A8V Deluxe

User Guide

Motherboard

Checklist

Revised Edition V3 January 2005
Copyright 2005 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (ASUS). Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing. ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL AS IS WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE), EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT. SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT. Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identification or explanation and to the owners benefit, without intent to infringe.

Contents

Notices... vii Safety information.. viii About this guide... ix How this guide is organized.. ix Where to find more information.. ix Conventions used in this guide... x Typography.... x A8V Deluxe specifications summary... xi

Features

Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 1.2 1.3 Welcome!... 1-1 Package contents... 1-1 Special features... 1-2 1.3.1 Product Highlights.. 1-2 1.3.2 Unique ASUS features.. 1-4
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.1 2.2 Before you proceed.. 2-1 Motherboard overview... 2-2 2.2.1 Placement direction.. 2-2 2.2.2 Screw holes... 2-2 2.2.3 Motherboard layout.. 2-3 2.2.4 Layout Contents... 2-4 Central Processing Unit (CPU).. 2-6 2.3.1 Overview... 2-6 2.3.2 Installing the CPU.. 2-6 2.3.3 Installing the heatsink and fan. 2-8 2.3.4 Connecting the CPU fan cable.. 2-10 System memory... 2-11 2.4.1 Overview... 2-11 2.4.2 Memory configurations... 2-11 2.4.3 Installing a DIMM.. 2-14 2.4.4 Removing a DIMM.. 2-14 Expansion slots... 2-15 2.5.1 Installing an expansion card.. 2-15 2.5.2 Configuring an expansion card.. 2-15 2.5.3 Interrupt assignments.. 2-16
2.6 2.7 2.5.4 PCI slots.. 2-17 2.5.5 AGP slot... 2-17 Jumpers... 2-18 Connectors... 2-20 2.7.1 Rear panel connectors... 2-20 2.7.2 Internal connectors... 2-22

Safeguards

Chapter 3: Powering up
3.1 3.2 Starting up for the first time.. 3-1 Powering off the computer.. 3-2 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function. 3-2 3.2.2 Using the dual-function power switch.. 3-2 ASUS POST Reporter.. 3-3 3.3.1 Vocal POST messages.. 3-3 3.3.2 Winbond Voice Editor.. 3-5

Chapter 4: BIOS setup

4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS. 4-1 4.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy disk.. 4-1 4.1.2 Using AFUDOS to update the BIOS.. 4-2 4.1.3 Using AFUDOS to copy BIOS from PC.. 4-3 4.1.4 Using ASUS EZ Flash to update the BIOS. 4-4 4.1.5 Recovering the BIOS with CrashFree BIOS 2. 4-5 4.1.6 ASUS Update... 4-7 BIOS Setup program... 4-9 4.2.1 BIOS menu screen... 4-10 4.2.2 Menu bar.. 4-10 4.2.3 Navigation keys... 4-10 4.2.4 Menu items... 4-11 4.2.5 Sub-menu items.. 4-11 4.2.6 Configuration fields.. 4-11 4.2.7 Pop-up window... 4-11 4.2.8 Scroll bar... 4-11 4.2.9 General help.. 4-11 Main menu.. 4-12 4.3.1 System Time... 4-12 4.3.2 System Date... 4-12 4.3.3 Legacy Diskette A.. 4-12

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. Make sure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power company. If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.

Operation safety

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

About this guide

ASUS Instant Music

This unique feature allows you to playback audio files even without booting the system to Windows. Just press the ASUS Instant Music special function keys and enjoy the music! See pages 4-29, 5-9.

Chapter 2

This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It includes description of the jumpers and connectors on the motherboard.

Hardware information

2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 Before you proceed.. 2-1 Motherboard overview.. 2-2 Central Processing Unit (CPU). 2-6 System memory.. 2-11 Expansion slots.. 2-15 Jumpers... 2-18 Connectors... 2-20

Before you proceed

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

Onboard LED

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

SB_PWR

ON Standby Power

OFF Powered Off

A8V Deluxe Onboard LED

Motherboard overview

Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits into it.
Unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.
2.2.1 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.

2.2.2 Screw holes

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

2.2.3 Motherboard layout

2. 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.
4. Push down the retention bracket lock on the retention mechanism to secure the heatsink and fan to the module base.
2.3.4 Connecting the CPU fan cable
When the heatsink and fan assembly is in place, connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN.
CPU Fan Connector (CPU_FAN)
Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! CPU overheating and hardware monitoring errors may occur if you fail to plug this connector.

System memory

2.4.1 Overview
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate (DDR) Dual Inline Memory Module (DIMM) sockets. The following figure illustrates the location of the sockets.
DIMM_A2 DIMM_A1 DIMM_B1 DIMM_B2
A8V Deluxe 184-Pin DDR DIMM Sockets
2.4.2 Memory configurations
You may install 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, and 1GB unbuffered ECC and non-ECC DDR DIMMs into the DIMM sockets using the memory configurations in this section.
Important notes on memory configurations
Installing DDR DIMMs other than the recommended configurations may cause memory sizing error or system boot failure. Use any of the recommended configurations in Table 1. In Dual-channel configurations, install only identical (the same type and size) DDR DIMM pairs for each channel. Use the blue DIMM slots first. Stacked RAM and DDR DIMM modules with more than 18 chips are not supported. Always install DIMMs with the same CAS Latency. For optimum compatibility, obtain memory modules from the same vendors. See Qualified Vendors List on page 2-13. When all four sockets are populated with 1GB DIMMs (total 4GB), the system may detect only 3+GB (a little less than 4GB) due to the Southbridge resource allocation.

IRQ assignments for this motherboard
INT A shared shared shared shared INT B shared shared INT C shared shared shared INT D used
PCI slot 1 PCI slot 2 PCI slot 3 PCI slot 4 PCI slot 5 Gigabit LAN Onboard RAID Onboard 1394 Serial ATA AGP slot
When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support Share IRQ or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conflicts will arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable.

2.5.4 PCI slots

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

2.5.5 AGP slot

The Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) slot supports AGP8X/4X cards. When you buy an AGP card, make sure that you ask for one with +1.5V specification. Note the notches on the card golden fingers to ensure that they fit the AGP slot on your motherboard.
Install only 1.5V AGP cards on this motherboard! 3.3V AGP cards are not supported in this motherboard.

Keyed for 1.5v

A8V Deluxe Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP)
If installing the ATI 9500 or 9700 Pro Series VGA cards, use only the card version PN xxx-xxxxx-30 or later, for optimum performance and overclocking stability.
1. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC) This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The RAM data in CMOS, that include system setup information such as system passwords, is powered by the onboard button cell battery. To erase the RTC RAM: 1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2. Remove the onboard battery. 3. Move the jumper 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. 4. Replace the battery. 5. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer. 6. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup menu. 7. Load the BIOS default settings or key-in data.

A8V Deluxe Clear RTC RAM

You do not need to cleat the RTC when the system hands due to overclocking. For system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature. Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset the parameter settings to the default values.
2. Keyboard power (3-pin KBPWR) This jumper allows you to enable or disable the keyboard wake-up feature. Set this jumper to pins 2-3 (+5VSB) if you wish to wake up the computer when you press a key on the keyboard. This feature requires an ATX power supply that can supply at least 1A on the +5VSB lead, and a corresponding setting in the BIOS (See section 4.5.5 APM Configuration).

GND RSATA_TXP1 RSATA_TXN1 GND RSATA_RXP1 RSATA_RXN1 GND
GND RSATA_TXP2 RSATA_TXN2 GND RSATA_RXP2 RSATA_RXN2 GND
5. RAID Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA_RAID1, SATA_RAID2) These Serial ATA connectors support SATA hard disks that you can configure as a RAID set. Through the onboard Promise PDC20378 RAID controller, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1,or RAID 0+1 configuration together with the RAID ATA133 connector (PRI_RAID).

SATA_RAID1

GND RSATA_RXN2 RSATA_RXP2 GND RSATA_TXN2 RSATA_TXP2 GND

SATA_RAID2

GND RSATA_RXN1 RSATA_RXP1 GND RSATA_TXN1 RSATA_TXP1 GND
A8V Deluxe SATA RAID Connectors
By default, the RAID connector is set as RAID. If you want to use it as an independent drive, set the Operation Mode to IDE Mode under the Advanced menu. To create a RAID set, make sure that you have connected the Serial ATA cable and installed Serial ATA devices. You cannot enter the SATARaid utility and SATA BIOS setup during POST if no Serial ATA device is connected. The Promise PDC20378 RAID controller does not support ATAPI devices such as CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, etc. Refer to section 5.6.2 Promise RAID Configurations for details on SATA RAID configuration.
6. CPU, Power and Chassis Fan Connectors (3-pin CPU_FAN, PWR_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. Lack of sufficient air flow within the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on the fan connectors!

Rotation +12V GND

GND +12V Rotation
A8V Deluxe 12-Volt Fan Connectors
7. Serial Port 2 connector (10-1 pin COM2) This connector accommodates a serial port using a serial port bracket. Connect the bracket cable to this connector then install the bracket into a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.
A8V Deluxe Serial COM2 Bracket
The serial port bracket is purchased separately.
8. ATX power connectors (20-pin ATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V) These connectors are for ATX 12V power supply. The plugs from the power supply are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit. In addition to the 20-pin ATX power connector, this motherboard requires that you connect the 4-pin ATX +12V power plug to provide sufficient power to the CPU.
Do not forget to connect the 4-pin ATX +12V power plug. Otherwise, the system does not boot up. Make sure that your ATX 12V power supply can provide 8A on the +12V lead and at least 1A on the +5-volt standby lead (+5VSB). The minimum recommended wattage is 300W, or 350W for a fully configured system. The system may become unstable or might not boot up, if the power is inadequate.

CHASSIS

Chassis Signal GND (Default) +5VSB_MB
A8V Deluxe Chassis Alarm Lead
15. System panel connector (20-pin PANEL) This connector accommodates several system front panel functions.
+5V Ground Ground Speaker PWR Ground

PLED+ PLED-

A8V Deluxe System Panel Connector
The System Panel connector is color-coded for easy and foolproof connection. Take note of the specific connector colors as described.
System Power LED Lead (Green 3-1 pin PLED) This 3-1 pin connector connects to the system power LED. The LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode. System Warning Speaker Lead (Orange 4-pin SPKR) This 4-pin connector is for the case-mounted speaker. It allows you to hear system beeps and warnings. Reset Switch Lead (Blue 2-pin RESET) This 2-pin connector is for the case-mounted reset switch to reboot the system without turning off the system power. ATX Power Switch / Soft-Off Switch Lead (Yellow 2-pin PWRBTN ) This connector is for the system power switch. Pressing the power switch turns the system between ON and SLEEP, or ON and SOFT OFF, depending on the BIOS or OS settings. Pressing the power switch while in the ON mode for more than four seconds turns the system OFF. Hard disk activity LED (Red 2-pin IDE_LED) This connector supplies power to the hard disk activity LED. Any read or write activity of an IDE device causes this LED to light up.

Chapter 3

This chapter describes the power up sequence, the vocal POST messages and ways of shutting down the system.

Powering up

3.1 3.2 3.3 Starting up for the first time. 3-1 Powering off the computer.. 3-2 ASUS POST Reporter.. 3-3
Starting up for the first time
1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. 2. Make sure that all switches are off. 3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. 4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector. 5. Turn on the devices in the following order: a. Monitor b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain) c. System power (if you are using an ATX power supply, you need to switch on the power supply as well as press the ATX power switch on the front of the chassis). 6. After applying power, the power LED on the system front panel case lights up. For ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up when you press the ATX power switch. If your monitor complies with green standards or if it has a power standby feature, the monitor LED may light up or switch between orange and green after the system LED turns on. The system then runs the power-on tests. While the tests are running, the BIOS beeps or additional messages appear on the screen. If you do not see anything within 30 seconds from the time you turned on the power, the system may have failed a power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call your retailer for assistance. 7. At power on, hold down <Del> to enter BIOS Setup. Follow the instructions in Chapter 4.

The CrashFree BIOS 2 auto recovery tool allows you to restore BIOS from the motherboard support CD, or from a floppy disk that contains the BIOS file, in case the current BIOS on the motherboard fails or gets corrupted.
Prepare the support CD that came with the motherboard or a floppy disk that contains the motherboard BIOS before proceeding with the BIOS update process. If you have saved a copy of the original motherboard BIOS to a bootable floppy disk, you can also use this disk to restore the BIOS. See section 4.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy disk.
To recover the BIOS from a floppy disk:
1. Boot the system. 2. When a corrupted BIOS is detected, the following screen message appears.
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery. Checking for floppy.
3. Insert a floppy disk that contains the original or the latest BIOS file for this motherboard. If all the necessary files are found in the floppy disk, the BIOS update process continues.
Make sure that the BIOS file in the floppy disk is renamed as A8V.ROM.
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery. Checking for floppy. Floppy found! Reading file A8V.ROM. Completed. Start flashing.
4. When the BIOS update process is complete, reboot the system.
To recover the BIOS from the support CD:
If there is no floppy disk found in the drive, the system automatically checks the CD-ROM.
3. Place the support CD in the CD-ROM. The support CD contains the original BIOS for this motherboard.
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery. Checking for floppy. Floppy not found! Checking for CD-ROM. CD-ROM found. Reading file A8V.ROM. Completed. Start flashing.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so might cause system boot failure!
The recovered BIOS might not be the latest BIOS version for this motherboard. Visit ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file.

4.1.6 ASUS Update

The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in Windows environment. 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). To install ASUS Update: 1. Insert the support CD into the CD-ROM drive. The Drivers menu appears. 2. Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update VX.XX.XX. See page 5-3 for the Utilities menu screen. 3. The ASUS Update utility is copied into your system. To update the BIOS using ASUS Update: 1. Launch the utility from the Windows desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update initial screen appears. 2. Select your desired update method, then click Next.

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 4.7 Exit Menu. The BIOS setup screens shown in this chapter are for reference purposes only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest product and BIOS information.

4.2.1 BIOS menu screen

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

Sub-menu items

Navigation keys

4.2.2 Menu bar

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

4.2.3 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.

4.2.4 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.

ECC Configuration

ECC Configuration Master ECC Enable [Disabled]
Master ECC Enables support on all nodes for ECC error detect and correction.
Master ECC Enable [Disabled] Enables or disables support on all nodes for ECC error detect and correction. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
The following items appear only when the Master ECC Enable item is set to [Enabled].
DRAM ECC Enable [Disabled] Enables or disables the DRAM ECC that allows hardware to report and correct memory errors automatically to maintain system integrity. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
The following items appear only when the DRAM ECC Enable item is set to [Enabled].

DRAM BG Scrub [60ns]

Disables or sets the DRAM scrubbing functionality that corrects and rewrites memory errors so later reads are correct. Doing this while the memory is not being used improves performance. Configuration options: [Disabled] [40ns] [80ns] [160ns] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us] [20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us] [1.31ms] [2.62ms] [5.24ms] [10.49ms] [20.97ms] [42.00ms] [84.00ms]
DRAM SCRUB REDIRECT [Disabled]
Sets the system to correct DRAM ECC errors immediately when they occur, even if background scrubbing is on. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ECC Chip Kill [Disabled]

Enables or disables the ECC chip kill feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
L2 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] Disables or sets the L2 data cache RAM to be corrected when idle. Configuration options: [Disabled] [40ns] [80ns] [160ns] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us] [20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us] [1.31ms] [2.62ms] [5.24ms] [10.49ms] [20.97ms] [42.00ms] [84.00ms] Data Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] Disables or sets the L1 data cache RAM to be corrected when idle. Configuration options: [Disabled] [40ns] [80ns] [160ns] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us] [20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us] [1.31ms] [2.62ms] [5.24ms] [10.49ms] [20.97ms] [42.00ms] [84.00ms]
AMD Cool & Quiet Configuration

If there is no CD in the drive and you press <F1> or <Space Bar>, the drive tray ejects.
7. Refer to the Instant Music function key definitions on the previous page to select other tracks or control the volume. 8. Press <F2> or <Enter> once to stop playing the CD. Press <F2> or <Enter> one more time to eject the CD.

AI Net feature

The motherboard supports the Marvell Virtual Cable Tester (VCT) Technology. The VCT virtually diagnoses and reports cable faults using the Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR). The VCT technology detects and reports open and shorted cables with up to one meter of accuracy. It also detects impedance mismatches, pair swaps, pair polarity problems, and pair skew problems of up to 64ns. VCT remarkably reduces networking and support costs complementing a highly manageable and controlled network system. Also, this tool can be incorporated in the network systems software, making it ideal for field support as well as development diagnostics.
Using the Virtual Cable Tester
To use the the Marvell Virtual Cable Tester on your computer. 1. Click the Start button. Select All Programs > Marvell > Virtual Cable Tester. 2. From the menu, click Virtual Cable Tester. The following screen display appears. 3. Click on Run to execute test.
The Virtual Cable Tester (VCT) feature is supported in Windows XP and Windows 2000 operating systems only. The Virtual Cable Tester (VCT) feature works in Gigabit LAN only. The Run button on the VCT Tester dialogue box is disabled if no problem is detected on the network.

Audio configurations

The Realtek ALC850 AC 97 audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio capability to deliver the ultimate audio experience on your PC. The software provides Jack-Sensing function (Line-In, Line-Out, Mic-In), S/PDIF out support and interrupt capability. The ALC850 also includes the Realtek proprietary UAJ (Universal Audio Jack) technology for three ports (Line-In, Line-Out and Mic-In), eliminating cable connection errors and giving users plug and play convenience. Follow the installation wizard to install the Realtek ALC850 Audio Driver and Application from the support CD that came with the motherboard package. If the Realtek audio software is correctly installed, you will find the SoundEffect icon on the taskbar.

Realtek SoundEffect icon

From the taskbar, double-click on the SoundEffect icon to display the Realtek Audio Control Panel.
The Jack-sensing and UAJ technology features are supported on the Line-In, Line-Out, and Mic jacks only.
5.5.1 Sound Effect options
The Realtek ALC850 Audio CODEC allows you to set your listening environment, adjust the equalizer, set the karaoke, or select pre-programmed equalizer settings for your listening pleasure.

To set the sound effect options: 1. From the Realtek Audio Control Panel, click the Sound Effect button. 2. Click the shortcut buttons to change the acoustic environment, adjust the equalizer, or set the karaoke to your desired settings. 3. The audio settings take effect immediately after you click on the buttons. 4. Click the Exit (X) button on the upper-right hand corner of the window to exit.

5.5.2 S/PDIF options

The Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) options allows you to change your S/PDIF output settings. To set the S/PDIF options: 1. From the Realtek Audio Control Panel, click the SPDIF button. 2. Click the option buttons to change your S/PDIF out settings. 3. Click the Exit (X) button on the upper-right hand corner of the window to exit.
5.5.3 Speaker Configuration
This option allows you to set your speaker configuration. To set the speaker configuration: 1. From the Realtek Audio Control Panel, click the Speaker Configuration button. 2. Select from the combo list box your current speaker setup, then click Auto Test to test your settings. 3. Click the UAJ Automatic button to enable or disable the Universal Audio Jack(UAJ) technology feature. 4. Click the Exit (X) button on the upper-right hand corner of the window to exit.

5.5.4 AI Audio feature

The AI Audio feature works through the connector sensing option that allows you to check if your audio devices are connected properly. To start the connector sensing: 1. From the Realtek Audio Control Panel, click the Connector Sensing button. 2. Click the Bracket button to display connected audio devices. 3. Click the Option button to change sensing options. 4. Click the Start button to start connection sensing. A progress bar displays current connector sensing status.
Make sure to exit all audio applications before starting this function.
5. When finished, the utility prompts the Realtek EZ-connection dialog box showing your current audio connections. The text at the bottom of the box explains your audio connection status. An X mark denotes an incorrect connection.
6. If there are detected problems, make sure that your audio cables are connected to the proper audio jack and repeat connector sensing. 7. Click the X button to exit EZ-connection dialog box. 8. Click the Exit (X) button on the upper-right hand corner of the window to exit audio control panel.

5.5.5 HRTF Demo

This option shows a demo of the Head-Related Transfer Functions (HRTF). To start the HRTF demo: 1. From the Realtek Audio Control Panel, click the HRTF Demo button. 2. Click the option buttons to change the sound, moving path or EAX settings. 3. Click the Play button to start or the Stop button to stop. 4. Click the Exit (X) button on the upper-right hand corner of the window to exit.

Channel

Drive Name
Array Name Mode ARRAY 0 ARRAY 0 SATA SATA
Size(GB) Status 999.99 999.99 XXXXXXX XXXXXXX
Serial_Ch0 Master XXXXXXXXXXX Serial_Ch1 Master XXXXXXXXXXX
On the upper-right side of the screen is the message and legend box. The keys on the legend box allows you to navigate through the setup menu options. The message describes the function of each menu item. The following lists the keys found in the legend box with their corresponding functions. <F1> , <Enter> <ESC> 5-26 : : : :
View Array/Disk Status Move to the next item Confirm the selection Exit

Create Array

1. From the VIA RAID BIOS utility main menu, select Create Array then press <Enter>. The main menu items on the upper-left corner of the screen are replaced with create array menu options.
VIA Tech. RAID BIOS Ver 1.xx Auto Setup For Data Security Array Mode RAID 1 (Mirroring) Select Disk Drives Start Create Process Create a RAID array with the hard disks attached to VIA RAID controller F1 , Enter ESC : : : : View Array/Disk Status Move to next item Confirm the selection Exit

RAID 0 for performance

1. From the create array menu, select Array Mode, then press <Enter>. The supported RAID configurations appear on a pop-up menu.
RAID RAID RAID RAID 0 for performance 1 for data protection 0/1 SPAN for capacity
2. Select RAID 0 for performance then press <Enter>. From this point, you may choose to auto-configure the RAID array by selecting Auto Setup for Performance or manually configure the RAID array for stripped sets. If you want to auto-configure, proceed to the next step, otherwise, skip to step 5. 3. Select Auto Setup for Performance and press <Enter>. The following confirmation message appears.
Auto create array will destroy all data on disks, Continue? (Y/N)
4. Press <Y> to confirm or <N> to return to the configuration options. If you selected <Y>, proceed to step 9. 5. Select Select Disk Drives, then press <Enter>. Use arrow keys to select disk drive, then press <Enter> to mark selected drive. An asterisk appears before a selected drive. 6. Select Block Size, then press <Enter> to set array block size. A list of valid array block sizes are displayed on a pop-up menu.

Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS.. 2-2 2.1.1 2.1.2 2.1.3 2.1.4 2.1.5 2.1.6 2.2 2.2.1 2.2.2 2.2.3 2.2.4 2.2.5 2.2.6 2.2.7 2.2.8 2.3 2.3.1 2.3.2 2.3.3 2.3.4 2.3.5 2.3.6 2.4 2.4.1 2.4.2 2.4.3 2.4.4 Creating a bootable floppy disk.. 2-2 Updating the BIOS.. 2-3 Saving the current BIOS file. 2-5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility.. 2-6 ASUS EZ Flash utility... 2-8 ASUS Update utility.. 2-9 BIOS menu screen.. 2-13 Menu bar... 2-13 Legend bar... 2-14 Menu items... 2-14 Sub-menu items... 2-14 Configuration fields... 2-14 Pop-up window... 2-15 General help... 2-15 System Time.. 2-16 System Date.. 2-16 Legacy Diskette A.. 2-16 Primary and Secondary IDE Master/Slave. 2-17 HDD SMART Monitoring.. 2-18 Installed Memory.. 2-18 JumperFree Configuration. 2-19 LAN Cable Status.. 2-21 PEG Link Mode.. 2-22 CPU Configuration.. 2-22
BIOS setup program... 2-12

Main menu... 2-16

Advanced menu... 2-19
2.4.5 2.4.6 2.4.7 2.4.8 2.5 2.5.1 2.5.2 2.5.3 2.5.4 2.6 2.6.1 2.6.2 2.6.3 2.6.4 2.6.5 2.6.6 2.7 Chipset... 2-22 PCI PnP... 2-25 Onboard Devices Configuration.. 2-27 USB Configuration.. 2-28 ACPI Suspend Type.. 2-29 ACPI APIC Support.. 2-29 APM Configuration.. 2-30 Hardware Monitor.. 2-32 Boot Device Priority... 2-34 Removable Drives.. 2-34 Hard Disk Drives... 2-34 CDROM Drives.. 2-35 Boot Settings Configuration.. 2-35 Security... 2-37

Power menu.. 2-29

Boot menu... 2-33

Exit menu... 2-38

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 Running the support CD... 3-2 Drivers menu... 3-3 Utilities menu... 3-4 ASUS Contact information.. 3-5

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.

Designed for overclocking aficionados, this feature allows you to gradually increase the CPU and memory voltage to achieve maximum system performance. See page 2-21 for details.

PEG Link mode

This feature allows you to adjust the PCI Express graphics frequency according to your system configuration for optimized graphics performance. See page 2-22 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 details on page 2-6.

ASUS Q-Fan technology

The ASUS Q-Fan technology smartly adjusts the fan speeds according to the system loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efficient operation. See page 2-32 for details.

ASUS MyLogo2

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

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 to a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them. Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component. Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is switched off or the p o w e r c o r d i s d e t a c h e d f r o m t h e p o w e r s u p p l y. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, and/or components.

Onboard LEDs

The motherboard comes with a green 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.

SB_PWR

ON Standby Power

OFF Powered Off

A8V-E SE Onboard LED

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 nine (9) 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

Motherboard layout

24.5cm (9.6in)

USBPW34 USBPW12

PARALLEL PORT

CPU_FAN

Super I/O
DDR DIMM_A1 (64 bit,184-pin module) DDR DIMM_A2 (64 bit,184-pin module) DDR DIMM_B1 (64 bit,184-pin module) DDR DIMM_B2 (64 bit,184-pin module)

SPDIF_O

Socket 939

EATXPWR

LAN_USB34
Top:Rear Speaker Out Center: Side Speaker Out Below: Center/Subwoofer

K8T890

Marvell 88E8053

PWR_FAN

PCIEX1_1

PCIEX16

USBPW78 USBPW56

CHA_FAN

VT8237R

PCIEX1_2

CR2032 3V Lithium Cell CMOS Power

SATA2 SATA1

FP_AUDIO

ALC850

4Mb BIOS

CHASSIS GAME

SB_PWR PANEL

SEC_IDE

PRI_IDE

30.5cm (12.0in)

Top:Line In Center:Line Out Bottom:Mic In

ATX12V

FLOPPY
Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Overview

The motherboard comes with a surface mount 939-pin Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) socket designed for the AMD Athlon 64FX, AMD Athlon 64 or AMD Sempron processor. The 128-bit-wide data paths of these processors can run applications faster than processors with only 32-bit or 64-bit wide data paths. Take note of the marked corner (with gold triangle) on the CPU. This mark should match a specific corner on the socket to ensure correct installation.

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.

Rotation +12V GND

A8V-E 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.

System memory

The motherboard comes with four 184-pin Double Data Rate (DDR) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. The following figure illustrates the location of the sockets:
DIMM_A2 DIMM_A1 DIMM_B1 DIMM_B2
A8V-E SE 184-pin DDR DIMM sockets Channel Channel A Channel B Sockets DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2 DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2

Memory Configurations

You may install 64MB, 128MB, 256 MB, 512 MB and 1 GB unbuffered ECC or non-ECC DDR DIMMs into the DIMM sockets using the memory configurations in this section.
For dual-channel configuration, the total size of memory module(s) installed per channel must be the same for better performance (DIMM_A1+DIMM_A2=DIMM_B1+DIMM_B2). Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, it is recommended that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor. Refer to the DDR400 Qualified Vendors List on the next page for details. Due to chipset resource allocation, the system may detect less than 4 GB of system memory when you installed four 1 GB DDR memory modules. Due to chipset limitation, DIMM modules with 128 Mb memory chips or double-sided x16 memory chips are not supported in this motherboard. Due to CPU limitation, install on Channel B slots for a single-channel memory configuration.

Table 1

Recommended memory configurations
DIMM_A1 (1) (1) (2) Populated Populated Sockets DIMM_A2 DIMM_B1 DIMM_B2 Populated Populated Populated Populated Populated
Single-channel Dual-channel*
* Use only identical DDR DIMM pairs. * For dual-channel configuration (3), you may:
install identical DIMMs in all four sockets O R
install identical DIMM pair in DIMM_A1 and DIMM_B1 (blue sockets)
DDR400 Qualified Vendors List
Size 256MB 512MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 1024MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 256MB 512MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 1024MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 256MB 512MB Vendor KINGSTON KINGSTON KINGSTON KINGSTON KINGSTON KINGSTON KINGSTON KINGSTON SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG MICRON MICRON Infineon Infineon CORSAIR CORSAIR CORSAIR Hynix Hynix GEIL GEIL GEIL TwinMOS TwinMOS TwinMOS Model KVR400X64C3A/256 KVR400X64C3A/512 KVR400X72C3A/512 KVR400X64C3A/256 KVR400X64C3A/512 KVR400X64C3A/256 KVR400X64C3A/512 HYB25D512800BE-5B M381L3223ETM-CCC M381L6423ETM-CCC M368L3223ETM-CCC M368L3223FTN-CCC M368L6423FTN-CCC M368L6523BTM-CCC MT8VDDT3264AG-40BCB MT16VDDT6464AG-40BCB HYS64D32300HU-5-C HYS64D64320HU-5-C CMX256A-3200C2PT VS512MB400 TWINX2048-3200C2 HYMD232645D8J-D43 HYMD264646D8J-D43 GE2563200B GD3200-256V GD3200-512V M2G9I08AIATT9F081AADT M2G9I08A8ATT9F081AADT M2G9J16A8ATT9F081AADT Brand Hynix Hynix Mosel Infineon Infineon KINGSTON KINGSTON N/A SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG MICRON MICRON Infineon Infineon Winbond VALUE seLecT N/A Hynix Hynix GEIL GEIL GEIL TwinMOS TwinMOS TwinMOS Side(s) SS DS DS SS DS SS DS DS SS DS SS SS DS SS SS DS SS DS SS DS DS SS DS SS SS DS SS SS DS Component HY5DU56822BT-D43 HY5DU56822BT-D43 V58C2256804SAT5(ECC) HYB25D256800BT-5B HYB25D256809BT-5B D3208DL2T-5 D328DIB-50 KVR400X64C3A/1G K4H560838E-TCCC(ECC) K4H560838E-TCCC(ECC) K4H560838E-TCCC K4H560838F-TCCC K4H560838F-TCCC K4H510838B-TCCC MT46V32M8TG-5BC MT46V32M8TG-5BC HYB25D256800CE-5C HYB25D256800CE-5C W942508BH-5 VS32M8-5 N/A HY5DU56822DT-D43 HY5DU56822DT-D43 GL3LC32G88TG-5A GLIL DDR 32M8 GLIL DDR 32M8 TMD7608F8E50D TMD7608F8E50D TMD7608F8E50D DIMM support A B C

(continued on the next page)
Size 256MB 512MB 1024MB 512MB 256MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 512MB 256MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 512MB 1024MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB 256MB 512MB Vendor Transcend Transcend Transcend Transcend Transcend Apacer Apacer Apacer Apacer A DATA A DATA A DATA A DATA Winbond Winbond KINGMAX KINGMAX ATP ATP NANYA NANYA Model TS32MLD64V4F3 TS64MLD64V4F3 TS128MLD64V4J TS64MLD64V4F3 TS32MLD64V4F3 77.10636.33G 77.10736.33G 77.10639.60G 77.10739.60G MDOSS6F3H41Y0N1E0Z MDOHY6F3G31Y0N1E0Z MDOAD5F3G31Y0D1E02 MDOAD5F3H41Y0D1E02 W9425GCDB-5 W9451GCDB-5 MPXB62D-38KT3R MPXC22D-38KT3R AG64L64T8SQC4S AG28L64T8SMC4M NT256D64S88C0G-5T NT512D64S8HC0G-5T Brand SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG Mosel SAMSUNG Infineon Infineon ProMOS ProMOS SAMSUNG Hynix N/A N/A Winbond Winbond N/A N/A SAMSUNG MICRON N/A N/A SAMSUNG N/A N/A PSC PSC CEON CEON Side(s) SS DS DS DS SS SS DS SS DS DS SS SS DS SS DS SS DS DS DS SS DS SS SS DS SS DS SS DS Component K4H560838F-TCCC K4H560838F-TCCC K4H510838B-TCCC V58C2256804SAT5B K4H560838E-TCCC HYB25D256800CE-5C HYB25D256800CE-5C V58C2256804SCT5B V58C2256804SCT5B K4H560838F-TCCC HY5DU56822CT-D43 ADD8608A8A-5B ADD8608A8A-5B W942508CH-5 W942508CH-5 KDL388P4LA-50 KDL388P4LA-50 K4H560838D-TCC4 MT46V64M4TG-5BC NT5DS32M8CT-5T NT5DS32M8CT-5T K4H560838D-TCC4 V58C2256804SCT5B V58C2256804SCT5B A2S56D30CTP A2S56D30CTP C2S56D30TP-5 C2S56D30TP-5 DIMM support A B C
BRAIN POWER B6U808-256M-SAM-400 ProMOS ProMOS Deutron Deutron Novax Novax V826632K24SCTG-D0 V826664K24SCTG-D0 A8C53T-5B1T AL6D8C53T-5B1T 96M425653CE-40TB6 96M451253CE-40TB6
S i d e ( s ) : S S - Single Sided DIMM Support:

D S - Double Sided

A - supports one module inserted into either slot, in a Single-channel memory configuration. B - supports on pair of modules inserted into either the yellow slots or the black slots as one pair of Dual-channel memory configuration. C - support for 4 modules inserted into the yellow and black slots as two pairs of Dual-channel memory configuration. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for the latest DDR400 Qualified Vendors List.

Installing a DIMM

Make sure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components. 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.

DDR DIMM notch

Unlocked retaining clip
A DDR DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it fits in only one direction. DO NOT force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the DIMM. 3

USB+5V USB_P8USB_P8+ GND NC
ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V) These connectors are for an 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.
Use of an ATX 12 V Specification 2.0-compliant power supply unit (PSU) that provides a minimum power of 350 W is recommended for a fully-configured system. Do not forget to connect the 4-pin ATX +12 V power plug; otherwise, the system will not boot up. 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. You must install a PSU with a higher power rating if you intend to install additional devices.
+3 Volts -12 Volts Ground ATX12V PSON# Ground GND GND +12V DC +12V DC Ground Ground -5 Volts +5 Volts +5 Volts +5 Volts connectors Ground +3 Volts +3 Volts Ground +5 Volts Ground +5 Volts Ground Power OK +5V Standby +12 Volts +12 Volts +3 Volts

A8V-E SE ATX power

1 0. GAME/MIDI port connector (16-1 pin GAME) This connector is for a GAME/MIDI port. Connect the USB/GAME module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. The GAME/MIDI port connects a joystick or game pad for playing games, and MIDI devices for playing or editing audio files.
+5V J1B1 J1CX GND GND J1CY J1B2 +5V

A8V-E SE Game connector

1 1. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) 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

(Default)
A8V-E SE Chassis alarm lead ASUS A8V-E SE 1-29

Chassis Signal GND

+5VSB_MB
+5V J2B1 J2CX MIDI_OUT J2CY J2B2 MIDI_IN
1 2. System panel connector (20-pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.

PLED+ PLED-

SPEAKER
+5V Ground Ground Speaker ExtSMI# Ground PWR Ground

IDE_LED+ IDE_LEDA8V-E SE

IDE LED

RESET PWR

* Requires an ATX power supply.
A8V-E SE System panel connector The sytem panel connector is color-coded for easy connection. Refer to the connector description below for details.
System power LED (Green 3-pin PLED) This 3-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode. System warning speaker (Orange 4-pin SPEAKER) This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings. Hard disk drive activity (Red 2-pin IDE_LED) This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or flashes when data is read from or written to the HDD. Power/Soft-off button (Yellow 2-pin PWR) This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button turns the system ON or puts the system in SLEEP or SOFT-OFF mode depending on the BIOS settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON turns the system OFF. Reset button (Blue 2-pin RESET) This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without turning off the system power.

Reset Ground

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

Managing and updating your BIOS
The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. 1. 2. A w a r d B I O S F l a s h U t i l i t y (Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable floppy disk.) A S U S C r a s h F r e e B I O S 2 (Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk or the motherboard support CD when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted.) A S U S E Z F l a s h (Updates the BIOS in DOS using a floppy disk or the motherboard support CD.) A S U S U p d a t e (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 in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update or AwardBIOS Flash utilities.
Creating a bootable floppy disk
Do either one of the following to create a bootable floppy disk.

DOS environment

a. Insert a 1.44MB floppy disk into the drive. b. At the DOS prompt, type format A:/S then press <Enter>.

Windows XP environment

a. Insert a 1.44 MB floppy disk to the floppy disk drive. b. Click S t a r t from the Windows desktop, then select M y r. Computer c. Select the 3 1/2 Floppy Drive icon. t. d. Click F i l e from the menu, then select F o r m a t A F o r m a t / 2 F l o p p y D i s k window appears. e. Select C r e a t e a n M S - D O S s t a r t u p d i s k from the format options field, then click S t a r t t.

Windows 2000 environment

To create a set of boot disks for Windows 2000: a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44 MB floppy disk into the drive. b. Insert the Windows 2000 CD to the optical drive.
c. Click S t a r t then select R u n t, n. d. From the Open field, type D:\bootdisk\makeboot a: assuming that D: is your optical drive. e. Press <Enter>, then follow screen instructions to continue. 2. Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS file to the bootable floppy disk.

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 A 8 V - E _ S E. B I N and save it to a floppy disk.
Save only the updated BIOS file in the floppy disk to avoid loading the wrong BIOS file.

2. 3. 4.

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. When the A : > appears, replace the bootable floppy disk with the floppy disk containing the new BIOS file and the Award BIOS Flash Utility. At the prompt, type a w d f l a s h then press <Enter>. The Award BIOS Flash Utility screen appears.

Memory Voltage Adjustment [2.75 V]
Sets the memory adjustment voltage. Configuration options: [2.60 V] [2.65 V] [2.70 V] [2.75 V] [2.80 V] [2.85 V] [2.90 V] [2.95 V] [3.00 V]
CPU VCore Offset [+100 mv]
Sets the CPU Vcore offset voltage. Configuration options: [+100 mv] [+200 mv]

LAN Cable Status

The items in this menu displays the status of the Local Area Network (LAN) cable.
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced LAN Cable Status POST Check LAN Cable Pair 1-2 3-6 4-5 7-8 [Disabled] Status Open Open Open Open Length N/A N/A N/A N/A Select Menu Item Specific Help
POST Check LAN cable [Disabled]
Enables or disables checking of the LAN cable during the Power-On Self-Test (POST). Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

PEG Link Mode

Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced PEG Link Mode Select Menu Item Specific Help

[Auto]

PEG Link Mode [Auto]
Allows you to enhance the performance of your PCI Express graphics card. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Normal] [Fast] [Faster]

CPU Configuration

Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced CPU Configuration Select Menu Item Specific Help
CPU Type AMD Dual Core Processor 4200+ CPU Speed 2200MHz Cache RAM 512K x2 Current FSB Frequency 200 MHz AMD K8 CoolnQuiet control [Disabled]
AMD K8 Cool n Quiet control [Disabled]
Allows you to disable or set the AMD Cool n Quiet! Technology feature. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]
This feature requires the AMD CPU heatsink and fan assembly with monitor chip. If you purchased a separate heatsink and fan package, use the ASUS Q-Fan Technology feature to automatically adjust the CPU fan speed according to your system loading.

Chipset

Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced Chipset Select Menu Item Specific Help [16 bit] [16 bit] [Auto] [By Auto] [Auto] [Enable] [PCI Slot] [+1.6 V] DRAM timing and control
DRAM Configuration Upstream LDT Bus Width Downstream LDT Bus Width LDT Bus Frequency VLink Mode Selection PEG Data Scrambling PE0-PE3 Data Scrambling Init Display First Chipset Vcore Adjustment

DRAM Configuration

The items in this sub-menu show the DRAM-related information auto-detected by the BIOS.
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced DRAM Configuration Current DRAM Frequency Timing Mode Memclock index value (MHz) CAS# latency (Tcl) Min RAS# active time(Tras) RAS# to CAS# delay (Trcd) Row precharge Time (Trp) 1T/2T Memory Timing H/W DRAM Over 4G Remapping MTRR mapping mode Master ECC Enabled ECC Memory Interlock 200 MHz [Auto] 200Mhz 2.5 8T 4T 4T 2T [Enabled] [Continous] [Enabled] [At least One] Select Menu Item Specific Help Place an artificial memory clock limit on the system. Memory is prevented from running faster than this frequency.

x x x x x x

Current DRAM Frequency

Timing Mode [Auto]

Sets the timing mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]
Memclock index value (Mhz) [200Mhz]
Sets the memory clock index value. Configuration options: [100Mhz] [133Mhz] [166Mhz] [200Mhz] [216Mhz] [233Mhz] [250Mhz]

CAS# latency (Tcl) [2.5]

Controls the latency between the SDRAM read command and the time the data actually becomes available. Configuration options: [2.0] [2.5] [3.0]
Min RAS# active time (Tras) [8T]
Sets the minimum RAS# active time. Configuration options: [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10] [11] [12] [13] [14] [15]
RAS# to CAS# delay (Trcd) [4T]
Controls the latency between the DDR SDRAM active command and the read/write command. Configuration options: [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]
Row precharge Time (Trp) [Auto]
Sets the Row precharge time. Configuration options: [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]

1T/2T Memory Timing [2T]

Sets the memory timing. Configuration options: [1T] [2T]
H/W DRAM Over 4G Remapping [Enabled]
Enables or disables the hardware DRAM remapping when using 4G of system memory. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
MTRR mapping mode [Continous]
Sets the MTRR mapping mode. Configuration options: [Continous] [Discrete]
Master ECC Enable [Enable]
Enables or disables the master ECC. Configuration options: [Disable] [Enable]
ECC Memory Interlock [At Least One]
Sets the ECC memory interlock. Configuration options: [At Least One] [All Are]
Upstream LDT Bus Width [16 bit]
Sets the upstream Lightning Data Transport (LDT) Bus Width. Configuration options: [ 8 bit] [16 bit]
Downstream LDT Bus Width [16 bit]
Sets the downstream Lightning Data Transport (LDT) Bus Width. Configuration options: [ 8 bit] [16 bit]

LDT Bus Frequency [Auto]

Sets the Lightning Data Transport (LDT) Bus frequency. Configuration options: [Auto] [1 GHz] [800 MHz] [600 MHz] [400 MHz] [200 MHz]
VLink Mode Selection [By Auto]
Sets the VLink mode. Configuration options: [By Auto] [Mode 0] [Mode 1] [Mode 2] [Mode 3] [Mode 4]
PEG Data Scrambling [Auto]
Disables or enables the PCI Express graphics data scrambling. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disable] [Enable]
PE0-PE3 Data Scrambling [Enable]
Disables or enables the PCI Express 0 to PCI Express 3 data scrambling. Configuration options: [Disable] [Enable]
Init Display First [PCI Slot]
Allows you to select the graphics controller to use as the primary boot device. Configuration options: [PCI Slot] [PCIEx]
Chipset Vcore Adjustment [+1.5 V]
Sets the chipset vcore adjustment voltage. Configuration options: [+1.5 V] [+1.6 V]

Maximum Payload Size [4096]
Sets the maximum payload size in bytes for PCI Express devices. Configuration options: [128] [256] [512] [1024] [2048] [4096]
Onboard Devices Configuration
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced Onboard Device Configuration Select Menu Item Specific Help Enable/Disable Onboard 1394 device support.
Onboard PCIE GbE LAN Onboard LAN Boot ROM OnChip SATA SATA Mode Onboard AC97 Audio Serial Port1 Address Parallel Port Address Parallel Port Mode EPP Mode Select ECP MOde Use DMA Game Port Address Midi Port Address Midi Port IRQ
[Enabled] [Disabled] [Enabled] [RAID] [Auto] [3F8/IRQ4] [378/IRQ7] [ECP+EPP] [EPP1.7] [3] [201] [330] [10]
OnBoard PCIE GbE LAN [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard PCI Express Gigabit LAN controller. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard LAN boot ROM. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

OnChip SATA [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the onboard VIA Serial ATA controller. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

SATA Mode [RAID]

Allows you to set the onboard VIA SATA RAID controller mode. Configuration options: [IDE] [RAID]
Onboard AC97 Audio [Auto] Allows you to disable or set the onboard AC97 audio controller. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto] Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]
Allows you to select the Serial Port1 base address. Configuration options: [Disabled] [3F8/IRQ4] [2F8/IRQ3] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3] [Auto]
Parallel Port Address [378/IRQ7]
Allows you to select the Parallel Port base addresses. Configuration options: [Disabled] [378/IRQ7] [278/IRQ5] [3BC/IRQ7]
Parallel Port Mode [ECP+EPP]
Allows you to select the Parallel Port mode. Configuration options: [SPP] [EPP] [ECP] [ECP+EPP] [Normal]

EPP Mode Select [EPP1.7]

Allows selection of the Parallel Port EPP version. Configuration options: [EPP1.9] [EPP1.7]

Boot Settings Configuration
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Boot Boot Settings Configuration Select Menu Item Specific Help Press [Enter] to enable or disable.
Case Open Warning Quick Boot Boot Up Floppy Seek Bootup Num-Lock Typematic Rate Setting x Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec) x Typematic Delay (Msec) OS Select For DRAM > 64MB Full Screen LOGO Halt On
[Disabled] [Enabled] [Disabled] [On] [Disabled] [Non-OS2] [Enabled] [All, But Keyboard]
Case Open Warning [Disabled]
Enables or disables the chassis open status feature. Setting to Enabled, clears the chassis open status. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Quick Boot [Enabled]

Enables or disables the quick boot feature. When Enabled, the system skips certain tests while booting. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Boot Up Floppy Seek [Disabled]

Bootup Num-Lock [On]

Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock. Configuration options: [Off] [On]
Typematic Rate Setting [Disabled]
Allows you to set the keystroke rate. Enable this item to configure the ). T y p e m a t i c R a t e ( C h a r s / S e c ) and the T y p e m a t i c D e l a y ( M s e c ) Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ASUS A8V-E SE 2-35

The items T y p e m a t i c R a t e ( C h a r s / S e c ) and T y p e m a t i c D e l a y ( M s e c ) becomes user-configurable only when the item Typematic Rate Setting is enabled.
Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec) [6]
Allows you to select the rate at which a character repeats when you hold a key. Configuration options: [6] [8] [10] [12] [15] [20] [24] [30]
Typematic Delay (Msec) [250]
Allows you to set the delay before keystrokes begin to repeat. Configuration options: [250] [500] [750] [1000]
OS Select for DRAM > 64MB [Non-OS2]
Set this item to OS2 only when you are running on an OS/2 operating system with an installed RAM of greater than 64 KB. Configuration options: [Non-OS2] [OS2]
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 MyLogo2 feature.
Halt On [All, But Keyboard]
Allows you to error report type. Configuration options: [All Errors] [No Errors] [All, But Keyboard] [All, But Diskette] [All, But Disk/Key]

Security

Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility Boot Boot Settings Configuration Select Menu Item Specific Help Supervisor password controls full access, <Enter> to change password.

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 Y e s to load default values. Select E x i t & S a v e C h a n g e s 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 Y e s 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

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 Pack 2 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.

Running the support CD

Place the support CD to the optical drive. The CD automatically displays the D r i v e r s menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer.
Click an icon to display support CD/motherboard information

Click an item to install

If A u t o r u n is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support CD to locate the file ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the A S S E T U P. E X E to run the CD. 3-2 Chapter 3: Software support

Drivers menu

The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices.

VIA 4 in 1 drivers

This item installs the following drivers: - VIA Registry (INF) driver - VIA ATAPI vendor support driver - VIA PCI IRQ Miniport driver.
VIA IDE RAID Controller driver
Installs the VIA 6420 RAID controller driver and application. Refer to the README.HTM file found in /Drivers/VIARAID/6420RAID of the motherboad support CD for help on VIA RAID configurations.
Make VIA 6420 Driver Disk
Allows you to create a RAID driver disk for the VIA 6420 RAID configuration.
PCI Marvell Yukon Gigabit Ethernet Driver