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:
This device may not cause harmful interference, and This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation.
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.
Where to find more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates. 1. ASUS Websites The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. The ASUS websites are listed in the ASUS Contact Information on the inside front cover. 2. Optional Documentation Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.

Safety information

Electrical safety
To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system. When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device. Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all power cables are unplugged. Seek professional assistance before using an adpater or extension cord. These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit. Make sure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power company. If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.

Operation safety

Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals that came with the package. Before using the product, make sure all cables are correctly connected and the power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately. To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry. Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area where it may become wet. Place the product on a stable surface. If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.

About this guide

Conventions used in this guide
To make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task. CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task. IMPORTANT: Information that you MUST follow to complete a task. NOTE: Tips and additional information to aid in completing a task.

Typography

Bold text Italics <Key> Indicates a menu or an item to select. Used to emphasize a word or a phrase. Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign indicates that you must press the enclosed key. Example: <Enter> indicates that you must press the Enter or Return key. If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key names are linked with a plus sign (+). Example: <Ctrl+Alt+D> Means that you must enter the command exactly as shown then supply the appropriate values that appear in brackets. Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line: afudos /i[filename] In this example, you must supply a filename for [filename]. afudos /iK8N.ROM
<Multiple key names>

Command

K8N specifications summary
CPU Socket 754 for AMD Athlon 64 and AMD Sempron CPUs Supports AMD 64 architecture that enables simultaneous 32-bit and 64-bit computing Supports AMD Cool n Quiet! Technology NVIDIA nForce 800 MHz 3 x 184-pin DDR DIMM sockets for up to 3GB unbuffered ECC and non-ECC PC3200/PC2700/PC2100/PC1600 SDRAM memory 1 x AGP 8X/4X 5 x PCI NVIDIA nForce supports: - 2 x Ultra ATA 133 connector - 2 x Serial ATA connectors - RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1 and JBOD sets IC Plus IP101 10/100 LAN PHY Realtek ALC850 8-channel CODEC Audio Sensing and Enumeration Technology Coaxial and Optical S/PDIF out support ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 CPU, Memory and AGP voltage adjustable SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection) from 200 MHz up to 300 MHz at 1 MHz increment Adjustable FSB/DDR ratio. Fixed AGP/PCI frequencies ASUS JumperFree ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) Maximum of eight USB 2.0 ports ASUS MyLogo2 ASUS Instant Music Lite ASUS EZ Flash Multi-Language BIOS 1 x Parallel port 1 x Serial port 1 x PS/2 keyboard port 1 x PS/2 mouse port 4 x USB 2.0 ports 1 x RJ-45 port 1 x 8-channel audio I/O ports 1 x Optical S/PDIF Out port 1 x Coaxial S/PDIF Out port (continued on the next page)

Chipset System Bus Memory

Expansion slots Storage

LAN AI Audio

AI BIOS AI Overclocking

USB Special features

Back Panel I/O

Internal I/O 2 x USB 2.0 connector for 4 additional USB ports CPU/Chassis/Power fan connectors 20-pin/4-pin ATX 12V power connectors Chassis intrusion connector CD/AUX connectors GAME/MIDI connector Front Panel connector 4Mb Flash EEPROM AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0, Multi-Language BIOS, SM BIOS 2.3, ASUS EZ Flash, ASUS MyLogo2, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 PCI 2.2, USB 2.0 WfM2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME, Chassis intrusion ATX power supply (with 4-pin 12V plug) ATX form factor: 12 in x 9.6 in (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm) Device drivers ASUS PC Probe ASUS Live Update utility Anti-virus utility

BIOS features

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

Chapter 1

This chapter describes the features of the motherboard. It includes brief descriptions of the motherboard components, and illustrations of the layout, jumper settings, and connectors.

Product introduction

Welcome!
Thank you for buying the ASUS K8N motherboard! The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards! The motherboard combines the powers of the AMD Athlon 64 or AMD Sempron processor with the NVIDIA nForcechipset to set a new benchmark for an effective desktop platform solution. Supporting up to 3GB of system memory with PC3200/PC2700/PC2100/PC1600 DDR SDRAM, high-resolution graphics via an AGP 8X slot, Serial ATA RAID, USB 2.0, and 8-channel audio features, the motherboard takes you ahead in the world of power computing! Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in your package with the list below.

Package contents

ASUS K8N motherboard ASUS motherboard support CD 1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cables 2 x Serial ATA cables 1 x Floppy disk cable I/O shield Bag of extra jumper caps User guide

Check your motherboard package for the following items.
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.

The following figure illustrates the location of the DDR DIMM sockets.

DIMM1 DIMM2 DIMM3

K8N 184-pin DDR DIMM sockets
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.
1.7.2 Memory configurations
You may install 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, and 1GB DDR DIMMs into the DIMM sockets using the memory configurations in this section.

Important notes

Installing DDR DIMMs other than the given memory configurations may cause memory sizing error or system boot failure. Use any of the memory configurations in Table 1. For optimum compatibility, obtain memory modules from qualified vendors. See Qualified Vendors List on page 1-11. Use the blue DIMM slot first. Stacked RAM and DDR DIMM modules with more than 18 chips are not supported. Always install DIMMs with the same CAS Latency. For optimum compatibility, obtain memory modules from the same vendors. See Qualified Vendors List on page 1-11.
Obtain DDR DIMMs only from ASUS qualified vendors for better system performance. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for the latest DDR 400 Qualified Vendor List for this motherboard.

80 Pins

104 Pins

Table 1

Number of DIMMs 3 3

Memory configurations

DIMM1 Single Side Double Side Single Side Single Side Single Side Single Side Double Side Double Side Double Side Double Side Single Side Single Side Single Side Single Side Double Side Double Side Double Side Double Side DIMM Slot DIMM2 Single Side Double Side Single Side Double Side Single Side Double Side Single Side Single Side Double Side Double Side Single Side Single Side Double Side Double Side Single Side Single Side Double Side Double Side DIMM3 Single Side Double Side Single Side Double Side Single Side Single Side Double Side Single Side Double Side Double Side Single Side Double Side Single Side Double Side Single Side Double Side Single Side Double Side Max Speed DDR 400 DDR 400 DDR 400 DDR 400 DDR 400 DDR 400 DDR 400 DDR 400 DDR 400 DDR 400 DDR 400 DDR 400 DDR 400 DDR 333 DDR 200 DDR 200 DDR 200 DDR 400 DDR 333 DDR 200 DDR 200 DDR 200 DDR 333 DDR 200 DDR 200 DDR 200
DDR Qualified Vendors List
The following table lists the PC3200 (DDR400) memory modules that have been tested and qualified for use with this motherboard. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for the latest DDR 400 QVL for this motherboard.
DIMM Vendor KINGSTON KINGSTON KINGSTON KINGSTON KINGSTON KINGSTON KINGSTON KINGSTON KINGSTON SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG Hynix Hynix MICRON MICRON Infineon Infineon Infineon Infineon CORSAIR CORSAIR Chip Number HY5DU56822BT-D43 HY5DU56822BT-D43 V58C2256804SAT5(ECC) V58C2256804SAT5(ECC) HYB25D256800BT-5B HYB25D256809BT-5B D3208DL2T-5 D328DIB-50 Heat-Sink Package K4H560838E-TCCC(ECC) K4H560838E-TCCC(ECC) K4H560838E-TCCC K4H560838E-TCCC K4H560838F-TCCC K4H560838F-TCCC HY5DU56822BT-D43 HY5DU56822BT-D43 MT46V32M8TG-5BC MT46V32M8TG-5BC HYB25D256800BT-5B HYB25D256800BT-5B HYB25D256800CE-5C HYB25D256800CE-5C W942508BH-5 Heat-Sink Package Chip Brand Hynix Hynix Mosel Mosel Infineon Infineon KINGSTON KINGSTON N/A SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG Hynix Hynix MICRON MICRON Infineon Infineon Infineon Infineon Winbond Winbond SS/DS SS DS SS DS SS DS SS DS DS SS DS SS DS SS DS SS DS SS DS SS DS SS DS SS DS Module Part Number KVR400X64C3A/256 KVR400X64C3A/512 KVR400X72C3A/256 KVR400X72C3A/512 KVR400X64C3A/256 KVR400X64C3A/512 KVR400X64C3A/256 KVR400X64C3A/512 KHX3200A/512 M381L3223ETM-CCC M381L6423ETM-CCC M368L3223ETM-CCC M368L6423ETM-CCC M368L3223FTN-CCC M368L6423FTN-CCC HYMD232646B8J-D43 AA HYMD264646B8J-D43 AA MT8VDDT3264AG-40BCB MT16VDDT6464AG-40BCB HYS64D32300GU-5-B HYS64D64320GU-5-B HYS64D32300HU-5-C HYS64D64320HU-5-C CMX256A-3200C2PT CMX512-3200C2 Size 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 256MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB

CPU_FAN

Rotation +12V GND

GND +12V Rotation

K8N Fan connectors
6. USB header (10-1 pin USB56, USB78) If the USB ports on the rear panel are inadequate, a USB header is available for additional USB ports. Connect the USB cable of the USB 2.0 module to this header. You may install the USB module in the chassis front panel. The module has two USB 2.0 ports for connecting next generation USB peripherals such as high resolution cameras, scanners, and printers.
USB+5V USB_P6USB_P6+ GND NC

USB+5V USB_P5USB_P5+ GND

USB+5V USB_P7USB_P7+ GND

K8N USB 2.0 connectors

The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately. Install the USB 2.0 driver before using the USB 2.0 feature.
USB+5V USB_P8USB_P8+ GND NC
7. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin FP_AUDIO) This is an interface for the front panel cable that allows convenient connection and control of audio devices. Be default, the pins labeled LINE OUT_R/BLINE_OUT_R and the pins LINE OUT_L/BLINE_OUT_L are shorted with jumper caps. Remove the caps only when you are connecting the front panel audio cable.

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.

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.
Select Screen Select Item Change Field Select Field General Help Save and Exit Exit

[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]

Primary Video [PCI]

Switches the PCI Bus scanning order while searching for a video card. This allows you to select the type of Primary VGA in case of multiple video controllers. Configuration options: [PCI] [AGP]

Aperture Size [ 128 MB]

Allows you to select the size of mapped memory for AGP graphic data. Configuration options: [32 MB] [64 MB] [128 MB] [256 MB] [512 MB]

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]
PCI IDE BusMaster [Enabled]
Allows the BIOS to use PCI bus mastering when reading/writing to IDE devices. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
OffBoard PCI/ISA IDE Card [Auto]
Sets the OffBoard PCI/ISA IDE card slot. Some PCI IDE cards requires you to set the PCI slot number that is holding the card. Configuration options: [Auto] [PCI Slot 1] [PCI Slot 2] [PCI Slot 3] [PCI Slot 4] [PCI Slot 5] [PCI Slot 6]

IRQ xx [PCI Device]

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]
CPU Fan Full Speed Temp [45C]
Allows you to set the fan auto mode start speed temperature. Configuration options: [35C] ~ [75C]
CPU Fan Start Fan Temp [40C]
Allows you to set the fan auto mode full speed temperature. Configuration options: [35C] ~ [75C]

Boot menu

The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.
Boot Settings Boot Device Priority Boot Settings Configuration Security
Specifies the Boot Device Priority sequence.
2.6.1 Boot Device Priority
Boot Device Priority 1st Boot Device 2nd Boot Device 3rd Boot Device [1st FLOPPY DRIVE] [PM-ST320413A] [SM-ASUS CD-S360] Specifies the boot sequence from the available devices. A device enclosed in parenthesis has been disabled in the corresponding type menu.
1st ~ xxth Boot Device [1st Floppy Drive]
These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The number of device items that appear on the screen depends on the the number of devices installed in the system. Configuration options: [xxxxx Drive] [Disabled]

2.6.2 Hard Disk Drives

Hard Disk Drives 1st Drive 2nd Drive [PM-ST330620A] [NVIDIA MIRROR 111.] Specifies the boot sequence from the available devices.
1st ~ xxth Drive [XXXXXXXX]
2.6.3 Boot Settings Configuration
Boot Settings Configuration Quick Boot Full Screen Logo AddOn ROM Display Mode Bootup Num-Lock PS/2 Mouse Support Wait for F1 If Error Hit DEL Message Display Interrupt 19 Capture [Enabled] [Enabled] [Force BIOS] [On] [Auto] [Enabled] [Enabled] [Disabled] Allows BIOS to skip certain tests while booting. This will decrease the time needed to boot the system.

Quick Boot [Enabled]

Enabling this item allows the BIOS to skip some Power On Self Tests (POST) while booting to decrease the time needed to boot the system. When set to [Disabled], BIOS performs all the POST items. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Full Screen Logo [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Make sure that the above item is set to [Enabled] if you wish to use the ASUS MyLogo2 feature.
Add On ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]
Sets the display mode for option ROM. Configuration options: [Force BIOS] [Keep Current]

Bootup Num-Lock [On]

Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock. Configuration options: [Off] [On]
PS/2 Mouse Support [Auto]
Allows you to enable or disable support for PS/2 mouse. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto]
Wait for F1 If Error [Enabled]
When set to Enabled, the system waits for F1 key to be pressed when error occurs. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Hit DEL Message Display [Enabled]
When set to Enabled, the system displays the message Press DEL to run Setup during POST. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled]
When set to [Enabled], this function allows the option ROMs to trap Interrupt 19. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.6.4 Security

The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.
Security Settings Supervisor Password User Password : Not Installed : Not Installed
<Enter> to change password. <Enter> again to disable password.
Change Supervisor Password Change User Password Clear User Password
Change Supervisor Password
Select this item to set or change the supervisor password. The Supervisor Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you have set a password, this item shows Installed.

Password Check [Setup]

When set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup utility. When set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both when accessing Setup and booting the system. Configuration options: [Setup] [Always]

Exit menu

The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items.
Exit Options Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes Load Setup Defaults
Exit system setup after saving the changes. F10 key can be used for this operation.
Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options from this menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit.

Exit & Save Changes

Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to ensure that the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard backup battery sustains the CMOS RAM and stays on even when the PC is turned off. When you select this option, a confirmation window appears. Select Ok to save changes and exit.
If you attempt to exit the Setup program without saving your changes, the program prompts you with a message asking if you want to save your changes before exiting. Press <Enter> to save the changes while exiting.
Exit & Discard Changes
Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to the Setup program. If you made changes to fields other than System Date, System Time, and Password, the BIOS asks for a confirmation before exiting.

Discard Changes

Allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the previously saved values. After selecting this option, a confirmation appears. Select Ok to discard any changes and load the previously saved values.

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 Ok to load default values. Select Exit and Save Changes or make other changes before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM.

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 a high-performance Serial ATA RAID controller that enhance hard disk performance and data backup protection without the cost of additional RAID cards. The onboard VIA VT8237 RAID controller provides two Serial ATA connectors for RAID 0 and RAID 1 functions.

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.

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.

ASUS K8V-X motherboard

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.

6-Channel Audio solution

The motherboard uses an onboard audio CODEC that lets you enjoy high-quality 6-channel audio without having to buy advanced sound cards.
1.3.2 Unique ASUS features

AI NET solution

The Marvell 88E8001 Gigabit PCI LAN controller chipset is onboard to provide a single-chip solution for LAN on Motherboard (LOM) applications. The 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 net-diagnosing 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.

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 3-6.

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.
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings.

3. 4. 5.

Onboard LED
The motherboard comes with a stand-by power LED. When lit, this green LED indicates that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode, a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED.

SB_PWR

ON Standby Power

OFF Powered Off

K8V-X Onboard LED

Motherboard overview

24.5cm (9.6in)

1.5.1 Motherboard layout

PS/2KBMS T: Mouse B: Keyboard KBPWR

ATX12V

CPU_FAN
DDR DIMM2 (64 bit,184-pin module)

SPDIF_O

DDR DIMM1 (64 bit,184-pin module)
DDR DIMM3 (64 bit,184-pin module)

PARALLEL PORT

Socket 754

USBPWR12

USBPWR34

Bottom: Top:

USB3 RJ-45 USB4

ATX Power Connector

F_USB12

PRI_IDE

SATA2 SATA1
Top:Line In Center:Line Out Below:Mic In
Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP)

Marvell Gigabit LAN

VIA VT8237
CR2032 3V Lithium Cell CMOS Power

SPDIF_OUT

FLOPPY

CD ADI AD1980

USBPWR56 USBPWR78

Super I/O

GAME CHASSIS

4Mbit BIOS

FP_AUDIO

CHA_FAN

SEC_IDE

VIA K8T800

30.5cm (12.0in)
1.5.2 Placement direction
When installing the motherboard, make sure that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis as indicated in the image below.

1.5.3 Screw holes

Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.
Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so may damage the motherboard.
Place this side towards the rear of the chassis
Central Processing Unit (CPU)

1.6.1 Overview

The motherboard comes with a surface mount 754-pin Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) socket designed for the AMD Athlon 64 processor. The 128-bit-wide data paths of these processors can run applications faster than processors with only 32-bit or 64-bit wide data paths.

K8V-X Socket 754

Gold Arrow
Incorrect installation of the CPU into the socket may bend the pins and severely damage the CPU!

1.6.2 Installing the CPU

Follow these steps to install a CPU. 1. Locate the 754-pin ZIF socket on the motherboard. 2. Unlock the socket by pressing the lever sideways, then lift it up to a 90-100 angle.

Socket Lever

Make sure that the socket lever is lifted up to 90-100 angle, otherwise the CPU does not fit in completely.
3. Position the CPU above the socket such that the CPU corner with the gold triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle. 4. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place.
Gold triangle Small triangle The CPU fits only in one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the pins and damaging the CPU!

IRQ Priority Standard Function System Timer Keyboard Controller 2 N/A Programmable Interrupt 3* 11 IRQ holder for PCI steering 4* 12 Communications Port (COM1) 5* 13 IRQ holder for PCI steering Floppy Disk Controller 7* 15 Printer Port (LPT1) System CMOS/Real Time Clock 9* 4 IRQ holder for PCI steering 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.
1.8.2 IRQ assignments for this motherboard
PCI slot 1 PCI slot 2 PCI slot 3 PCI slot 4 PCI slot 5 Gigabit LAN AGP slot INT A shared shared shared INT B shared shared INT C shared INT D used
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.

1.8.3 PCI slots

The PCI slots support PCI cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI specifications.

1.8.4 AGP slot

The Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) slot supports AGP 8X/4X (+1.5V) 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 the motherboard.
Install only +1.5V AGP cards.

Keyed for 1.5v

K8V-X Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP)
If installing the ATi 9500 or 9700 Pro Series VGA cards, use only the card version PN xxx-xxxxx-30 or later, for optimum performance and overclocking stability.

Jumpers

1. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC) This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The RAM data in CMOS, that include system setup information such as system passwords, is powered by the onboard button cell battery. To erase the RTC RAM: 1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3 for about 5~10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2. 3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer. 4. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter data.
Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on the jumper default position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!

Clear CMOS

Normal (Default)

K8V-X Clear RTC RAM

You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature. Shut down and reboot the system so BIOS can automatically reset parameter settings to its previous values.
2. 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. This feature requires an ATX power supply that can supply at least 1A on the +5VSB lead, and a corresponding setting in the BIOS.

+5VSB (Default)

K8V-X Keyboard Power Setting
3. USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPWR12, USBPWR34, USBPWR56, USBPWR78) 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 and S4 sleep modes (no power to CPU, DRAM in slow refresh, power supply in reduced power mode).

+5V (Default)

+5V (Default) +5VSB

K8V-X USB Device Wake Up

The USB device wake-up feature requires a power supply that can provide 500mA on the +5VSB lead for each USB port. Otherwise, the system would not power up. The total current consumed must NOT exceed the power supply capability (+5VSB) whether under normal condition or in sleep mode.

1.10 Connectors

This section describes and illustrates the motherboard rear panel and internal connectors.
1.10.1 Rear panel connectors
1. PS/2 mouse port. This green 6-pin connector is for a PS/2 mouse. 2. Parallel port. This 25-pin port connects a parallel printer, a scanner, or other devices. 3. RJ-45 port. This port allows connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.

LAN port LED indications

ACT/LINK LED Status OFF GREEN BLINKING Description No link Linked Acting Status OFF GREEN

SPEED LED

ACT/LNK SPEED
Description 10Mbps connection 1Gbps connection
ORANGE 100Mbps connection
4. Line In jack. This Line In (light blue) jack connects a tape player or other audio sources. In 6-channel mode, the function of this jack becomes Bass/Center. 5. Line Out jack. This Line Out (lime) jack connects a headphone or a speaker. In 6-channel mode, the function of this jack becomes Front Speaker Out. 6. Microphone jack. This Mic (pink) jack connects a microphone. In 6-channel mode, the function of this jack becomes Rear Speaker Out.

12. System panel connector (10-1 pin PANEL) This connector accommodates several system front panel functions.

Speaker Connector

+5V Ground Ground Speaker PWR Ground

Power LED

PLED+ PLED-

IDE_LED+ IDE_LED-

Reset SW ATX Power Switch*

IDE_LED

K8V-X System Panel Connectors
* Requires an ATX power supply.
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.
System Warning Speaker Lead (Orange 4-pin SPEAKER) This 4-pin connector connects to the case-mounted speaker and allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.

Reset Ground

Reset Switch Lead (Blue 2-pin RESET) This 2-pin connector connects to the case-mounted reset switch for rebooting the system without turning off the system power.
ATX Power Switch / Soft-Off Switch Lead (Yellow 2-pin PWRSW ) 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.
Hard disk activity LED (Red 2-pin IDE_LED) This connector supplies power to the hard disk activity LED. Any read or write activity of an IDE device cause this LED to light up.
The System Panel connector is color-coded for easy and foolproof connection. Take note of the specific connector colors as described.

Chapter 2

This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.

BIOS information

ASUS K8V-X motherboard 2-1
Managing and updating your BIOS
The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. 1. ASUS AFUDOS - Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk in DOS mode. 2. ASUS EZ Flash - Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk during POST. 3. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 - Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk or the motherboard support CD. Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.
It is recommended that you save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using AFUDOS (refer to section 2.1.3 Using AFUDOS to copy BIOS from PC) Visit the ASUS website and download the latest BIOS file for this motherboard using the ASUS Update utility.

2.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy disk
1. Do either one of the following to create a bootable floppy disk. DOS environment Insert a 1.44 MB floppy disk into the drive. At the DOS prompt, type: format A:/S a. b. c. d. then press <Enter>. Windows 98SE/ME/XP environment Insert a 1.44 MB floppy disk into the floppy disk drive. From your Windows desktop, click on Start, then select My Computer. Select the 3 1/2 Floppy Drive icon. Click File from the menu, then select Format. A Format 3 1/2 Floppy Disk window appears. e. If you are using Windows XP, select Create an MS-DOS startup disk from the format options field, then click Start. OR If you are using Windows 98SE/ME, select Full option button from the format type, then click Start. Windows 2000 environment To create a set of boot disks for Windows 2000, run the Makeboot.exe tool from the Windows 2000 CD: a. Insert a 1.44 MB floppy disk into the floppy disk drive. b. Insert the Windows 2000 CD into the CD-ROM drive.

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 /iK8VX.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 /iK8VX.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 BIOS information on the screen is for reference only. What you see on your screen may not be exactly the same as shown. Main filename Extension name
A:\>afudos /oMYBIOS03.rom AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.10 Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved. Reading flash.. 0x0008CC00 (9%)
3. The utility will copy the current system BIOS by default to the floppy disk. Make sure that the floppy disk has at least 600KB of free disk space and is not writeprotected.
A:\>afudos /oMYBIOS03.ROM AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.10 Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved. Reading flash.. done A:\>
When the copy process is complete, the utility returns to the DOS prompt.
2.1.4 Using ASUS EZ Flash to update the BIOS
The ASUS EZ Flash feature allows you to easily update the BIOS without having to go through the long process of booting from a diskette and using a DOS-based utility. The EZ Flash is built-in the BIOS firmware so it is accessible by simply pressing <Alt + F2> during the Power-On Self Tests (POST).
To update the BIOS using ASUS EZ Flash:
1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for your motherboard and rename the downloaded file as K8VX.ROM. Save the BIOS file to a floppy disk. 2. Reboot the system. 3. To launch EZ Flash, press <Alt+F2> during POST to display the following.
User recovery requested. Starting BIOS recovery. Checking for floppy.
If there is no floppy disk in the drive, the error message Floppy not found! appears. If the correct BIOS file is not in the floppy disk, the error message Floppy not found! is displayed. Make sure to rename the downloaded BIOS file as K8VX.ROM.
4. Insert the floppy disk that contains the BIOS file. If all the necessary files are found in the floppy disk, EZ Flash performs the BIOS update process and automatically reboots the system when done.
User recovery requested. Starting BIOS recovery. Checking for floppy. Floppy found! Reading file K8VX.ROM. Completed. Start flashing. Flashed successfully. Rebooting.

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.

+Tab F1 F10 ESC

Select Screen Select Item Change Field Select Field General Help Save and Exit Exit

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.

Main menu items

2.2.5 Sub-menu items
An item with a sub-menu on any menu screen is distinguished by a solid triangle before the item. To display the sub-menu, select the item and press <Enter>.
2.2.6 Configuration fields
These fields show the values for the menu items. If an item is user- configurable, you may change the value of the field opposite the item. You can not select an item that is not user-configurable. A configurable field is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a field, select it then press <Enter> to display a list of options. Refer to 2.2.7 Pop-up window.

SouthBridge Configuration
MPS Revision PCI Delay Transaction

[1.4] [Disabled]

MPS Revision [1.4]
Sets the MPS revision value. Configuration options: [1.1] [1.4]
PCI Delay Transaction [Disabled]
Enables or disables the PCI Delay transaction feature. 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 1.1 Ports Configuration USB 2.0 Controller Legacy USB Support USB 2.0 Controller Mode [USB 8 Ports] [Enabled] [Auto] [FullSpeed]
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 1.1 Ports Configuration [USB 8 Ports]
Allows you to set the number of USB ports to activate. Configuration options: [Disabled] [USB 2 Ports] [USB 4 Ports] [USB 6 Ports] [USB 8 Ports]
USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the USB 2.0 ports controller. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
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 [FullSpeed]
Allows you to configure the USB 2.0 controller in HiSpeed (480 Mbps) or Full Speed (12 Mbps). Configuration options: [HiSpeed ] [Full Speed]
2.4.3 Onboard Devices Configuration
Onboard AC97 Audio OnChip SATA BOOTROM OnBoard LAN OnBoard LAN Boot ROM Serial Port1 Address Parallel Port Address OnBoard Game Port OnBoard MIDI Port [Enabled] [Enabled] [Enabled] [Disabled] [3F8/IRQ4] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled]
OnBoard AC97 Audio [Enabled]

Plug and Play O/S [No]

When set to [No], BIOS configures all the devices in the system. When set to [Yes] and if you installed a Plug & Play operating system, the operating system 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]

IRQ xx [Available]

When set to [Available], the specific IRQ is free for use of PCI/PnP devices. When set to [Reserved], the IRQ is reserved for legacy ISA devices. Configuration options: [Available] [Reserved]
2.4.5 JumperFree Configuration
Configure System Frequency/Voltage CPU FSB Frequency CPU Speed/Voltage Setting DDR Voltage AGP Voltage V-Link Voltage Performance Mode [200 MHz] [Auto] [Auto] [1.5V] [2.5V] [Auto]
CPU FSB Frequency [200MHz]
Allows you to adjust the CPU FSB operating frequency. Configuration options: [200MHz] [201 MHz] ~ [300MHz]
CPU Speed/Voltage Setting [Auto]
Allows you to set the CPU speed and voltage setting. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]

CPU Speed [800 MHz]

Allows you to manuallyset the CPU speed. The configuration options vary depending on the speed of the processor installed. This item appears only when the CPU Speed/Voltage Setting item is set to Manual.

CPU Voltage [1.450 V]

Allows you to manually set the CPU voltage. The configuration options vary depending on the speed of the processor installed. This item appears only when the CPU Speed/Voltage Setting item is set to Manual. Setting a low CPU voltage can cause system boot failure!

DDR Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to automatically detect or select from a list the DDR operating voltage. Configuration options: [Auto] [2.6V] [2.7V] [2.8V]

Allows you to enable or disable the boot sector virus protection. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Exit menu

The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items.
Exit Options Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes Load Setup Defaults
Exit system setup after saving the changes. F10 key can be used for this operation.
Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options from this menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit.

Exit & Save Changes

Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to ensure that the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard backup battery sustains the CMOS RAM 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. Press <Enter> to save the changes while exiting.
Exit & Discard Changes
Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to the Setup program. If you made changes to fields other than System Date, System Time, and Password, the BIOS asks for a confirmation before exiting.

Discard Changes

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.

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 & Save Changes or make other changes before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM.

Microsoft DirectX Driver

Installs the Microsoft DirectXdriver.

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.

3.2.4 Manual menu

The Manual menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to open the manual.
Install the Adobe Acrobat Reader from the Utilities menu to open the manual files in PDF.
3.2.5 ASUS Contact Information
Clicking the ASUS Contact Information tab displays as stated. You may also find this information on the inside front cover of this user guide.

ASUS Instant Music Lite

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).
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 1.10 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 the BIOS by pressing the <Del> 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.