About this guide

This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard.
How this guide is organized
This guide contains the following parts: This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. Chapter 2: Hardware information This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It includes description of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard. Chapter 3: Powering up This chapter describes the power up sequence and ways of shutting down the system. Chapter 4: BIOS setup This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided. Chapter 5: Software support This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes with the motherboard package. Chapter 1: Product introduction
Where to find more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates. 1. The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information. Optional documentation Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package. ASUS websites
Conventions used in this guide
To make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task. CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task. IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task. NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.

Typography

Bold text 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 means that you must press the enclosed key. Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or Return key. <Key1>+<Key2>+<Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key names are connected with a plus sign (+). Example: <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<D> Command Means that you must type the command exactly as shown. Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line: format a:

Italics

<Key>

M2N/M2N DH specifications summary
CPU Socket AM2 for AMD Athlon 64 X2 /AMD Athlon 64 /AMD Athlon 64 FX /AMD Sempron processors Supports AMD Cool n Quiet Technology AMD64 architecture enables simultaneous 32-bit and 64-bit computing AMD Live! ready NVIDIA nForce 430 MCP 2000 / 1600 MT/s Dual-channel memory architecture - 4 x 240-pin DIMM sockets support unbuffered ECC/non-ECC DDR2 800/667/533 MHz memory modules - Supports up to 8 GB system memory 1 x PCI Express x16 slot 2 x PCI Express x1 slots 3 x PCI 2.2 slots NVIDIA nForce 430 MCP supports: - 1 x IDE connector for up to two Ultra DMA 133/100/66/33 devices - 4 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors support four Serial ATA devices - RAID 0, RAID1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, and JBOD configurations spanning across Serial ATA drives via the onboard NVIDIA MediaShield RAID controller NVIDIA nForce 430 MCP built-in Gigabit MAC with external Attansic PHY ADI 6-channel High Definition Audio CODEC Supports Jack-Sensing, Enumeration Technology S/PDIF Out interface Supports up to 10 USB 2.0/1.1 ports (for M2N model) Supports up to 8 USB 2.0/1.1 ports (for M2N DH model) ASUS Q-Fan 2 (for 4-pin CPU cooler only) Q-Connector ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Advanced Thermal Design - ASUS Fanless Design: Heat-sink Thermal solution ASUS MyLogo
(continued on the next page)
Chipset System bus Memory

Expansion slots Storage

LAN High Definition Audio USB Special features
ASUS Exclusive Overclocking features ASUS O.C. Profile: overclocking configuration-sharing tool Precision Tweaker: - Stepless Frequency Selection(SFS) allows FSB tuning from 200 MHz up to 300 MHz at 1 MHz increment Overclocking protection: - ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) 1 x PS/2 keyboard port (purple) 1 x PS/2 mouse port (green) 1 x Parallel port 1 x Coaxial S/PDIF Out port 1 x LAN (RJ-45) port 4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports 6-channel audio ports 3 x USB 2.0 connectors support six additional USB 2.0 ports ( 2 x USB 2.0 connectors on M2N DH model) 1 x Floppy disk drive connector 1 x IDE connector for two devices 4 x Serial ATA connectors 1 x CPU / 1 x Chassis / 1 x Power fan connector 1 x COM port connector 1 x S/PDIF Out connector Chassis intrusion connector Front panel audio connector CD audio in connector 24-pin ATX power connector 4-pin ATX 12 V power connector System panel connector 4 Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 2.3, ACPI2.0a WOL by PME, WOR by PME, Chassis intrusion, PXE ATX power supply with 24-pin and 4-pin 12V plugs ATX 12V 2.0 compliant Device drivers ASUS PC Probe II ASUS Update NVIDIA MediaShield RAID Anti-virus software (OEM version) ATX form factor: 12 in x 8.1 in (30.5 cm x 20.6 cm)

Motherboard overview
Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits into it.
Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

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.

Screw holes

Place six (6) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.
Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
Place this side towards the rear of the chassis
PS/2KBMS T Mouse : B: Keyboard

SPDIF_O1

Motherboard layout

20.6cm (8.1in)

PARALLE PORT

CPU_FAN

DDR2 DIMM_A1 (64 bit,240-pin module)
DDR2 DIMM_B1 (64 bit,240-pin module)

LAN_USB34

USBPW1234

ATX12V

ADI HD Codec

SPDIF_OUT

USBPW910

EATXPWR

PCIEX16

PCIEX1_1

Attansic F1

PCI1 PCI2

Super I/O

4Mb BIOS

CR2032 3V Lithium Cell CMOS Power
SATA2 SATA1 SATA4 SATA3 CHA_FAN

USBPW5678

SB_PWR P ANEL

CHASSIS

FLOPPY
The USB910_WFGBT module, and MP3-IN connector are available to M2N DH model only. The USB910 port is available to M2N model only. These items are greyed out in the given motherboard layout.

PRI_IDE

PCIEX1_2

NVIDIA nForce 430 MCP

30.5cm (12.0in)

USB910_WFGBT

USB910

PWR_FAN

DDR2 DIMM_A2 (64 bit,240-pin module)
DDR2 DIMM_B2 (64 bit,240-pin module)

Socket AM2

Slots 1. 2. 3. 4. Jumper 1. 2. 3.

Layout contents

DDR2 DIMM slots PCI slots PCI Express x1 slots PCI Express x16 slot Page 2-11 2-18 2-18 2-18 Page 2-19 2-20 2-21 Page 2-22 2-22 2-22 2-22 2-22 2-22 2-23 2-23 2-23 2-23 2-23 2-23

Make sure that you use only AMD-certified heatsink and fan assembly.
To install the CPU heatsink and fan: 1. Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, making sure that the heatsink fits properly on the retention module base.
The retention module base is already installed on the motherboard upon purchase. You do not have to remove the retention module base when installing the CPU or installing other motherboard components. If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, make sure that a Thermal Interface Material is properly applied to the CPU heatsink or CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly.
CPU fan CPU heatsink Retention module base
Retention bracket Retention bracket lock
Your boxed CPU heatsink and fan assembly should come with installation instructions for the CPU, heatsink, and the retention mechanism. If the instructions in this section do not match the CPU documentation, follow the latter.
Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base.
Align the other end of the retention bracket (near the retention bracket lock) to the retention module base. A clicking sound denotes that the retention bracket is in place.
Make sure that the fan and heatsink assembly perfectly fits the retention mechanism module base, otherwise you cannot snap the retention bracket in place.
Push down the retention bracket lock on the retention mechanism to secure the heatsink and fan to the module base.
When the fan and heatsink assembly is in place, connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN.
GND CPU FAN PWR CPU FAN IN CPU FAN PWM
M2N/M2N DH CPU Fan Connector Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector. This connector is backward compatible to the 3-pin CPU fan connector. Only 4-pin CPU fan supports Q-Fan function.

System memory

Overview
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. A DDR2 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR DIMM but has a 240-pin footprint compared to the 184-pin DDR DIMM. DDR2 DIMMs are notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR DIMM socket. The figure illustrates the location of the DDR2 DIMM sockets:

32-bit

Windows 2000 Advanced Server
Windows XP Professional x64 Edition

64-bit

Qualified Vendors List DDR2-533
512MB Size Vendor ELPIDA HYNIX Model EBE51ED8ABFA-5C-E HYMP564U648-C4 Side(s) SS SS Component DIMM support A B C E5108AB-5C-E

ELPIDA

EBE51UD8ABFA-5C-E HYMP512U728-C4 AA

1024MB HYNIX 512MB 512MB

E5108AB-5C-E

INFINEON MICRON SAMSUNG

HYS64T64000GU-3.7-A M378T3253FG0-CD5

DS SS DS SS SS

HY5PS12821F-C4 HYB18T512
HY5PS12821F-C4 4EB11D9BQM
MT16HTF6464AG-53EB2 M378T6553BG0-CD5

1024MB SAMSUNG

SAMSUNG

K4T56083QF-GCD5

M391T2953BG0-CD5
K4T151083QB-GCD5 K4T51083QB-GCD5
Qualified Vendors List DDR2-667
256MB Size Vendor HYNIX Model HYMP532U64AP6-Y5 AA Side(s) SS SS Component DIMM support A B C HY5PS121621AFP-Y5 HY5PS12821AFP-Y5 HY5PS12821AFP-Y4 GL2L32M168BA30F K4T51083QC K4T51083QC

HYNIX GEIL

HYMP564U64AP8-Y5 AA

HYNIX SAMSUNG

HYMP564U64AP8-Y4 AA GX25125300DC
HYMP564U72AP8-Y4 AA M378T6553CZ0-CE6 M378T6453FZ0-CE6

HY5PS12821AFP-Y4

1024MB SAMSUNG 512MB

M378T2953CZ0-CE6

K4T56083QF-ZCE6
Qualified Vendors List DDR2-800
512MB Size Vendor KINGSTON Qimonda Model K4T51083QC Side(s) SS DS SS Component DIMM support A B C KVR800D2N5/512 KVR800D2N5/1G HYS64T64020HU-25F-A
1024MB KINGSTON 512MB 256MB Qimonda

K4T51083QC

HYB18T256800AF25F
1024MB Qimonda 256MB 512MB Hynix

Qimonda

HYB18T512160BF-25F HYB18T512800BF25F K4T51163QC-ZCE7 5JAIIZ9DQQ HYB18T512800BF25F HY5PS12821BFP-S5 5JAIIZ9DQQ

HYS64T32000HU-25F-B

SAMSUNG MICRON

DS SS SS

HYS64T64000HU-25F-B M378T3354CZ3-CE7
HYS64T128020HU-25F-B HYMP564U64BP8-S5

1024MB MICRON 512MB

MICRON

5ZD22D9GKX

DS SS DS SS DS

MT8HTF6464AY-80EA3

MT16HTF12864AY-80EA3 MT8HTF6464AY-80ED4 MT16HTF12864AY-80ED4 MT8HTF6464AY-80ED4 CM2X1024-6400C4 MT16HTF12864AY-80ED4 BL12864AA804.16FD
1024MB MICRON 1024MB Crucial

6CD22D9GKX

1024MB CORSAIR

Heat-Sink Package

Side(s): SS - Single-sided DIMM Support:

DS - Double-sided

A - Supports one module inserted in any slot for a single-channel memory configuration. B - Supports one pair of modules inserted into either the blue slots or the black slots as one pair of dual-channel memory configuration. C - Supports three modules inserted into both the blue and black slots as two pairs of dual-channel memory configuration.

USB+5V USB_P9USB_P9+ GND

USB+5V USB_P7USB_P7+ GND
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! Connect one end of the USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector first before connecting to the USB connector onboard. The USB module is purchased separately.
This connector allows you to receive stereo audio input from an optical drive such as DVD or CD-ROM.
Optical drive audio connector (4-pin CD)

CD (black)

Right Audio Channel Ground Ground Left Audio Channel
M2N/M2N DH Internal Audio Connector

USB+5V USB_P5USB_P5+ GND

M2N/M2N DH USB 2.0 Connectors
USB+5V USB_P6 USB_P6+ GND NC
CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN, 3-pin PWR_FAN)
The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350 mA ~ 2000 mA (24 W max.) or a total of 1 A ~ 3.48 A (41.76 W max.) at +12V. Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, making sure that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.
Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors! CPU_FAN
CHA_FAN M2N/M2N DH Fan Connectors

Rotation +12V GND

This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch. Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal is then generated as a chassis intrusion event. By default, the pins labeled Chassis Signal and Ground are shorted with a jumper cap. Remove the jumper caps only when you intend to use the chassis intrusion detection feature.
Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)
GND Chassis Signal +5VSB_MB

(Default)

M2N/M2N DH Chassis Intrusion Connector
These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.

+12V DC GND

ATX power connectors (24-pin ATXPWR, 4-pin EATX12V)
+12V DC +3 Volts GND +3 Volts Ground +5 Volts Ground +5 Volts Ground Power OK +5V Standby +12 Volts +12 Volts +3 Volts
EATXPWR M2N/M2N DH ATX Power Connector
+3 Volts -12 Volts Ground PSON# Ground Ground Ground -5 Volts +5 Volts +5 Volts +5 Volts Ground
For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 600 W. Do not forget to connect the 4-pin ATX +12 V power plug; otherwise, the system will not boot. Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when configuring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.

Powering off the computer
Using the OS shut down function
If you are using Windows 2000: 1. Click the Start button then click Shut Down. 2. Make sure that the Shut Down option button is selected, then click the OK button to shut down the computer. The power supply should turn off after Windows shuts down.
If you are using Windows XP: 1. Click the Start button then select Turn Off Computer. 2. Click the Turn Off button to shut down the computer. 3. The power supply should turn off after Windows shuts down.
Using the dual function power switch
While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts the system to sleep mode or to soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. Refer to section 4.5 Power Menu in Chapter 4 for details.
This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.

BIOS setup

4.2 4.3
Managing and updating your BIOS.. 4-1 BIOS setup program.. 4-10 Main menu... 4-13

4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7

Advanced menu... 4-17 Power menu... 4-27 Boot menu... 4-31 Tools menu.... 4-35 Exit menu... 4-39
Managing and updating your BIOS
The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. 1. 2. 3. 4. ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk, USB Flash, or the motherboard support CD during POST.) ASUS AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable floppy disk.)
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 (Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy, USB Flash disk, or the motherboard support CD when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted.) ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows environment.)
Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk or a USB flash disk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update or AFUDOS utilities.
Creating a bootable floppy disk
a. Insert a 1.44MB floppy disk into the drive.

Windows XP environment

DOS environment
Do either one of the following to create a bootable floppy disk.
b. At the DOS prompt, type format A:/S then press <Enter>. a. Insert a 1.44 MB floppy disk to the floppy disk drive. c. Select the 3 1/2 Floppy Drive icon. b. Click Start from the Windows desktop, then select My Computer. d. Click File from the menu, then select Format. A Format 3 1/2 Floppy Disk window appears.

Windows 2000 environment

Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery. Checking for floppy. Floppy found! Reading file M2N.ROM. Completed. Start flashing.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause system boot failure!
Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.
Recovering the BIOS from the support CD
To recover the BIOS from the support CD: 1. 2. 3. Remove any floppy disk from the floppy disk drive, then turn on the system. The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the floppy disk for the original or updated BIOS file. Insert the support CD to the optical drive.
When no floppy disk is found, the utility automatically checks the optical drive for the original or updated BIOS file. The utility then updates the corrupted BIOS file.
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery. Checking for floppy. Floppy not found! Checking for CD-ROM. CD-ROM found! Reading file M2N.ROM. Completed. Start flashing.
The recovered BIOS may not be the latest BIOS version for this motherboard. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file.

ASUS Update utility

The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you to: Save the current BIOS file Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file View the BIOS version information. Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and
This utility is available in the support CD that comes with the motherboard package.
ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).

Installing ASUS Update

To install ASUS Update: 2. 1. Place the support CD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears.
Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update. See page 5-3 for the Utilities screen menu. The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system.
Quit all Windows applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.
Updating the BIOS through the Internet
To update the BIOS through the Internet: 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears.
Select Update BIOS from the Internet option from the dropdown menu, then click Next.
Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network traffic, or click Auto Select. Click Next.
From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download. Click Next. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process.
The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update the utility to avail all its features.

[Auto] : : : : : : : : : : : 200 MHz 3.CLK 8 CLK 3 CLK 2 CLK 11 CLK 14 CLK 4 CLK 5.5 ns 7 ns

+F1 F10 ESC

Memory Configuration
The memory configuration menu allows you to change the memory settings.
Memory Configuration Memclock Mode MCT Timing Mode Bank Interleaving Enable Clock to All DIMMs MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID Memory Hole Remapping
[Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Enabled]
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]

Sets the memory clock mode. Configuration options:
Select Screen Select Item +Change Option F1 General Help [Auto] [Limit] [Manal] F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
The following items appear when the Memclock Mode is set to Limit or manual.

Memclock Value [400 MHz]

Sets the memory clock mode limit. This item appears only when the Memory Mode item is set to Limit. Configuration options: [400 MHz] [533 MHz] [667 MHz] [800 MHz]

MCT Timing Mode [Auto]

Sets the MCT Timing mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]
The following item appears when the MCT Timing Mode item is set to [Manual].

CAS Latency (CL) [Auto]

Configuration options: [Auto] [3.0] [4.0] [5.0] [6.0]

TRAS [Auto]

Configuration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] [6 CLK]. [18 CLK]

TRP [Auto]

Configuration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK]

TRCD [Auto]

TRRD [Auto]
Configuration options: [Auto] [2T] [3T] [4T] [5T]

TRC [Auto]

Configuration options: [Auto] [11T] [12T] [13T].[25T]

Bank Interleaving [Auto]

Sets the bank interleaving feature. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]
The Bank Interleaving item appears only when you use a memmory that supports this function.
Enable Clock to All DIMMs [Disabled]
Enables or disables the unused clocks to DIMMs, even if the memory slots are not populated. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled] Enables or disables the MemClk Tri-Stating during C3 and Alt VID. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled]
Enables or disables the memory remapping around the memory hole. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Power Down Control [Auto]
Allows the DIMMs to enter power down mode by deasserting the clock enable signal when DIMMs are not in use. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]
SouthBridge Configuration
The SouthBridge Configuration menu allows you to change the SouthBridge settings.
South Bridge Chipset Configuration Primary Graphics Adapter [PCIE] AZILIA AUDIO [Auto] OnBoard LAN [Auto] OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]
Enable or Disable SMBus Controller.
Primary Graphics Adapter [PCIE]

Tools menu

ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS O.C.Profile
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to confirm your choice. Please see page 4-2, section 4.1.2 for details.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY Tools Save to Profile 1
This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.
O.C. PROFILE Configuration O.C. Profile 1 Status O.C. Profile 2 Status Save to Profile 1 Load from Profile 1 Save to Profile 2 Load from Profile 2 Start O.C. Profile Enter F1 F10 ESC Select Screen Select Item Go to Sub Screen General Help Save and Exit Exit : Not Installed : Not Installed
v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2006, American Megatrends, Inc.

Save to Profle 1/2

Allows you to save the current BIOS file to the BIOS Flash. Press <Enter> to save the file.

Load from Profile 1/2

Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Press <Enter> to load the file.

Start O.C. Profile

Allows you to run the utility to save and load CMOS. Press <Enter> to run the utility.
ASUSTek O.C. Profile Utility V1.00 FLASH TYPE:SST 49LF004/040B LP Current CMOS BOARD: M2N VER: 0103 DATE: 07/28/06 A: Restore CMOS BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown
This function can support devices such as USB flash disk or floppy disk with FAT 32/16 format only. DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the system boot failure! Chapter 4: BIOS setup

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
Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options from this menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit.

Exit & Save Changes

Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard backup battery sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turned off. When you select this option, a confirmation window appears. Select 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

This option 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.

The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices.
ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Drivers Nvidia Chipset Driver Program
Launches the ASUS InstallAll driver installation wizard. Installs the NVIDIA Chipset drivers for the NVIDIA nForce 430 MCP chipset.
SoundMAX ADI 6-CH Audio Driver AMD Cool n Quiet Driver
Installs the SoundMAX ADI 6-Channel audio driver and application. Installs the AMD Cool n Quiet technology driver.
ASUS WiFi-AP Solo (for M2N DH model only)
Installs the WiFi-AP Solo driver and application.
ASUS DH Remote (for M2N DH model only)
Installs the ASUS DH Remote driver and application.

Utilities menu

The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports.
ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities ASUS PC Probe II
Launches the ASUS InstallAll utilities installation wizard. This smart utility monitors the fan speed, CPU temperature, and system voltages, and alerts you of any detected problems. This utility helps you keep your computer in healthy operating condition.

ASUS Update

The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in Windows environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).

ADOBE Acrobat V7.0

Installs the Adobe Acrobat Reader that allows you to open, view, and print documents in Portable Document Format (PDF).

Microsoft DirectX 9.0c

Installs the Microsoft DirectX 9.0c driver. The Microsoft DirectX 9.0c is a multimedia technology that enhances computer graphics and sound. DirectX improves the multimedia features of you computer so you can enjoy watching TV and movies, capturing videos, or playing games in your computer. Visit the Microsoft website (www.microsoft.com) for updates.

Anti-Virus Utility

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

Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG - Array Detail RAID Mode: Mirroring Striping Width: 1 Adapt Channel M/S Master Master Index 0 1
Striping Block: 64K Disk Model Name XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Capacity XXX.XXGB XXX.XXGB

[R] Rebuild

[D] Delete

[C] Clear Disk

[ENTER] Return
A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen. Press <R> to rebuild a RAID array. The following screen appears.
Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG - Select Disk Inside Array RAID Mode: Mirroring Striping Width: 1 Adapt Channel M/S Master Master Index 0 1

[] Select [F6] Back

Use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array to rebuild, then press <F7>. The following confirmation message appears.

Rebuild array?

[ENTER] OK

[ESC] Cancel

Press <Enter> to start rebuilding array or press <Esc> to cancel. After the rebuild process, the Array list menu appears.

Deleting a RAID array

To delete a RAID array: 1. From the Array List menu, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array then press <Enter>. The RAID Array details appear.
Press <D> to delete a RAID array. The following confirmation message appears.
A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen.

Delete this array?

[N] No
Press <Y> to delete array or press <N> to cancel.
If you selected Yes, the Define a New Array menu appears.

Clearing a disk data

To clear disk data: 1. From the Array List menu, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array then press <Enter>. The RAID Array details appear.
A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen. Press <C> to clear disk. The following confirmation message appears.
Press <Y> to clear the disk data or press <N> to cancel.
Creating a RAID driver disk
A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows 2000/XP operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. To create a RAID driver disk: 1. 3. 2. Select Make Disk tab. Place the motherboard support CD into the CD-ROM drive.
From the Make Disk menu, select the RAID driver disk you want to create or browse the contents of the support CD to locate the driver disk utility.
Refer to section 5.2.4 Make Disk menu for details.
4. Insert floppy disk to floppy disk drive. 6.

5. Follow succeeding screen information to complete process.
Write-protect the floppy disk to avoid computer virus infection.
To install the RAID driver: 1. 2. 3. During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6 key to install third-party SCSI or RAID driver.
Press <F6> then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the floppy disk drive. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.
Due to chipset limitation, the Serial ATA ports supported by the NVIDIA chipset doesnt support Serial Optical Disk Drives (Serial ODD) under DOS.

Motherboard

M2N-E SLI
E2830 First Edition October 2006
Copyright 2006 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....vii Safety information...viii About this guide.... ix. Typography... x M2N-E SLI specifications summary.. xi.
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 1.2 1.3 Welcome!... 1-1 Package contents... 1-1 Special features... 1-2 1.3.1 1.3.2 2.1 2.2 Product highlights.. 1-2 ASUS Special features.. 1-4.
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Before you proceed... 2-1 Motherboard overview... 2-2 2.2.1 2.2.2 2.2.3 2.2.4 2.3 2.3.1 2.3.2 2.4 2.4.1 2.4.2 2.4.3 2.4.4 2.5 2.5.1 2.5.2 2.5.3 2.5.4 2.5.5 2.5.6 Placement direction.. 2-2 Screw holes.. 2-2. Motherboard layout.. 2-3 Layout Contents.. 2-4 Installing the CPU... 2-5 Installing the heatsink and fan.. 2-7 Overview... 2-10 Memory configurations.. 2-10 Installing a DIMM.. 2-15 Removing a DIMM... 2-15 Installing an expansion card.. 2-16 Configuring an expansion card. 2-16 Interrupt assignments.. 2-17. PCI slots... 2-17 PCI Express x1 slot.. 2-18 PCI Express x16 slots.. 2-18.
Central Processing Unit (CPU).. 2-5

System memory... 2-10.

Expansion slots... 2-16
2.6 2.7 Jumpers... 2-19 Connectors... 2-22 2.7.1 2.7.2 3.1 3.2 Rear panel connectors.. 2-22 Internal connectors.. 2-24

Chapter 3: Powering up

Starting up for the first time.. 3-1 Powering off the computer... 3-2. 3.2.1 3.2.2 4.1 Using the OS shut down function.. 3-2 Using the dual function power switch.. 3-2.

Chapter 4: BIOS setup

Managing and updating your BIOS... 4-1 4.1.1 4.1.2 4.1.3 4.1.4 4.1.5 4.1.6 4.2 4.2.1 4.2.2 4.2.3 4.2.4 4.2.5 4.2.6 4.2.7 4.2.8 4.3 4.3.1 4.3.2 4.3.3 4.3.5 4.3.6 4.3.7 Creating a bootable floppy disk. 4-1 Updating the BIOS... 4-2. Saving the current BIOS file.. 4-4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility.. 4-5 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility.. 4-7. ASUS Update utility.. 4-8 BIOS menu screen.. 4-12 Menu bar... 4-12 Legend bar... 4-13. Menu items.. 4-13 Sub-menu items... 4-13 Configuration fields.. 4-13 Pop-up window.. 4-14. General help... 4-14 System Time.. 4-15 System Date.. 4-15 Legacy Diskette A.. 4-15 Primary and Secondary IDE Master/Slave. 4-16 SATA 1, 2, 3, 4... 4-18. HDD SMART Monitoring.. 4-19.
BIOS setup program... 4-11.

Main menu... 4-15.

4.3.8 4.4 4.4.1 Installed Memory.. 4-19. JumperFree Configuration. 4-20. Advanced menu.. 4-20 4.4.3 CPU Configuration.. 4-23 4.4.4 PCIPnP... 4-25 4.4.5 4.4.6 4.5 4.5.1 4.5.2 4.5.3 4.5.4 4.6 4.6.1 4.6.2 4.6.3 4.6.4 4.6.5 4.7 4.8 5.1 5.2 Onboard Device Configuration. 4-26 SLI Configuration... 4-31. ACPI Suspend Type.. 4-32 ACPI APIC Support.. 4-32 APM Configuration.. 4-33 Hardware Monitor.. 4-35. Boot Device Priority.. 4-37 Removable Drives.. 4-38. Hard Disk Drives... 4-38. Boot Settings Configuration.. 4-39 Security... 4-41.

Power menu... 4-32

Boot menu... 4-37
Tools menu... 4-43 ASUS EZ Flash 2... 4-43. Exit menu... 4-44. Installing an operating system.. 5-1. Support CD information.. 5-1 5.2.1 5.2.2 5.2.3 5.2.4 5.2.5 5.2.6 Running the support CD... 5-1. Drivers menu... 5-2. Utilities menu... 5-3 Manuals menu... 5-4 ASUS Contact information.. 5-5 Other information.. 5-5 Cool n Quiet! Technology. 5-8 ASUS PC Probe II.. 5-10

Chapter 5: Software support
Software information... 5-8 5.3.1 5.3.2
5.4 RAID configurations... 5-16 5.4.1 5.4.2 5.5 6.1 6.2 Installing hard disks.. 5-17. NVIDIA RAID configurations.. 5-18.
Creating a RAID driver disk.. 5-25 Overview... 6-1 Requirements... 6-1. Dual graphics card setup.. 6-2 6.2.1 6.2.2 6.2.3 Installing SLI-ready graphics cards.. 6-2. Installing the device drivers.. 6-5 Enabling the multi-GPU feature in Windows. 6-5
Chapter 6: NVIDIA SLI technology support

Notices

Federal Communications Commission Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: This device may not cause harmful interference, and This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with manufacturers instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the users authority to operate this equipment.

GND CPU FAN PWR CPU FAN IN CPU FAN PWM
M2N-E SLI CPU Fan Connector Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector.

System memory

Overview
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. A DDR2 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR DIMM but has a 240-pin footprint compared to the 184-pin DDR DIMM. DDR2 DIMMs are notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR DIMM socket. The figure illustrates the location of the DDR2 DIMM sockets:
DIMM_A1 DIMM_B1 DIMM_A2 DIMM_B2
M2N-E SLI 240-pin DDR2 DIMM Sockets Channel Channel A Channel B Sockets DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2 DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2

Memory configurations

You may install 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2GB unbuffered ECC/non-ECC DDR2 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. Recommended Memory Configurations
Mode Sockets DIMM_A1 Populated Single Channel Dual-channel (1) Dual-channel (2) Populated Populated DIMM_A2 Populated Populated Populated DIMM_B1 Populated Populated Populated DIMM_B2 Populated Populated Populated

112 Pins

128 Pins
* For dual-channel memory configuration (2), you may: install identical DIMMs in all four sockets OR install an identical DIMM pair in DIMM_A1 and DIMM_B1 (yellow sockets) and another identical DIMM pair in DIMM_A2 and DIMM_B2 (black sockets) * Always use identical DDR2 DIMM pairs for dual-channel model. For optimum compatibility, we recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus. com) for the latest Qualified Vendors List.
Important notice on installing Windows XP 32-bit version If you install Windows XP 32-bit version Operating System (OS), the limitation of this OS version is that it may reserve a certain amount of memory space for system devices. We recommend that you install less than 3 GB system memory if you would like to work under Windows XP 32-bit version OS. The excess memory installation will not cause any usage problem, but it will not give users the benefit of manipulating this excess memory space. Visit the ASUS FAQ site for further explanation: http://support.asus.com/faq/faq. aspx?SLanguage=en-us Under General Search, make the selections as shown, then click Search. Click the article titled 4GB memory installed but less memory size detected.
This motherboard can support 8 GB physical memory on the operating systems listed below. You may install a maximum of 2 GB DIMMs on each slot. 32-bit Windows 2000 Advanced Server Windows Server 2003 Enterprise Edition 64-bit Windows Server 2003 Standard x64 Edition Windows XP Professional x64 Edition Windows Server 2003 Enterprise x64 Edition

V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V V
HYB18T256800AF37(ECC) SS HYB18T512800AF37(ECC) DS HY5PS12821F-C4 HY5PS12821F-C4 HY5PS12821F-C4(ECC) HY5PS12821FP-C4(ECC) HY5PS12821AFP-C3 HY5PS12821AFP-C3 E5108AB-5C-E(ECC) E5108AB-5C-E E5108AE-5C-E KKEA88E4AAK-37 5MB22D9DCN SS DS DS SS SS DS SS SS SS SS DS
Side(s): SS - Single-sided DS - Double-sided DIMM Support: A - Supports one module inserted in any slot for a single-channel memory configuration. B - Supports one pair of modules inserted into either the yellow slots or the black slots as one pair of dual-channel memory configuration. C - Supports three modules inserted into both the yellow and black slots as two pairs of dual-channel memory configuration.
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for the latest memory Qualified Vendor List (QVL). 2-14 Chapter 2: Hardware information

Installing a DIMM

Unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so can cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components.
To install a DIMM: 1. 2. Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clips outward. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break on the socket. Firmly insert the DIMM into the socket until the retaining clips snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated.

DDR2 DIMM notch

Unlocked retaining clip
A DDR2 DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it fits in only one direction. Do not force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the DIMM. The DDR2 DIMM sockets do not support DDR DIMMs. DO not install DDR DIMMs to the DDR2 DIMM sockets.

Removing a DIMM

To remove a DIMM: Simultaneously press the retaining clips outward to unlock the DIMM.
Support the DIMM lightly with your fingers when pressing the retaining clips. The DIMM might get damaged when it flips out with extra force.
Remove the DIMM from the socket.
In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following subsections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support.

c. Click Start, then select Run. d. From the Open field, type 2. D:\bootdisk\makeboot a: assuming that D: is your optical drive.
e. Press <Enter>, then follow screen instructions to continue. Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS file to the bootable floppy disk.

4.1.2 Updating the BIOS

The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) can be updated using the AwardBIOS Flash Utility. Follow these instructions to update the BIOS using this utility. 1. Download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS web site. Rename the file to m2nesli.bin and save it to a floppy disk.
Save only the updated BIOS file in the floppy disk to avoid loading the wrong BIOS file.
Copy the AwardBIOS Flash Utility (awdflash.exe) from the Software folder of the support CD to the floppy disk with the latest BIOS file. Boot the system in DOS mode using the bootable floppy disk you created earlier.
4. When the A:> appears, replace the bootable floppy disk with the floppy disk containing the new BIOS file and the Award BIOS Flash Utility. 5. At the prompt, type awdflash then press <Enter>. The Award BIOS Flash Utility screen appears.
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.01 (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved For NF-CK804-M2N-E SLI DATE: 11/18/2004 Flash Type - SST 49LF004A/B /3.3V File Name to Program:
Message: Please input File Name!
Type the BIOS file name in the File Name to Program field, then press <Enter>.
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.01 (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved For NF-CK804-M2N-E SLI DATE: 11/18/2004 Flash Type - SST 49LF004A/B /3.3V File Name to Program: m2nesli.bin
Message: Do You Want To Save Bios (Y/N)
Press <N> when the utility prompts you to save the current BIOS file. The following screen appears. The utility verifies the BIOS file in the floppy disk and starts flashing the BIOS file.
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.01 (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved For NF-CK804-M2N-E SLI DATE: 11/18/2004 Flash Type - SST 49LF004A/B /3.3V File Name to Program: m2nesli.bin Program Flashing Memory - OFE00 OK

Write OK

No Update

Write Fail

Warning: Dont Turn Off Power Or Reset System!
Do not turn off or reset the system during the flashing process!
The utility displays a Flashing Complete message indicating that you have successfully flashed the BIOS file. Remove the floppy disk then press <F1> to restart the system.

This function can support devices such as USB flash disk, hard disk, or floppy disk with FAT 32/16/12 format only. Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure!
4.1.6 ASUS Update utility
The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you to: Save the current BIOS file Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and View the BIOS version information.
This utility is available in the support CD that comes with the motherboard package.
ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).

Installing ASUS Update

To install ASUS Update: 1. 2. 3. Place the support CD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears. Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update VX.XX.XX. See page 5-3 for the Utilities screen menu. The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system.
Quit all Windows applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.
Updating the BIOS through the Internet
To update the BIOS through the Internet: 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears.
Select Update BIOS from the Internet option from the dropdown menu, then click Next.
Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network traffic, or click Auto Select. Click Next.
From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download. Click Next. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process.
The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update the utility to avail all its features.
Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file
To update the BIOS through a BIOS file: 1. 2. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears. Select Update BIOS from a file option from the dropdown menu, then click Next.

Advanced Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility JumperFree Configuration [Auto] Disabled 200.0 100Mhz Auto Auto Auto Auto Select Menu Item Specific Help DPress [Enter] to select overclock profile
AI Tuning x Overclock Options x CPU Frequency x PCI Express Clock x DDR2 Voltage x CPU Multiplier x CPU Voltage x PCI Clock Synchronization Mod

Overclock Profile [Auto]

Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal frequency. Select either one of the preset overclocking configuration options: Manual Auto Standard AI Overclock Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters. Loads the optimal settings for the system. Loads the standard settings for the system. Loads overclocking profiles with optimal parameters for stability when overclocking.
The following items are user-configurable only when the Overclock Profile item is set to [Manual].
CPU Frequency [XXX] (value is auto-detected)
Indicates the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and PCI bus. The bus frequency (external frequency) multiplied by the bus multiple equals the CPU speed. The value of this item is auto-detected by BIOS. The values range from 200 to 400. Refer to the following table for the correct Front Side Bus and CPU External Frequency settings.
Selecting a very high CPU frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this happens, revert to the default setting.
PCI Express Clock [100MHz]
Allows you to set the PCI Express clock. Key-in a decimal value between 100-200 MHz. Configuration options: [100Mhz] [101Mhz~[145Mhz]

DDR2 Voltage [Auto]

Sets the operating DDR voltage. Configuration options: [Auto] [1.80V] [1.85V] [1.90V] [1.95V]

CPU Multiplier [Auto]

Sets the operating CPU multiplier. The configuration options vary depending on the type of CPU installed. Configuration options: [Auto] [5x] [6x] [7x] [8x] [9x]

CPU Voltage [Auto]

Sets the operating CPU voltage. The configuration options vary depending on the model of processor installed.

Power Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Select Menu Item Specific Help Press [Enter] to enable or disable
Hardware Monitor CPU Q-Fan Control x CPU Q-Fan Profile Chassis Q-Fan Control x Chassis Q-Fan Profile Vcore Voltage 3.3V Voltage 5V Voltage 12V Voltage CPU Temperature M/B Temperature CPU FAN Speed CHASSIS FAN Speed Power FAN Speed CPU Fan Speed warning F1:Help ESC: Exit : Select Item : Select Menu [Disabled] Performance [Disabled] Performance [1.36V] [3.31V] [4.97V] [11.90V] 45C 36C 3260 RPM 0 RPM 0 RPM [800 RPM] -/+: Change Value Enter: Select Sub-menu
CPU/Chassis Q-Fan Control [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the CPU/Chassis Q-Fan controller. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
CPU/Chassis Q-Fan Profile [Performance]
Allows you to set the CPU/Chassis Q-Fan type. Configuration options: [Performance] [Optimal] [Silent]
Only when the Q-Fan Control is set to [Enabled], Q-Fan Profile are configurable.

VCORE Voltage[1.36V]

Allows you to enable or ignore the VCore voltage. Configuration options: [1.36V] [Ignore]

3.3V Voltage[3.31V]

Allows you to set or ignore the 3.3V voltage. Configuration options: [3.31V] [Ignore]

5V Voltage[4.97V]

Allows you to set or ignore the 5V voltage. Configuration options: [4.97V] [Ignore]

12V Voltage[11.90V]

Allows you to set or ignore the 12V voltage. Configuration options: [11.90V] [Ignore]
CPU Temperature, M/B Temperature
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard and CPU temperatures. These items are not user-configurable.
CPU FAN Speed, CHASSIS FAN Speed, POWER Fan Speed
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the Chassis, CPU, and power fan speeds in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the field shows 0. These items are not user-configurable.
CPU Fan Speed warning [800 RPM]
Enables or disables the CPU Fan speed warning feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [800 RPM] [1200 RPM] [1600 RPM]
Please be careful when the CPU Fan speed warning is set to [Disabled]. It will not produce and warning message during POST even the fan is bad or not present.

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.

If you attempt to exit the Setup program without saving your changes, the program prompts you with a message asking if you want to save your changes before exiting. Press <Enter> to save the changes while exiting.
Exit & Discard Changes
Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to the Setup program. If you made changes to fields other than System Date, System Time, and Password, the BIOS asks for a confirmation before exiting.

Load Setup 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.

Discard Changes

This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the previously saved values. After selecting this option, a confirmation appears. Select Yes to discard any changes and load the previously saved values.
This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes with the motherboard package.

Software support

5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5
Installing an operating system.. 5-1. Support CD information.. 5-1 Software information... 5-8 RAID configurations... 5-16 Creating a RAID driver disk.. 5-25
Installing an operating system
This motherboard supports Windows 2000/XP operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware.
Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Use the setup procedures presented in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OS documentation for detailed information. Make sure that you install Windows 2000 Service Pack 4 or the Windows XP Service Pack2 or later versions before installing the drivers for better compatibility and system stability.

Support CD information

The support CD that came with the motherboard package contains the drivers, software applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard features.
The contents of the support CD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the ASUS website(www.asus.com) for updates.
5.2.1 Running the support CD
Place the support CD to the optical drive. The CD automatically displays the Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer.

Anti-virus Utility

The anti-virus application detects and protects your computer from viruses that destroys data.

5.2.4 Make Disk menu

The Make Disk menu contains items to create the NVIDIA nForce 500-SLI or Silicon Image SATA RAID driver disk.
Make NV SATA/RAID 32bit 2000 Driver Make NV SATA/RAID 32bit XP Driver Make NV SATA/RAID 32bit 2003 Driver
Allows you to create an NVIDIA Serial ATA RAID driver disk for a 32-bit 2000/XP/2003 system.
Make NV SATA/RAID 64bit XP Driver Make NV SATA/RAID 64bit 2003 Driver
Allows you to create an NVIDIA Serial ATA RAID driver disk for a 64-bit XP/2003 system.

5.2.5 Manuals menu

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

NVIDIA RAID Users Guide

Allows you to open the NVIDIA RAID Users Guide.
5.2.6 ASUS Contact information
Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. You can also find this information on the inside front cover of this user guide.

5.2.7 Other information

The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on the motherboard and the contents of the support CD. Click an icon to display the specified information.

Motherboard Info

Displays the general specifications of the motherboard.

Browse this CD

Displays the support CD contents in graphical format.

Technical support Form

Displays the ASUS Technical Support Request Form that you have to fill out when requesting technical support.

Filelist

Displays the contents of the support CD and a brief description of each in text format.

Software information

Most of the applications in the support CD have wizards that will conveniently guide you through the installation. View the online help or readme file that came with the software application for more information.
5.3.1 Cool n Quiet! Technology
The motherboard supports the AMD Cool n Quiet! Technology that dynamically and automatically change the CPU speed, voltage, and amount of power depending on the task the CPU performs.
Enabling Cool n Quiet! Technology
To enable Cool n Quiet! Technology: 1. 2. 3. 4. Turn on the system and enter BIOS by pressing the <Del> key during the Power On Self-Tests (POST). Go to Advanced -> CPU Configuration -> AMD Cool nQuiet Function and set it to [Enabled]. See section 4.4 Advanced Menu. Save your changes and exit BIOS Setup. Reboot your computer and set your Power Option Properties depending on your operating system.

Windows 2000/XP

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. From the Windows 2000/XP operating system, click the Start button. Select Settings, then Control Panel. Make sure the Control Panel is set to Classic View. Double-click the Display icon in the Control Panel then select the Screen Saver tab. Click the Power. button. The following dialog box appears. From the Power schemes combo list box, select Minimal Power Management. Click OK to effect settings.
Make sure to install the Cool n Quiet! driver and application before using this feature.
The AMD Cool n Quiet! technology feature works only with the AMD heatsink and fan assembly with monitor chip If you purchased a separate heatsink and fan package, use the ASUS Q-Fan technology feature to automatically adjust the CPU fan speed according to your system loading.
Launching the Cool n Quiet! software
The motherboard support CD includes the Cool n Quiet! software that enables you to view your systems real-time CPU Frequency and voltage.
Make sure to install the Cool n Quiet! software from the motherboard support CD. Refer to section 5.2.3 Utilities menu for details.
To launch the Cool n Quiet! program: 1. 2. 3. If you are using Windows 2000, click the Start button. Select Programs-> ASUS -> Cool & Quiet -> Cool & Quiet. If you are using Windows XP, click the Start button. Select All Programs-> ASUS -> Cool & Quiet -> Cool & Quiet. The Cool n Quiet! technology screen appears and displays the current CPU Frequency and CPU Voltage.

5.3.2 ASUS PC Probe II

PC Probe II is a utility that monitors the computers vital components, and detects and alerts you of any problem with these components. PC Probe II senses fan rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others. Because PC Probe II is software-based, you can start monitoring your computer the moment you turn it on. With this utility, you are assured that your computer is always at a healthy operating condition.

Installing PC Probe II

To install PC Probe II on your computer: 1. Place the support CD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature.
If Autorun is not enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support CD to locate the setup.exe file from the ASUS PC Probe II folder. Double-click the setup.exe file to start installation.

Requirements

You should have two identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA certified.
Make sure that your graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA SLI technology. Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com). Make sure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power required by your system. See 9. ATX power connectors on page 2-28 for details.
The NVIDIA SLI technology supports Windows XP 32-bit/64bit operating system only. Visit the NVIDIA zone website (http://www.nzone.com) for the latest certified graphics card and supported 3D application list.

Dual graphics card setup

Installing SLI-ready graphics cards
Install only identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA-certified. Different types of graphics cards will not work together properly.
To install the graphics cards: 1. Prepare two graphics cards. Each graphics card should have goldfingers for the SLI connector.

Goldfingers

2. Remove the metal bracket covers opposite the two PCI Express x16 slots.
3. Insert one graphics card into either the blue or black slot. Make sure that the card is properly seated on the slot.
4. Insert the second graphics card into the other slot. Make sure that the card is properly seated on the slot.
If required, connect an auxiliary power source to the PCI Express graphics cards.
5. Align and insert the SLI connector to the goldfingers on each graphics card. Make sure that the connector is firmly in place.

SLI connector

6. When installing two VGA cards using a 20-pin ATX PSU with sufficient+12v capability, we recommend that you connect the auxillary power source from the power supply to the graphics card. Refer to the PSU documentation for dual VGA power requirements. 7. Connect a VGA cable or a DVI-I cable to the graphics card/s.
We recommend to install an additional chassis fan for better thermal environment.
Installing the device drivers
Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device drivers.
Make sure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA SLI technology. Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia. com).
Enabling the multi-GPU feature in Windows
After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the MultiGraphics Processing Unit (GPU) feature in the NVIDIA nView properties. To enable the multi-GPU feature: 1. Click the NVIDIA Settings icon on your Windows taskbar.

NVIDIA Settings icon

From the pop-up menu, select nView Desktop Manager then click nView Properties.
From the nView Desktop Manager window, select the Desktop Management tab. Click Properties to display the Display Properties dialog box.