A7V600-F

User Guide

Motherboard

Checklist
First Edition August 2003
Copyright 2003 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (ASUS). Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing. ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL AS IS WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, 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 USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE), EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT. SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT. 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.

Contents

Notices.... v Safety information... vi About this guide.... vii ASUS contact information.. ix A7V600-F specifications summary.. x

Features

Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 1.2 Welcome!... 1-1 Special features... 1-1 1.2.1 Product highlights.. 1-1 1.2.2 Value-added solutions.. 1-3 Motherboard overview... 1-4 1.3.1 Major components.. 1-4 1.3.2 Core specifications.. 1-6
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.1 Motherboard installation... 2-1 2.1.1 Placement direction.. 2-1 2.1.2 Screw holes... 2-1 Motherboard layout.. 2-2 Before you proceed.. 2-3 Central Processing Unit (CPU).. 2-4 2.4.1 Overview... 2-4 2.4.2 Installing the CPU.. 2-5 System memory... 2-6 2.5.1 Overview... 2-6 2.5.2 DDR400 Qualified Vendor List. 2-7 2.5.3 Installing a DIMM... 2-8 2.5.4 Removing a DIMM.. 2-9 Expansion slots... 2-10 2.6.1 Installing an expansion card.. 2-10 2.6.2 Configuring an expansion card.. 2-10 2.6.3 PCI slots.. 2-12 2.6.4 AGP slot... 2-12 2.6.5 CNR slot.. 2-13 Jumpers... 2-14 Connectors... 2-17 iii

2.2 2.3 2.4

2.7 2.8

Chapter 3: Powering up

3.1 3.2 Starting up for the first time.. 3-1 Powering off the computer.. 3-2

Safeguards

Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS. 4-1 4.1.1 Using ASUS EZ Flash to update the BIOS. 4-1 4.1.2 Using AFLASH to update the BIOS.. 4-3 4.1.3 Recovering the BIOS with CrashFree BIOS 2. 4-7 BIOS Setup program... 4-9 4.2.1 BIOS menu bar.. 4-10 4.2.2 Legend bar... 4-10 Main Menu.. 4-12 4.3.1 Primary and Secondary Master/Slave.. 4-14 4.3.2 Keyboard Features... 4-18 Advanced Menu... 4-19 4.4.1 Chip Configuration.. 4-22 4.4.2 I/O Device Configuration.. 4-25 4.4.3 PCI Configuration.. 4-28 Power Menu... 4-30 4.5.1 Power Up Control.. 4-32 4.5.2 Hardware Monitor.. 4-34 Boot Menu.. 4-35 Exit Menu... 4-37

4.6 4.7

Notices
Federal Communications Commission Statement

This device complies with FCC Rules Part 15. 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 manufacturers 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 users 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.

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.

DDR Data Transfer Rate 400MHz 333MHz 266MHz DDR Base Frequency 200MHz 166MHz 133MHz
A DDR DIMM has the same physical dimensions as an SDR DIMM, but it has a 184-pin footprint compared to the 168-pin of the SDR DIMM. Also, a DDR DIMM is single notched while an SDR DIMM is double notched. Therefore, a DDR DIMM is not backward compatible with SDR, and should be installed only in a socket specially designed for DDR DIMMs. 2-6 Chapter 2: Hardware information

80 Pins

104 Pins
2.5.2 DDR400 Qualified Vendor List
The following table lists the PC3200-DDR400 memory modules that have been tested and qualified for use with this motherboard.
2.5.2.1 DDR400 One DIMM support only
Vendor Samsung KingMax Micron Micron Size 512MB 512MB 256MB 512MB Type DS DS SS DS P/N M368L6432ETM-CCC MPXC22D-38KT3R MT8VDDT3264AG-40BC4 MT16VDDT6464AG-40BC4 Chip K4H560838E-TCCC KDL388P4EA-50 MT46V32MTG-5BC MT46V32M8TG-5BC
2.5.2.2 DDR400 Two DIMM support only
Vendor GEIL Micron Nanya Size 512MB 512MB 256MB Type DS DS SS P/N MAG16UL3264D1TG5A-KC MT16VDDT6464AG-40BC4 NT256D64S88B1G-5T Chip GL3LC32G88TG-5A MT46V32M8TG-5BC NT5DS32M8BT-5T
Make sure to use only the tested and qualified DDR400 DIMMs listed above. Other DDR DIMMs manufactured by other vendors may not be suitable for this motherboard. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for the latest qualified vendor DDR400 module list.

2.5.3 Installing a 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.
Follow these steps to install a DIMM. 1. Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clips outward. 2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break on the socket.

Unlocked Retaining Clip

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

2.5.4 Removing a DIMM
Follow these steps to remove a DIMM. 1. Simultaneously press the retaining clips outward to unlock the DIMM.

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.
In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The motherboard has five PCI slots and one Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) slot. 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.
2.6.1 Installing an expansion card
Follow these steps to install an expansion card. 1. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card. 2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a chassis). 3. Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later use. 4. Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is completely seated on the slot. 5. Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier. 6. Replace the system cover.
2.6.2 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 4 for information on BIOS setup. 2. Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the next page. 3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.
Standard Interrupt Assignments
IRQ 2 3* 4* 5* 6 7* 8 9* 10* 11* 12* 13 14* 15* Priority N/A 10 Standard Function System Timer Keyboard Controller Programmable Interrupt Communications Port (COM2) Communications Port (COM1) Sound Card (sometimes LPT2) Floppy Disk Controller Printer Port (LPT1) System CMOS/Real Time Clock ACPI Mode when used IRQ Holder for PCI Steering IRQ Holder for PCI Steering PS/2 Compatible Mouse Port Numeric Data Processor Primary IDE Channel Secondary IDE Channel
These IRQs are usually available for ISA or PCI devices.
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
PCI slot 1 PCI slot 2 PCI slot 3 PCI slot 4 PCI slot 5 AGP slot USB 1.1 UHCI 1 USB 1.1 UHCI 2 USB 1.1 UHCI 3 USB 1.1 UHCI 4 USB 2.0 EHCI USB Device AC97 Codec Onboard LAN Onboard IDE Onboard 1394 Onboard SATA A B C D E F G H shared shared shared shared shared shared shared shared shared shared shared shared shared shared shared shared shared
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.

2.6.3 PCI slots

There are five 32-bit PCI slots in this motherboard. The slots support PCI cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI specifications. The following figure shows a LAN card installed on a PCI slot.

2.6.4 AGP slot

This motherboard has an Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) slot that supports +1.5V AGP cards. When you buy an AGP card, make sure that you ask for one with +1.5V specification. Note the notches on the card golden fingers to ensure that they fit the AGP slot on your motherboard.
Install only 1.5V AGP cards on this motherboard!

Keyed for 1.5v

A7V600-F Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP)

2.6.5 CNR slot

The Communications and Networking Riser (CNR) slot supports interface cards that integrates audio, modem, and network functionality. The CNR specification supports interfaces including: Audio Codec 97 (AC 97) - for audio and/or modem functions System Management Bus (SMB) - for Plug-n-Play functionality Power - to provide the signals required for power management, and the main power supplies to operate the CNR circuitry The CNR is tagged to replace the current Audio Modem Riser (AMR) slot because of its flexibility and added features. Also, the CNR slot does not take up the motherboard space for one PCI slot because it is a shared slot; rather, it provides you more options.
A7V600-F Communication & Networking Riser Slot

Jumpers

1. Keyboard power (3-pin KBPWR) This jumper allows you to enable or disable the keyboard wake-up feature. Set this jumper to pins 2-3 (+5VSB) if you wish to wake up the computer when you press a key on the keyboard (the default value is [Disabled]). This feature requires an ATX power supply that can supply at least 1A on the +5VSB lead, and a corresponding setting in the BIOS (see section 4.5.1 Power Up Control).

+5VSB (Default)

A7V600-F Keyboard Power Setting
2. IEEE 1394 Setting (3-pin 1394_SW) This jumper permits selection of the IEEE 1394 onboard connector for connection of the IEEE 1394 module. The default setting [1-2] enables the onboard IEEE 1394 connector. Disable the connector by changing the jumpers to [2-3].

Enable (Default) Disable

A7V600-F 1394 Setting
3. USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW12, USBPW34, USBPW56, USBPW78) Set these jumpers to +5V to wake up the computer from S1 sleep mode (CPU stopped, DRAM refreshed, system running in low power mode) using the connected USB devices. Set to +5VSB to wake up from S3 sleep mode (no power to CPU, DRAM in slow refresh, power supply in reduced power mode). All jumpers are set to pins 2-3 (+5VSB) by default. The USBPW12 and USBPW34 jumpers are for the rear USB ports. The USBPW56 and USBPW78 jumpers are for the internal USB header that you can connect to the front USB ports.

1. This feature requires a power supply that can provide at least 2A on the +5VSB lead when these jumpers are set to +5VSB. Otherwise, the system does not power up. 2. The total current consumed must NOT exceed the power supply capability (+5VSB) whether under normal condition or in sleep mode.

USBPW12 USBPW34

USBPW78 USBPW56
A7V600-F USB Device Wake Up
4. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC) These jumpers allow 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 RAM data in CMOS is powered by the onboard button cell battery. To erase the RTC RAM: 1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2. Remove the battery. 3. Move the jumper cap to pin [1-2] to clear CMOS then replace the jumper cap back to pin [2-3] after 3 seconds. 4. Re-install the battery. 5. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer. 6. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter data.

Clear CMOS

Normal (Default)

A7V600-F Clear RTC RAM

Connectors
Always connect ribbon cables with the red stripe to Pin 1 on the connectors. Pin 1 is usually on the side closest to the power connector on hard drives and CD-ROM drives, but may be on the opposite side on floppy disk drives.
This section describes and illustrates the internal connectors on the motherboard.
1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) This connector supports the provided floppy drive ribbon cable. After connecting one end to the motherboard, connect the other end to the floppy drive. (Pin 5 is removed to prevent incorrect insertion when using ribbon cables with pin 5 plug).
NOTE: Orient the red markings on the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.
A7V600-F Floppy Disk Drive Connector
2. IDE connectors (40-1 pin PRI_IDE, SEC_IDE) This connector supports the provided UltraDMA133/100/66 IDE hard disk ribbon cable. Connect the cables blue connector to the primary (recommended) or secondary IDE connector, then connect the gray connector to the UltraDMA133/100/66 slave device (hard disk drive) and the black connector to the UltraDMA133/100/66 master device. It is recommended that you connect non-UltraDMA133/100/66 devices to the secondary IDE connector. If you install two hard disks, you must configure the second drive as a slave device by setting its jumper accordingly. Refer to the hard disk documentation for the jumper settings. BIOS supports specific device bootup. If you have more than two UltraDMA133/100/66 devices, purchase another UltraDMA133/ 100/66 cable. You may configure two hard disks to be both master devices with two ribbon cables one for the primary IDE connector and another for the secondary IDE connector.

ATXPWR

+3.3VDC -12.0VDC GND PS_ON# GND GND GND -5.0VDC +5.0VDC +5.0VDC +3.3VDC +3.3VDC GND +5.0VDC GND +5.0VDC GND PWR_OK +5VSB +12.0VDC

ATX12V

+12V DC GND
A7V600-F ATX Power Connector
6. IEEE 1394 connector (10-1 pin IE1394_1) This connector is for an optional 1394 module. Attach the 10-1 pin 394 cable plug from the module to this connector. You may also connect a 1394-compliant internal hard disk to this connector.
IE1394_1 A7V600-F IEEE-1394 Connector

TPA0+ GND TPB0+ +12V

TPA0GND TPB0+12V GND
7. USB header (4-1 pin USB56, USB78) If the USB ports on the rear panel are inadequate, a USB header is available for additional USB ports. The USB header complies with USB 2.0 specification that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed. This speed advantage over the conventional 12 Mbps on USB 1.1. If your package came with a USB 2.0/GAME module, connect the USB cable to this header. The module has two USB 2.0 ports that support the next generation USB peripherals such as high resolution cameras, scanners, and printers.
USB+5V USB_P6USB_P6+ GND NC
USB56 A7V600-F USB 2.0 Headers

USB+5V USB_P5USB_P5+ GND

USB+5V USB_P7USB_P7+ GND
8. Internal audio connectors (4-pin CD, AUX, MODEM) These connectors allow you to receive stereo audio input from sound sources such as a CD-ROM, TV tuner, or MPEG card. The MODEM connector allows the onboard audio to interface with a voice modem card with a similar connector. It also allows the sharing of mono_in (such as a phone) and a mono_out (such as a speaker) between the audio and a voice modem card.
Right Audio Channel Ground Ground Left Audio Channel

AUX(White)

CD(Black)
A7V600-F Internal Audio Connectors
USB+5V USB_P8USB_P8+ GND NC
9. Serial ATA connectors (7 pin SATA1, SATA2) These next generation connectors support the thin Serial ATA cables for Serial ATA hard disks. The current Serial ATA interface allows up to 150MB/s data transfer rate, faster than the standard parallel ATA with 133MB/s (UltraATA133).

A7V600-F SATA Connectors

10. S/PDIF In connector (3 pin S/PDIF_IN) This connector is for an additional S/PDIF audio module that allows digital instead of analog sound input.

SPDIF_IN

GND SPDIF IN NC
A7V600-F Digital Audio Connector
GND RSATA_TXP1 RSATA_TXN1 GND RSATA_RXP1 RSATA_RXN1 GND
GND RSATA_TXP2 RSATA_TXN2 GND RSATA_RXP2 RSATA_RXN2 GND
11. System panel connector (20-pin PANEL1) This connector accommodates several system front panel functions.

ATX Power Switch*

Power LED

F_PANEL

HDLED A7V600-F Front Panel Audio Connector
System Power LED Lead (2-pin PLED) This 2-pin connector connects to the system power LED. The LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode. ATX Power Switch/Soft-off Switch Lead (2-pin PWR) This connector connects a switch that controls the system power. Pressing the power switch turns the system between ON and SLEEP, or ON and SOFT OFF, depending on the BIOS or OS settings. Pressing the power switch while in the ON mode for more than 4 seconds turns the system OFF. Reset Switch Lead (2- pin RESET) This 2-pin connector connects to the case-mounted reset switch for rebooting the system without turning-off the system power. Hard Disk Activity Lead (2-pin IDE_LED) This connector supplies power to the hard disk activity LED. The read or write activities of any device connected to the primary or secondary IDE connector cause this LED to light up.

HDLED+ HDLEDGround Reset

PLED+ PLEDPWR GND

Reset SW

Chapter 3
This chapter describes the power up sequence and gives information on the BIOS beep codes.

Powering up

3.1 3.2 Starting up for the first time. 3-1 Powering off the computer.. 3-2
Starting up for the first time
1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. 2. Be sure that all switches are off. 3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. 4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector. 5. 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 power LED on the system front panel case lights up. For ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up when you press the ATX power switch. 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 tests. 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. 7. At power on, hold down <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup. Follow the instructions in Chapter 4.

Because the BIOS software is constantly being updated, the following BIOS setup screens and descriptions are for reference purposes only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.

4.2.1 BIOS menu bar

The top of the screen has a menu bar with the following selections: MAIN ADVANCED POWER BOOT EXIT Use this menu to make changes to the basic system configuration. Use this menu to enable and make changes to the advanced features. Use this menu to configure and enable Power Management features. Use this menu to configure the default system device used to locate and load the Operating System. Use this menu to exit the current menu or to exit the Setup program.
To access the menu bar items, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard until the desired item is highlighted.

4.2.2 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(s)
<F1> or <Alt + H> <Esc> Left or Right arrow Up or Down arrow - (minus key)

Function Description

Displays the General Help screen from anywhere in the BIOS Setup Jumps to the Exit menu or returns to the main menu from a sub-menu 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
+ (plus key) or spacebar Scrolls forward through the values for the highlighted field <Enter> <F5> <F10> Brings up a selection menu for the highlighted field Resets the current screen to its Setup Defaults Saves changes and exits Setup

General help

In addition to the Item Specific Help window, the BIOS setup program also provides a General Help screen. You may launch this screen from any menu by simply pressing <F1> or the <Alt> + <H> combination. The General Help screen lists the legend keys and their corresponding functions.
Saving changes and exiting the Setup program
See 4.7 Exit Menu for detailed information on saving changes and exiting the setup program.

Scroll bar

When a scroll bar appears to the right of a help window, it indicates that there is more information to be displayed that will not fit in the window. Use <PgUp> and <PgDn> or the up and down arrow keys to scroll through the entire help document. Press <Home> to display the first page, press <End> to go to the last page. To exit the help window, press <Enter> or <Esc>.

Sub-menu

Note that a right pointer symbol (as shown on the left) appears to the left of certain fields. This pointer indicates that you can display a sub-menu from this field. A sub-menu contains additional options for a field parameter. To display a sub-menu, move the highlight to the field and press <Enter>. The submenu appears. Use the legend keys to enter values and move from field to field within a sub-menu as you would within a menu. Use the <Esc> key to return to the main menu. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the legend keys and their corresponding functions. Practice navigating through the various menus and sub-menus. If you accidentally make unwanted changes to any of the fields, use the set default hot key <F5> to load the Setup default values. While moving around through the Setup program, note that explanations appear in the Item Specific Help window located to the right of each menu. This window displays the help text for the currently highlighted field.

When the motherboard is set to JumperFree mode, this field allows you to select the internal frequency of the CPU. Select [Manual] if you want to make changes to the two subsequent fields. Note that selecting a frequency higher than the CPU manufacturer recommends may cause the system to hang or crash.
CPU Frequency Multiple (when CPU Speed is set to [Manual])
This field sets the frequency multiple between the CPUs internal frequency (CPU speed) and external frequency. Set this field in conjunction with CPU Frequency (MHz) to match the speed of the CPU.
The item CPU Frequency Multiple is accessible only if you have an unlocked processor. If your processor frequency multiple is locked, you cannot change the setting of this item.
CPU External Frequency (MHz) (when CPU Speed is set to [Manual])
This feature tells the clock generator what frequency to send to the system bus and PCI bus. The bus frequency (external frequency) multiplied by the bus multiple equals the CPU speed.
Memory Frequency (Mhz) [Auto]
This field allows you to select a higher memory frequency for better system performance. The options that appear in the popup menu vary according to the CPU Frequency (MHz). Configuration options: [Auto] [266] [333] [400]

CPU VCore Setting [Auto]

The [Manual] setting allows you to manually select the core voltage supplied to the CPU (see next item). This item can only be changed in JumperFree mode, otherwise, it is recommended that you keep the default setting [Auto] to allow the system to automatically determine the appropriate CPU core voltage.

CPU VCore [1.850V]

When the CPU VCore Setting parameter above is set to [Manual], the CPU VCore item allows you to select a specific CPU core voltage. This field is not accessible when the CPU VCore Setting is set to [Auto].
CPU Level 1 Cache, CPU Level 2 Cache [Enabled]
These fields allow you to choose from the default [Enabled] or choose [Disabled] to turn on or off the CPU Level 1 and Level 2 built-in cache. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
PS/2 Mouse Function Control [Auto]
The default setting [Auto] allows the system to detect a PS/2 mouse at startup. If a mouse is detected, the BIOS assigns IRQ12 to the PS/2 mouse. Otherwise, IRQ12 can be used for expansion cards. When you set this field to [Enabled], BIOS reserves IRQ12, whether or not a PS/2 mouse is detected at startup. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Auto]

USB Legacy Support [Auto]
This motherboard supports Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices. The default of [Auto] allows the system to detect a USB device at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If not detected, the USB controller legacy mode is disabled. When you set this field to [Disabled], the USB controller legacy mode is disabled whether or not you are using a USB device. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto]
OS/2 Onboard Memory > 64M [Disabled]
When using OS/2 operating systems with installed DRAM of greater than 64MB, you need to set this option to [Enabled]. Otherwise, leave to the default setting [Disabled]. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Instant Music [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Instant Music feature in BIOS. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
When Instant Music is enabled, the PS/2 keyboard power up feature is automatically disabled.

Instant Music CD ROM

Allows you to select the CD-ROM drive that you wish to use for the Instant Music CD playback. Configuration options depends on the optical drives installed on your system.
The above item appears only if you enabled the Instant Music item.

4.4.1 Chip Configuration

SDRAM Configuration [By SPD]
This parameter allows you to set the optimal timings for items 25, depending on the memory modules that you are using. The default setting is [By SPD], which configures items 25 by reading the contents in the SPD (Serial Presence Detect) device. The EEPROM on the memory module stores critical information about the module, such as memory type, size, speed, voltage interface, and module banks. Configuration options: [User Defined] [By SPD]
The SDRAM parameters (items 2~5) become configurable only when you set the SDRAM Configuration to [User Defined].
SDRAM CAS Latency (value depends on SDRAM SPD)
This item controls the latency between the SDRAM read command and the time the data actually becomes available. Configuration options: [3.0T(DDR)] [2.5T(DDR)] [2.0T(DDR)] [1.5T(DDR)]
SDRAM RAS to CAS Delay (value depends on SDRAM SPD)
This item controls the latency between the DDR SDRAM active command and the read/write command. Configuration options: [5T] [4T] [3T] [2T].
SDRAM RAS Precharge Delay (value depends on SDRAM SPD)
This item controls the idle clocks after issuing a precharge command to the DDR SDRAM. Configuration options: [5T] [4T] [3T] [2T]

The computer cannot receive or transmit data until the computer and applications are fully running. Thus, connection cannot be made on the first try. Turning an external modem off and then back on while the computer is off causes an initialization string that turns the system power on.
Wake/Power Up By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]
This parameter allows you to use specific keys on the 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]
Wake/Power Up By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]
When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to use the PS/2 mouse to turn on the system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Double Click]
Power Up On PCI Device [Disabled]
When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to turn on the system through a PCI LAN or modem card. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Automatic Power Up [Disabled]
This allows an unattended or automatic system power up. You may configure your system to power up at a certain time of the day by selecting [Everyday] or at a certain time and day by selecting [By Date]. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Everyday] [By Date]

4.5.2 Hardware Monitor

MB Temperature [xxxC/xxxF] CPU Temperature [xxxC/xxxF]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard and CPU temperatures.
CPU Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [N/A] Power Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [N/A] Chassis Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [N/A]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU, power, and chassis fan speeds in rotations per minute (RPM). If any of the fans is not connected to the motherboard, the specific field shows N/A.
VCORE Voltage, +3.3V Voltage, +5V Voltage, +12V Voltage
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard voltage regulators.

BootMenu

Boot Sequence
The Boot menu allows you to select among the four possible types of boot devices listed using the up and down arrow keys. By using the <+> or <Space> key, you can promote devices and by using the <-> key, you can demote devices. Promotion or demotion of devices alters the priority which the system uses to search for a boot device on system power up. Configuration fields include Removable Devices, IDE Hard Drive, ATAPI CD-ROM, and Other Boot Device.
Removable Device [Legacy Floppy]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Legacy Floppy] [LS-120] [ZIP] [ATAPI MO]

IDE Hard Drive

This field allows you to select which IDE hard disk drive to use in the boot sequence. Pressing [Enter] will show the product IDs of all connected IDE hard disk drives.

Storage Audio LAN Special Features

Overclocking Features

Rear Panel I/O
A7V600 specifications summary (Cont)
Internal I/O Connectors CPU/Power/Chassis FAN connectors 20 pin ATX power connector Chassis Intrusion GAME/MIDI connector CD/AUX/Modem audio in S/PDIF out connector Front panel audio connector 2 x USB 2.0 connector supports additional 4 USB 2.0 ports 2 x Serial ATA port COM2 connector 2Mb Flash ROM, ASUS Jumperfree, Award BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS2.3, ASUS EZ Flash, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2, ASUS C.P.R. PCI 2.2, USB 2.0 WfM 2.0. DMI 2.0, WOR, WOL, chassis intrusion ATX form factor: 12 in x 9.6 in (30.5 cm x 24.5 cm) Device drivers ASUS PC Probe Trend Micro PC-cillin 2002 anti-virus software (OEM version) ASUS LiveUpdate Utility

BIOS features

Industry standard Manageability Form Factor Support CD contents
* Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Chapter 1

ASUS A7V600 Motherboard

Motherboard Info

This chapter gives information about the ASUS A7V600 motherboard that came with the system.This chapter includes the motherboard layout, jumper settings, and connector locations.

Welcome!

Thank you for buying the ASUS A7V600 motherboard! The ASUS A7V600 motherboard is loaded with the most advanced technologies to deliver the maximum performance for socket A processors. Based on the advanced VIA KT600 chipset with FSB 400 and DDR 400 support, the ASUS A7V600 also features AGP 8X, Serial ATA, USB 2.0 as well as 6-channel audio, Gigabit LAN and S/PDIF out features. Unique ASUS features such as ASUS C.O.P., C.P.R. , CrashFree BIOS2, Q-Fan and more are included to ensure the best user experience and value in a motherboard. Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in your package with the list below.

Package contents

ASUS A7V600 motherboard ATX form factor: 12 in x 9.6 in (30.5 cm x 24.5 cm) ASUS A7V600 series support CD 2 pcs. Serial ATA cable 2-port USB 2.0 module 1 pc. 80-conductor ribbon cable for UltraDMA/66/100/133 IDE drives 40-conductor IDE cable Ribbon cable for a 3.5-inch floppy drive I/O shield Bag of extra jumper caps User Guide

Check your ASUS A7V600 package for the following items.

Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

400 FSB K7 Platform

Combining support for the next generation AMD Athlon XP processors with 400Mhz Front Side Bus (FSB) with its advanced FastStream64 Memory Controller Technology and the industry-first integrated Serial ATA/RAID controller on the VIA VT8237 South Bridge, the VIA KT600 provides the highest performance and most feature-rich platform for increased office productivity and enhanced digital media experience.

DDR400 (PC3200) support

DDR400 (PC3200), the latest and fastest DDR memory standard, supports bandwidth of up to 3.2 GB/s to provide enhanced system performance. (Note: PC3200 maximum to 2 DIMMs only. Visit the ASUS website for the latest qualified DDR400 module list.)

AGP 8X support

AGP 8X (AGP 3.0) is the next generation VGA interface specification that enables enhanced graphics performance with high bandwidth speeds up to 2.12 GB/s. With a bus of 533Mhz, AGP 8X is twice as fast as AGP 4X.

Serial ATA technology

The motherboard bundles the new Serial ATA technology through the SATA interfaces onboard. The SATA specification allows for thinner, more flexible cables with lower pin count, reduced voltage requirement, up to 150 MB/s data transfer rate.

AI NET solution

The 3Com 3C940 Gigabit PCI LAN controller chipset is onboard to provide a single-chip solution for LAN on Motherboard (LOM) applications. The 3C940 controller integrates 32-bit 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet Media Access Control (IEEE 802.3 compliant) and Physical Layer Transceiver solution to support high performance network applications. The controller is equipped with the netdiagnosing utility, VCT (Virtual Cable Tester), that intelligently diagnoses and reports cable faults from a remote location up to 100 meters. This feature helps maintain a more stable network connection.

ASUS Q-Fan feature

The ASUS Q-Fan technology smartly adjusts the fan speeds according to the system loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efficient operation.
8 x USB 2.0 ports support
USB 2.0 is the latest connectivity standard for next generation components and peripherals. USB 2.0 delivers fast transfer speeds up to 40 times faster at 480 MB/ s, for easy connectivity and ultra-fast data transfers. The higher bandwidth of USB 2.0 allows connection of devices such as high resolution video conferencing cameras, next generation scanners, printers, and fast storage units. USB 2.0 is backward compatible with USB 1.1.
S/PDIF out port on Rear Panel I/O

System memory

The motherboard has three Double Data Rate (DDR) DIMM sockets that supports up to 3GB unbuffered non-ECC PC3200/2700/2100 DDR DIMMs. A DDR DIMM has the same physical dimensions as an SDR DIMM, but it has a 184-pin footprint compared to the 168-pin of the SDR DIMM. Also, a DDR DIMM is single notched while an SDR DIMM is double notched.

DIMM1 DIMM2 DIMM3

A7V600 184-Pin DDR DIMM Sockets A DDR 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. PC3200 maximum to 2 banks only.
1.9.1 DDR400 Qualified Vendor List
The following table lists the DDR400 (PC3200) memory modules that have been tested and qualified for use with this motherboard. Make sure to use only the tested and qualified DDR400 DIMMs listed below.
DDR400 One DIMM support only
Vendor Samsung KingMax Micron Micron NANYA Infineon Size 512MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 512MB 512MB Type DS DS SS DS DS DS P/N M368L6432ETM-CCC MPXC22D-38KT3R MT8VDDT3264AG-40BC4 MT16VDDT6464AG-40BC4 NT512D64S8HB1G-5T HYS64D64320GU-5-B Chip K4H560838E-TCCC KDL388P4EA-50 MT46V32MTG-5BC MT46V32M8TG-5BC NT5DS32M8BT-5T HYB25D256800BT-5
DDR400 Two DIMM support only
Vendor GEIL Micron Nanya ADATA Size 512MB 512MB 256MB 256 Type DS DS SS SS P/N MAG16UL3264D1TG5A-KC MT16VDDT6464AG-40BC4 NT256D64S88B1G-5T MDOSS6F3G31JB1EAE Chip GL3LC32G88TG-5A MT46V32M8TG-5BC NT5DS32M8BT-5T K4H560838D-TCC4

80 Pins

104 Pins

1.10 Expansion slots

The A7V600 motherboard has six (6) expansion PCI slots and one (1) AGP 8X slot. The following sub-sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support.
1.10.1 Configuring an expansion card
After physically installing the expansion card, configure the card by adjusting the software settings. 1. 2. 3. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables below. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.
1.10.2 Standard Interrupt Assignments
IRQ Priority Standard Function
System Timer Keyboard Controller 2 N/A Programmable Interrupt 3* 11 Communications Port (COM2) 4* 12 Communications Port (COM1) 5* 13 Sound Card (sometimes LPT2) Floppy Disk Controller 7* 15 Printer Port (LPT1) System CMOS/Real Time Clock 9* 4 ACPI Mode when used 10* 5 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering 11* 6 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering 12* 7 PS/2 Compatible Mouse Port Numeric Data Processor 14* 9 Primary IDE Channel 15* 10 Secondary IDE Channel *These IRQs are usually available for ISA or PCI devices.
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
PCI slot PCI slot 2 PCI slot 3 PCI slot 4 PCI slot 5 PCI slot 6 AGP slot USB 1.1 UHCI 1 USB 1.1 UHCI 2 USB 1.1 UHCI 3 USB 1.1 UHCI 4 USB 2.0 EHCI USB Device AC97 Codec Onboard LAN Onboard SATA Onboard IDE shared shared shared

SPDIFOUT GND
A7V600 Digital Audio Connector The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.
11. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin FP_AUDIO) This is an interface for the Intel front panel audio cable that allow convenient connection and control of audio devices.
Remove the caps from the Line out_R, BLINE_OUT_R, Line out_L and BLINE_OUT_L jumpers if you want to install an Intel front panel audio cable.

AGND +5VA BLINE_OUT_R

A7V600 Front Panel Audio Connector
MIC2 MICPWR Line out_R NC Line out_L

BLINE_OUT_L

12. Serial ATA connector (7 pin SATA1, SATA2) These connectors accommodate the primary serial ATA (SATA1) and a secondary serial ATA (SATA2) cables. Connect the serial ATA cable to this connector then install to a serial ATA ready hard disk.
GND RSATA_TXP2 RSATA_TXN2 GND RSATA_RXP2 RSATA_RXN2 GND

A7V600 SATA Connectors

13. System panel connector (20-pin PANEL1) This connector accommodates several system front panel functions.

Power LED

PLED+ PLED-

Speaker Connector

+5V Ground Ground Speaker ExtSMI# Ground PWR Ground

IDE_LED+ IDE_LED-

Reset SW ATX Power Switch*

IDE_LED

SMI Lead
* Requires an ATX power supply.
A7V600 System Panel Connectors
System Power LED Lead (3-1 pin PLED) This 3-1 pin connector connects to the system power LED. The LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.
System Warning Speaker Lead (4-pin SPKR) This 4-pin connector connects to the case-mounted speaker and allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.
Reset Switch Lead (2-pin RESET) This 2-pin connector connects to the case-mounted reset switch for rebooting the system without turning off the system power.

Reset Ground

GND RSATA_TXP1 RSATA_TXN1 GND RSATA_RXP1 RSATA_RXN1 GND
ATX Power Switch/Soft-off Switch Lead (2-pin PWR) This connector connects a switch that controls the system power. Pressing the power switch turns the system between ON and SLEEP, or ON and SOFT OFF, depending on the BIOS or OS settings. Pressing the power switch while in the ON mode for more than 4 seconds turns the system OFF.
System Management Interrupt Lead (2-pin SMI) This 2-pin connector allows you to manually place the system into a suspend mode, or green mode, where system activity is instantly decreased to save power and to expand the life of certain system components. Attach the casemounted suspend switch to this 2-pin connector.
Hard Disk Activity Lead (2-pin IDE_LED) This connector supplies power to the hard disk activity LED. The read or write activities of any device connected to the primary or secondary IDE connector cause this LED to light up.

Because the BIOS software is constantly being updated, the following BIOS setup screens and descriptions are for reference purposes only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.

2.2.1 BIOS menu bar

The top of the screen has a menu bar with the following selections: MAIN ADVANCED POWER BOOT EXIT Use this menu to make changes to the basic system configuration. Use this menu to enable and make changes to the advanced features. Use this menu to configure and enable Power Management features. Use this menu to configure the default system device used to locate and load the Operating System. Use this menu to exit the current menu or to exit the Setup program.
To access the menu bar items, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard until the desired item is highlighted.

2.2.2 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(s)
<F1> or <Alt + H> <Esc> Left or Right arrow Up or Down arrow - (minus key) + (plus key) or spacebar <Enter> <Home> or <PgUp> <End> or <PgDn> <F5> <F10>

Function Description

Displays the General Help screen from anywhere in the BIOS Setup Jumps to the Exit menu or returns to the main menu from a sub-menu 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 Moves the cursor to the first field Moves the cursor to the last field Resets the current screen to its Setup Defaults Saves changes and exits Setup

General help

In addition to the Item Specific Help window, the BIOS setup program also provides a General Help screen. You may launch this screen from any menu by simply pressing <F1> or the <Alt> + <H> combination. The General Help screen lists the legend keys and their corresponding functions.
Saving changes and exiting the Setup program
See 2.7 Exit Menu for detailed information on saving changes and exiting the setup program. When a scroll bar appears to the right of a help window, it indicates that there is more information to be displayed that will not fit in the window. Use <PgUp> and <PgDn> or the up and down arrow keys to scroll through the entire help document. Press <Home> to display the first page, press <End> to go to the last page. To exit the help window, press <Enter> or <Esc>.

[User Type HDD]

Manually enter the number of cylinders, heads and sectors per track for the drive. Refer to the drive documentation or label for this information. ASUS A7V600 Motherboard 2-13
If no drive is installed or if you are removing a drive and not replacing it, select [None]. Other options for the Type field are: [CD-ROM] - for IDE CD-ROM drives [LS-120] - for LS-120 compatible floppy disk drives [ZIP] - for ZIP-compatible disk drives [MO] - for IDE magneto optical disk drives [Other ATAPI Device] - for IDE devices not listed here After making your selections on this sub-menu, press the <Esc> key to return to the Main menu. When the Main menu appears, the hard disk drive field displays the size for the hard disk drive that you configured.

Translation Method [LBA]

Select the hard disk drive type in this field. When Logical Block Addressing (LBA) is enabled, the 28-bit addressing of the hard drive is used without regard for cylinders, heads, or sectors. Note that LBA Mode is necessary for drives with more than 504MB storage capacity. Configuration options: [LBA] [LARGE] [Normal] [Match Partition Table] [Manual]

Cylinders

This field configures the number of cylinders. Refer to the drive documentation to determine the correct value. To make changes to this field, set the Type field to [User Type HDD] and the Translation Method field to [Manual].
This field configures the number of read/write heads. Refer to the drive documentation to determine the correct value. To make changes to this field, set the Type field to [User Type HDD] and the Translation Method field to [Manual].

Sector

This field configures the number of sectors per track. Refer to the drive documentation to determine the correct value. To make changes to this field, set the Type field to [User Type HDD] and the Translation Method field to [Manual].

CHS Capacity

This field shows the drives maximum CHS capacity as calculated by the BIOS based on the drive information you entered.

Maximum LBA Capacity

This field shows the drives maximum LBA capacity as calculated by the BIOS based on the drive information you entered.
Multi-Sector Transfers [Maximum]
This option automatically sets the number of sectors per block to the highest number that the drive supports. Note that when this field is automatically configured, the set value may not always be the fastest value for the drive. You may also manually configure this field. Refer to the documentation that came with the hard drive to determine the optimum value and set it manually. To make changes to this field, set the Type field to [User Type HDD]. Configuration options: [Disabled] [2 Sectors] [4 Sectors] [8 Sectors] [16 Sectors] [32 Sectors] [Maximum]

SMART Monitoring [Disabled]
This field allows you to enable or disable the S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) system that utilizes internal hard disk drive monitoring technology. This parameter is normally disabled because the resources used in the SMART monitoring feature may decrease system performance. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

PIO Mode [4]

This option lets you set a PIO (Programmed Input/Output) mode for the IDE device. Modes 0 through 4 provide successive increase in performance. Configuration options: [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]
Ultra DMA Mode [Disabled]
Ultra DMA capability allows improved transfer speeds and data integrity for compatible IDE devices. Set to [Disabled] to suppress Ultra DMA capability. To make changes to this field, set the Type field to [User Type HDD]. Configuration options: [0] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [Disabled]

2.3.2 Keyboard Features

Boot Up NumLock Status [On]
This field enables users to activate the Number Lock function upon system boot. Configuration options: [Off] [On]
Keyboard Auto-Repeat Rate [12/Sec]
This controls the speed at which the system registers repeated keystrokes. Options range from 6 to 30 characters per second. Configuration options: [6/Sec] [8/Sec] [10/Sec] [12/Sec] [15/Sec] [20/Sec] [24/Sec] [30/Sec] ASUS A7V600 Motherboard 2-15
Keyboard Auto-Repeat Delay [1/4 Sec]
This field sets the time interval for displaying the first and second characters. Configuration options: [1/4 Sec] [1/2 Sec] [3/4 Sec] [1 Sec]

Advanced Menu

CPU Speed
This displays the current speed of the CPU installed.

CPU Frequency Multiple

This field displays frequency multiple value between the CPUs internal frequency (CPU speed) and external frequency.
CPU External Frequency (MHz)
This feature tells the clock generator what frequency to send to the system bus and PCI bus. The bus frequency (external frequency) multiplied by the bus multiple equals the CPU speed.

Memory Frequency (MHz)

This field determines the memory clock frequency. Configuration options: [Auto] [266] [333] [400].

CPU VCore Setting [Auto]

The [Manual] setting allows you to manually select the core voltage supplied to the CPU (see next item). It is recommended that you keep the default setting [Auto] to allow the system to automatically determine the appropriate CPU core voltage.

CPU VCore

When the CPU VCore Setting parameter above is set to [Manual], the CPU VCore item allows you to select a specific CPU core voltage. This field is not accessible when the CPU VCore Setting is set to [Auto].
2-16 Chapter 2: BIOS Information

AGP Voltage [Auto]

This item controls the AGP operating voltage. This item can only be changed at JmpreFree mode, otherwise keep [Auto]. Configuration options: [1.8V] [1.7V] [1.6V] [1.5V] [Auto]

SDRAM Configuration [By SPD]
This parameter allows you to set the optimal timings for items 25, depending on the memory modules that you are using. The default setting is [By SPD], which configures items 25 by reading the contents in the SPD (Serial Presence Detect) device. The EEPROM on the memory module stores critical information about the module, such as memory type, size, speed, voltage interface, and module banks. Configuration options: [User Defined] [By SPD]
The SDRAM parameters (items 2~5) become configurable only when you set the SDRAM Configuration to [User Defined].
SDRAM CAS Latency (value depends on SDRAM SPD)
This item controls the latency between the SDRAM read command and the time the data actually becomes available. Configuration options: [1.5T] [2T] [2.5T]
SDRAM RAS to CAS Delay (value depends on SDRAM SPD)
This item controls the latency between the DDR SDRAM active command and the read/write command. Configuration options: [5T] [4T] [3T] [2T].
SDRAM RAS Precharge Delay (value depends on SDRAM SPD)
This item controls the idle clocks after issuing a precharge command to the DDR SDRAM. Configuration options: [5T] [4T] [3T] [2T]
SDRAM Active Precharge Delay (value depends on SDRAM SPD)
This item controls the number of DDR SDRAM clocks used for DDR SDRAM parameters. Configuration options: [9T] [8T] [7T] [6T]

SDRAM 1T Command Control

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto]

SDRAM Bank Interleave

Configuration options: [Disabled] [2 Bank] [4 Bank] [Auto]
Graphics Aperture Size [64MB]
This feature allows you to select the size of mapped memory for AGP graphic data. Configuration options: [4MB] [8MB] [16MB] [32MB] [64MB] [128MB] [256MB] [512MB] [1024MB] The [1024MB] and [512MB] configuration options are available only when you use AGP 8X graphics card.

AGP Capability [8X Mode]

This motherboard supports the AGP 8X interface that enables enhanced graphics performance with high bandwidth speeds up to 2.12GB/s. AGP8X is backwardcompatible. When set to [1X Mode], the AGP interface only provides a peak data throughput of 266MB/s even if you are using an AGP 8X card. Configuration options: [Auto] [1X Mode] [2X Mode] [4X Mode] [8X Mode]
AGP Drive Strength [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual] Configuration options: [0][1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][A][B][C][D][E][F]

Fan Speed Ratio [10/15]

This item allows you to select the appropriate fan speed ratio for the system. The default [10/15] is the minimum fan speed ratio. Select a higher ratio if you installed additional devices and the system requires more ventilation. This item appears only when the Q-Fan Control item is set to [Enabled]. Configuration options: [10/15] [11/15] [12/15] [13/15] [14/15] [Full Speed]
If any of the monitored items is out of range, the following error message appears: Hardware Monitor found an error. Enter Power setup menu for details. You will then be prompted to Press F1 to continue or DEL to enter SETUP.

Boot Menu

Boot Sequence
The Boot menu allows you to select four types of boot devices using the up and down arrow keys. By using the <+> or <Space> key, you can promote devices and by using the <-> key, you can demote devices. Promotion or demotion of devices alters the priority which the system uses to boot device on system power up. Configuration fields include Removable Devices, IDE Hard Drive, ATAPI CD-ROM, and Other Boot Device.
Removable Device [Legacy Floppy]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Legacy Floppy] [LS-120] [ZIP] [ATAPIMO] [USB FDD] [USB ZIP/Flash]

IDE Hard Drive

This field allows you to select which IDE hard disk drive to use in the boot sequence. Pressing [Enter] will show the product IDs of all connected IDE hard disk drives.

ATAPI CD-ROM

This field allows you to select which ATAPI CD-ROM drive to use in the boot sequence. Pressing [Enter] will show the product IDs of all your connected ATAPI CD-ROM drives.
Other Boot Device [INT18 Device (Network)]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [SCSI Boot Device] [INT18 Device (Network)]

Plug & Play O/S [No]

This field allows you to use a Plug-and-Play (PnP) operating system to configure the PCI bus slots instead of using the BIOS. When [Yes] is selected, interrupts may be reassigned by the OS. If you installed a non-PnP OS or if you want to prevent reassigning of interrupt settings, keep the default setting [No]. Configuration options: [No] [Yes]
Reset Configuration Data [No]
The Extended System Configuration Data (ESCD) contain information about nonPnP devices. It also holds the complete record of how the system was configured the last time it was booted. Select [Yes] if you want to clear these data during the Power-On-Self-Test (POST). Configuration options: [No] [Yes]
Boot Virus Detection [Enabled]
This field allows you to set boot virus detection, ensuring a virus-free boot sector. The system halts and displays a warning message when it detects a virus. If this occurs, you can either allow the operation to continue or use a virus-free bootable floppy disk to restart and investigate your system. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Quick Power On Self Test [Enabled]
This field speeds up the Power-On-Self Test (POST) routine by skipping retesting a second, third, and fourth time. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Boot Up Floppy Seek [Enabled]
When enabled, the BIOS will seek the floppy disk drive to determine whether the drive has 40 or 80 tracks. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Full Screen Logo [Enabled]
This allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Interrupt Mode [APIC]

The Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC) setting allows you to distribute interrupt routings other than the 16 IRQs. The Programmable Interrupt Controller (PIC) setting allows you to use the 16 IRQs only. Configuration options: [PIC] [APIC]

Exit Menu

When you have made all of your selections from the various menus in the Setup program, save your changes and exit Setup. Select Exit from the menu bar to display the following menu.
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 Saving 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. The CMOS RAM is sustained by an onboard backup battery and 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. Pressing <Enter> saves the changes while exiting.

Exit Discarding 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 Defaults

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 Saving 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.

This item installs the Microsoft V8.1 driver.
ADOBE Acrobat Reader V5.0
This installs software for viewing files in Portable Document Format (PDF).

ASUS Screen Saver

This item installs the ASUS screen saver.
3.2.4 ASUS Contact Information
Clicking the ASUS Contact Information tab displays as stated. You may also find this information on page viii of this user guide.
The motherboard is equipped with a BIOS-based audio playback feature called Instant Music Lite. This feature is supported by the onboard audio AC97 CODEC, and requires an optical drive (CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, or CD-RW).
1. 2. Instant Music Lite only supports CDs in audio format. Instant Music Lite does not work if you installed and enabled an add-on sound card. Instant Music Lite only supports PS/2 keyboard.
To enable ASUS Instant Music Lite:
1. Connect the analog audio cable from the optical drive (CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, or CD-RW drive) to the 4-pin CD-In connector (labeled CD1) on the motherboard. See section 1.12 Connectors for the connector location.
Make sure to connect the CD-ROM audio cable. Otherwise, you cannot control the audio volume using the Instant Music Lite function keys.
2. Turn on the system and enter BIOS by pressing the Delete key during the Power On Self-Tests (POST). 3. In the Advanced Configuration menu, select the item Instant Music and set it to Enabled. See section 2.4 Advanced Menu in the user guide. 4. Highlight the Instant Music CDROM item and press Enter to display the CD-ROM options. Select the CD-ROM drive that you wish to use for this feature. See section 2.4 Advanced Menu in the user guide.
If you have only one optical drive (either CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, or CD-RW) installed in the system, you dont have to set Instant Music CDROM item. BIOS automatically detects and displays the installed drive type.
5. Save your changes and exit BIOS Setup.
1. 2. 3. The Scroll Lock LED is fixed to ON after enabling Instant Music. The Caps Lock LED is turns ON when you pause the CD playback. When set to Instant Music Lite mode, the system wake-up features (LAN, keyboard, mouse, USB) are deactivated. In this case, power up the system using the power switch. If the system lost connection or did not detect any optical drive, the Instant Music Lite feature turns OFF (disabled) automatically. A beep indicates this condition.
To use ASUS Instant Music Lite:
1. Ensure that the power cord is plugged to a grounded power source, so that the system has a standby power. 2. Use either one of the two sets of special function keys on your keyboard to play audio CDs. These keys only function as indicated if you enabled the Instant Music Lite in BIOS. Instant Music function keys (Set 1)

The same confirmation message appears when the Auto Setup for Performance option is selected.
The data on the selected disks will be destroyed. Continue? Press Y/N
Press Y to confirm or N to return to the configuration options.
3.4.3.2 RAID 1 for data protection
RAID RAID RAID RAID RAID 0 for performance 1 for data protection 1 for data protection 0/1 SPAN for capacity
2. Select RAID 1 for data protection from the menu and press <Enter>. Select next task from pop-up menu. The task Create only creates the mirrored set without creating a backup. Create and duplicate creates both mirrored set and backup.
Create only Create and duplicate
3. Select task and press <Enter>. The screen returns to Create Array menu items. From this point, you may choose to auto-configure the RAID array by selecting Auto Setup for Data Security or manually configure the RAID array for mirrored sets. If you want to manually configure the RAID array continue with next step, otherwise, proceed to step #5.
4. Select Select Disk Drives, then press <Enter>. Use arrow keys to select disk drive/s, then press <Enter> to mark selected drive. (An asterisk is placed before a selected drive.) 5. Select Start Create Process and press <Enter> to setup hard disk for RAID system. The following confirmation message appears:
The same confirmation message appears when the Auto Setup for Data Security option is selected.
3.4.3.4 RAID SPAN for capacity
RAID RAID RAID RAID 0 for performance 1 for data protection 0/1 SPAN for capacity
2. Select RAID SPAN for capacity from the menu and press <Enter>. From this point, you may choose to auto-configure the RAID array by selecting Auto Setup for Capacity or manually configure the RAID array for spanned sets. If you want to manually configure the RAID array continue with next step. Screen reference on Auto Setup for Capacity can be found in step #4 3. Select Select Disk Drives, then press <Enter>. Use arrow keys to select disk drive/s, then press <Enter> to mark selected drive.(An asterisk is placed before a selected drive.)
4. Select Start Create Process and press <Enter> to setup hard disk for RAID system. The following confirmation message appears:
The same confirmation message appears when the Auto Setup for Capacity option is selected.

3.4.4 Delete Array

1. In the VIA RAID BIOS utility main menu, select Delete Array then press the <Enter> key. The focus is directed to the list of channel used for IDE RAID arrays. 2. Press the <Enter> key to select a RAID array to delete. The following confirmation message appears.
The selected array will be destroyed. Are you sure? Continue? Press Y/N

3.4.5 Select Boot Array

1. In the VIA RAID BIOS utility main menu, select Select Boot Array then press the <Enter> key. The focus is directed to the list of channel used for IDE RAID arrays. 2. Press the <Enter> key to select a RAID array for boot. The Status of the selected array will change to Boot. Press <ESC> key to go return to menu items. Follow the same procedure to deselect the the boot array.

ESC Channel [ ]Channel0 Master [ ]Channel0 Slave Channel1 Master Channel1 Slave Drive Name XXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXX No Drive No Drive Array Name : Exit Mode xxxxxxx xxxxxxx Size(GB) xxx.xx xxx.xx Status Hdd Hdd

3.4.6 Serial Number View

1. In the VIA RAID BIOS utility main menu, select Serial Number View then press the <Enter> key. The focus is directed to the list of channel used for IDE RAID arrays. Move the selection bar on each item and the serial number is displayed at the bottom of the screen. This option is useful for identifying same model disks.

Serial Number:

VJF41646
Marvell Virtual Cable Tester Technology
This motherboard supports the Marvell Virtual Cable Tester (VCT) Technology. The VCT virtually diagnose and report cable faults using the Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR). With this essential tool, installation and network diagnosis have never been easier. The VCT technology detects and reports open and shorted cables with up to 1 meter of accuracy. It also detects impedance mismatches, pair swaps, pair polarity problems and pair skew problems of up to 64ns. VCT remarkably reduces networking and support costs complementing a highly manageable and controlled network system. Also, this tool can be incorporated in the network systems software making it ideal for field support as well as development diagnostics.
Using Virtual Cable Tester
1. Right click on My Computer icon on your desktop. On the pop-up menu, click on Properties to display the System Properties dialog box. 2. Click on Network adapters, and select 3Com Gigabit NIC Adapter from the list. Click on the Properties button. 3. From the 3Com Gigabit NIC Properties dialog box, select the Diagnostics tab.
4. Click on the (VCT) Virtual Cable Tester button to display the following screen.
5. Click on Run to execute test.
If there is no cable connection problem, the Run button is grayed out and not selectable.