ConRoeXFire-eSATA2

User Manual
Version 2.3 Published January 2007 Copyright2007 ASRock INC. All rights reserved.

Copyright Notice:

No part of this manual may be reproduced, transcribed, transmitted, or translated in any language, in any form or by any means, except duplication of documentation by the purchaser for backup purpose, without written consent of ASRock Inc. Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identification or explanation and to the owners benefit, without intent to infringe.

Disclaimer:

Specifications and information contained in this manual are furnished for informational use only and subject to change without notice, and should not be constructed as a commitment by ASRock. ASRock assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions that may appear in this manual. With respect to the contents of this manual, ASRock does not provide warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties or conditions of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. In no event shall ASRock, its directors, officers, employees, or agents be liable for any indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages (including damages for loss of profits, loss of business, loss of data, interruption of business and the like), even if ASRock has been advised of the possibility of such damages arising from any defect or error in the manual or product.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. CALIFORNIA, USA ONLY The Lithium battery adopted on this motherboard contains Perchlorate, a toxic substance controlled in Perchlorate Best Management Practices (BMP) regulations passed by the California Legislature. When you discard the Lithium battery in California, USA, please follow the related regulations in advance. Perchlorate Material-special handling may apply, see www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate ASRock Website: http://www.asrock.com

Contents

1 Introduction... 5
1.1 Package Contents... 5 1.2 Specifications... 6 1.3 Minimum Hardware Requirement Table for Windows VistaTM Premium and Basic Logo.. 9 1.4 Supported PCI Express VGA Card List for AGI Express Slot (PCI Express x4).. 10 1.5 Motherboard Layout.. 11 1.6 ASRock 8CH_eSATAII I/O... 12

2 Installation.. 13

2.1 Screw Holes... 13 2.2 Pre-installation Precautions.. 13 2.3 CPU Installation.. 14 2.4 Installation of Heatsink and CPU fan.. 16 2.5 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM).. 17 2.6 Expansion Slots... 19 2.7 CrossFireTM Operation Guide... 20 2.8 Surround Display Feature.. 24 2.9 Jumpers Setup.. 24 2.10 Onboard Headers and Connectors.. 24 2.11 HDMI_SPDIF Header Connection Guide.. 30 2.12 eSATAII Interface Introduction.. 31 2.13 SATAII Hard Disk Setup Guide.. 34 2.14 Serial ATA (SATA) / Serial ATAII (SATAII) Hard Disks Installation... 35 2.15 Hot Plug and Hot Swap Functions for SATA / SATAII. HDDs and eSATAII Devices.. 36 2.16 Driver Installation Guide.. 36 2.17 Installing Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit With RAID Functions. 36 2.17.1 Installing Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit With RAID Functions.. 37 2.17.2 Setting Up a RAID Ready System.. 38 2.17.3 Migrating a RAID Ready System to RAID 0, RAID 1 or RAID 5.. 39 2.17.4 Installing Windows VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit With RAID Functions.. 39
2.18 Installing Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit Without RAID Functions. 2.18.1 Installing Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit Without RAID Functions.. 2.18.2 Installing Windows VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit Without RAID Functions.. 2.19 Untied Overclocking Technology.. 3.1 Introduction... 3.1.1 BIOS Menu Bar.. 3.1.2 Navigation Keys... 3.2 Main Screen.. 3.3 Advanced Screen.. 3.3.1 CPU Configuration.. 3.3.2 Chipset Configuration.. 3.3.3 ACPI Configuration.. 3.3.4 IDE Configuration.. 3.3.5 PCIPnP Configuration.. 3.3.6 Floppy Configuration.. 3.3.7 Super IO Configuration.. 3.3.8 USB Configuration.. 3.4 Hardware Health Event Monitoring Screen. 3.5 Boot Screen.. 3.5.1 Boot Settings Configuration.. 3.6 Security Screen.. 3.7 Exit Screen... 4.1 Install Operating System.. 4.2 Support CD Information.. 4.2.1 Running Support CD.. 4.2.2 Drivers Menu... 4.2.3 Utilities Menu... 4.2.4 LGA 775 CPU Installation Live Demo Program. 4.2.5 Contact Information...
SETUP 3 BIOS S ETUP UTILITY.. 43

4 Software Support.. 59

Chapter 1 Introduction

Thank you for purchasing ASRock ConRoeXFire-eSATA2 motherboard, a reliable motherboard produced under ASRocks consistently stringent quality control. It delivers excellent performance with robust design conforming to ASRocks commitment to quality and endurance. In this manual, chapter 1 and 2 contain introduction of the motherboard and step-bystep guide to the hardware installation. Chapter 3 and 4 contain the configuration guide to BIOS setup and information of the Support CD.
Because the motherboard specifications and the BIOS software might be updated, the content of this manual will be subject to change without notice. In case any modifications of this manual occur, the updated version will be available on ASRock website without further notice. You may find the latest VGA cards and CPU support lists on ASRock website as well. ASRock website http://www.asrock.com

1.1 Package Contents

ASRock ConRoeXFire-eSATA2 Motherboard (ATX Form Factor: 12.0-in x 8.6-in, 30.5 cm x 21.8 cm) ASRock ConRoeXFire-eSATA2 Quick Installation Guide ASRock ConRoeXFire-eSATA2 Support CD (including LGA 775 CPU Installation Live Demo) One 80-conductor Ultra ATA 66/100 IDE Ribbon Cable One Ribbon Cable for a 3.5-in Floppy Drive Four Serial ATA (SATA) Data Cables (Optional) Two Serial ATA (SATA) HDD Power Cables (Optional) One HDMI_SPDIF Cable (Optional) One ASRock 8CH_eSATAII I/O Panel Shield One USB+1394 Bracket

Specifications

- ATX Form Factor: 12.0-in x 8.6-in, 30.5 cm x 21.8 cm - LGA 775 for Intel Dual Core CoreTM 2 Extreme / CoreTM 2 Duo / Pentium D / Pentium 4 / Celeron D processors - FSB 1066/800/533 MHz - Supports Hyper-Threading Technology (see CAUTION 1) - Supports Untied Overclocking Technology (see CAUTION 2) - Supports EM64T CPU - Northbridge: Intel 945P/945G - Southbridge: Intel ICH7R - Dual Channel DDRII Memory Technology (see CAUTION 3) - 4 x DDRII DIMM slots - Support DDRII667/533 (see CAUTION 4) - Max. capacity: 4GB (see CAUTION 5) - CPU Frequency Stepless Control (see CAUTION 6) - ASRock U-COP (see CAUTION 7) - Boot Failure Guard (B.F.G.) - Supports ATITM CrossFireTM - 3 x PCI slots - 1 x PCI Express x16 slot - 1 x AGI Express slot (PCI Express x4) (see CAUTION 8) - 1 x PCI Express x1 slot - 7.1 CH Windows VistaTM Premium Level HD Audio (ALC888 Audio Codec) - PCIE x1 Gigabit LAN 10/100/1000 Mb/s - Realtek RTL8111B - Supports Wake-On-LAN ASRock 8CH_eSATAII I/O - 1 x PS/2 Mouse Port - 1 x PS/2 Keyboard Port - 1 x Serial Port: COM1 - 1 x Parallel Port (ECP/EPP Support) - 2 x Ready-to-Use USB 2.0 Ports - 2 x eSATAII Ports - 1 x RJ-45 Port - HD Audio Jack: Side Speaker/Rear Speaker/Central/Bass/ Line in/Front Speaker/Microphone (see CAUTION 9) - 4 x SATAII 3.0Gb/s connectors, support RAID (RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10, RAID 5 and Intel Matrix Storage), NCQ, AHCI and Hot Plug functions (see CAUTION 10)

1. It is recommended to use the cap tab to handle and avoid kicking off the PnP cap. 2. This cap must be placed if returning the motherboard for after service.
Step 4. Close the socket: Step 4-1. Rotate the load plate onto the IHS. Step 4-2. While pressing down lightly on load plate, engage the load lever. Step 4-3. Secure load lever with load plate tab under retention tab of load lever.
Installation of CPU Fan and Heatsink
This motherboard is equipped with 775-Pin socket that supports Intel 775-LAND CPU. Please adopt the type of heatsink and cooling fan compliant with Intel 775-LAND CPU to dissipate heat. Before you installed the heatsink, you need to spray thermal interface material between the CPU and the heatsink to improve heat dissipation. Ensure that the CPU and the heatsink are securely fastened and in good contact with each other. Then connect the CPU fan to the CPU_FAN connector (CPU_FAN1, see page 11, No. 6). For proper installation, please kindly refer to the instruction manuals of your CPU fan and heatsink. Below is an example to illustrate the installation of the heatsink for 775-LAND CPU. Step 1. Apply thermal interface material onto center of IHS on the socket surface.

Step 2.

Step 3. Step 4.
Place the heatsink onto the socket. Ensure fan cables are oriented on side closest to the CPU fan connector on the motherboard (CPU_FAN1, see page 11, No. 6). Align fasteners with the motherboard throughholes. Rotate the fastener clockwise, then press down on fastener caps with thumb to install and lock. Repeat with remaining fasteners.
If you press down the fasteners without rotating them clockwise, the heatsink cannot be secured on the motherboard.

Step 5. Step 6.

Connect fan header with the CPU fan connector on the motherboard. Secure excess cable with tie-wrap to ensure cable does not interfere with fan operation or contact other components.
2.5 Installation of Memory Modules (DIMM)
ConRoeXFire-eSATA2 motherboard provides four 240-pin DDRII (Double Data Rate II) DIMM slots, and supports Dual Channel Memory Technology. For dual channel configuration, you always need to install identical (the same brand, speed, size and chip-type) DDRII DIMM pair in the slots of the same color. In other words, you have to install identical DDRII DIMM pair in Dual Channel A (DDRII_1 and DDRII_3; Yellow slots; see p.11 No.7) or identical DDRII DIMM pair in Dual Channel B (DDRII_2 and DDRII_4; Orange slots; see p.11 No.8), so that Dual Channel Memory Technology can be activated. This motherboard also allows you to install four DDRII DIMMs for dual channel configuration, and please install identical DDRII DIMMs in all four slots. You may refer to the Dual Channel Memory Configuration Table below. Dual Channel Memory Configurations DDRII_1 (Yellow Slot) Populated Populated DDRII_2 DDRII_3 (Orange Slot) (Yellow Slot) Populated Populated Populated Populated DDRII_4 (Orange Slot) Populated Populated

(1) (2) (3)*

* For the configuration (3), please install identical DDRII DIMMs in all four slots.
1. If you want to install two memory modules, for optimal compatibility and reliability, it is recommended to install them in the slots of the same color. In other words, install them either in the set of yellow slots (DDRII_1 and DDRII_3), or in the set of orange slots (DDRII_2 and DDRII_4). 2. If only one memory module or three memory modules are installed in the DDRII DIMM slots on this motherboard, it is unable to activate the Dual Channel Memory Technology. If a pair of memory modules is NOT installed in the same Dual Channel, for example, installing a pair of memory modules in DDRII_1 and DDRII_2, it is unable to activate the Dual Channel Memory 4. 5. Technology. It is not allowed to install a DDR memory module into DDRII slot; otherwise, this motherboard and DIMM may be damaged. If you plan to use ATITM PCI Express VGA card on this motherboard, the total system memory size should be above 512MB.

Installing a DIMM

Please make sure to disconnect power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or the system components.

Step 1. Step 2.

Unlock a DIMM slot by pressing the retaining clips outward. Align a DIMM on the slot such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break on the slot.

notch break

The DIMM only fits in one correct orientation. It will cause permanent damage to the motherboard and the DIMM if you force the DIMM into the slot at incorrect orientation.

Step 3.

Firmly insert the DIMM into the slot until the retaining clips at both ends fully snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated.
2.6 Expansion Slots (PCI, PCI Express, and AGI Express Slots)
There are 3 PCI slots, 2 PCI Express slots, and 1 AGI Express slot (PCI Express x4) on this motherboard. PCI slots: PCI slots are used to install expansion cards that have the 32-bit PCI interface. PCIE Slots: PCIE1 (PCIE x16 slot) is used for PCI Express cards with x16 lane width graphics cards. PCIE2 (PCIE x1 slot) is used for PCI Express cards with x1 lane width cards, such as Gigabit LAN card, SATA2 card, etc. AGI Express slot (PCI Express x4): AGI Express slot (PCI Express x4) is used to install PCI Express expansion cards. For the information of the compatible PCI Express VGA cards, please refer to the Supported PCI Express VGA Card List for AGI Express Slot (PCI Express x4) on page 10.

Radeon CrossFireTM Edition graphics card Connect the DVI-DMS cable to DMS connector of the CrossFireTM Edition graphics card.
Connect the DVI-DMS cable to the monitor connector.
If you install two CrossFireTM Edition graphics cards to this motherboard, please connect one end of DVI-DMS cable to the monitor, another end to DMS of one of the CrossFireTM Edition graphics cards to PCIE1 slot, and the other end to DVI of another CrossFireTM Edition graphics card to AGI Express slot (PCI Express x4). If you install one CrossFireTM Edition graphics card and one compatible standard Radeon (CrossFireTM Ready) graphics card to this motherboard, please connect one end of DVI-DMS cable to the monitor, another end to DMS of the CrossFireTM Edition graphics card, and the other end to DVI of the compatible standard Radeon (CrossFireTM Ready) graphics card.
Power on your computer and boot into OS. Remove the ATITM driver if you have any VGA driver installed in your system.
The Catalyst Uninstaller is an optional download. We recommend using this utility to uninstall any previously installed Catalyst drivers prior to installation. Please visit this website for the driver: http://support.ati.com/ics/support/DLRedirect.asp? fileIDExt=050553d40196ef109fff37cbb40aaf28&accountID=737&deptID=894

Step 7.

Install the required drivers to your system. Please visit the websites below for installing the drivers that ATITM recommends: A. ATITM recommends Windows XP Service Pack 2 or higher to be installed (If you have Windows XP Service Pack 2 or higher installed in your system, there is no need to download it again): http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/sp2/default.mspx B. You must have Microsoft.NET Framework installed prior to downloading and installing the CATALYST Control Center: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx? FamilyId=262D25E3-F589-4842-8157-034D1E7CF3A3&displaylang=en Restart your computer.

Step 8.

Step 9.
Install the VGA card drivers to your system, and restart your computer. Then you will find ATI Catalyst Control Center on your desktop.

You will find ATI Catalyst Control Center on your desktop.
Step 10. Double-click ATI Catalyst Control Center. Click View, and select Advanced View. Click CrossFire TM, and then set the option Enable CrossFire TM to Yes.

CrossFireTM

Enable CrossFireTM
If you install one Radeon CrossFireTM Edition graphics card and one compatible standard Radeon (CrossFireTM Ready) graphics card to this motherboard but not two Radeon CrossFireTM Edition graphics cards, please as well follow the above steps. However, although you have selected the option Enable CrossFireTM, the CrossFireTM function can not work actually. Your computer will automatically reboot. After restarting your computer, please confirm whether the option Enable CrossFireTM in ATI Catalyst Control Center is selected or not; if not, please select it again, and then you are able to enjoy the benefit of CrossFireTM feature.
Step 11. You can freely enjoy the benefit of CrossFireTM feature.
2.8 Surround Display Feature
This motherboard supports Surround Display upgrade. With the external add-on PCI Express VGA card, you can easily enjoy the benefits of Surround Display feature. For the detailed instruction, please refer to the document at the following path in the Support CD:.\ Surround Display Information

2.9 Jumpers Setup

The illustration shows how jumpers are setup. When the jumper cap is placed on pins, the jumper is Short. If no jumper cap is placed on pins, the jumper is Open. The illustration shows a 3-pin jumper whose pin1 and pin2 are Short when jumper cap is placed on these 2 pins. Jumper Setting PS2_USB_PWR1 2_3 1_2
Description Short pin2, pin3 to enable (see p.11 No. 1) +5VSB (standby) for PS/2 +5V +5VSB or USB wake up events. Note: To select +5VSB, it requires 2 Amp and higher standby current provided by power supply. Clear CMOS
(CLRCMOS1, 2-pin jumper) (see p.11 No. 11)

2-pin jumper

Note: CLRCMOS1 allows you to clear the data in CMOS. The data in CMOS includes system setup information such as system password, date, time, and system setup parameters. To clear and reset the system parameters to default setup, please turn off the computer and unplug the power cord from the power supply. After waiting for 15 seconds, use a jumper cap to short 2 pins on CLRCMOS1 for 5 seconds.
2.10 Onboard Headers and Connectors
Onboard headers and connectors are NOT jumpers. Do NOT place jumper caps over these headers and connectors. Placing jumper caps over the headers and connectors will cause permanent damage of the motherboard!

FDD connector

(33-pin FLOPPY1) (see p.11 No. 26)

Pin1 FLOPPY1

the red-striped side to Pin1

NOTE: 1. If you set Configure SATA as option in BIOS setup to AHCI or RAID mode, Hot Plug function is supported with eSATAII devices. Therefore, you can insert or remove your eSATAII devices to the eSATAII ports while the system is power-on and in working condition. 2. If you set Configure SATA as option in BIOS setup to IDE mode, Hot Plug function is not supported with eSATAII devices. If you still want to use eSATAII function in IDE mode, please insert or remove your eSATAII devices to the eSATAII ports only when the system is power-off. 3. Please refer to page 36 to 42 for detailed information of RAID mode, IDE mode, and AHCI mode.

How to install eSATAII?

SATAII_RED (PORT2) and SATAII_ORANGE (PORT3)
eSATAII_TOP and eSATAII_BOTTOM
If you just plan to install one eSATAII device to this motherboard, it is recommended to enable the bottom eSATAII port of the I/O shield. In order to enable the bottom eSATAII port of the I/O shield, you need to connect the red SATAII connector (SATAII_RED; see p.11 No.13) and the red eSATAII connector (eSATAII_BOTTOM; see p.11 No.36) with a SATA data cable first. Then the bottom eSATAII port of the I/O shield is enabled.
Connect the SATA data cable to the red SATAII connector (SATAII_RED (PORT2))
Connect the SATA data cable to the red eSATAII connector (eSATAII_BOTTOM)
If you plan to install two eSATAII devices to this motherboard, you need to enable both the top and the bottom eSATAII ports of the I/O shield. In order to enable the top and the bottom eSATAII ports of the I/O shield, you have to connect the red SATAII connector (SATAII_RED; see p.11 No.13) and the red eSATAII connector (eSATAII_BOTTOM; see p.11 No.36) with a SATA data cable first, and then connect the orange SATAII connector (SATAII_ORANGE; see p.11 No.14) and the orange eSATAII connector (eSATAII_TOP; see p.11 No.37) with another SATA data cable. After that, both the top and the bottom eSATAII ports of the I/O shield are enabled.
Connect the SATA data cables to both red SATAII connector (SATAII_RED (PORT2)) and orange SATAII connector (SATAII_ ORANGE (PORT3)) Connect the SATA data cables to both red eSATAII connector (eSATAII_BOTTOM) and orange eSATAII connector (eSATAII_TOP)
Please make sure to correctly connect the SATAII and eSATAII connectors with corresponding color so that the eSATAII function will work successfully.
Use the eSATAII device cable to connect eSATAII device and the eSATAII port of the I/O shield according to the eSATAII connector that you connect the SATA data cable.

Connect one end of the eSATAII device cable to eSATAII device
Connect the other end of the eSATAII device cable to eSATAII port of the I/O shield
Comparison between eSATAII and other devices IEEE 1394 USB 2.0 SATA eSATAII/SATAII 400Mb/s 480Mb/s 1.5Gb/s (1500Mb/s) 3.0Gb/s (3000Mb/s)
SAT 2.13 SATAII Hard Disk Setup Guide
Before installing SATAII hard disk to your computer, please carefully read below SATAII hard disk setup guide. Some default setting of SATAII hard disks may not be at SATAII mode, which operate with the best performance. In order to enable SATAII function, please follow the below instruction with different vendors to correctly adjust your SATAII hard disk to SATAII mode in advance; otherwise, your SATAII hard disk may fail to run at SATAII mode. Western Digital
If pin 5 and pin 6 are shorted, SATA 1.5Gb/s will be enabled. On the other hand, if you want to enable SATAII 3.0Gb/s, please remove the jumpers from pin 5 and pin 6. SAMSUNG
If pin 3 and pin 4 are shorted, SATA 1.5Gb/s will be enabled. On the other hand, if you want to enable SATAII 3.0Gb/s, please remove the jumpers from pin 3 and pin 4. HITACHI Please use the Feature Tool, a DOS-bootable tool, for changing various ATA features. Please visit HITACHIs website for details: http://www.hitachigst.com/hdd/support/download.htm
The above examples are just for your reference. For different SATAII hard disk products of different vendors, the jumper pin setting methods may not be the same. Please visit the vendors website for the updates.
AT (SAT AT (SAT 2.14 Serial ATA (SATA) / Serial ATAII (SATAII) Hard Disks Installation
This motherboard adopts Intel ICH7R south bridge chipset that supports Serial ATA (SATA) / Serial ATAII (SATAII) hard disks and RAID (RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10, RAID 5, and Intel Matrix Storage) functions. You may install SATA / SATAII hard disks on this motherboard for internal storage devices. This section will guide you to install the SATA / SATAII hard disks. STEP 1: Install the SATA / SATAII hard disks into the drive bays of your chassis. STEP 2: Connect the SATA power cable to the SATA / SATAII hard disk. STEP 3: Connect one end of the SATA data cable to the motherboards SATAII connector. STEP 4: Connect the other end of the SATA data cable to the SATA / SATAII hard disk.
1. If you plan to use RAID 0, RAID 1, or Intel Matrix Storage function, you need to install at least 2 SATA / SATAII hard disks. If you plan to use RAID 5 function, you need to install at least 3 SATA / SATAII hard disks. If you plan to use RAID 10 function, you need to install at least 4 SATA / SATAII hard disks. If you install 2 eSATAII devices, then only RAID 0, RAID 1, or Intel Matrix Storage functions will be enabled. 2. It is not recommended to switch the Configure SATA as setting between AHCI, RAID, and IDE mode after OS installation.

Functions SAT SAT 2.15 Hot Plug and Hot Swap Functions for SATA / SATAII eSAT HDDs and eSATAII Devices
This motherboard supports Hot Plug and Hot Swap functions for SATA / SATAII / eSATAII Devices in RAID / AHCI mode. Intel ICH7R south bridge chipset provides hardware support for Advanced Host controller Interface (AHCI), a new programming interface for SATA host controllers developed thru a joint industry effort. AHCI also provides usability enhancements such as Hot Plug. NOTE What is Hot Plug Function?
If the SATA / SATAII HDDs are NOT set for RAID configuration, it is called Hot Plug for the action to insert and remove the SATA / SATAII HDDs while the system is still power-on and in working condition. However, please note that it cannot perform Hot Plug if the OS has been installed into the SATA / SATAII HDD.
What is Hot Swap Function?
If SATA / SATAII HDDs are built as RAID1 then it is called Hot Swap for the action to insert and remove the SATA / SATAII HDDs while the system is still power-on and in working condition. eSATAII is equipped with Hot Plug capability that enables you to exchange drives easily. For example, with eSATAII interface, you may simply plug your eSATAII devices to the eSATAII ports instead of opening your chassis to exchange your SATAII hard disk.
2.16 Driver Installation Guide
To install the drivers to your system, please insert the support CD to your optical drive first. Then, the drivers compatible to your system can be auto-detected and listed on the support CD driver page. Please follow the order from up to bottom side to install those required drivers. Therefore, the drivers you install can work properly.
2.17 Installing Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit / Vista TM / Vista TM 64-bit With RAID Functions
If you want to install Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS on your SATA / SATAII HDDs with RAID functions, please follow below procedures according to the OS you install.
The installation procedures for Windows VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit are subject to change. Please visit our website for the updates of Windows VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit driver and related information in the future.
2.17.1 Installing Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit With RAID Functions
If you want to install Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit on your SATA / SATAII HDDs with RAID functions, please follow below steps. STEP 1: Set up BIOS. A. Enter BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced screen IDE Configuration. B. Set ATA/IDE Configuration to [Enhanced], and then in the option Configure SATA as, please set the option to [RAID]. STEP 2: Make a SATA / SATAII Driver Diskette. A. Insert the Support CD into your optical drive to boot your system. B. During POST at the beginning of system boot-up, press <F11> key, and then a window for boot devices selection appears. Please select CD-ROM as the boot device. C. When you see the message on the screen, Do you want to generate Serial ATA driver diskette [YN]?, press <Y>. D. Then you will see these messages, Please insert a diskette into the floppy drive. WARNING! Formatting the floppy diskette will lose ALL data in it! Start to format and copy files [YN]? Please insert a floppy diskette into the floppy drive, and press <Y>. E. The system will start to format the floppy diskette and copy SATA / SATAII drivers into the floppy diskette. STEP 3: Use RAID Installation Guide to set RAID configuration. Before you start to configure the RAID function, you need to check the installation guide in the Support CD for proper configuration. Please refer to the document in the Support CD, Guide to SATA Hard Disks Installation and RAID Configuration, which is located in the folder at the following path:. \ RAID Installation Guide STEP 4: Install Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit OS on your system. After making a SATA / SATAII driver diskette and using RAID Installation Guide to set RAID configuration, you can start to install Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit on your system. At the beginning of Windows setup, press F6 to install a third-party RAID driver. When prompted, insert the SATA / SATAII driver diskette containing the Intel RAID driver. After reading the floppy disk, the driver will be presented. Select the driver to install according to the mode you choose and the OS you install. You may select: Intel(R) 82801GR/GH SATA RAID Controller (Desktop ICH7R-Windows XP/2000) for Windows XP/2000 or Intel(R) 82801GR/GH SATA RAID Controller (Desktop ICH7R-Windows XP64) for Windows XP 64-bit.

After the installation of Windows VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS, if you want to manage RAID functions, you are allowed to use both RAID Installation Guide and Intel Matrix Storage Manager Information for RAID configuration. Please refer to the document in the Support CD, Guide to SATA Hard Disks Installation and RAID Configuration, which is located in the folder at the following path:. \ RAID Installation Guide and the document in the support CD, Guide to Intel Matrix Storage Manager, which is located in the folder at the following path:. \ Intel Matrix Storage Manager Information
2.18 Installing Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit / Vista TM / Vista TM 64-bit Without RAID Functions
If you want to install Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit OS on your SATA / SATAII HDDs without RAID functions, please follow below procedures according to the OS you install.

2.18.1

Installing Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit Without RAID Functions
If you want to install Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit OS on your SATA / SATAII HDDs without RAID functions, please follow below steps. Using SATA / SATAII HDDs and eSATAII devices with NCQ and Hot Plug functions
STEP 1: Set Up BIOS. A. Enter BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced screen IDE Configuration. B. Set ATA/IDE Configuration to [Enhanced], and then in the option Configure SATA as, please set the option to [AHCI]. STEP 2: Make a SATA / SATAII driver diskette. Please make a SATA / SATAII driver diskette by following section 2.17.1 step 2 on page 37.
If you want to enable Hot Plug function on eSATAII ports but you install OS on IDE HDD, please skip step 2.
STEP 3: Install Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit OS on your system. After making a SATA / SATAII driver diskette, you can start to install Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit on your system. At the beginning of Windows setup, press F6 to install a third-party AHCI driver. When prompted, insert the SATA / SATAII driver diskette containing the Intel AHCI driver. After reading the floppy disk, the driver will be presented. Select the driver to install according to the mode you choose and the OS you install. You may select: Intel(R) 82801GR/GH SATA AHCI Controller (Desktop ICH7R-Windows XP/2000) for Windows XP/2000 or Intel(R) 82801GR/GH SATA AHCI Controller (Desktop ICH7R-Windows XP64) for Windows XP 64-bit. Using SATA / SATAII HDDs and eSATAII devices without NCQ and Hot Plug functions STEP 1: Set up BIOS. A. Enter BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced screen IDE Configuration. B. Set ATA/IDE Configuration to [Enhanced], and then in the option Configure SATA as, please set the option to [IDE]. STEP 2: Install Windows 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit OS on your system.

Intel (R) SpeedStep(tm) tech. Intel (R) SpeedStep(tm) tech. is Intels new power saving technology. Processor can switch between multiple frequency and voltage points to enable power savings. The default value is [Auto]. Configuration options: [Auto], [Enabled] and [Disabled]. If you install Windows XP and select [Auto], you need to set the Power Schemes as Portable/Laptop to enable this function. If you install Windows VistaTM and want to enable this function, please set this item to [Enabled]. This item will be hidden if the current CPU does not support Intel (R) SpeedStep(tm) tech.
Please note that enabling this function may reduce CPU voltage and lead to system stability or compatibility issue with some power supplies. Please set this item to [Disable] if above issue occurs.
3.3.2 Chipset Configuration
BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Chipset Configuration
[Auto] DRAM Frequency [Disabled] Flexibility Option Configure DRAM Timing by SPD [Enabled] [Auto] DRAM CAS# Latency Primary Graphics Adapter OnBoard HD Audio Front Panel Control CD-In OnBoard LAN VCCM (DRAM) Voltage +1.5V Voltage [PCI] [Auto] [Auto] [Enabled] [Enabled] [Auto] [Normal] Select Screen Select Item Change Option General Help Load Defaults Save and Exit Exit Options Auto 200MHz 266MHz 333 MHz (DDRII400) (DDRII533) (DDRII667)
DRAM Frequency If [Auto] is selected, the motherboard will detect the memory module(s) inserted and assigns appropriate frequency automatically. You may also select other value as operating frequency: [200MHz (DDRII 400)], [266MHz (DDRII 533)], [333MHz (DDRII 667)]. Flexibility Option The default value of this option is [Disabled]. It will allow better tolerance for memory compatibility when it is set to [Enabled]. Configure DRAM Timing by SPD Select [Enabled] will configure the following items by the contents in the SPD (Serial Presence Detect) device. If you select [Disabled], you will find the items DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay, DRAM RAS# Precharge, and DRAM RAS# Activate to Precharge appear to allow you adjusting them.
DRAM CAS# Latency Use this item to adjust the means of memory accessing. Configuration options are [6], [5], [4], [3], and [Auto]. DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay This controls the latency between the DRAM active command and the read / write command. Configuration options: [2 DRAM Clocks], [3 DRAM Clocks], [4 DRAM Clocks], [5 DRAM Clocks], and [6 DRAM Clocks]. DRAM RAS# Precharge This controls the idle clocks after a precharge command is issued. Configuration options: [2 DRAM Clocks], [3 DRAM Clocks], [4 DRAM Clocks], [5 DRAM Clocks], and [6 DRAM Clocks]. DRAM RAS# Activate to Precharge This controls the number of DRAM clocks for TRAS. Configuration options: [4 DRAM Clocks], [5 DRAM Clocks], [6 DRAM Clocks], [7 DRAM Clocks], [8 DRAM Clocks], [9 DRAM Clocks], [10 DRAM Clocks], [11 DRAM Clocks], [12 DRAM Clocks], [13 DRAM Clocks], [14 DRAM Clocks], a n d [ D R A M Clocks]. Primary Graphics Adapter This allows you to select [PCI] or [PCI Express] as the boot graphic adapter priority. The default value is [PCI]. OnBoard HD Audio Select [Auto], [Enabled] or [Disabled] for the onboard HD Audio feature. If you select [Auto], the onboard HD Audio will be disabled when PCI Sound Card is plugged. Front Panel Control Select [Auto], [Enabled] or [Disabled] for the onboard HD Audio Front Panel. CD-In Use this item to enable or disable CD-In of OnBoard HD Audio. OnBoard LAN This allows you to enable or disable the OnBoard LAN feature. VCCM (DRAM) Voltage Use this to select VCCM (DRAM) Voltage. Configuration options: [High], [Middle], [Low], and [Auto]. The default value of this feature is [Auto]. +1.5V Voltage Configuration options: [High] and [Normal]. The default value of this feature is [Normal].

3.4 Hardware Health Event Monitoring Screen
In this section, it allows you to monitor the status of the hardware on your system, including the parameters of the CPU temperature, motherboard temperature, CPU fan speed, chassis fan speed, and the critical voltage.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot H/W Monitor
Target Fan Speed Fast Middle Slow
Hardware Health Event Monitoring
CPU Temperature M / B Temperature CPU Fan Speed Chassis Fan Speed Vcore + 3.30V + 5.00V + 12.00V CPU Quiet Fan Target CPU Temperature ( C) Tolerance ( C) Target Fan Speed : 37 C / 98 F : 31 C / 87 F : 3400 RPM : N/A : : : : 1.629V 3.306V 5.067V 11.890V [Enabled] [50] [02] [Fast]

F1 F9 F10 ESC

Select Screen Select Item General Help Load Defaults Save and Exit Exit
CPU Quiet Fan This item allows you to identify the temperature of CPU fan. If you set this option as [Disabled], the CPU fan will operate in full speed. If you set this option as [Enabled], you will find the items Target CPU Temperature ( C), Tolerance ( C), and Minimun Fan Speed appear to allow you adjusting them. The default value is [Disabled]. You are allowed to enable this function only when you install 4-pin CPU fan. Target CPU Temperature ( C) The target temperature will be between 45 C and 65 C. The default value is [50]. Tolerance ( C) The default value of tolerance is [2], which means the error of the target CPU temperature will be within 2 C. Target Fan Speed Use this option to set the target fan speed. You can freely adjust the target fan speed according to the target CPU temperature that you choose. The default value is [Fast]. Configuration options: [Fast], [Middle] and [Slow].

3.5 Boot Screen

In this section, it will display the available devices on your system for you to configure the boot settings and the boot priority.
Main Advanced BIOS SETUP UTILITY H/W Monitor Boot Security Exit

Boot Settings

Boot Settings Configuration 1st Boot Device 2nd Boot Device 3rd Boot Device Hard Disk Drives Removable Drives CD/DVD Drives [1st Floppy Device] [HDD: PM - HDS722580VL] [CD / DVD: 3S - CD - ROM C]
Configure Settings during System Boot.
3.5.1 Boot Settings Configuration
BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Boot Settings Configuration
Boot From Onboard LAN Bootup Num-Lock [Disabled] [On] To enable or disable the boot from onboard LAN feature.
Boot From Onboard LAN Use this item to enable or disable the Boot From Onboard LAN feature. Boot Up Num-Lock If this item is set to [On], it will automatically activate the Numeric Lock function after boot-up.

3.6 Security Screen

In this section, you may set or change the supervisor/user password for the system. For the user password, you may also clear it.

Security Settings

Supervisor Password User Password : Not Installed : Not Installed
Install or Change the password.
Change Supervisor Password Change User Password
Select Screen Select Item Change General Help Load Defaults Save and Exit Exit

3.7 Exit Screen

Main Exit Options
Save Changes and Exit Discard Changes and Exit Discard Changes Load Optimal Defaults
BIOS SETUP UTILITY H/W Monitro Boot
Exit system setup after saving the changes.
F10 key can be used for this operation.
Save Changes and Exit When you select this option, it will pop-out the following message, Save configuration changes and exit setup? Select [OK] to save the changes and exit the BIOS SETUP UTILITY. Discard Changes and Exit When you select this option, it will pop-out the following message, Discard changes and exit setup? Select [OK] to exit the BIOS SETUP UTILITY without saving any changes. Discard Changes When you select this option, it will pop-out the following message, Discard changes? Select [OK] to discard all changes. Load Optimal Defaults When you select this option, it will pop-out the following message, Load optimal defaults? Select [OK] to load the default values for all the setup configurations.
Support Chapter 4 Software Suppor t
4. 1 Install Operating System This motherboard supports various Microsoft Windows operating systems: 2000 / XP / XP 64-bit / VistaTM / VistaTM 64-bit. Because motherboard settings and hardware options vary, use the setup procedures in this chapter for general reference only. Refer to your OS documentation for more information. 4. 2 Support CD Information The Support CD that came with the motherboard contains necessary drivers and useful utilities that enhance the motherboard features. 4. 2. 1 Running The Support CD To begin using the support CD, insert the CD into your CD-ROM drive. The CD automatically displays the Main Menu if AUTORUN is enabled in your computer. If the Main Menu did not appear automatically, locate and double click on the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder in the Support CD to display the menus. 4. 2. 2 Drivers Menu The Drivers Menu shows the available devices drivers if the system detects installed devices. Please install the necessary drivers to activate the devices. 4. 2. 3 Utilities Menu The Utilities Menu shows the applications software that the motherboard supports. Click on a specific item then follow the installation wizard to install it. 4. 2. 4 LGA 775 CPU Installation Live Demo Program This motherboard is equipped with Intel LGA 775 socket, which is a new CPU socket interface that Intel has released. Since it has several tiny pins, whcih are easily to be damaged by improper handling, ASRock sincerely presents you a clear installation guide through this LGA 775 CPU Installation Live Demo. We hope you may check this live demo program before you start the installation of LGA 775 CPU in order to reduce the risks of CPU and motherboard damages caused by any improper handling. To see this Live Demo, you can run Microsoft Media Player to play the file. You may find this Live Demo in the motherboards Support CD through the following path:.\ Live Demo \ PC DIY \ LGA775INST_English.dat 4.2.5 Contact Information If you need to contact ASRock or want to know more about ASRock, welcome to visit ASRocks website at http://www.asrock.com; or you may contact your dealer for further information.

Reviewed >> COMPUTERS

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS

COMMUNICATIONS
The Dynamic Core Duo Motherboard
ASRock ConRoeXFire-eSATA2

BY FRIDAY13

With the official launch of Vista inevitably looming closer and closer, an upgrade to support the new operating systems requirements is in order. ASRocks new Intel-based motherboard supports the new Core 2 Duo Desktop processor (a.k.a. Conroe) for improved multimedia performance, which makes it a likely candidate for an upgrading exercise. An interesting thing to note about this particular motherboard is that while it supports the latest processor models and high Front Side Bus frequencies from 533MHz up to 1066MHz, the board only utilizes an Intel 945P in lieu of the newer 975X chipset for its North Bridge operation. The 975 is more suited to fully take advantage of the newer processors, but also more expensive so this board is more likely to appeal to users on a limited budget. The board is equipped with four DIMM slots that can handle a total of 4GB of DDR2 SDRAM chips. DDR2-667 and 533MHz memory modules are supported in order to take advantage of the faster Front Side Bus frequencies while running with dual channel memory architecture. For 3D graphics and gaming, the board supports ATI CrossFire technology via one PCI Express x16
slot and one AGI Express slot. The AGI Express is basically a PCI Express x4 slot which is mostly used for SLI operation via CrossFire. Only one IDE port is provided which supports up to ATA100 performance. The board relegates the bulk of its storage capabilities to the ICH7R South Bridge that handles four SATA2 slots. An additional two eSATA2 slots add the Hot Plug feature support but they share the same resources with the four internal SATA2 slots. The two eSATA2 ports provide the convenience of hot-plugging external drives for mobility, but the space of two USB slots are sacrificed to house the eSATA2 slots at the rear I/O panel. This means only two USB 2.0 slots are available there; as the board supports eight slots, the remaining six must be supported via expansion brackets and other means. A Realtek ALC888 CODEC provides eight-channel audio support with High Definition Audio. Ethernet LAN capability is handled by an onboard Gigabit 10/100/1000Mbps LAN chipset.
This is a highly capable ASRock motherboard which offers plenty of features and support for various hardware including the latest Intel processors and graphics technologies. The lack of readily-available USB ports at the rear I/O panel may be an issue to some, but this can be overcome by using expansion brackets.
S P E C I F I C AT I O N S

Chipset Processor

Intel LGA775 Pentium D / Pentium 4 / Celeron

Memory

Storage

Intel 945P

4x DDR2 667/533
1x ATA100 4x SATA2 2x eSATA2
Chipset : Intel 945P North Bridge, Intel ICH7R South Bridge Processor : LGA775 socket for Intel Pentium D, Pentium 4 and Celeron processors, supports Core 2 Duo Desktop (Conroe), Presler and Cedar Mill Memory : 4x 240-pin DDR2 667/533 DIMMs Storage : 1x ATA100, 4x SATA2 (on ICH7R), supports RAID 0, 1, 10, 5, Intel Matrix Storage, 2x eSATA2 (shared), supports Hot Plug function I/O : 1x floppy, 1x serial, 1x parallel, 2x PS/2, 8x USB 2.0 (6x ports via bracket), 2x IEEE 1394 (2x ports via bracket), 2x eSATA2, audio ports for 8-channel, 1x RJ-45 Gigabit LAN Contact : Intranet Sdn Bhd / Planet Technology (M) Sdn Bhd Telephone : (03) / (03) URL : www.asrock.com

Available at

H W M S V E R D I C T

PCMark 2004 Pro 1.3.0

PCMark CPU Memory Graphics HDD 4505 5137

PCMark 2005 Pro 1.1.0

PCMark CPU Memory Graphics HDD 3619
Features: 8.5 Stability: 8.0 Performance: 8.5 Value: 8.0

Out of 10

ConRoeXFire-eSATA2

ConRoeXFireeSATA2

Reference board
* Test setup: The ConRoeXFire-eSATA2 was fitted with an Intel LGA775 Pentium D 2.80GHz and matched to 2x 512MB DDR2 533MHz SDRAM modules and a GeForce 6600 128MB graphics card. The reference board was fitted with an Intel LGA775 Pentium 4 3.40GHz and matched to 2x 512MB DDR2 533MHz SDRAM modules and an Intel Extreme Graphics chipset.
A well-featured motherboard with some out-of-theordinary features

AUG 2006