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 adapter 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.
The symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.
M2V-MX specifications summary
CPU Support AMD socket AM2 for AMD Athlon 64 FX/ Athlon 64 X2/Athlon 64/AMD Sempron processor AMD64 architecture enables simultaneous 32-bit and 64-bit computing Supports AMD Cool n Quiet Technology VIA K8M890 VIA VT8237A 2000 MT/s 2 x 240-pin DIMM sockets support up to 4 GB of ECC/ non-ECC unbufferred DDR2 800/667/533 MHz DIMMs 1 x PCI Express x16 slot 2 x PCI slots Integrated in the VIA DeltaChrome Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) Supports a maximum of 256MB shared memory Supports Microsoft DX9 VIA VT8237A supports: - 2 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66/33 - 2 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s hard disk drives supporting RAID 0, RAID 1, and JBOD configurations JMicron JMB363 controller supports: - 2 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s hard disk drives supporting RAID 0, and RAID 1 configuration Audio Realtek ALC883 Azalia 6-channel audio CODEC Supports Jack-Sensing and Enumeration Technology Supports Multi-Streaming Technology Supports Jack-Retasking Technology S/PDIF out support Realtek RTL8100C 10/100 LAN Supports up to 8 USB 2.0 ports ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 ASUS MyLogo ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) ASUS Q-Fan2

PCI Express interface

The motherboard fully supports PCI Express, the latest I/O interconnect technology that speeds up the PCI bus. PCI Express features pointtopoint serial interconnections between devices and allows higher clockspeeds by carrying data in packets. This high speed interface is software compatible with existing PCI specifications. See page 1-19 for details.

USB 2.0 technology

The motherboard implements the Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 specification, dramatically increasing the connection speed from the 12Mbps bandwidth on USB 1.1 to a fast 480 Mbps on USB 2.0. USB 2.0 is backward compatible with USB 1.1. See pages 1-23 and 1-28 for details.

10/100 Mbps LAN

Easy connectivity to your network or broadband connection with the onboard LAN port, lets you take gaming online without buying expensive additional LAN cards. See pages 1-22 for details.

ASUS M2V-MX

1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features

ASUS EZ Flash 2

EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility. Simply press the predefined hotkey to launch the utility and update the BIOS without entering the OS. Update your BIOS easily without preparing a bootable diskette or using an OS-based flash utility. See page 2-3 for details.

CrashFree BIOS 2

This feature allows you to restore the original BIOS data from the 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 for details.

ASUS Q-Fan2 technology

The ASUS Q-Fan2 technology smartly adjusts both the CPU and chassis fan speeds according to the system loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efficient operation. See page 233 for details.

ASUS MyLogo

This new feature present in the motherboard allows you to personalize and add styles to your system with customizable boot logos. See page 2-35 for details.
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 the BIOS automatically restores the CPU default setting for each parameter.
Due to chipset behavior, AC power off is required prior using C.P.R. function.

Before you proceed

Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings.
Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or 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.

Onboard LED

The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is 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

M2V-MX Onboard LED

Motherboard overview

1.5.1 Motherboard layout

21.8cm (8.6in)
PS/2KBMS KBPWR T Mouse : B: Keyboard

CPU_FAN

ATX12V
DDR2 DIMM_A1 (64 bit,240-pin module)
DDR2 DIMM_B1 (64 bit,240-pin module)

PARALLEL PORT

Socket M2

USBPW1-4

LAN2_USB34

Super I/O

RTL8100C

PCIEX16 PCI1 PCI2

VIA VT8237A

SATA1 SATA2

4Mb BIOS

BUZZER

ALC883

AAFP SPDIF_OUT

SATA_E1 SATA_E2

CHASSIS

FLOPPY

USBPW5-8

BIOS_WP

PRI_IDE SEC_IDE

VIA K8M890
CR2032 3V Lithium Cell CMOS Power

24.5cm (9.6in)

CHA_FAN

EATXPWR

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 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
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with a 940-pin AM2 socket designed for the AMD Athlon 64 FX/Athlon 64 X2/AMD Athlon 64/AMD Sempron processor.
Make sure you use a CPU is designed for the AM2 socket. The CPU fits in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU!

1.6.1 Installing the CPU

To install a CPU. 1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.

M2V-MX CPU Socket M2

PRI_IDE

NOTE: Orient the red markings (usually zigzag) on the ID ribbon cable to PIN 1.

M2V-MX IDE Connectors

3. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1[red], SATA2 [red]) These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk and optical disk drives that allows up to 150 MB/s data transfer rates, faster than the standard parallel ATA with 133 MB/s (Ultra DMA133). If you install Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, and JBOD configuration through the onboard VIA VT8237A Plus controller.
GND RSATA_RXN2 RSATA_RXP2 GND RSATA_TXN2 RSATA_TXP2 GND

M2V-MX SATA Connectors

For detailed instructions on how to configure RAID 0, 1, and JBOD, refer to the RAID manual in the support CD.
GND RSATA_RXN1 RSATA_RXP1 GND RSATA_TXN1 RSATA_TXP1 GND
4. JMicron JMB363 Serial ATA RAID connectors (7-pin SATA_E1[black], SATA_E2[black]) These connectors are for Serial ATA signal cables. These connectors support Serial ATA hard disk drives that you can configure for RAID through the onboard Serial ATA RAID controller.
The JMicron SATA controller mode item in the BIOS is set to [IDE] by default. Set the item to [RAID] if you want to build a RAID set. See section 2.4.5 Onboard Device Configuration for details.

SATA_E1

SATA_E2
M2V-MX SATA_E Connectors Before creating a RAID set using Serial ATA hard disks, make sure that you have connected the Serial ATA signal cables and installed Serial ATA hard disk drives; otherwise, you cannot enter the JMicron JMB363 RAID utility and SATA BIOS setup during POST.
Install an internal Serial ATA hard disk drive to SATA_E1 or SATA_E2 and an external Serial ATA hard disk drive on your system before creating the JMicron JMB363 RAID.
4. CPU, and Chassis Fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, CHA_FAN) The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350mA~740mA (8.88W max.) or a total of 1A~2.22A (26.64W 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

PWR_FAN

GND +12V Rotation

M2V-MX Fan Connectors

6. Optical drive audio in connectors (4-pin CD) These connectors allow you to receive stereo audio input from sound sources such as a CD-ROM, TV tuner, or MPEG card.

Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery. Checking for floppy. Floppy not found! Checking for CD-ROM. CD-ROM found! Reading file M2VMX.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.
2.1.5 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. 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.
Locate the BIOS file from the Open window, then click Open. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process.

BIOS setup program

This motherboard supports a programmable Low-Pin Count (LPC) chip that you can update using the provided utility described in section 2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS. Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconfiguring your system, or prompted toRun Setup. This section explains how to configure your system using this utility. Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the configuration of your computer in the future. For example, you can enable the security password feature or change the power management settings. This requires you to reconfigure your system using the BIOS Setup program so that the computer can recognize these changes and record them in the CMOS RAM of the LPC chip. The LPC chip on the motherboard stores the Setup utility. When you start up the computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press <Del> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility; otherwise, POST continues with its test routines. If you wish to enter Setup after POST, reboot the system by doing any of the following procedures:

Restart using the OS standard shut-down procedure. Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> simultaneously. Press the reset button on the system chassis. Press the power button to turn the system off then back on. Using the power button, reset button, or the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> keys to force reset from a running operating system can cause damage to your data or system. We recommend to always shut-down the system properly from the operating system.
The Setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Being a menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various sub-menus and make your selections from the available options using the navigation keys.
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 2.8 Exit Menu. The BIOS setup screens shown in this section 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 BIOS file for this motherboard. ASUS M2V-MX 2-11

2.2.1 BIOS menu screen

Menu items Menu bar Configuration fields General help
System Time [11:51:19] System Date [Thu 08/05/2003] Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in] Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave Secondary IDE Master Secondary IDE Slave SATA1 SATA2 IDE Configuration System Information : [ST320413A] :[Not Detected] :[Not Detected] :[Not Detected] :[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 Tools 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 setting EZ Flash 2 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 Legacy Diskette B Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave Secondary IDE Master Secondary IDE Slave Third IDE Master Fourth IDE Master IDE Configuration System Information [11:10:19] [Thu 03/27/2003] [1.44M, 3.5 in] [Disabled] :[Not :[Not :[Not :[Not :[Not :[Not Detected] Detected] Detected] Detected] Detected] 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

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 userconfigurable, 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.

2.2.7 Pop-up window

Select a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the configuration options for that item.

2.2.8 Scroll bar

A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not fit on the screen. Press Up/ Down arrow keys or PageUp/PageDown keys to display the other items on the screen.
Advanced Chipset settings WARNING: Setting wrong values in the sections below may cause system to malfunction. Configure DRAM Timing by SPD Memory Acceleration Mode DRAM Idle Timer DRAm Refresh Rate Graphic Adapter Priority Graphics Aperture Size Spread Spectrum ICH Delayed Transaction MPS Revision [Enabled] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [AGP/PCI] [ 64 MB] [Enabled] [Enabled] [1.4] +F1 F10 ESC

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

Pop-up window Scroll bar

2.2.9 General help
At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item.

Main menu

When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an overview of the basic system information.
Refer to section 2.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them.
2.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx]
Allows you to set the system time.
2.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]
Allows you to set the system date.
2.3.3 Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]
Sets the type of floppy drive installed. Configuration options: [720K, 3.5 in.] [1.44M, 3.5 in.]
2.3.4 Primary and Secondary IDE Master/Slave
While entering Setup, BIOS auto-detects the presence of IDE devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each IDE device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to display the IDE device information.
Primary IDE Master Device : Hard Disk Vendor : ST320413A Size : 20.0GB LBA Mode : Supported Block Mode : 16 Sectors PIO Mode : Supported Async DMA : MultiWord DMA-2 Ultra DMA : Ultra DMA-5 SMART Monitoring: Supported Type LBA/Large Mode Block(Multi-sector Transfer) PIO Mode DMA Mode Smart Monitoring 32Bit Data Transfer [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Enabled]
Select the type of device connected to the system
The values opposite the dimmed items (Device, Vendor, Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and SMART monitoring) are auto-detected by BIOS and are not user-configurable. These items show N/A if no IDE device is installed in the system.

Type [Auto]

Selects the type of IDE drive. Setting to Auto allows automatic selection of the appropriate IDE device type. Select CDROM if you are specifically configuring a CD-ROM drive. Select ARMD (ATAPI Removable Media Device) if your device is either a ZIP, LS-120, or MO drive. Configuration options: [Not Installed] [Auto] [CDROM] [ARMD]

LBA/Large Mode [Auto]

Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting to Auto enables the LBA mode if the device supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA mode disabled. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
Block (Multi-sector Transfer) [Auto]
Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When set to Auto, the data transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device supports multi-sector transfer feature. When set to Disabled, the data transfer from and to the device occurs one sector at a time. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]

PIO Mode [Auto]

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

DMA Mode [Auto]

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

SMART Monitoring [Auto]

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

2.3.5 SATA1 and SATA2

While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of Serial ATA devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each Serial ATA device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to display the Serial ATA device information.
Third IDE Master Device : Not Detected LBA/Large Mode [Auto] Block(Multi-sector Transfer) M [Auto] PIO Mode [Auto] DMA Mode [Auto] Smart Monitoring [Auto] 32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]
The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device, Vendor, Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and SMART monitoring). These values are not user-configurable. These items show N/A if no IDE device is installed in the system.
Block (Multi-sector Transfer) M [Auto]
Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When set to Auto, the data transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device supports multi-sector transfer feature. When set to [Disabled], the data transfer from and to the device occurs one sector at a time. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
32Bit Data Transfer [Disabled]

2.3.6 IDE Configuration

The items in this menu allow you to set or change the configurations for the IDE devices installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you wish to configure the item.
IDE Configuration Parallel ATA IDE Controller [Both] Hard Disk Write Protect [Disabled] IDE Detect Time Out (Sec) [35]
Parallel ATA IDE Controller [Both]
Disables or allows selection of the IDE controller. Sets to Primary to enable the primary IDE controller only. Sets to Secondary to enable the secondary IDE controller only. Sets to Both to enable both the primary and secondary IDE controllers. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Primary] [Secondary] [Both]
Hard Disk Write Protect [Disabled]
Disables or enables the devices write protection. This will be effective only when the device is accessed through BIOS. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.4.3 CPU Configuration

The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically detects.
CPU Configuration Module Version:13.06 AGESA Version:02.06.11 Physical Count: 1 Logical Count: 2 AMD Athlon(tm) 64 X2 Dual Core Processor 3800+ Revision: F2 Cache L1: 128KB Cache L2: 1024KB Speed : 2000MHz Current FSB Multiplier: 10x Maximum FSB Multiplier: 10x Able to Change Freq. : Yes uCode Patch Level: None Required AMD Overclocking Configuration Runtime Legacy PSB [Disabled] Cool NQuiet [Enabled] Memory Controller
AMD Overclocking Configuration
AMD Overclocking Configuration Processor Frequency Multiplier [Auto] Processor Voltage [Auto]
Processor Frequency Multiplier [Auto] Allows you to select the processor frequency. Configuration options: [Auto] [x5.0 1000MHz] [x6.0 1000MHz] [x7.0 1000MHz] [x8.0 1000MHz] [x9.0 1000MHz] [x5.0 1000MHz] [x10.0 1000MHz] Processor Voltage[Auto] Allows you to select the processor voltage. Configuration options: [Auto] [1.400V] [1.375V] [1.350V] [1.325V] [1.300V] [1.275V] [1.250V] [1.225V] [1.200V]
Runtime Legacy PSB [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Runtime Legacy PSB (performance state blocks) feature necessary for implementing the AMD PowerNow! technology. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Cool NQuiet [Enabled]

Enables or disables the AMD Cool n Quiet! technology feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Memory Controller

Memory Controller Memory Configuration ECC Configuration Power Down Control Memory CLK CAS Latency(Tcl) RAS/CAS Delay(Trcd) Min Active RAS(Tras) Row Precharge Time(Trp) RAS/RAS Delay(Trrd) Row Cycle (Trc) Asynchronous Latency
[Auto] :333 MHz :5.0 :5 CLK :15 CLK :5 CLK :3 CLK :21 CLK :6 ns

Memory Configuration

Memory Configuration Memclock Mode CAS Latency(CK) TRCD TRP TRAS 2T Mode MCT Timing Mode Bank Interleaving Enable Clock to All DIMMs MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID Memory Hole Remapping [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Enabled]

Memclock Mode [Auto]

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.

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]

ASUS M2V-MX 2-29

IRQ xx [Available]
When set to [Available], the specific IRQ is free for PCI/PnP devices to use. When set to [Reserved], the IRQ is reserved for legacy ISA devices. Configuration options: [Available] [Reserved]

Power menu

The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Power Management (APM) feature. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.
Suspend Mode [Auto] ACPI 2.0 Support [No] ACPI APIC Support [Enabled] APM Configuration Hardware Monitor
Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend.
2.5.1 Suspend Mode [Auto]
Allows you to select the ACPI state to be used for system suspend. Configuration options: [S1 (POS) Only] [S3 Only] [Auto]
2.5.2 ACPI 2.0 Support [No]
Allows you to add more tables for Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) 2.0 specifications. Configuration options: [No] [Yes]
2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]
Enables or disables the ACPI support in the ASIC. When set to Enabled, the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.5.4 APM Configuration

APM Configuration Power Management/APM [Enabled] Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off] Advanced Power Ob Power On Power On Power On Power On Resume Events Controls by External Modem [Dusabled] by PCI device [Disabled] By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled] By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled] By RTC Alarm [Disabled]
Power Management/APM [Enabled]

Select this item to set or change the user password. The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed.
To set a User Password: 1. 2. 3. Select the Change User Password item and press <Enter>. On the password box that appears, type a password composed of at least six letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>. Confirm the password when prompted.
The message Password Installed appears after you set your password successfully. To change the user password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password.

Clear User Password

Select this item to clear the user password.

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]

Tools menu

2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2
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 [Cancel], then press <Enter> to confirm your choice. Please see page 2-2, section 2.1.2 for details.

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 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

AMD Cool n Quiet Driver

Installs the AMD Cool n Quiet driver.
VIA Chipset Driver Program
Installs the VIA chipset driver program.

VIA S3G Display Driver

Installs the VIA S3G display driver.

Realtek Audio Driver

Installs the Realtek audio driver.
JMicron JMB36X RAID Controller Driver
Installs the JMicron JMB36X Serial ATA RAID controller driver.
Realtek RTL8100C LAN Driver
Installs the Realtek RTL8100C LAN driver.

USB 2.0 Driver

Installs the USB 2.0 Driver.
The screen display and drivers option may not be the same for different operating system versions.

3.2.3 Utilities menu

The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports.
ASUS InstAll-Installation Wizard for Utilities
Install the ASUS InstAll-Installation Wizard.
ADOBE Acrobat Reader V7.0
The Adobe Acrobat Reader V7.0 is for opening, viewing, and printing documents in Portable Document Format (PDF).
ASUS Cool n Quiet Utility
Installs the ASUS Cool n Quiet utility.

ASUS Update

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

ASUS PC Probe II

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.

Microsoft DirectX 9.0c

The Microsoft DirectX 9.0c is a multimedia technology that enhances computer graphics and sounds. DirectX improves the multimedia features of your computer so you can enjoy watching TV and movies, capturing videos, or playing games on your computer.
Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2 already includes Microsoft DirectX 9.0c. If your system is Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2embedded, skip Microsoft DirectX 9.0c installation.

Anti-Virus utility

The anti-virus utility scans, identifies, and removes computer viruses. View the online help for detailed information.
The screen display and utilities option may not be the same for different operating system versions.

3.2.4 Make Disk menu

The Make Disk menu allows you to make a RAID driver disk.
VIA VT8237A RAID Controller Driver
Allows you to create a VIA VT8237A RAID driver disk.
Make JMicron JMB36X 32bit SATA/RAID Driver
Allows you to create a JMicron JMB36X 32bit RAID driver.
Make JMicron JMB36X 64bit SATA/RAID Driver
Allows you to create a JMicron JMB36X 64bit RAID driver.

ASUS M2V-MX 3-

3.2.5 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.

Motherboard

M2V-MX SE
E3023 First Edition July 2007
Copyright 2007 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

Safety information... vii M2V-MX SE specifications summary.. viii Notices.... vi
Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1 1.2 1.3

Welcome!.... 1-2. Package contents... 1-2. Special features... 1-2 1.3.1 1.3.2 Product highlights.. 1-2 Innovative ASUS features.. 1-4

1.4 1.5

Before you proceed... 1-5 Motherboard overview... 1-6 1.5.1 1.5.2 1.5.3 1.6.1 1.6.2 1.7.1 1.7.2 1.7.3 1.7.4 1.7.5 1.8.1 1.8.2 1.8.4 1.8.3 Motherboard layout... 1-6 Placement direction.. 1-7 Screw holes... 1-7 Installing the CPU.. 1-8 Installing the heatsink and fan.. 1-10 Overview.. 1-12 Memory configurations.. 1-12. DDR2 Qualified Vendoros List.. 1-13 Installing a DIMM... 1-17 Removing a DIMM.. 1-17 Installing an expansion card.. 1-18 Configuring an expansion card.. 1-18 PCI Express x1 slot.. 1-20. PCI Express x16 slot... 1-20. PCI slots.. 1-20.
Central Processing Unit (CPU).. 1-8

System memory... 1-12

. Expansion slots... 1-18
Jumpers.... 1-21 1.10.1 1.10.2
Connectors.... 1-23 Rear panel connectors... 1-23 Internal connectors... 1-24

Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.1 2.1.1 2.1.2 2.1.3 2.1.4 2.2 2.1.5 2.2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS.. 2-2 Creating a bootable floppy disk.. 2-2. ASUS EZ Flash utility.. 2-3. AFUDOS utility... 2-4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility.. 2-6 ASUS Update utility.. 2-8
BIOS setup program.. 2-11
2.2.2 2.2.3 2.2.4 2.2.5 2.2.6 2.2.7 2.2.8 2.2.9 2.3.1 2.3.2 2.3.3 2.3.4 2.3.5 2.3.6 2.3.7 2.4.1 2.4.3 2.4.4 2.4.5
BIOS menu screen... 2-12. Menu bar.. 2-12 Navigation keys... 2-12. Menu items... 2-13 Sub-menu items... 2-13 Configuration fields... 2-13 Pop-up window.. 2-13 Scroll bar.. 2-13 General help... 2-13 System Time... 2-14 System Date... 2-14 Legacy Diskette A.. 2-14 Primary and Secondary IDE Master/Slave. 2-15 SATA1 and SATA2.. 2-17 IDE Configuration... 2-18. System Information... 2-19

Main menu... 2-14

Advanced menu... 2-20 USB Configuration.. 2-20 CPU Configuration.. 2-22 Chipset... 2-23
Onboard Devices Configuration.. 2-28 PCI PnP... 2-29

2.5.1 2.5.2 2.5.3

Power menu... 2-30 Suspend Mode... 2-30 ACPI Version Support.. 2-30 ACPI APIC Support... 2-30
2.5.4 2.6 2.5.5 2.6.1 2.6.2 2.7 2.6.3 APM Configuration.. 2-31 Hardware Monitor... 2-33 Boot Device Priority.. 2-34 Boot Settings Configuration.. 2-35 Security... 2-36

Boot menu... 2-34

Exit menu... 2-39
Chapter 3: Software support

3.1 3.2

Installing an operating system.. 3-2 Support CD information... 3-2 3.2.1 3.2.2 3.2.3 3.2.4 3.2.5 3.2.5 Running the support CD.. 3-2 Drivers menu.. 3-3. Utilities menu.. 3-4 Make Disk menu.. 3-6 ASUS Contact information.. 3-8 Manual menu.. 3-7

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.
Canadian Department of Communications Statement
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications. This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Safety information

Electrical safety
To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system.
When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device. Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all power cables are unplugged. Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.

Onboard LED

The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is 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

M2V-MX.SE

M2V-MX SE Onboard LED

Motherboard overview

Motherboard layout

19.3cm (7.6in)

PS/2KBMS T Mouse : B: Keyboard

ATX12V

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

PARALLEL PORT

PS2_USBPW1-4

Socket AM2

EATXPWR

CPU_FAN

LAN1_USB12

W83124RG-A2

VIA K8M890

CHA_ FAN

PCIEX1_1

Attansic F2

PCIEX16

Super I/O

VIA VT8237S

SATA2 SATA1

ALC662

SPDIF_OUT AAFP

FLOPPY

USBPW5-8

F_PANEL

SPEAKER

SEC_IDE
CR2032 3V Lithium Cell CMOS Power

PRI_IDE

4Mb BIOS

24.5cm (9.6in)

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
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with a 940-pin AM2 socket designed for the AMD OpetronTM/AMD Athlon 64 FX/Athlon 64 X2/AMD Athlon 64/AMD Sempron processor.
Make sure you use a CPU is designed for the AM2 socket. The CPU fits in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU!

To install a CPU.

Installing the CPU
Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.

M2V-MX.SE.CPU.Socket.AM2

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.
Position the CPU above the socket such that the CPU corner with the gold triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place.

Small triangle Gold 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!
When the CPU is in place, push down the socket lever to secure the CPU. The lever clicks on the side tab to indicate that it is locked. Install a CPU heatsink and fan following the instructions that came with the heatsink package.
Connect the CPU fan cable to the CPU_FAN connector on the motherboard.
CPU FAN PWM CPU FAN IN CPU FAN PWR GND
M2V-MX.SE.CPU.Fan.Connector
Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector. ASUS M2V-MX SE 1-
Installing the heatsink and fan
The AMD Opetron/AMD Athlon 64 FX/ AMD Athlon 64 X2/AMD Athlon 64/AMD Sempron processor require a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.
Make sure that you use only qualified heatsink and fan assembly.
Follow these steps 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.
3. 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.

System memory

Overview
The motherboard comes with two 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

M2V-MX SE 240-pin DDR2 DIMM Sockets

Memory configurations

You may install 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB ECC/non-ECC unbuffered DDR2 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.
Due to chipset resource allocation, the system may detect less than 4 GB system memory when you installed two 2 GB DDR2 memory modules.
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.

112 Pins

128 Pins
DDR2 Qualified Vendors List
The following table lists the memory modules that have been tested and qualified for use with this motherboard. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for the latest DDR2 DIMM modules for this motherboard.
DDRQualified Vendors List
Size Vendor 256MB AENEON 512MB 512MB 512MB 512MB 512MB 1G 1G 1G 2G 512MB AENEON AENEON AENEON AENEON AENEON AENEON AENEON AENEON AENEON Elpida Corsair Model AET560UD00-370A98Z AET660UD00-370A98Z AET660UD00-370A98Z AET660UD00-370A98X AET660UD00-370A88S AET660UD00-370B97X AET760UD00-370A98Z AET760UD00-370A98S AET760UD00-370B97X VS512MB533D2 AET860UD00-370A08X EBE51UD8ABFA-5C-E Side(s) Component SS AET94F370AWVV34635G0520 SS SS SS SS DS DS DS DS DS SS DS AET93F370A G 0513 DIMM support A B
AET93F370A 3VV36328G 0522 AET93F370A 0518 AET82F370A 0550 AET93R370B 0640 AET93F370A 0551 AET92F370A 0606 AET93R370B 0640 AET03F370AFVV26176G 0542

512MB 512MB 1G

Kingston Micron Kingston

Kingston

Kingmax

KLBB68F-36EP4

HYMP512U64CP8-C4 AB KLBC28F-A8KB4

HYMP532U64CP6-C4 AB

KVR533D2N4/512 KVR533D2N4/1G

KVR533D2N4/512

KVR533D2N4/256

KVR533D2N4/256

KLBC28F-A8EB4

512MB 1G 256MB

Micron

MEAB-323LA

MT 16HTF12864AY-53EA1

MT 16HTF6464AG-53EB2

HYB18T512800AF3733336550 D9BOM D6408TE7BL-37

HY5PS56821F-C4

E5116AF-5C-E

E5116AB-5C-E

E5108AE-5C-E

KKEA88B4IAK-37

In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following subsections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support.
Make sure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Installing an expansion card
To install an expansion card: Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a chassis).
Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later use. Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is completely seated on the slot. Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier. Replace the system cover.

1. 2. 3.

Configuring an expansion card
After installing the expansion card, configure it by adjusting the software settings. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See Chapter 2 for information on BIOS setup. Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the next page. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.
Standard interrupt assignments
IRQ Priority 10 Standard Function System Timer Keyboard Controller Re-direct to IRQ#9 IRQ holder for PCI steering* Communications Port (COM1)* IRQ holder for PCI steering* Floppy Disk Controller Printer Port (LPT1)* System CMOS/Real Time Clock IRQ holder for PCI steering* IRQ holder for PCI steering* IRQ holder for PCI steering* PS/2 Compatible Mouse Port* Numeric Data Processor Primary IDE Channel Secondary IDE Channel
* These IRQs are usually available for ISA or PCI devices.
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
PCI slot 1 PCI slot 2 A used B used C D
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.

PCI slots

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

PCI Express x1 slot

This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications. The following figure shows a network card installed on the PCI Express x1 slot.

PCI Express x16 slot

This motherboard has supports PCI Express x16 graphic cards that comply with PCI Express specifications. The figure shows a graphics card installed on the PCI Express x16 slot.

Jumpers

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 onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 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. Reinstall the battery. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer. Remove the onboard battery.

7. 8. 9.

USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices. Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port. This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor or other VGA-compatible devices.
10. COM port. This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor or other VGA-compatible devices. 11. PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.

1.10.2

Internal connectors
This connector is for the provided floppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert one end of the cable to this connector, then connect the other end to the signal connector at the back of the floppy disk drive.
Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when using an FDD cable with a covered Pin 5.
Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY)
PIN 1 NOTE: Orient the gray markings on the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.
M2V-MX SE Floppy Disk Drive Connector
Theonboard IDE connectors are for Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable(s). There are threeconnectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable: blue, black, and gray. Connect the blue connector to the motherboards IDE connector, then select one of the following modes to configure your device(s).
Drivejumper setting Mode of device(s) Cable connector
IDE connectors (40-1 pin PRI_IDE, SEC_IDE)
Single device Cable-Select or Master Two devices Cable-Select Master Slave
- Blue Master Blue Slave Black Master Blue or black Slave
Pin 20 on the IDE connector is removed to match the covered hole on the Ultra DMA cable connector. This prevents incorrect insertion when you connect the IDE cable. Use the 80-conductor IDE cable for Ultra DMA 133/100/66 IDE devices.
If any device jumper is setas Cable-Select,make sure all other device jumpers have the same setting.

M2V-MX.SE.IDE Connectors

NOTE: Orient the gray markings (usually zigzag) on the ID ribbon cable to PIN 1.
These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk and optical disk drives that allows 150 MB/s and 300MB/S data transfer rates, faster than the standard parallel ATA with 133 MB/s (Ultra DMA133). If you install Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, and JBOD configuration through the onboard VIA VT8237S controller.

Copying the current BIOS

To copy the current BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility:
Make sure that the floppy disk is not write-protected and has at least 1024KB free space to save the file. The succeeding BIOS screens are for reference only. The actual BIOS screen displays may not be same as shown.
Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support CD to the bootable floppy disk you created earlier. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type: afudos /o[filename]
where the [filename] is any user-assigned filename not more than eight alphanumeric characters for the main filename and three alphanumeric characters for the extension name.
A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom

Main filename

Extension name
Press <Enter>. The utility copies the current BIOS file to the floppy disk.
A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.26(06.08.28BB) Copyright (C) 2003 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved. Reading flash.. done Write to file. ok A:\>
The utility returns to the DOS prompt after copying the current BIOS file.

Updating the BIOS file

To update the BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility: Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) and download the latest BIOS file for the motherboard. Save the BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk.
Write the BIOS filename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS filename at the DOS prompt.

2. 3.

Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support CD to the bootable floppy disk you created earlier. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type: afudos /i[filename]
where [filename] is the latest or the original BIOS file on the bootable floppy disk.
A:\>afudos /iM2V_MX SE.ROM
The utility verifies the file and starts updating the BIOS.
A:\>afudos /iM2V_MX SE.ROM AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.26(06.08.28BB)) Copyright (C) 2003 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved. WARNING!! Do not turn off power during flash BIOS Reading file. done Reading flash. done Advance Check. Erasing flash. done Writing flash. 0x0008CC00 (9%)
Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure! ASUS M2V-MX SE 2-
The utility returns to the DOS prompt after the BIOS update process is completed. Reboot the system from the hard disk drive.
A:\>afudos /iM2V_MX SE.ROM AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.26(06.08.28BB) Copyright (C) 2003 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved. WARNING!! Do not turn off power during flash BIOS Reading file. done Reading flash. done Advance Check. Erasing flash. done Writing flash. done Verifying flash. done Please restart your computer

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. See page 3-4 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.
Locate the BIOS file from the Open window, then click Open. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process.

BIOS setup program

This motherboard supports a programmable Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) chip that you can update using the provided utility described in section 2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS. Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconfiguring your system, or prompted to Run Setup. This section explains how to configure your system using this utility. Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the configuration of your computer in the future. For example, you can enable the security password feature or change the power management settings. This requires you to reconfigure your system using the BIOS Setup program so that the computer can recognize these changes and record them in the CMOS RAM. The SPI chip on the motherboard stores the Setup utility. When you start up the computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press <Del> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility; otherwise, POST continues with its test routines. If you wish to enter Setup after POST, reboot the system by doing any of the following procedures:

Memory Controller

Memory Controller Memory Configuration ECC Configuration Power Down Control Memory CLK CAS Latency(Tcl) RAS/CAS Delay(Trcd) Min Active RAS(Tras) Row Precharge Time(Trp) RAS/RAS Delay(Trrd) Row Cycle (Trc) Asynchronous Latency
[Auto] :667 MHz :5.0 :5 CLK :15 CLK :5 CLK :3 CLK :21 CLK :6 ns

Memory Configuration

Memory Configuration Memclock Mode CAS Latency(CK) TRCD TRP Auto] [ TRAS Command Timing (2T mode) MCT Timing Mode Bank Interleaving Enable Clock to All DIMMs MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID Memory Hole Remapping [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Auto] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Enabled]

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] [Limit]

CAS Latency (CL) [Auto]

Configuration options: [Auto] [3.0] [4.0] [5.0] [6.0]
TRCD [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] TRP [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] TRAS [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] [6 CLK]. [18 CLK] Command Timing 2T Mode [Auto]
Sets the 2T mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [1T] [2T]

MCT Timing Mode [Auto]

Sets the MCT Timing mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]
The following item appears when the MCT Time Mode item is set to [Manual].
TRRD [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [2T] [3T] [4T] [5T] TRC [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [11T] [12T]. [25T] Bank Interleacving [Auto]
Sets whether to allow memory accesses to be spread out over BANKS on the same node or across nodes, decreasing access contention. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
Enable Clock to All DIMMs [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable clock to all DIMMs. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the MemCLK Tri-Stating During C3 and Alt VID. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Memory Hole Remapping [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable Memory Remapping around the memory hole. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ECC Configuration

ECC Configuration DRAM ECC Enable 4-Bit ECC Mode DRAM SCRUB REDIRECT DRAM BG Srub [Enabled] [Disabled] [Disabled] [Disabled]
DRAM ECC Enable [Enabled]
Enables or disables the DRAM ECC that allows hardware to report and correct memory errors automatically to maintain system integrity. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
4-Bit ECC Mode [Disabled]
Enables or disables the 4-Bit ECC mode. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

CPU Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the chassis, the specific field shows N/A. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the detected speed.
Chassis Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [N/A] or [Ignored]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the chassis fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the chassis, the specific field shows N/A. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the detected speed.
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 control function. When this field is set to [Enabled], the item Fan Auto Mode items appear. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Fan Auto Mode Start Voltage, Start Speed Temp, Full Speed Temp

Sets the smart fan mode.

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.

Boot Device Priority

Specifies the boot sequence from the available devices. A device enclosed in parenthesis has been disabled in the corresponding type menu.
Boot Device Priority 1st Boot Device [1st FLOPPY DRIVE] 2nd Boot Device [Hard Drive] 3rd Boot Device [ATAPI CD-ROM]
1st ~ xxth Boot Device [1st Floppy Drive]
These items specify the boot device priority sequence 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] [ATAPI CD-ROM] [Disabled]

+F1 F10 fromESC the

Select Screen Select Item Change Option General Help Save and Exit Exit available devices.
Boot Settings Configuration
Allows BIOS to skip certain tests while booting. This will decrease the time needed to boot the system.
Boot Settings Configuration Quick Boot [Enabled] Full Screen Logo [Enabled] Bootup Num-Lock [On] Wait for F1 If Error [Enabled]

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]

+F1 F10 ESC

Select Screen Select Item Change Option General Help Save and Exit Exit
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 want to use the ASUS MyLogo feature.

Bootup Num-Lock [On]

Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock. Configuration options: [Off] [On]
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]

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
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. To set a Supervisor Password: 1. Select the Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>. 2. From the password box, type a password combination of at least six (6) letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>.
3. Confirm the password when prompted. The message Password Installed appears after you have successfully set your password. The Supervisor Password item now shows Installed. To change the supervisor password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password.
To clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then press <Enter>. The message Password Uninstalled appears.
If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear clear it by erasing the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM. See section 1.9 Jumpers for information on how to erase the RTC RAM.
After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change other security settings.
Security Settings Supervisor Password User Password : Installed : Not Installed
<Enter> to change password. <Enter> again to disabled password.
Change Supervisor Password User Access Level [Full Access] Change User Password Password Check [Setup]
User Access Level (Full Access]
Allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items. Configuration options: [No Access] [View Only] [Limited] [Full Access] No Access prevents user access to the Setup utility. View Only allows access but does not allow change to any field. Limited allows change only to selected fields, such as Date and Time.

2-38 Chapter 2: 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
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 Saving Changes or make other changes before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM.
This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes with the motherboard package.

Software support

Installing an operating system
This motherboard supports Windows 2000/XP/Vista and Windows XP/Vista 64-bit 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 Pack 1 or later versions before installing the drivers for better compatibility and system stability.