chapter 4: Software support
5.1
NVIDIA® Hybrid SLI® Technology
The motherboard supports the NVIDIA® Hybrid SLI® technology that includes two
primary features: GeForce® Boost and HybridPower™. GeForce® Boost enhances
the performance of NVIDIA discrete Graphics Process Units (dGPU) when they
work with the onboard motherboard GPU (mGPU). HybridPower™ unleashes the
graphics performance of the dGPU and enables low-power operation when the
performance of the dGPU is not needed. You can switch from the dGPU(s) to the
mGPU for a quiet, power-saving computer environment.
•
•
•
Hybrid SLI technology is supported by Windows® Vista™ only.
Hybrid SLI technology requires at least 2GB system memory to activate.
GeForce Boost supports up to two displays simultaneously (both connected
to either the mGPU or the dGPU).
•
When two or more displays are connected to both the mGPU and the
dGPU, the Hybrid SLI mode is disabled and the multi-display mode is
enabled. In the multi-display mode, up to four displays can be connected
(two displays driven by the mGPU and two displays by the dGPU).
•
•
HybridPower requires displays to be connected to the mGPU. HybridPower
cannot be enabled when displays are driven through the dGPU.
HybridPower and GeForce Boost are supported by certain set of dGPUs.
Go to www.nvidia.com/hybridsli to learn the supported GPUs.
5.1.1
System requirements
Before using Hybrid SLI, make sure if your system meets the following
requirements:
For best GeForce Boost performance
•
•
•
•
AMD Phenom 9600 CPU (operating at 1800Mhz or higher)
2 x 1024MB of DDR2-800 DRAM
Discrete GPU recommended for GeForce Boost
At least 256MB of Frame Buffer carve out for the motherboard GPU
For best HybridPower benefits
•
•
•
•
AMD Athlon X2 3800+ CPU (operating at 1800Mhz or higher)
2 x 1024MB of DDR2-667 DRAM
Discrete GPU recommended for HybridPower
At least 256MB of Frame Buffer carve out for the motherboard GPU
ASUS M3N WS
5-1
5.1.2
Enabling GeForce® Boost and HybridPower™
Before enabling GeForce Boost and HybridPower, make sure that you have
installed a dGPU recommended for GeForce Boost on your motherboard.
GeForce Boost
1.
Turn on the system and press <Del> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST)
to enter the BIOS Setup Utility.
2.
Go to Advanced > Chipset and set the Hybrid Support item to [Auto]. See
section 3.4.4 Chipset for details.
The Hybrid Support item becomes user-configurable only when a dGPU is
detected. Make sure that your dGPU is properly installed.
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility
Advanced
Chipset
Select Menu
Item Specific Help
Hybrid Support
[Auto]
iGPU Frame Buffer Control [Auto]
x
Frame Buffer Size
Onboard GPU
128M
[Auto]
K8<->NB HT Speed
[Auto]
K8<->NB HT Width
[Auto]
CPU Spread Spectrum
PCIE Spread Spectrum
SATA Spread Spectrum
Primary Display Adapter
[Disabled]
[Disabled]
[Disabled]
[PCI-E]
3.
4.
Save your changes and Exit Setup.
Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive, and go to the
Drivers menu to install the NVIDIA Chipset Driver Program.
5.
Restart the system.
6.
If the driver is correctly installed, you will find
the Hybrid SLI icon on the taskbar.
The Hybrid SLI icon indicates that the system is
in Performance mode and that GeForce Boost
is enabled. The onboard GPU will share the
rendering load with the dGPU and boost the
performance of the dGPU.
Visit www.asus.com for the latest chipset driver.
5-2
Chapter 5: NVIDIA® Hybrid SLI™ technology support
To enable HybridPower
1.
Follow Step 1 to 5 on the previous page to complete the hardware and driver
installation.
2.
If the driver is correctly installed, you will find the
Hybrid SLI icon on the taskbar.
The Hybrid SLI icon indicates that the system is in Performance mode and
that rendering is being done by the dGPU. The mGPU is being used only to
drive the display.
3.
4.
Click the Hybrid SLI icon and select Save
Power.
The icon will change state (from
to ) to
indicate that the system is in Power Saving
mode, which means that the dGPU is turned off
and the mGPU is both rendering and displaying.
5.
When the Power Saving mode is enabled, the dGPU does not show in the
Windows® Device Manager.
Power Saving mode is disabled.
When the Power Saving mode is enabled, the
dGPU is turned off and does not appear in the
Device Manager.
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5-4
Chapter 5: NVIDIA® Hybrid SLI™ technology support
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