User Guide

Motherboard

Checklist

Revised Edition V2 January 2005
Copyright 2005 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... vi Safety information... vii About this guide... viii Conventions used in this guide.. viii Typography... viii K8N specifications summary... ix

Features

Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 1.2 1.3 Welcome!... 1-2 Package contents... 1-2 Special features... 1-3 1.3.1 Product Highlights.. 1-3 1.3.2 Unique ASUS features.. 1-4 1.4 Before you proceed.. 1-5 1.5 Motherboard overview... 1-6 1.5.1 Motherboard layout.. 1-6 1.5.2 Placement direction.. 1-7 1.5.3 Screw holes... 1-7 1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU).. 1-8 1.6.1 Overview... 1-8 1.6.2 Installing the CPU.. 1-9 1.7 System memory... 1-10 1.7.1 DIMM sockets location... 1-10 1.7.2 Memory configurations.. 1-10 1.7.3 Installing a DIMM.. 1-12 1.8 Expansion slots... 1-12 1.8.1 Standard interrupt assignments.. 1-12 1.8.2 IRQ assignments for this motherboard. 1-13 1.8.3 PCI slots.. 1-13 1.8.4 AGP slot... 1-14 1.9 Jumpers... 1-15 1.10 Connectors... 1-17 1.10.1 Rear panel connectors... 1-17 1.10.2 Internal connectors... 1-19

Safeguards

Chapter 2: BIOS Information
2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS. 2-2 2.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy disk.. 2-2 2.1.2 Using AFUDOS to update the BIOS.. 2-3 2.1.3 Using AFUDOS to copy BIOS from PC.. 2-4 2.1.4 Using ASUS EZ Flash to update the BIOS. 2-5 2.1.5 Recovering the BIOS with CrashFree BIOS 2. 2-6 BIOS Setup program... 2-8 2.2.1 BIOS menu screen.. 2-9 2.2.2 Menu bar... 2-9 2.2.3 Navigation keys... 2-9 2.2.4 Menu items... 2-10 2.2.5 Sub-menu items... 2-10 2.2.6 Configuration fields... 2-10 2.2.7 Pop-up window.. 2-10 2.2.8 Scroll bar.. 2-10 2.2.9 General help... 2-10 Main menu... 2-11 2.3.1 System Time.. 2-11 2.3.2 System Date.. 2-11 2.3.3 Legacy Diskette A..2-11 2.3.4 Language.. 2-11 2.3.5 Primary and Secondary IDE Master/Slave.. 2-12 2.3.6 System Information... 2-13 Advanced menu... 2-14 2.4.1 Instant Music Configuration.. 2-14 2.4.2 JumperFree Configuration.. 2-15 2.4.3 CPU Configuration.. 2-16 2.4.4 Chipset... 2-17 2.4.5 Onboard Devices Configuration.. 2-21 2.4.6 PCI PnP... 2-22 Power menu... 2-24 2.5.1 ACPI Suspend Mode.. 2-24 2.5.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume. 2-24 2.5.3 ACPI 2.0 Support.. 2-24 2.5.4 ACPI APIC Support... 2-24 2.5.5 APM Configuration.. 2-25 2.5.6 Hardware Monitor.. 2-26
2.6 Boot menu.. 2-28 2.6.1 Boot Device Priority.. 2-28 2.6.2 Hard Disk Drives.. 2-29 2.6.3 Boot Settings Configuration.. 2-29 2.6.4 Security... 2-30 Exit menu... 2-33
Chapter 3: Software support
3.1 3.2 Install an operating system.. 3-2 Support CD information.. 3-2 3.2.1 Running the support CD.. 3-2 3.2.2 Drivers menu.. 3-3 3.2.3 Utilities menu.. 3-4 3.2.4 Manual menu.. 3-5 3.2.5 ASUS Contact Information.. 3-6 ASUS Instant Music Lite... 3-7 Cool n Quiet! Technology... 3-9

3.3 3.4

Notices
Federal Communications Commission Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.

Special features

1.3.1 Product Highlights
Latest processor technology
The motherboard supports the AMD Athlon 64 and AMD Sempron desktop processors. The AMD Athlon 64 is based on AMDs 64-bit architecture, which represents the landmark introduction of the industrys first x86-64 technology. This processor provides a dramatic leap forward in compatibility, performance, investment protection, and reduced total cost of ownership and development. The AMD Sempron is a 32-bit processor that provides the performance needs of value-conscious buyers. This processor is designed to deliver best-in-class performance for everyday computing.
HyperTransport Technology
HyperTransport Technology is a high-speed, low latency, point-to-point link designed to increase the communication speed between integrated circuits in computers, networking and telecommunicatons equipment up to 48 times faster than other existing technologies.

Cool n Quiet! Technology

The motherboard supports the AMD Cool n Quiet! Technology that dynamically and automatically changes the CPU speed, voltage and amount of power depending on the task the CPU performs.

Serial ATA solution

The motherboard supports two interfaces compliant to the Serial ATA (SATA) specification, an evolutionary replacement of the Parallel ATA storage interface. The Serial ATA specification allows for thinner, more flexible cables with lower pin count, reduced voltage requirement, up to 150 MB/s data transfer rate.

Serial ATA RAID solution

The motherboard provides an onboard high-performance Serial ATA RAID controller that enhance hard disk performance and data backup protection without the cost of additional RAID cards.

AI Audio technology

The motherboard supports 8-channel audio through the onboard ALC850 CODEC with 16-bit DAC, a stereo 16-bit ADC, and an AC97 2.3 compatible multi-channel audio designed for PC multimedia systems. It also features intelligent detection of plugged peripherals into the audio ports and identifies any incompatible devices.

AGP 8X support

AGP 8X (AGP 3.0) is the VGA interface specification that enables enhanced graphics performance with maximum bandwidth speeds of up to 2.12 GB/s.

ASUS K8N motherboard

S/PDIF out
The motherboards S/PDIF out function turns your computer into a high-end entertainment system with digital connectivity to powerful speaker systems.

USB 2.0 technology

The motherboard implements the new Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 specification, extending the connection speed from 12 Mbps on USB 1.1 to a fast 480 Mbps on USB 2.0 - supporting up to eight USB 2.0 ports. The higher bandwidth of USB 2.0 allows connection of devices such as high resolution video conferencing cameras, next generation scanners and printers, and fast storage units. USB 2.0 is backward compatible with USB 1.1.
1.3.2 Unique ASUS features

CrashFree BIOS 2

This feature allows you to restore the original BIOS data from the ASUS support CD in case when the BIOS codes and data are corrupted. This protection eliminates the need to buy a replacement ROM chip. See page 2-6.
C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)
The C.P.R. feature of the motherboard BIOS allows automatic re-setting to the BIOS default settings in case the system hangs due to overclocking. When the system hangs due to overclocking, C.P.R. eliminates the need to open the system chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut down and reboot the system, and BIOS automatically restores the CPU previous setting for each parameter.

ASUS MyLogo2

This new feature present in the motherboard allows you to personalize and add style to your system with customizable boot logos. See pages 2-31.

ASUS EZ Flash BIOS

With the ASUS EZ Flash, you can easily update the system BIOS even before loading the operating system. No need to use a DOS-based utility or boot from a floppy disk. See page 2-5.

Instant Music Lite

This unique feature allows you to playback audio CDs even without booting the system to Windows. Just press the ASUS Instant Music special function keys and enjoy the music! See details on pages 2-25 and 3-5.

ASUS Multi-language BIOS

The multi-language BIOS allows you to select the language of your choice from the available options. The localized BIOS menus allow you to configure easier and faster. See details on page 2-11.

Before you proceed

1. 2. Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or to a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity. Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them. Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component. Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, and/or components.

AGND +5VA BLINE_OUT_R

K8N Front panel audio connector
8. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) This lead is for a chassis designed with intrusion detection feature. This requires an external detection mechanism such as a chassis intrusion sensor or microswitch. When you remove any chassis component, the sensor triggers and sends a high-level signal to this lead to record a chassis intrusion event. By default, the pins labeled Chassis Signal and Ground are shorted with a jumper cap. If you wish to use the chassis intrusion detection feature, remove the jumper cap from the pins.

CHASSIS

Chassis Signal GND +5VSB_MB

(Default)

K8N Chassis intrusion connector
MIC2 MICPWR Line out_R NC Line out_L

BLINE_OUT_L

9. GAME/MIDI connector (16-1 pin GAME) This connector supports a GAME/MIDI module. If a GAME/MIDI module is available, connect the GAME/MIDI cable to this connector. The GAME/MIDI port on the module connects a joystick or a game pad for playing games, and MIDI devices for playing or editing audio files.
+5V J1B1 J1CX GND GND J1CY J1B2 +5V

K8N Game connector

The GAME/MIDI module is purchased separately.
10. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1, SATA2) These next generation connectors support the thin Serial ATA cables for primary internal storage devices. The current Serial ATA interface allows up to 150 MB/s data transfer rate, faster than the standard parallel ATA with 133MB/s (Ultra ATA/133).
GND RSATA_RXP2 RSATA_RXN2 GND RSATA_TXN2 RSATA_TXP2 GND

K8N SATA connector

GND RSATA_RXP1 RSATA_RXN1 GND RSATA_TXN1 RSATA_TXP1 GND
+5V J2B1 J2CX MIDI_OUT J2CY J2B2 MIDI_IN
12. System panel connector (10-1 pin PANEL) This connector accommodates several system front panel functions.
+5V Ground Ground Speaker PWR Ground
K8N System panel connector
System Power LED Lead (Green 3-pin PLED) This 3-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.

Chapter 2: BIOS Setup

c. Click Start, then select Run. d. From the Open box, type D:\bootdisk\makeboot a: then press <Enter>, assuming that D: is your CD-ROM drive. e. Follow succeeding screen instructions. 2. Copy the original (or the latest) motherboard BIOS to the bootable floppy disk.
2.1.2 Using AFUDOS to update the BIOS
To update the BIOS using the AFUDOS.EXE utility: 1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for your motherboard. Save the BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk.
Write the BIOS file name on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS file name at the prompt.
2. Copy the AFUDOS.EXE utility from the support CD to the bootable floppy disk that contains the BIOS file. 3. Boot the system from the floppy disk. 4. At the DOS prompt, type the command line: afudos /i[filename] where [filename] means the latest (or original) BIOS file that you copied to the bootable floppy disk. 5. Press <Enter>. The succeeding screen displays the status of the update process.
The BIOS information on the screen is for reference only. What you see on your screen may not be exactly the same as shown.
A:\>afudos /iK8N.ROM AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.10 Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved. Reading file.. done Erasing flash. done Writing flash. 0x0008CC00 (9%)
DO NOT shutdown or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so may cause system boot failure!
When the BIOS update process is complete, the utility returns to the DOS prompt.
A:\>afudos /iK8N.ROM AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.10 Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved. Reading file.. Erasing flash. Writing flash. Verifying flash. A:\> done done 0x0008CC00 (9%) done
5. Reboot the system from the hard disk.
2.1.3 Using AFUDOS to copy BIOS from PC
You can use the AFUDOS.EXE utility to copy the current system BIOS to a floppy or hard disk and use it as a backup in case the system BIOS fails or gets corrupted. To copy the BIOS from your PC using AFUDOS.EXE: 1. At the DOS prompt, type the command line: afudos /o[filename] where [filename] string of not more than eight (8) alpha-numeric characters for the main filename and three (3) alpha-numeric characters for the extension name. 2. Press <Enter>.

The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply for most conditions to ensure optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS settings, load the default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Default Settings item under the Exit Menu. See section 2.7 Exit Menu. The BIOS setup screens shown in this chapter are for reference purposes only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest product and BIOS information.

2.2.1 BIOS menu screen

Menu items Menu bar Configuration fields General help
System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A Language Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave Secondary IDE Master Secondary IDE Slave System Information
[11:51:19] [Thu 08/05/2003] [1.44M, 3.5 in] [English] : [ST320413A] : [ASUS CD-S340] : [Not Detected] : [Not Detected]
Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a field. Use [+] or [-] to configure system time.

Sub-menu items

Navigation keys

2.2.2 Menu bar

The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:
Main Advanced Power Boot Exit For changing the basic system configuration For changing the advanced system settings For changing the advanced power management (APM) configuration For changing the system boot configuration For selecting the exit options and loading default settings
To select an item on the menu bar, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard until the desired item is highlighted.

2.2.3 Navigation keys

At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings.
Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another.

2.2.4 Menu items

The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific items for that menu. For example, selecting Main shows the Main menu items. The other items (Advanced, Power, Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items.
System Time System Date Legacy Diskette A Language Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave Secondary IDE Master Secondary IDE Slave System Information +Tab F1 F10 ESC [11:51:19] [Thu 08/05/2003] [1.44M, 3.5 in] [English] :[ST320413A] :[ASUS CD-S340] :[Not Detected] :[Not Detected] Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a field. Use [+] or [-] to configure system time.

PIO Mode [Auto]

Selects the PIO mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]

DMA Mode [Auto]

Selects the DMA mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [SWDMA0] [SWDMA1] [SWDMA2] [MWDMA0] [MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2] [UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5] [UDMA6]

SMART Monitoring [Auto]

Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
32Bit Data Transfer [Disabled]
Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.3.6 System Information

This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The items in this menu are auto-detected by BIOS.
AMI BIOS Version Build Date Processor Type Speed Count
: 08.00.09 : 03/31/04 : AMD Athlon(tm) 64 Processor 3200+ : 2000MHz : 1
System Memory Size : 512MB

AMI BIOS

Displays the auto-detected BIOS information.

Processor

Displays the auto-detected processor information.

System Memory

Displays the auto-detected system memory.

Advanced menu

The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values may cause the system to malfunction.
Instant Music Configuration JumperFree Configuration CPU Configuration Chipset Onboard Devices Configuration PCI PnP

Configure CPU.

2.4.1 Instant Music Configuration
Instant Music Option Instant Music [Disabled] If enabled, power up by PS/2 keyboard function will be disabled.

Instant Music [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Instant Music feature in BIOS. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Enabling Instant Music automatically disables the PS/2 keyboard power-up feature. See page 5-11 for details.
Instant Music CD-ROM Drive [IDE Secondary Master]
Allows you to select the CD-ROM drive that you wish to use for the Instant Music CD playback. Configuration options: [IDE Primary Master] [IDE Primary Slave] [IDE Secondary Master] [IDE Secondary Slave]
The above item appears only if you enable the Instant Music item.
2.4.2 JumperFree Configuration
Configure System Frequency/Voltage AI Overclock Tuner AGP Overclock in MHz DDR RAM Voltage AGP Voltage [Standard] [ 66] [Auto] [1.5V]

AI Overclock Tuner [Standard]
Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal frequency. Select either one of the preset overclocking options and the relevant parameters will appear. Configuration options: [Manual] [Standard] [Overclock 1%] [Overclock 3%] [Overclock 5%] [Overclock 10%]
The CPU FSB Frequency item appears only when the AI Overclock Tuner field is set to Manual.

CPU FSB Frequency [220]

Allows you to adjust the CPU FSB operating frequency. The FSB frequency configuration ranges from 200 to 300 MHz. Use the plus <+> or minus <-> keys to adjust the values.
Selecting a very high CPU frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this happens, revert to the default setting.
AGP Overclock in MHz [ 66]
Allows you to adjust the AGP slot clock. The AGP frequency configuration ranges from 66 to 75 MHz. Use the plus <+> or minus <-> keys to adjust the values.

FID/VID Change [Auto]

When set to Auto, the Frequency ID and Voltage ID will be based on the rated frequency and voltage. If you want to adjust the Processor Frequency Multiplier and CPU voltage, set this item to Manual. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]
Processor Frequency Multiplier [xxxxMhz]
Allows you to set the processor frequency multiplier. The default value and configuration options depend on the CPU installed.

CPU Voltage [x.xxxx V]

Allows you to set the CPU voltage. The default value and configuration options depend on the CPU installed. This item appears only when the Cool N Quiet feature is Enabled.

DDR RAM Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to automatically detect or select from a list the DDR operating voltage. Configuration options: [Auto] [2.5V] [2.6V] [2.7V]

AGP Voltage [1.5V]

Adjusts the AGP voltage setting. Configuration options: [1.5V] [1.6V] [1.7V]

2.4.3 CPU Configuration

The items in this menu show the CPU-related information auto-detected by BIOS.
: AMD Athlon(tm) 64 Processor 3200+
AMD Cool N Quiet Configuration GART Error Reporting [Disabled] HT Ratio [4]
Displays the processor type and properties installed in your system.
AMD Cool & Quiet Configuration
AMD Cool & Quiet Configuration Cool NQuiet [Disabled] Enable/Disable AMD K8 Cool NQuiet function.

Cool N Quiet [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the AMD Cool n Quiet! Technology feature. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Make sure that the above item is set to Enabled if you want to use the AMD CPU Cool n Quiet! Technology feature. This feature requires the AMD CPU heatsink and fan assembly with monitor chip. If you purchased a separate heatsink and fan package, use the ASUS Q-Fan Technology feature to automatically adjust the CPU fan speed according to your system loading.
GART Error Reporting [Disabled]
Enables or disables the GART Error Reporting feature. This option should always be disabled for normal operation. Device driver developers may enable it for testing purpose. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

HT Ratio [4]

Sets the Hyper-Transport (HT) ratio. Configuration options: [1] [2] [3] [4]

2.4.4 Chipset

The items in this menu show the chipset-related information auto-detected by BIOS.
Memory CLK : 200 MHz CAS Latency : 2.5 DRAM RAS TO CAS Delay : 3 CLK DRAM ACTIVE TIME : 8 CLK DRAM RAS PRECHANGE TIME : 3 CLK MemClock Mode CAS Latency (CL) DRAM CAS to CAS Delay DRAM RAS PRECHANGE Time DRAM ACTIVE TIME 1T/2T Timing Master ECC Enabled Audio CODEC Interface Primary Video Aperture Size AGP FW Enable AGP SideBand Address Onboard Device USB Configuration
[Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Disabled] [Auto] [PCI] [ 128 MB] [Auto] [Auto]
MEMCLK can be set by the code using AUTO, or if you use LIMIT, you can set one of the standard values.

Memclock Mode [ Auto]

Allows you to set the memory clock mode. Set by the code using [Auto] or select [Manual] to set using one of the standard values. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]

MemClock Value [200 MHz]

Sets the Memory clock value. This item appears only when the MemClock Mode item is set to Manual. Configuration options: [200 MHz] [266 MHz] [333 MHz] [400 MHz]

CAS Latency (CL) [Auto]

Sets the CAS Latency value. Configuration options: [Auto] [2.0] [3.0] [2.5]
DRAM RAS TO CAS Delay [Auto]
Sets the DRAM RAS TO CAS Delay. Configuration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] [3 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK]
DRAM RAS PRECHANGE Time [Auto]
Sets the DRAM RAS PRECHANGE Time. Configuration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] [3 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK]

DRAM ACTIVE TIME [Auto]

Sets the DRAM ACTIVE TIME. Configuration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [8 CLK] [9 CLK] [10 CLK] [11 CLK] [12 CLK] [13 CLK] [14 CLK] [15 CLK]

1T/2T Timing [Auto]

Sets the DRAM command timing. When set to Auto, the DRAM timing is set to 2T if the CPU installed can support 2T timing. Configuration options: [1T] [Auto]
Master ECC Enable [Disabled]
Enables or disables support on all nodes for ECC error detect and correction. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Audio CODEC Interface [Auto]
Allows you to set the onboard audio CODEC interface. [Auto] allows the BIOS to detect whether you are using any audio device. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] [Auto]

Third Master as RAID [Disabled]
Enables or disables the use of the Third IDE Master as RAID. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Fourth Master as RAID [Disabled]
Enables or disables the use of the Fourth IDE Master as RAID. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

USB Configuration

The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.
USB Configuration Module Version - 2.23.2-7.4 USB Devices Enabled: None USB Controller Support Legacy USB Support USB 2.0 Controller Mode [USB 1.1+USB 2.0] [Auto] [HiSpeed]
Enables USB host controllers.
The Module Version and USB Devices Enabled items show the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None.
USB Controller Support [USB 1.1+USB 2.0]
Allows you to disable or set the USB controller support type. Configuration options: [Disabled] [USB 1.1 only] [USB 1.1+USB 2.0]
Legacy USB Support [Auto]
Allows you to enable or disable support for legacy USB devices. Setting to Auto allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto]
USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed]
Allows you to configure the USB 2.0 controller in HiSpeed (480 Mbps) or Full Speed (12 Mbps). Configuration options: [HiSpeed ] [Full Speed]
2.4.5 Onboard Devices Configuration
Configure ITE8712 Super IO Chipset Serial Port1 Address Parallel Port Address Parallel Port Mode EPP Version ECP Mode DMA Channel Parallel Port IRQ OnBoard Game Port Onboard MIDI Port MIDI IRQ Select [3F8/IRQ4] [378] [EPP+ECP] [1.9] [DMA3] [IRQ7] [Enabled] [300] [IRQ5]
Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]
Allows you to select the Serial Port1 base address. Configuration options: [Disabled] [3F8/IRQ4] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3]
Parallel Port Address [378]
Allows you to select the Parallel Port base addresses. Configuration options: [Disabled] [378] [278]
The following items appear only when the Parallel Port Address item is set to Enabled.
Parallel Port Mode [EPP+ECP]
Allows you to select the Parallel Port mode.This item appears only when the Parallel Port Address is not Disabled. Configuration options: [Normal] [EPP] [ECP] [EPP+ECP]

EPP Version [1.9]

Allows selection of the Parallel Port EPP version. This item appears only when the Parallel Port Mode is set to EPP. Configuration options: [1.9] [1.7]

ECP Mode DMA Channel [DMA3]
Allows you to set the Parallel Port ECP DMA. This item appears only when the Parallel Port Mode is set to ECP. Configuration options: [DMA0] [DMA1] [DMA3]

Parallel Port IRQ [IRQ7]

Sets the Parallel port IRQ. Configuration options: [IRQ5] [IRQ7]
Onboard Game Port [Enabled]
Enables or disables the onboard Game port. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Onboard MIDI Port [300]

Disables or sets the onboard MIDI port. Configuration options: [Disabled] [300] [330]

MIDI IRQ Select [IRQ5]

Sets the MIDI port IRQs. Configuration options: [IRQ5] [IRQ7] [IRQ10] [IRQ11]

2.4.6 PCI PnP

The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices. The menu includes setting IRQ and DMA channel resources for either PCI/PnP or legacy ISA devices, and setting the memory size block for legacy ISA devices.
Take caution when changing the settings of the PCI PnP menu items. Incorrect field values may cause the system to malfunction.
Advanced PCI/PnP Settings WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction. Plug And Play O/S PCI Latency Timer Allocate IRQ to PCI VGA Palette Snooping PCI IDE BusMaster OffBoard PCI/ISA IDE Card IRQ3 IRQ4 IRQ5 IRQ7 IRQ9 IRQ10 IRQ11 IRQ14 IRQ15 DMA DMA DMA DMA DMA DMA Channel Channel Channel Channel Channel Channel [No] [64] [Yes] [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto] [PCI [PCI [PCI [PCI [PCI [PCI [PCI [PCI Device] Device] Device] Device] Device] Device] Device] Device]
NO: Lets the BIOS configure all the devices in the system. YES: Lets the operating system configure Plug and Play (PnP) devices not required for boot if your system has a Plug and Play operating system.
[PCI Device] [PCI [PCI [PCI [PCI [PCI [PCI Device] Device] Device] Device] Device] Device]

Reserved Memory Size

[Disabled]

Plug and Play O/S [No]

When set to [No], the BIOS configures all the devices in the system. When set to [Yes] and if you installed a Plug & Play operating system (OS), the OS configures the Plug & Play devices not required for boot. Configuration options: [No] [Yes]

PCI Latency Timer [64]

Allows you to select the value in units of PCI clocks for the PCI device latency timer register. Configuration options: [32] [64] [96] [128] [160] [192] [224] [248]
Allocate IRQ to PCI VGA [Yes]
When set to [Yes], BIOS assigns an IRQ to PCI VGA card if the card requests for an IRQ. When set to [No], BIOS does not assign an IRQ to the PCI VGA card even if requested. Configuration options: [Yes] [No]
Palette Snooping [Disabled]
When set to [Enabled], the pallete snooping feature informs the PCI devices that an ISA graphics device is installed in the system so that the latter can function correctly. Setting to [Disabled] deactivates this feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Onboard LAN Resume [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard LAN to generate a wake event. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

RTC Resume [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable RTC to generate a wake event. When this item is set to Enabled, the items RTC Alarm Date, RTC Alarm Hour, RTC Alarm Minute, and RTC Alarm Second appear with set values. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Resume On PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the keyboard wake-up feature. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Resume On PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]
When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to use the PS/2 mouse to resume the system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off]
When set to Power Off, the system goes into off state after an AC power loss. When set to Power On, the system goes on after an AC power loss. When set to Last State, the system goes into either off or on state whatever was the system state before the AC power loss. Configuration options: [Power Off] [Power On] [Last State]

2.5.6 Hardware Monitor

Hardware Monitor MB Temperature CPU Temperature CPU Fan Speed Chassis Fan Speed Power Fan Speed VCORE Voltage 3.3V Voltage 5V Voltage 12V Voltage Smart Q-Fan Control [35C/95F] [48C/118F] [3260RPM] [N/A] [N/A] [ 1.520V] [ 3.280V] [ 5.086V] [11.742V] [Disabled] CPU Temperature
MB Temperature [xxx C/xxx F] CPU Temperature [xxx C/xxx F]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU and motherboard temperatures. Select Disabled if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures.
CPU Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [N/A] Chassis Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [N/A] Power Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [N/A]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU, chassis, and power 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.
Smart Q-FAN Function [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Smart Q-Fan feature that monitors the CPU temperature and smartly adjusts the fan speed according to the temperature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
The following items appear only when the Smart Q-Fan Function item is set Enabled.
CPU Fan Start Voltage [5.0V]
Allows you to set the fan auto mode start voltage. Configuration options: [4.0V] [4.5V] [5.0V] [5.5V] [6.0V]

Nvidia Chipset Driver Program
Installs the NVIDIA Chipset drivers for the NVIDIA nForce 3 250Gb chipset.
Make sure to install the Microsoft DirectX 9.0 driver before installing the NVIDIA Chipset drivers.
Make Chipset IDE Driver Disk
Creates the NVIDIA driver disk for Serial ATA and RAID features.

ALC850 Driver

Installs the Realtek ALC850 audio controller and application.

USB 2.0 Driver

Installs the Universal Serial Bus 2.0 (USB 2.0) driver.
For Windows XP users, make sure to install Windows XP Service Pack 1 to support USB 2.0.

AMD Cool n Quiet Driver

Installs the AMD Cool n Quiet! Technology driver.

3.2.3 Utilities menu

The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports.
ASUS AMD Cool n Quiet Software
Installs the AMD Cool n Quiet! Technology software.

ASUS PC Probe

This smart utility monitors the fan speed, CPU temperature, and system voltages, and alerts you on any detected problems. This utility helps you keep your computer at a healthy operating condition.

Install ASUS Update

This program allows you to download the latest version of the BIOS from the ASUS website. Before using the ASUS Update, make sure that you have an Internet connection so you can connect to the ASUS website. Installing ASUS Update also installs ASUS Mylogo2.

Anti-virus Utility

The anti-virus application scans, identifies, and removes computer viruses. View the online help for detailed information.

Acrobat Reader

Installs the Adobe Acrobat Reader V5.0. The Acrobat Reader software is for viewing files saved in Portable Document Format (PDF).

ASUS Screen Saver

Installs the ASUS screen saver.

NVIDIA System Utility

Installs the NVIDIA system utility.

3.2.4 Manual menu

The Manual menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to open the manual.
Most user manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe Acrobat Reader from the Utilities menu before opening a user manual file. Some user manuals listed in this menu may not be applicable for this motherboard model.
3.2.5 ASUS Contact Information