AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess
OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaal
AX45F-4D Series
DOC. NO.:AX45F4DMAX-OL-E0309A
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WWhhaatt’’ss iinn tthhiiss mmaannuuaall
AX45F-4D Series...................................................................................................................................... 1
What’s in this manual .................................................................................................................................................................... 2
You Must Notice ............................................................................................................................................................................ 8
Before You Start ............................................................................................................................................................................ 9
Overview ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
AX45F-4D Series Comparison Table .......................................................................................................................................... 11
Feature Highlight .........................................................................................................................................................................12
Quick Installation Procedure ....................................................................................................................................................... 17
Motherboard Map ........................................................................................................................................................................ 18
Block Diagram ............................................................................................................................................................................. 19
Hardware Installation ........................................................................................................................ 20
About “User Upgrade Optional” and “Manufacture Upgrade Optional”… ................................................................................... 21
EzColor........................................................................................................................................................................................ 22
CPU Installation........................................................................................................................................................................... 24
CPU Fan Installation ................................................................................................................................................................... 26
CPU Over-current Protection ...................................................................................................................................................... 28
AOpen “Watch Dog ABS”............................................................................................................................................................ 30
Full-range Adjustable CPU Core Voltage.................................................................................................................................... 31
CPU and System Fan Connector (with H/W Monitoring) ............................................................................................................ 33
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DIMM Sockets ............................................................................................................................................................................. 34
Maximum the performance of Dual Channel............................................................................................................................... 36
ATX Power Connector................................................................................................................................................................. 37
AC Power Auto Recovery............................................................................................................................................................ 37
IDE and Floppy Connector .......................................................................................................................................................... 38
ATA133 Supported ...................................................................................................................................................................... 40
Serial ATA Supported .................................................................................................................................................................. 41
Connecting Serial ATA Disk......................................................................................................................................................... 42
Support RAID 0 and RAID 1........................................................................................................................................................ 44
Front Panel Connector ................................................................................................................................................................ 45
AGP (Accelerated Graphic Port) 8X Expansion Slot................................................................................................................... 46
AGP Protection Technology and AGP LED ................................................................................................................................. 47
Hercules PCI Slot ........................................................................................................................................................................ 48
IrDA Connector............................................................................................................................................................................ 49
Support LAN onboard (for AX45-4DL, AX45-4DN and AX45F-4D Max)..................................................................................... 50
Support USB 2.0 Ports ................................................................................................................................................................ 51
Color Coded Back Panel ............................................................................................................................................................. 52
S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) Connector...................................................................................................................... 53
Super 5.1 Channel Audio Effect .................................................................................................................................................. 54
Front Audio Connector ................................................................................................................................................................ 55
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Game Port Bracket Supported .................................................................................................................................................... 56
CD Audio Connector.................................................................................................................................................................... 57
AUX-IN Connector....................................................................................................................................................................... 58
Case Open Connector................................................................................................................................................................. 59
STBY LED (Standby LED)........................................................................................................................................................... 60
Fansink on North Bridge.............................................................................................................................................................. 61
Low ESR Capacitor ..................................................................................................................................................................... 62
JP2 Speaker Output Jumper (only for AX45F-4D Max) .............................................................................................................. 63
JP14 Clear CMOS Data .............................................................................................................................................................. 64
JP15/JP16 Dr. Voice II Language Select Jumpers (only for AX45F-4D Max)............................................................................. 65
JP24 / JP25 BIOS Rescue Jumper (only for AX45F-4D Max) .................................................................................................... 66
JP28 Keyboard/Mouse Wake-up Jumper.................................................................................................................................... 67
The noise is gone!! ---- SilentTek................................................................................................................................................. 68
EzClock ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 71
Hyper Threading Technology ...................................................................................................................................................... 75
AOConfig Utility ........................................................................................................................................................................... 77
RAID Introduction ..............................................................................................................................79
What’s RAID?.............................................................................................................................................................................. 79
What are the RAID levels? .......................................................................................................................................................... 80
HDD Capacity of RAID Levels..................................................................................................................................................... 82
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Serial ATA RAID for SiS964......................................................................................................................................................... 83
Phoenix-AWARD BIOS ........................................................................................................................ 85
How to Use Phoenix-Award™ BIOS Setup Program .................................................................................................................. 86
How To Enter BIOS Setup........................................................................................................................................................... 87
BIOS Upgrade under Windows environment .............................................................................................................................. 88
WinBIOS Utility (only for AX45F-4D Max) ................................................................................................................................... 90
Open JukeBox Player (only for AX45F-4D Max)......................................................................................................................... 92
Vivid BIOS technology................................................................................................................................................................. 96
Driver and Utility................................................................................................................................ 97
Auto-run Menu from Bonus CD ................................................................................................................................................... 97
Installing AGP Driver ................................................................................................................................................................... 98
Installing Onboard Sound Driver ................................................................................................................................................. 99
Installing Gigabit LAN Driver (for AX45F-4D Max and AX45F-4DL) ......................................................................................... 100
Installing Realtek 10/100 Mbps LAN Driver in Win98SE/2000/XP (for AX45F-4DN)...............................................................111
Installing IDE Driver................................................................................................................................................................... 115
Installing SiS Serial ATA Raid Driver in Win 2000/XP ............................................................................................................... 116
Installing Promise Serial ATA Driver (only for AX45F-4D Max) ................................................................................................. 117
Installing USB 2.0 Driver ........................................................................................................................................................... 129
Glossary ...........................................................................................................................................130
AC’97 CODEC........................................................................................................................................................................... 130
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ACPI (Advanced Configuration & Power Interface)................................................................................................................... 130
ACR (Advanced Communication Riser) .................................................................................................................................... 130
AGP (Accelerated Graphic Port) ............................................................................................................................................... 131
AMR (Audio/Modem Riser) ....................................................................................................................................................... 131
ATA (AT Attachment) ................................................................................................................................................................. 131
BIOS (Basic Input/Output System)............................................................................................................................................ 132
Bluetooth ................................................................................................................................................................................... 132
CNR (Communication and Networking Riser)........................................................................................................................... 133
DDR (Double Data Rate) SDRAM............................................................................................................................................. 133
ECC (Error Checking and Correction)....................................................................................................................................... 133
EEPROM (Electronic Erasable Programmable ROM) .............................................................................................................. 133
EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM).................................................................................................................................. 134
EV6 Bus .................................................................................................................................................................................... 134
FCC DoC (Declaration of Conformity)....................................................................................................................................... 134
FC-PGA (Flip Chip-Pin Grid Array)............................................................................................................................................ 134
FC-PGA2 (Flip Chip-Pin Grid Array).......................................................................................................................................... 134
Flash ROM ................................................................................................................................................................................ 135
Hyper Threading........................................................................................................................................................................ 135
IEEE 1394 ................................................................................................................................................................................. 135
Parity Bit .................................................................................................................................................................................... 136
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PCI (Peripheral Component Interface) Bus............................................................................................................................... 136
PDF Format............................................................................................................................................................................... 136
PnP (Plug and Play) .................................................................................................................................................................. 136
POST (Power-On Self Test) ...................................................................................................................................................... 136
PSB (Processor System Bus) Clock ......................................................................................................................................... 137
RDRAM (Rambus Dynamic Random Access Memory) ............................................................................................................ 137
RIMM (Rambus Inline Memory Module).................................................................................................................................... 137
SDRAM (Synchronous DRAM) ................................................................................................................................................. 137
SATA (Serial ATA)...................................................................................................................................................................... 138
SMBus (System Management Bus) .......................................................................................................................................... 138
SPD (Serial Presence Detect)................................................................................................................................................... 138
USB 2.0 (Universal Serial Bus) ................................................................................................................................................. 138
VCM (Virtual Channel Memory) ................................................................................................................................................ 139
Wireless LAN – 802.11b............................................................................................................................................................ 139
ZIP file ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 139
Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................................... 140
Technical Support ............................................................................................................................ 144
Product Registration........................................................................................................................ 148
How to Contact Us........................................................................................................................... 149
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YYoouu MMuusstt NNoottiiccee
Adobe, the Adobe logo, Acrobat is trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated.
AMD, the AMD logo, Athlon and Duron are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
Intel, the Intel logo, Intel Celeron, Pentium II, Pentium III and Pentium 4 are trademarks of Intel Corporation.
Microsoft, Windows, and Windows logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States
and/or other countries.
All product and brand names used on this manual are used for identification purposes only and may be the registered trademarks of
their respective owners.
All of the specifications and information contained in this manual are subject to change without notice. AOpen reserves the right to
revise this publication and to make reasonable changes. AOpen assumes no responsibility for any errors or inaccuracies that may
appear in this manual, including the products and software described in it.
This documentation is protected by copyright law. All rights are reserved.
No part of this document may be used or reproduced in any form or by any means, or stored in a database or retrieval system
without prior written permission from AOpen Corporation.
Copyright
©
1996-2003, AOpen Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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BBeeffoorree YYoouu SSttaarrtt
This Online Manual will introduce to the user how this product is installed. All useful information will be described in later chapters.
Please keep this manual carefully for future upgrades or system configuration changes. This Online Manual is saved in PDF format, we
recommend using Adobe Acrobat Reader 5.0 for online viewing, it is included in Bonus CD or you can get free download from Adobe
web site.
Although this Online Manual is optimized for screen viewing, it is still capable for hardcopy printing, you can print it by A4 paper size and
set 2 pages per A4 sheet on your printer. To do so, choose File > Page Setup and follow the instruction of your printer driver.
Thanks for the help of saving our earth.
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OOvveerrvviieeww
Thank you for choosing AX45F-4D Series. AX45F-4D Series is Intel® Socket 478 motherboard (M/B) based on the ATX form factor
featuring the SiS 655FX/964 chipsets. As high performance chipset built in the M/B, AX45F-4D Series supports Intel
®
Pentium
additional intelligence to systems. In the AGP
spilt-transaction long burst transfer up to 2112MB/sec. According to different customer’s requirements, this M/B supports DDR266
DDR333
mode and Serial ATA
Hercules PCI slot. A total of four USB 2.0
back panel and two headers on the board give you the
best use of all USB devices with the fancy speed up to
480Mbps. More than that, on the strength of integrated
Realtek LAN controller on board, which is a highly
integrated Platform LAN Connect device, it provides
10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet (for AX45F-4DN, it is 10/100
Mbps) for office and home use. Besides, AX45F-4D
Series has S/PDIF connector and an AC’97 CODEC
Realtek chipset onboard, providing high performance
and magic surround stereo sound to let people enjoy
working with it. Now, let’s enjoy all features from
AX45F-4D Series.
and DDR400 RAM up to 4GB maximum in Dual Channel mode. The onboard IDE controller supports Ultra DMA 66/100/133
®
Socket 478
4 1.6GHz~3.20GHz. It supports 400/533/800MHz Front Side Bus (FSB) clock and Hyper-Threading Technology that brings
performance, it has one AGP slot to support AGP 8X/4X mode and pipelined
150 MB/s (supports RAID 0 and RAID 1 functions). There are 5 PCI slots provided on this board, including one
ports on the
,
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LAN
Diehard
BIOS
Hercules
PCI Slot
Dr. Voice II
AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess CCoommppaarriissoonn TTaabbllee
Following we list functions of all models. “V” represents those functions that the model equips with and “X” represents functions that
models don’t have. Please always refer to this page to see the functions of your model.
Model
AX45F-4D
AX45F-4DL
AX45F-4DN
AX45F-4D Max
IDE
Slots
SATA
Slots
2 2 X X X X
2 2 10/100/1000 Mbps X X X
2 2 10/100 Mbps X X X
3 4 10/100/1000 Mbps V V V
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FFeeaattuurree HHiigghhlliigghhtt
CPU
Supports Intel® Socket 478 Pentium® 4 1.6GHz~3.20GHz+ with 400/533/800MHz Front Side Bus (FSB) designed for Socket 478
technology. The AX45F-4D Series motherboard supports Intel Hyper-Threading Technology.
Chipset
The motherboard is equipped with SIS 655FX chipset. The SIS 655FX Host & Memory & AGP Controller integrates a high performance
host interface for Intel Pentium 4 processor, a high performance memory controller, an AGP interface and SiS MuTIOL 1G Technology
connecting with SiS964 MuTIOL 1G Media IO. The host interface plays the role of processor transactions’ dispatcher. It dispatches
transactions to Memory, I/O interface and AGP bus. Transactions to different destinations can be dispatched concurrently in order to
maximum pipeline efficiency. The Memory controller supports DDR 400/333/266 RAM and the Suspend to RAM function by retaining the
CKE# pins asserted in ACPI S3 state in which only AUX source deliver power. The AGP interface supports external AGP slot with AGP
4X/8X capability and Fast Write Transactions.
Memory
With SiS 655FX/964 chipset, this motherboard can support dual channel Double-Data-Rate (DDR) SDRAM. The dual channel mode
allows chipsets to get data in 128 bit and zero wait state bursting between the RAM. The data transfer at 266/333/400MHz. The four
slots of DDR SDRAM can be composed of an arbitrary mixture of 64, 128, 256, 512 MB or 1GB DDR SDRAM and maximum up to 4GB.
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Expansion Slots
Including five 32-bit/33MHz PCI and one AGP 8X/4X slots (The PCI 5 is named Hercules which is reserved especially for high
power-consuming PCI cards). The PCI local bus throughput can be up to 132MB/s. Of five PCI slots provided, all of them are master
PCI slots with arbitration and decoding for all integrated functions and LPC bus. The AGP expansion slot is designed for a bus mastering
AGP graphic card. The
The AGP video cards support data transfer rate up to 2112MB/s.
Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP)
specification provides a new level of video display sophistication and speed.
AGP Protection Technology
With AGP Protection Technology implemented, this motherboard will automatically detect the voltage of AGP card and prevent your
chipsets from being burnt out.
Hyper-Threading Technology
Support Hyper-Threading Technology which brings additional intelligence to systems so that multiple tasks received from the processor
can be managed and prioritized more effectively.
Watch Dog ABS
Includes AOpen “Watch Dog ABS” function that can auto-reset system in 4.8 seconds when you fail the system overclocking.
1MHz Stepping CPU Frequency Adjustment
Provides “1MHz Stepping CPU Frequency Adjustment” function in the BIOS. This magic function allows you to adjust CPU FSB
frequency from 100~248MHz by 1MHz stepping adjustment, and helps your system get maximum performance.
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LAN Port (for AX45F-4DL, AX45F-4DN and AX45F-4D Max)
On the strength of Gigabit LAN controller (AX45F-4D Max and AX45F-4DL) or Realtek 10/100 Mbps LAN controller (AX45F-4DN) on
board, this motherboard provides 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet (for AX45F-4DN, it is 10/100 Mbps) for office and home use. For
AX45F-4D motherboard, it does not support LAN onboard.
Ultra DMA 66/100/133 Bus IDE
Comes with an on-board PCI Bus Master IDE controller with two connectors that support four IDE devices in two channels, supports
Ultra DMA 66/100/133, PIO Modes 3 and 4 and Bus Master IDE DMA Mode 5, and supports Enhanced IDE devices. For AX45F-4D Max,
there are three connectors and support six IDE devices in three channels.
Serial ATA
Integrated in SiS 964 chipset that contains independent DMA operation on two ports, the SATA controllers are completely software
transparent with the IDE interface, while providing a lower pin count and higher performance and aiming to provide you an even faster
transfer rate of 150 Mbytes/second. For AX45F-4D Max motherboards, there are 4 SATA connectors onboard including the other two
ports provided by an extra Promise SATA controller.
On-board AC’97 Sound
AX45F-4D Series uses RealTek AC’97 CODEC Realtek ALC658 chip. This on-board audio includes a complete audio recording and
playback system.
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Eight USB 2.0 Ports
Provides four ports on the back panel and two USB 2.0 headers on the board, providing a total of eight USB 2.0 interface to connect
devices such as mouse, keyboard, modem, scanner, etc.
S/PDIF Connector
S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) is the newest audio transfer file format, which provides impressive quality through optical fiber
and allows you to enjoy digital audio instead of analog audio.
Power Management/Plug and Play
Supports the power management function which confirms to the power-saving standards of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) Energy Star program. It also offers
much user-friendlier.
Plug-and-Play
, which helps save users from configuration problems, thus making the system
Hardware Monitoring Management
Supports CPU or system fans status, temperature and voltage monitoring and alert, through the on-board hardware monitor module.
SilentTek
Combines “Hardware-Status Monitoring”, “Overheat Warning” and “Fan Speed Control” with user-friendly interfaces to provide a perfect
balance among noises, system performance and stability.
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Enhanced ACPI
Fully implement the ACPI standard for Windows® 98/ME/2000/XP series compatibility, and supports Soft-Off, STR (Suspend to RAM,
S3), STD (Suspend to Disk, S4) and S5 features.
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QQuuiicckk IInnssttaallllaattiioonn PPrroocceedduurree
This page gives you a quick procedure on how to install your system. Follow each step accordingly.
1. Installing CPU and Fan
2. Installing System Memory (DIMM)
3. Connecting Front Panel Cable
4. Connecting IDE and Floppy Cable
5. Connecting ATX Power Cable
6. Connecting Back Panel Cable
7. Power-on and Load BIOS Setup Default
8. Setting CPU Frequency
9.
Reboot
10.
Installing Operating System (such as Windows XP)
11.
Installing Driver and Utility
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(for AX45F-4D Max and AX45F-4DL)
supports high power-consuming
Realtek Gigabit LAN chip
Realtek 10/100 Mbps LAN chip
Onboard AC’97 CODEC
Language Selection Jumper
32-bit PCI Expansion Slotsx5
(Slot 5: Hercules PCI card that
only for AX45F-4D Max)
USB 2.0 Connectors x2
(for AX45F-4D, AX45F-4DL and
JP14 CMOS Clear Jumper
JP24/JP25 BIOS Rescu e Jumpe
ATA 6 6/1 00/133 IDE Connectorsx3
(for AX45F-4D, AX45F-4DL and
AX45F-4DN, Connectors x2)
(for AX45F-4DN)
CD-IN Connector
AUX-IN Connector
S/PDIF Connector
JP2 Speaker output Jumper
JP15/JP16 Dr.Voice II
(only for AX45F-4D Max)
Front Audio Connector
PCI cards,
Case Open Connector
Die-hard BIOS x2
(only for AX45F-4D Max)
SATA Ports x 4
AX45F-4DN, Ports x2)
Game Port Connector
(only for AX45F-4D Max)
IrDA Connector
SYSFAN2 Connector
Front Panel Connector
FDD Connector
Motherboard Map
Colored Back Panel
JP28 Keyboard/Mouse
Wakeup Jumper
Connector SYSFAN1
Low ESR Capacitors
4-pin 12V. ATX Power Connector
AGP Protection LED
AGP 8X Expansion Slot
supports 8X AGP Cards (2.1GB/s)
478-pin CPU socket with Voltage and
Frequency Auto-detection that supports
Intel® Pentium® 4 1.6~3.20GHz+ CPU
SiS 655FX/964 Chipset that
support 400/533/800MHz FSB,
DDR 266/333/400 and AGP 8X
CPUFAN Connector
184-pin DIMMsx4 support
Dual Channel DDR400/333/266
Max. To 4 GB
ATX Power Connector
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BBlloocckk DDiiaaggrraamm
Socket 478
Intel Pentium 4
CPU
AGP 8X Slot
LAN connect Component
400/533/800MHz
DDR400/333/266 Dual Channel
RAM Up to 4GB
DIMM Sockets x4
System Bus
AGP bus
655FX
chipset
Gigabit LAN Chip
(AX45F-4D Ma x
and AX45F-4DL)
Realtek
10/100Mbps
(AX45F-4DN)
USB Ports x8
Floppy Disk Drive
SiS
PCI Bus
Serial ATA Ports x4
USB Port
USB Port
USB Port
USB Port
32-bit PCI Sl ots x5
150MB/s
ATA
66/100/133
Hercules PCI Slot
SATA 1
SATA 2
SATA 3
SATA 4
Primary
Channel
Secondary
Channel
Third
Channel
SiS
964
For AX45F-4D, AX45F-4DL
and AX45F-4DN, Ports x2
For AX45F-4D, AX45F-4DL
RealTek
AC97
CODEC
only AX45F-4D Max supports
Serial Ports x2
and AX45F-4DN,
Connectors x2
Die-hard BIOS
4Mbit Flash EEPROM
Parallel Port
IDE Drives x6
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HHaarrddwwaarree IInnssttaallllaattiioonn
This chapter describes jumpers, connectors and hardware devices of this motherboard.
Note: Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage your processor, disk drives, expansion boards, and other
components. Always observe the following precautions before you install a system component.
1. Do not remove a component from its protective packaging until you are ready to install it.
2. Wear a wrist ground strap and attach it to a metal part of the system unit before handling a component. If
a wrist strap is not available, maintain contact with the system unit throughout any procedure requiring
ESD protection.
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AAbboouutt ““UUsseerr UUppggrraaddee OOppttiioonnaall”” aanndd ““MMaannuuffaaccttuurree UUppggrraaddee OOppttiioonnaall””……
When you read this online manual and start to assemble your computer system, you may notice that some of the functions are marked
as “User Upgrade Optional” or “Manufacture Upgrade Optional”. Although all of AOpen’s motherboards have included many amazing
and powerful features, sometimes not every user is familiar with these powerful features. As a result of this we define features that can
be upgraded by users as “User Upgrade Optional”. You can upgrade these functions by purchasing additional devices. As for functions
that cannot be upgraded by users, we define them as “Manufacture Upgrade Optional”. If need be, you can contact our local distributors
or resellers to purchase “Manufacture Upgrade Optional” components, and again you are also welcome to visit our official website at
english.aopen.com.tw
for detail information.
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EEzzCCoolloorr
Breaking through traditional outlook of motherboard, AOpen now brings you a new fresh look of motherboard! – EzColor!
Fancy? You may think so, but actually it is a practical and useful feature for amateur or even power-users. Coming in specific color for
specific connector and module, components on motherboard are now born with their respective colors. Users may now easily recognize
what jumper or cable should match with specific jumper or cable by COLOR, without having the trouble of holding user guide in one
hand and connecting jumpers with the other hand.
And what makes this feature so great is that, even the easy-to-get-confused front panel connector is differentiated now with different
light colors!
Sand: PCI Slot
Navy Blue:
PCI Slot 5
Electric Blue
and Navy Blue:
Memory Module
Sky Blue: AGP Slot
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Flame Red:
Both 4-pin and 12-pin
ATX connector
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1
Power Switch
IDE LED
SPEAKER
Note: Colors setting varies on different motherboards; the color setting here applies only to AX45F-4D Series Motherboards.
ACPI & Power LED
RESET
Claret: Serial ATA connector
Navy Blue: IDE 1 Connector
Black: IDE 2 Connector
Light Yellow: IDE 3 Connector
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CCPPUU IInnssttaallllaattiionn
This motherboard supports Intel® Pentium 4 Socket 478 series CPU. Be careful of CPU orientation when you plug it into CPU socket.
1. Pull up the CPU socket lever and
up to 90-degree angle.
o
2. Locate Pin 1 in the socket and look for mark on the CPU upper interface.
Match Pin 1 and cut edge, then insert the CPU into the socket.
Note: Those pictures are for example only; they may not look the same with the motherboard you purchased.
CPU socket
Lever
CPU pin 1 and
cut edge
CPU cut edge
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3. Press down the CPU socket lever and finish CPU
installation.
Note: This picture is for example only; it may not look the same with the motherboard you purchased.
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CPU cut edge
Note: If you do not match the CPU
socket Pin 1 and CPU cut edge well, you
may damage the CPU.
Note: This socket supports
Micro-FC-PGA2 package CPU, which is
the latest CPU package developed by
Intel. Other forms of CPU package are
impossible to be fitted in.
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CCPPUU FFaann IInnssttaallllaattiioonn
This motherboard comes with a retention module attached on the CPU socket when shipped, we strongly recommend you to install
AOpen special designed CPU Fan as shown below on the retention module for better heat dissipation. Please install the CPU Fan
correctly as the following pictures shown.
1. Gently put the CPU Fan down on the
retention module with clips aligning correctly
to the four corners.
Note: The picture above may look different from the product you purchased.
2. Pressing down the four clips with force one by one
on the retention module.
Clip
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CCPPUU JJuummppeerr--lleessss DDeessiiggnn
CPU VID signal and SMbus clock generator provide CPU voltage auto-detection and allows the user to set the CPU frequency through
the BIOS setup, therefore no jumpers or switches are used. The disadvantages of the Pentium based jumper-less designs are
eliminated. There will be no worry of wrong CPU voltage detection.
CPU VID signal
(Automatically generates CPU voltage)
Intel® Socket 478
Power Regulator
Pentium 4
CPU voltage
Clock Generator
CPU Freq. Ratio
BIOS
Controlled
Circuit
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CCPPUU OOvveerr--ccuurrrreenntt PProotteeccttiioonn
The Over Current Protection is a popular implementation on ATX 3.3V/5V/12V switching power supply. However, the new generation
CPU uses different voltage with a regulator to transfer 12V to CPU voltage (for example, 1.475V), and thus makes 5V over current
protection useless. This motherboard is with switching regulator onboard supporting CPU over-current protection; in conjunction with
3.3V/5V/12V power supply provide the full line over-current protection.
ATX Switching Power Supply
Note: Although we have implemented protection circuit try to prevent any human operating mistake,
there is still certain risk that CPU, memory, HDD, add-on cards installed on this motherboard may be
damaged because of component failure, human operating error or unknown nature reason. AOpen
cannot guaranty the protection circuit will always work perfectly.
r
5V (Protected by power supply)
3.3V (Protected by power supply)
12V (Protected by power supply)
Onboard Power Regulator
(Over-Current Protection)
CPU Core Voltage
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t
This Motherboard implements a Flash ROM
CMOS Setup configurations. The RTC (real time clock) can also keep running as long as the power cord is plugged. If you lose your
CMOS data by accident, you can just reload the CMOS configurations from Flash ROM and the system will recover as usual.
and a special circuit that provide you no batter power consumption of current CPU and
ATX Stand-by Power
n
Battery
Flash ROM
(Real Time Clock)
Auto Switch
RTC
00:00:00
CMOS
Auto switch to ATX standby
power as long as AC power line
is plugged. This smart design
increases battery life if you still
plug battery on motherboard.
Backup by EEPROM
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AAOOppeenn ““WWaattcchh DDoogg AABBSS””
to user’s settings stored in the BIOS. If system failed in BIOS POST, the “Watch Dog Timer” will reset the system to reboot in five
seconds. Then, BIOS will detect the CPU’s default frequency and POST again. With this special feature, you can easily overclock your
system to get a higher system performance without removing the system housing and save the hassle from setting the jumper to clear
CMOS data when system hangs.
AOpen
Watch Dog ABS
Enable/Disable Signal from
AOpen provides a special and useful feature on this motherboard for overclockers. When you
power-on the system, the BIOS will check last system POST
will enable “Watch Dog ABS” function immediately, and set the CPU FSB frequency according
BIOS
BIOS
Reset Signal
Clock Generator
Countdown about
5 seconds if fails
in POST
CPU
status. If it succeeded, the BIOS
CPU ID Signal
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FFuullll--rraannggee AAddjjuussttaabbllee CCPPUU CCoorree VVoollttaaggee
This motherboard supports CPU VID function. The CPU core voltage will be automatically detected and the range is from 0.8375V to
1.6000V. It is not necessary to set CPU Core Voltage.
SSeettttiinngg CCPPUU FFrreeqquueennccyy
BIOS Setup > Frequency/Voltage Control > CPU Bus Frequency
This motherboard is CPU jumper-less design, you can set CPU frequency in BIOS; no jumpers or switches are needed. The default
setting is "table select mode". You can adjust the FSB from "CPU Host/RAM/PCI Clock" for overclocking.
Core Frequency = CPU FSB Clock * CPU Ratio
PCI Clock = CPU FSB Clock / Clock Ratio
AGP Clock = PCI Clock x 2
CPU Ratio 8x, 10x… 25x, 26x, 27x, 28x
CPU FSB (By BIOS table) 100-248MHz
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Northwood CPU
Pentium 4 1.7G 1700MHz 133MHz 533MHz 13x
Pentium 4 1.8G 1800MHz 100MHz 400MHz 18x
Pentium 4 2.0G 2000MHz 100MHz 400MHz 20x
Pentium 4 2.2G 2200MHz 100MHz 400MHz 22x
Pentium 4 2.2G 2200MHz 133MHz 533MHz 16x
Pentium 4 2.26G 2260MHz 133MHz 533MHz 17x
Pentium 4 2.4G 2400MHz 100MHz 400MHz 24x
Pentium 4 2.4G 2400MHz 133MHz 533MHz 18x
Pentium 4 2.53G 2530MHz 133MHz 533MHz 19x
Pentium 4 2.6G 2600MHz 200MHz 800MHz 13x
Pentium 4 2.66G 2660MHz 133MHz 533MHz 20x
Pentium 4 2.8G 2800MHz 133MHz 533MHz 21x
Pentium 4 2.8G 2800MHz 200MHz 800MHz 14x
Pentium 4 3.06G 3066MHz 133MHz 533MHz 23x
Pentium 4 3.20G 3200MHz 200MHz 800MHz 16x
Note: With CPU speed changing rapidly, there might be fastest CPU on
the market by the time you received this installation guide. This table is
kindly for your references only.
CPU Core
Frequency
FSB
Clock
System
Bus
32
Ratio
Note: SiS 655FX/964 chipset only support
Northwood processors (also support
Celeron CPU with Northwood core).
Northwood processors would detect the
clock ratio automatically; you may not be
able to adjust the clock ratio in BIOS
manuall
Warning: SiS 655FX/964 chipset supports
maximum 800MHz (200MHz*4) system bus
and 66MHz AGP clock; higher clock setting
may cause serious system damage.
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AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
CCPPUU aanndd SSyysstteemm FFaann CCoonnnneeccttoorr ((wwiitthh HH//WW MMoonniittoorriinngg))
The fan Connectors are painted in white in EzColor. Please plug in the CPU fan cable to the 3-pin CPUFAN connector. If you have
chassis fan, you can also plug it on SYSFAN1 or SYSFAN2 connector.
SYSFAN1 Connector
GND
+12V
SENSOR
GND
+12V
SENSOR
SYSFAN2 Connector
GND
+12V
SENSOR
CPUFAN Connector
33
Note: Some CPU fans do not have
sensor pin, so that they cannot support
hardware monitoring function.
AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
DDIIMMMM SSoocckkeettss
The motherboard has four 184-pin DDR DIMM sockets that allow you to install 128-bit dual channel DDR400, DDR333 or DDR266
memory up to 4GB maximum. The DIMM sockets are painted in electric blue / navy blue and only support non-ECC DDR RAM. Please
install suitable modules; otherwise serious damage may occur on memory sockets or you RAM modules. The RAM voltage for you to
adjust is from 2.50V-2.85V.
Warning: This motherboard supports DDR SDRAM. Please
do not install the SDRAM on the DDR SDRAM sockets;
otherwise it will cause serious damage on memory sockets or
SDRAM module.
DIMMA1
DIMMA2
DIMMB1
DIMMB2
Note: To run dual channel speed, you have to use
the same type memory modules installed on two
DIMMs. If you install two different sized modules,
the system can only run single channel mode and
with the speed of that lower memory module.
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Please follow the procedure as shown below to finish memory installation.
1. Make sure the DIMM module’s pin face down and match the socket’s size as depicted below.
2. Insert the module straight down to the DIMM slot with both hands and press down firmly until the DIMM module is securely in
place.
3. Repeat step 2 to finish additional DIMM modules installation.
Note: These images are for example only; they may not be exactly the same as the motherboard you purchased.
Ta b
Key
52 pins40 pins
Note: Please pay attention to
the Blue slots. To run dual
channel speed, you should
insert the RAM in the slot of
DIMM A1 and DIMM B1 or
DIMM A2 and DIMM B2.
Please don't use the
different frequency DIMM on
dual channel
Note: The tabs of the DIMM
slot will close-up to hold the
DIMM in place when the DIMM
touches the slot’s bottom.
Pin 1
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To get the highest performance of Dual Channel, the DIMM must meet the following conditions.
Matched DIMM configuration in each channel
● Same Density (128MB, 256MB, 512MB, etc.) ● Same DRAM technology (128Mb, 256Mb, or 512Mb)
● Same DRAM bus width (x8 or x16) ● Either single-sided or dual-sided
Matched in both Channel A and Channel B memory channels
● Populate symmetrical memory slots (Slot 0 or Slot 1)
Note: Memory interface speed will be set to the lowest speed of memory populated.
Table below shows DIMMs with same Organization and Density, but are non-matching as bus width, technology and/or external banks
are different. Mixing these DIMMs will put platform into single channel mode.
Non-Matched
128MB DIMMs
Non-Matched
256MB DIMMs
Organization Density
16Mx64 128MB 16Mx8 *8 pcs 128MB 1
16Mx64 128MB 16Mx16 *4 pcs 256MB 1
32Mx64 256MB 16Mx8 *16 pcs 128MB 2
32Mx64 256MB 32Mx8 *8 pcs 256MB 1
Same Organization Same Density Same Bus Width Different Technology Different # of DRAM Banks
Different Bus Width Different TechnologySame Density Same Organization Same # of DRAM Banks
Composition Technology
External
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This motherboard comes with a 20-pin and 4-pin ATX power connector in flame red. Make sure you plug in the right direction. We
strongly recommend you to connect the 4-pin 12V ATX connector before connecting the 20-pin ATX power connector and use standard
power supply specially designed for Pentium 4 system.
AACC PPoowweerr AAuuttoo RReeccoovveerryy
A traditional ATX system should remain at power off stage when AC power resumes from power failure. This design is inconvenient for a
network server or workstation, without an UPS, that needs to keep power-on. This motherboard implements an AC Power Auto
Recovery function to solve this problem.
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Connect 34-pin floppy cable and 40-pin IDE cable to floppy connector FDD and IDE connector. The IDE 1 connector is painted in navy
blue; the IDE 3 connector is painted in light yellow; the IDE 2 connector and FDD connector are painted in Black. Be careful of the pin1
orientation. Wrong orientation may cause system damage.
Pin 1
Pin 1
ATA 66/100/133
IDE Connector
FDD Connector
IDE 1
IDE 2
IDE 3
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IDE1 is also known as the primary channel and IDE2、IDE3 as the secondary and third channel. Each channel supports two IDE devices
that make a total of six devices. In order to work together, the two devices on each channel must be set differently to Master and Slave
mode. Either one can be the hard disk or the CDROM. The setting as master or slave mode depends on the jumper on your IDE device,
so please refer to your hard disk and CDROM manual accordingly.
Tip:
1. For better signal quality, it is recommended to set the far end side device to
master mode and follow the suggested sequence to install your new device.
Please refer to above diagram
2. To achieve the best performance of Ultra DMA 66/100 hard disks, a special
80-wires IDE cable for Ultra DMA 66/100 is required.
Warning: The specification of the IDE cable is a maximum of 46cm (18 inches);
make sure your cable does not exceed this length.
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This motherboard supports ATA6 6, ATA100 or ATA133 IDE devices. Following table lists the transfer rate of IDE PIO and DMA modes.
The IDE bus is 16-bit, which means every transfer is two bytes. As the hard drive industry introduces faster and higher capacity hard
drives, the current Ultra ATA/100 interface causes a data bottleneck between the drive and the host computer. To avoid this problem,
hard disk manufactures have introduced the new Ultra ATA-133 interface technology. Compared to traditional ATA/100, ATA/133 has up
to 33 percent increase in interface speed with transfer rate of 133MB/s. ATA/133 performance is ideal for new operating systems, such
as Window XP, that demand more storage space and faster data transfer rates from more responsive computing experiences.
To make good use of this new technology and enjoy its best performance, we recommend you to pair your system with a hard disk
equipped with ATA/133 technology so that your system's need for speed on this motherboard can be satisfied.
Mode Clock Period Clock Count Cycle Time Data Transfer Rate
PIO mode 0 30ns 20 600ns (1/600ns) x 2byte = 3.3MB/s
PIO mode 1 30ns 13 383ns (1/383ns) x 2byte = 5.2MB/s
PIO mode 2 30ns 8 240ns (1/240ns) x 2byte = 8.3MB/s
PIO mode 3 30ns 6 180ns (1/180ns) x 2byte = 11.1MB/s
PIO mode 4 30ns 4 120ns (1/120ns) x 2byte = 16.6MB/s
DMA mode 0 30ns 16 480ns (1/480ns) x 2byte = 4.16MB/s
DMA mode 1 30ns 5 150ns (1/150ns) x 2byte = 13.3MB/s
DMA mode 2 30ns 4 120ns (1/120ns) x 2byte = 16.6MB/s
ATA 66 30ns 2 60ns (1/60ns) x 2byte x2 = 66MB/s
ATA 100 20ns 2 40ns (1/40ns) x 2byte x2 = 100MB/s
ATA 133 15ns 2 30ns (1/30ns) x 2byte x2= 133MB/s
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The traditional parallel ATA specification has defined the standard storage interface for PCs with its original speed of just 3
Mbytes/second since the protocol was introduced in the 1980s. And the latest generation of the interface, Ultra ATA-133, has been
developed further with a burst data transfer rate of 133 Mbytes/second. However, while ATA has enjoyed an illustrious track record, the
specification is now showing its age and imposes some serious design issues on today’s developers, including a 5-volt signaling
requirement, high pin count, and serious cabling headaches.
The Serial ATA specification is designed to overcome these design limitations while enabling the storage interface to scale with the
growing media rate demands of PC platforms. Serial ATA is to replace parallel ATA with the compatibility with existing operating systems
and drivers, adding performance headroom for years to come. It reduces voltage and pins count requirements and can be implemented
with thin and easy to route cables.
Note: Only AX45F-4D Max supports 4 SATA Ports; AX45F-4D /
AX45F-4DL / AX45F-4DN support 2 SATA Ports.
SATA
Port3
41
SATA
Port1
SATA
Port2
SATA
Port4
AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
CCoonnnneeccttiinngg SSeerriiaall AATTAA DDiisskk
You will find the claret serial ATA connectors in motherboard easily. To connect a Serial ATA disk, you have to have a 7-pin serial ATA
cable. Connect two ends of the serial ATA cable to the serial ATA header on the motherboard and the disk. Like every other traditional
disk, you also have to connect a power cable. Please be noted that it is a jumper free implement; you don’t need to set jumpers to
define a master or slave disk. When serial ATA hard disks are installed on serial ATA ports, the one connected on Port 0(SATA 1) will be
set as the first boot device automatically. Please be noted that it doesn’t support Hot-Plug in function.
Note: These images are for example only; they may not be exactly the same as the motherboard you purchased.
Item Parallel ATA Serial ATA
Bandwidth 100/133 MB/Sec 150/300/600 MB/Sec
Vol ts 5V 250mV
Pins 40 7
Length Limitation 18 inch (45.72cm) 1 meter (100cm)
Cable Wide Thin
Ventilation Bad Good
Peer-to-Peer No Yes
Comparison between Parallel ATA and Serial ATA
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Except its original 3 sets of parallel IDE, this motherboard does come with the support for the latest Serial ATA hard disk. If you are
unable to find your newly installed Serial ATA hard disks on your operating system after you have had installed them on, the problem
mainly lies in the BIOS setting. You may simply adjust BIOS settings to have them work properly.
After having properly installed your hard disks, you may directly get into the BIOS setting screen for adjustment. You may simply press
“Integrated Peripherals Æ SiS OnChip PCI Device Æ Serial ATA Controller” to choose your preferable mode. If you have no intention of
changing its setting, the default would be enabled.
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With SiS964 chipset onboard, this motherboard provides a cost-effective, high performance stripping (RAID 0) and mirroring (RAID 1)
solution. With stripping, identical drives can read and write data in parallel to increase performance. Mirroring increase read
performance through load balancing and elevator seeking while creating a complete backup of your files. When supporting RAID 0 or
RAID 1, you should connect SATA hard driver disks to SATA Header 1and 2. You can set in SiS RAID BIOS Setting Utility which mode
you want to support.
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Pin1
IDE LED
SPEAKER
The pins of Front Panel Connector are painted in different colors with their respective
functions. Please attach the power LED, speaker, power and reset switch connectors
to the corresponding pins matched in same colors. If you enable “Suspend Mode” item
in BIOS Setup, the ACPI & Power LED will keep flashing or high light while the system
is in suspend mode.
Locate the power switch cable from your ATX housing. It is 2-pin female connector
from the housing front panel. Plug this connector to the soft-power switch connector
marked SPWR.
Suspend Type ACPI LED
Power on Suspend (S1) or Suspend to RAM (S3) Flashing for every second
Suspend to Disk (S4) The LED will be turned off
1
Powe
ACPI & Power LED
RESET
Switch
IDE LED
IDE LED
SPEAKER
NC
NC
+5V
+5V
+5V
GND
NC
1
SPWR
GND
ACPILEDGND
ACPILED+
NC
NC
GND
RESET
GND
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AX45F-4D Series provides an AGP 8X slot, a sky blue slot which has the latest AGP specification in motherboard. The AGP 8x calls for
the bus to operate at the basic AGP 66-MHz clock frequency and the bandwidth are 2.1Gbytes/s. It is a great improvement on the
performance of 3D graphic. AGP supports only memory read/write operation and single-master single-slave one-to-one only. AGP uses
both rising and falling edge of the 66MHz clock, for 2X AGP, the data transfer rate is 66MHz x 4bytes x 2 = 528MB/s and AGP 4x mode,
66MHz x 4bytes x 4 = 1056MB/s. Now the transfer rate is 66MHz x 4bytes x 8 = 2112MB/s. You can adjust AGP voltage in BIOS within a
range from 1.5V to 1.6V.
Warning: It is strongly
recommended not to adjust
voltage/clock of AGP/PCI
when connecting any SATA
service. It is because when
the voltage/clock for
AGP/PCI is adjusted, the
clock for SATA couldn’t
keep 100MHz, and the
system will be unstable.
Warning: It is strongly recommended not
to install a 3.3V AGP card, which is not
supported by SiS 655FX / 964 chipset.
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AAGGPP PPrrootteeccttiioonn TTeecchhnnoollooggyy aanndd AAGGPP LLEEDD
With the outstanding R&D ability of AOpen and its specially developed circuit, this motherboard implements a blend new technology to
protect your motherboard from being damaged by over voltage of AGP card. When AGP Protection Technology is implemented, this
motherboard will automatically detect the voltage of AGP card and prevent your chipsets from being burnt out. Please note that if you
install a AGP card with 3.3V, which is not supported by SiS655FX/964 chipset, the AGP LED on the motherboard will light up to warn
you the possible damage of the exceeding voltage. You may contact your AGP card vendor for further support.
AGP LED
Warning: It is strongly recommended not to
install a 3.3V AGP card, which is not
supported by SiS 655FX/964 chipset. When
you do so, the AGP LED on the motherboard
will light up to warn you the possible damage.
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which supplies needed current and making it virtually free from the “loading issue” of traditional PCI slot. In addition, traces around this
specially designed slot power delivery are upgraded in terms of their trace thickness, making its signals much more robust than their
fellow PCI slots onboard.
When building machines with PCI cards which requires higher power, such as SCSI and RAID cards, the card installed on this slot will
never be affected under heavy loading conditions such as all onboard PCI slots being fully populated. Hercules PCI keeps supplying you
best performance and stability.
Last but not least, if your computer comes with an ordinary SPS (Switching Power Supply), Hercules PCI Slot demonstrates superior
compatibility and reliability.
Spotted easily among other PCI slots onboard, this Hercules PCI slot comes in a
special BLUE color to illustrate its uniqueness and usefulness.
As independent as Hercules is, it comes in a separate set of 3.3 volt power circuitry
Independent 3.3 volt power
circuitry
Hercules PCI slot
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The IrDA connector can be configured to support wireless infrared module, with this module and application software such as Laplink or
Windows 98 Direct Cable Connection, the user can transfer files to or from laptops, notebooks, PDA devices and printers. This
connector supports HPSIR (115.2Kbps, 2 meters) and ASK-IR (56Kbps).
Install the infrared module onto the IrDA connector and enable the infrared function from BIOS Setup, UART Mode, make sure to have
the correct orientation when you plug in the IrDA connector.
Pin 1
NC
+5V
IR_TX
1
KEY
GND
IR_RX
IrDA Connector
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SSuuppppoorrtt LLAANN oonnbbooaarrdd ((ffoorr AAXX4455--44DDLL,, AAXX4455--44DDNN aanndd AAXX4455FF--44DD MMaaxx))
On the strength of Gigabit LAN controller (AX45F-4D Max and AX45F-4DL) or Realtek 10/100Mbps LAN controller (AX45F-4DN) on
board, this motherboard provides 10/100/1000 Mbps (for AX45F-4DN, it is 10/100 Mbps) Ethernet for office and home use. AX45F-4D
motherboard does not support LAN onboard. The Ethernet RJ45 connector is located on top of USB connectors. The right hand side
LED indicates link mode, it lights in orange whenever linking to network. The left hand side LED indicates the transfer mode and it lights
in green when data is transferring in 100Mbps (never lights while in 10Mbps), but lights in orange when transferring in Gigabit’s mode.
To enable or disable this function, you may simply adjust it through BIOS.
Transferring (Left)
Green 100Mbps
Orange Gigabit mode
Linking (Right)
Orange
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SSuuppppoorrtt UUSSBB 22..00 PPoorrttss
This motherboard provides eight USB 2.0 ports to connect USB devices such as mouse, keyboard, modem, printer, etc. There are two
USB headers on the board for you to connect two USB devices and four other ports on the back panel. You can use proper cables to
connect USB devices from back panel or connect the front USB connector to the front panel of chassis.
Compared to traditional USB 1.0/1.1 with the speed of 12Mbps, USB 2.0 has a fancy speed up to 480Mbps that is 40 times faster than
the traditional one. Except for the speed increase, USB 2.0 supports old USB 1.0/1.1 software and peripherals, offering impressive and
even better compatibility to customers. On this motherboard, all eight ports support USB 2.0 function.
SBD6+
1
+5V
SBD6-
GND
KEY
USB 2.0 Connector
+5V
SBD7SBD7+
GND
NC
Pin 1
Note: Please note that if you would like to use
USB devices (Example: keyboard, mouse etc.)
under DOS environment, you must install driver
that comes with the devices to make it work.
Pin 1
51
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AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
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The onboard I/O devices are PS/2 Keyboard, PS/2 Mouse, RJ-45 LAN Connector, COM1, COM2 port, Printer, USB, AC’97 sound and
game ports. The view angle of drawing shown here is from the back panel of the housing.
PS/2 Mouse
Connector
USB Ports
SPP/EPP/ECP
Parallel Port
RJ-45 LAN Connector
(for AX45F-4DL, AX45F-4DN
and AX45F-4D Max
LINE-IN
SPEAKER OUT
PS/2 Keyboard
Connector
PS/2 Keyboard: For standard keyboard, which use a PS/2 plug.
PS/2 Mouse: For PC-Mouse, which use a PS/2 plug.
USB Port: Available for connecting USB devices.
Parallel Port: To connect with SPP/ECP/EPP printer.
COM1 Port: To connect with pointing devices, modem or others serial devices.
COM2 Port: To connect with pointing devices, modem or others serial devices.
RJ-45 LAN connector To connect Ethernet for home or office use.
Speaker Out: To External Speaker, Earphone or Amplifier.
Line-In: Comes from the signal sources, such as CD/Tape player.
MIC-In: From Microphone.
COM 1 Port
COM 2 Port
USB Ports
MIC-IN
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SS//PPDDIIFF ((SSoonnyy//PPhhiilliippss DDiiggiittaall IInntteerrffaaccee)) CCoonnnneeccttoorr
S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) is a latest audio transfer file format that provides impressive quality through optical fiber and
allows you to enjoy digital audio instead of analog. Normally there are two S/PDIF outputs as shown, one for RCA connector, the most
common one used for consumer audio products, and the other for optical connector with a even better audio quality. Through a specific
audio cable, you can connect the S/PDIF connector to a S/PDIF audio module bearing S/PDIF digital output. However, you must have a
S/PDIF supported speaker with S/PDIF digital input to make the most of this function.
S/PDIF OUT
S/PDIF OUT
S/PDIF IN
S/PDIF IN
(Optical)
S/PDIF Module
(User Upgrade Optional)
S/PDIF Cable
1
5
Pin 1
+5V
NC
SPDIFOUT
GND
SPDIFIN
S/PDIF Connector
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SSuuppeerr 55..11 CChhaannnneell AAuuddiioo EEffffeecctt
This motherboard comes with an ALC658 CODEC, which supports high quality of 5.1 Channel audio effects, bringing you a brand new
audio experience. On the strength of the innovative design of ALC658, you're able to use standard line-jacks for surround audio output
without connecting any external module. To apply this function, you have to install the audio driver in the Bonus Pack CD as well as an
audio application supporting 5.1 Channel. Picture bellow represents the standard location of all speakers in 5.1 Channel sound tracks.
Please connect the plug of your front speakers to the green “Speaker out” port, rear speakers’ plug to the blue “Line in” port and both of
the center and subwoofer speakers to the red “MIC in” port.
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AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
FFrroonntt AAuuddiioo CCoonnnneeccttoorr
If the housing has been designed with an audio port on the front panel, you’ll be able to connect onboard audio to front panel through
this connector. By the way, please remove the jumper cap from the Front Audio Connector before you connect the cable. Do not remove
this yellow jumper cap if your housing doesn’t have an audio port on the front panel.
Pin 1
AUD_MIC
AUD_MIC_BIAS
AUD_FPOUT_R
AUD_FPOUT_L
1
AUD_GND
AUD_VCC
AUD_RET_R
NC
Front Audio Connector
KEY
AUD_RET_L
Front Audio Connector
Note: Please remove the jumper cap from the front audio connector before you
connect the cable. Do not remove this yellow jumper cap if your housing doesn’t
have an audio port on the front panel.
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Pin1
Game Port Connector
1
+5V
JAB1
JACX
GND
GND
JACY
JAB2
+5V
+5V
JBB1
JBCX
MIDI_TXD
JBCY
JBB2
MIDI_RXD
KEY
GGaammee PPoorrtt BBrraacckkeett SSuuppppoorrtteedd
This motherboard comes with a game port (Joystick-Midi) for you to connect any midi devices or joysticks. To use this function you have
to have a joystick module and connect it with a game port cable to this port on the motherboard.
Joystick Module
(User Upgrade Optional)
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CCDD AAuuddiioo CCoonnnneeccttoorr
This connector is used to connect CD Audio cable from CDROM or DVD drive to onboard sound.
R
GND
GND
L
CD-IN Connector
Note: Though some of the latest versions of Windows
support “Digital Audio” through IDE bus. However, in
order to use Open Jukebox player, which is driven under
BIOS, it is a MUST to connect audio cable to CD-IN
connector on the motherboard.
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AAUUXX--IINN CCoonnnneeccttoorr
This connector is used to connect MPEG Audio cable from MPEG card to onboard sound.
R
GND
GND
L
AUX-IN Connector
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AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
CCaassee OOppeenn CCoonnnneeccttoorr
The “CASE OPEN” header provides chassis intrusion-monitoring function. To make this function works, you have to enable it in the
system BIOS, connect this header to a sensor somewhere on the chassis. So, whenever the sensor is triggered by lights or by the
opening of the chassis, the system will beep to inform you. Please be informed that this useful function only applies to advanced chassis,
you may purchase an extra sensor, attach it on your chassis, and make a good use of this function.
Pin 1
Case Open Connector
1
GND
Sensor
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AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
SSTTBBYY LLEEDD ((SSttaannddbbyy LLEEDD))
STBY LED is AOpen’s considerate design that aims at providing you friendly system information. The STBY LED will light up when
power is provided to the motherboard. This is a convenient indication for you to check the system power status in many circumstances
such as power on/off, stand-by mode and RAM power status during Suspend to RAM mode.
STBY LED
Warning: Do not install or remove the
DIMM module or others devices when the
STBY LED lights on.
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AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
FFaannssiinnkk oonn NNoorrtthh BBrriiddggee
In order to provide a better effect of cooling and make the chipset work more stable, we especially design a fansink on the north bridge.
After locating the fansink on the north bridge, plug the connector to the header marked SYSFAN1 on the motherboard.
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LLooww EESSRR CCaappaacciittoorr
The quality of low ESR capacitor (Low Equivalent Series Resistance) during high frequency operation is very important for the stability
of CPU power. The idea of where to put these capacitors is another know-how that requires experience and detail calculation.
Not only that, AX45F-4D Series implements 3300μF capacitors, which is much larger than normal capacitor (1000 & 1500μF) and it
provides better stability for CPU power.
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AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
JJPP22 SSppeeaakkeerr OOuuttppuutt JJuummppeerr ((oonnllyy ffoorr AAXX4455FF--44DD MMaaxx))
This motherboard comes with another considerate option that allows you to turn off the voice from buzzer and speaker. You can choose
not to be bothered by the warning made from Dr. Voice II when it detects any error in operating system. You may also set JP2 to choose
sending out voices from buzzer or speaker.
Pin1
1
Buzzer
(Default)
1
Speaker
63
(
)
AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
JJPP1144 CClleeaarr CCMMOOSS DDaattaa
You can clear CMOS to restore system default setting. To clear the CMOS, follow the procedure below.
1. Turn off the system and unplug the AC power.
2. Remove ATX power cable from connector PWR2.
3. Locate JP14 and short pins 2-3 for a few seconds.
4. Return JP14 to its normal setting by shorting pin1 & pin2.
5. Connect ATX power cable back to connector PWR2.
1
Normal
default
Pin 1
1
Clear CMOS
Tip: When should I Clear CMOS?
1. Boot fails because of overclocking…
2. Forget password…
3. Troubleshooting…
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AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
JJPP1155//JJPP1166 DDrr.. VVooiiccee IIII LLaanngguuaaggee SSeelleecctt JJuummppeerrss
((oonnllyy ffoorr AAXX4455FF--44DD MMaaxx))
Dr. Voice II is a great feature which can identify the problems you may encounter in the operating system. It can clearly “tell you”
whether the problem is caused from components or improper installation such as CPU, memory module, VGA, PCI add-on card, FDD,
HDD or keyboard. Dr. Voice II provides four language versions: English, German, Japanese and Chinese. You can select your
preferred language by JP15 & JP16 jumpers. Furthermore, you may also set JP2 to choose sending out voices from buzzer or speaker
JP16
JP15
Pin 1
English
(Default)
Japanese Chinese
JP2 Pin 1
JP16 Pin 1
JP15 Pin 1
Dr. Voice Language
Select Jumper
German
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AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess
Online Maannuuaall
Online M
JJPP2244 // JJPP2255 BBIIOOSS RReessccuuee JJuummppeerr ((oonnllyy ffoorr AAXX4455FF--44DD MMaaxx))
Inherited DieHard BIOS, the steps of rescuing your crashed BIOS 1 back to life is the same. First step is to set JP24 to Pin2-3 to boot up
the system with BIOS 2. After that, please set the JP24 back to Pin1-2, go to AOpen website to get your BIOS version suited for your
motherboard, and have it downloaded. There are two kinds of ways to flash the BIOS 1; you may flash it under Window environment
with EZWinflash or under DOS system. To flash under Window environment is easy; you may just download the BIOS version and
implement it with EZWinflash. For Flashing BIOS under DOS system, please unzip the BIOS version after downloading from website,
and execute it under DOS. These two versions of BIOS have been provided on our website for your downloading. DieHard BIOS II is
further enhanced with data saving function. In addition to read-only ROM, DieHard BIOS II allows you to turn your second ROM into a
Read-and-write ROM with larger space provided. You may download fancy skins from our website
(http://download.aopen.com.tw/downloads
Protection).
Note: Please be
noted that you will
not be able to use
the second BIOS
ROM for boot-up
after setting JP25
to Pin 2-3 for the
purpose of saving
skins of JukeBox,
JukeBox FM or
VividBIOS.
) to apply them on JukeBox, JukeBox FM or VividBIOS by adjusting JP25 to Pin2-3 (No
Pin1
Pin1
JP 24
Boot from
BIOS1 (default)
JP 25
Protect
BIOS2 (default)
1
1
1
Boot from
BIOS2
1
Not protect
BIOS2
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Enable
Pin 1
1
1
Disable
(Default)
JJPP2288 KKeeyybbooaarrdd//MMoouussee WWaakkee--uupp JJuummppeerr
This motherboard provides PS2 keyboard / mouse wake-up function. You can use JP28 to enable or disable this function, which could
resume your system from suspend mode with keyboard or mouse. The factory default setting is set to “Disable” (1-2), and you may
enable this function by setting the jumper to 2-3.
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AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess
OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
TThhee nnooiissee iiss ggoonnee!!!! -------- SSiilleennttTTeekk
As the clock of CPU keeps rocketing higher and higher, it inevitably brings higher heat and system
temperature in a relative way. The way we deal with this heat problem, however, is to spare no
effort to add one fan after another to protect our pampered system, expecting these fans could cool
down our machine as much as they could.
But at the same time, we believe that same users are affected terribly by the irritating noises of these fans while working with their PC.
As a matter of fact, we do not have to get our fans running at such a high speed in most cases; on the contrary, we discovered that
having your fans running at appropriate time and speed not only reduces the noise, but also consumes the least power the system
needs, so as to prevent over-wasting of energy resource.
Today, AOpen Motherboard is honored to
bring you a new overall solution, SilentTek, to
make your system quiet. To collocate with
hardware circuit, BIOS and the utility under
Windows, SilentTek combined
“Hardware-Status Monitoring”, “Overheat
Warning” and “Fan Speed Control” with
user-friendly interfaces to provide you a
perfect balance among noises, system
performance and stability.
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The first image you have here is the Voltage Status page.
You can find current status of all voltages and set your
expected margins of warning level.
You may check your
system voltage from the
indicating bar here.
In “Temp/Fan/Case” page, you may get aware of the current
temperature of CPU and the heat inside chassis. Also,
you can check if fans are running properly.
Of course, you may set your
defaulted lowest margin for your
fans and SilentTek would also
pop up a message box to alarm
you when the fan is rotating
slower than this specified speed.
You may set the highest margin
of your CPU and system
temperature as default, and
SilentTek would pop up a
message box to alert you with
alarm when the temperature
goes beyond the specified
margin.
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The following page is surely the most important part of this utility. You may control the rotation speed of specific fans that you have got
the options inside in this page.
CD-ROM Rotation Speed Control: by enabling the CD-ROM
Rotation Speed Control, you can adjust the rotation speed of your
CD-ROM. When you set the speed to high level, the CD-ROM will
work at its fastest speed and it will run at basic required speed
while you set the value to low speed.
1. Smart FAN Control: This is the default setting of
SilentTek and can be used for any branded computer
housing. With a special algorithm developed by AOpen,
the fan speed is automatically adjusted by the factors of
CPU and ambient temperature. Ease-of-use and trouble
free at your service.
2. Fixed FAN Control: Under this setting, a desired fan
speed is set fixed when operating.
3. Multiple Level Control: This is the most versatile
setting that allows you to set fan speed in relation to
temperature. You may find that this setting fits you best.
4. AOpen Recommend Setting: This setting is designed
specifically for AOpen housing. A series of lab tests were
conducted under the real world scenario to determine
optimum fan speed to reduce noise level within CPU
working condition and temperature. Most of the time, the
fan would remain still when CPU is not fully utilized.
Note: Due to hundreds different brands of fan on the
market, inaccuracy may happen in some cases when you
had your rotation speed adjusted. It is still under the
criterion and please rest assured that it won’t cause any
problem to your system.
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F
--44DD SSeerriie
es
s OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
EEzzCClloocckk
Have you ever thought how great it would be if you can adjust the frequency setting on your motherboard under Windows environment
and be a real master of your system? Everybody knows that the ratio and frequency setting are key factors to influence the system
performance; however, it’s absolutely not an easy task for an amateur to adjust the setting value. On most traditional motherboards, you
have to get into BIOS screen for the frequency and
reboot the system again and again. But from now on,
you don’t surfer the boring stuffs anymore.
With brand-new and user-friendly EzClock that
AOpen specially designs for his users, you can adjust
those important values as you please and think of
suitable. This tailor-made EzClock allows you to set
the voltage and frequency of CPU, VGA, PCI and
memory under Windows environment as well as in
BIOS setting page; even better, those settings will be
displayed real-time. Having this handy EzClock, you
can monitor the system when you’re fine-tuning the
performance of your system. It provides you detailed
and necessary information. Now let’s take a look how
it works on utility, BIOS and POST.
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How You Adjust the Settings in EzClock Utility
In EzClock utility, you can adjust CPU Front Side Bus (FSB), the voltage and frequency of VGA, AGP, PCI and DRAM. Besides, the
CPU related information such as CPU voltage, temperature and CPUFAN rotation speed will also be displayed on this utility.
CPU Color Bars:
The color bar will
light on and show
different colors as
values change. On
default values, it
will show green.
On the right part of the panel is the section that you adjust the settings of
VGA, AGP, PCI and memory. To adjust the voltage and clock frequency of
those installments, you can press “-“ or “+” on corresponding items. The
color parts represent the situation of values. The higher value you set, the
light on the color bar goes to right and turns red. After finishing those value
settings, you can press “Apply” button on the upper right hand corner to
save changes to CMOS.
VGA, AGP, PCI and DRAM Voltage / Clock Area:
Pressing “_” and “+” buttons, you can adjust the
voltage and clock frequency values of onboard
VGA, AGP, PCI and DRAM.
On the left circle area shows Ratio, FSB and frequency information
about CPU. When the values are set to factory default, the light on
the top and bottom of the circle will show green and it will vary as you
change these CPU settings.
CPU Ratio, FSB and frequency displaying area:
You can adjust CPU FSB here by entering preferred value.
72
Control buttons:
“_” button allows you
to minimize the utility
and “X” button to close
the utility. Pressing
“Apply” button you can
save the changes to
CMOS.
AAXX4455FF--44D
On the bottom rectangular panel represents CPU fan speed, CPU voltage and CPU temperature. The three color bars on the right hand
On the bottom rectangular panel represents CPU fan speed, CPU voltage and CPU temperature. The three color bars on the right hand
side will light on according to operation temperature. Please refer to the picture shown above.
side will light on according to operation temperature. Please refer to the picture shown above.
CPU Color Bars:
The color bars will light on
according to CPU operation
temperature.
D
r
iieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
SSeer
CPU Fan, Voltage and Temperature:
representing CPU fan speed, CPU
voltage and CPU temperature in
Celsius and Fahrenheit degrees.
How You Adjust the Settings in BIOS How You Adjust the Settings in BIOS
Apart from EzClock utility, the voltage and frequency values
Apart from EzClock utility, the voltage and frequency values
of CPU, PCI and memory can also be adjusted on BIOS
of CPU, PCI and memory can also be adjusted on BIOS
page. By pressing “+”, “-“, “PgUp” or “PgDn” keys, you can
page. By pressing “+”, “-“, “PgUp” or “PgDn” keys, you can
adjust the frequency values of CPU Bus, PCI Bus and
adjust the frequency values of CPU Bus, PCI Bus and
DRAM.
DRAM.
Also, the same keys help you adjust the voltage of CPU and
Also, the same keys help you adjust the voltage of CPU and
DDR settings. Some values may change while you adjust
DDR settings. Some values may change while you adjust
the settings. You can press “F10” to save the changes
the settings. You can press “F10” to save the changes
you’ve made.
you’ve made.
Function Keys
Description
Note: The items provided by EzClock
Utility vary in different motherboards. The
unavailable function in your motherboard
will present in grey.
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How Your Boot Screen Looks Like
After you finish setting BIOS, these setting values
will be displayed on the boot screen like the shown
picture here.
Every time you boot your system, both default and
current settings will pop up on the screen. Your
personal settings that had been adjusted earlier will
be highlighted; thus, you can have clear idea how
your system functions and monitor your system
more easily.
Current values of
your system
Default settings of this
motherboard
74
The highlighted setting
value you manually adjust
AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
HHyyppeerr TThhrreeaaddiinngg TTeecchhnnoollooggyy
What is Hyper-Threading?
Hyper-Threading technology is an innovative design from Intel that enables multi-threaded software applications to process threads in
parallel within each processor resulting in increased utilization of processor execution resources. As a result, an average improvement
of ~40% in CPU resource utilization yields higher processing throughput.
How Hyper-Threading Works
A form of simultaneous multi-threading technology (SMT), Hyper-Threading technology allows multiple threads of software applications
to be run simultaneously on one processor by duplicating the architectural state on each processor while the same processor execution
resources is shared. The figure below
represents how a Hyper-Threading based
processor differentiates a traditional
multiprocessor. The left-hand configuration
shows a traditional multiprocessor system
with two physical processors. Each
processor has its own independent
execution resources and architectural state.
The right-hand configuration represents an
Intel Hyper-Threading technology based
processor. You can see that the architectural
state for each processor is duplicated, while
the execution resources is shared.
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For multiprocessor-capable software applications, the Hyper-Threading based processor is considered two separate logical processors
on which the software applications can
run without modification. Also, each
logical processor responds to
interrupts independently. The first
logical processor can track one
software thread, while the second
logical processor tracks another
software thread simultaneously.
Because the two threads share the
same execution resources, the second
thread can use resources that would
be otherwise idle if only one thread
was executing. This results in an
increased utilization of the execution
resources within each physical
processor.
The figure below represents how
Hyper-Threading saves time when it
works. With two logical processors available on every single physical processor, multi-threaded applications can now take advantage of
thread-level parallelism on each physical processor for additional performance. As software applications continue to be optimized to take
greater advantage of processor parallelism, Hyper-Threading technology provides an additional boost for newer capabilities and the
growing needs of today’s users.
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AAOOCCoonnffiigg UUttiilliittyy
AOpen always dedicated to provide users a much friendly computer environment. We now
bring you a comprehensive system detection utility. AOConfig is a Windows based utility
with user-friendly interface that allows users to obtain information of the operation system
and hardware such as motherboard, CPU, memory, PCI devices and IDE devices. The powerful utility also displays the version of BIOS
and firmware for your convenience of maintenance.
Moreover, AOConfig allows users to save information in *.BMP or *.TXT format which users may collect the system information in detail
and send them to AOpen directly for technical support or for further diagnose of system problems.
1. The system page shows the
detailed information of the
motherboard, operating
system, processor, and
BIOS version.
2. The PCI device page shows
the configurations of all PCI
devices installed in your
motherboard.
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AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
3. This page presents the IDE
device information, such as
serial number, manufacturer,
firmware version, and capacity.
4. From this page, users can
obtain the technical support
information of AOpen. Moreover,
detailed information could be
saved in .bmp or .txt format.
NOTE:
AOConfig can be used under Windows 98SE/ME, NT4.0/2000, or Windows XP. Please also note that AOConfig can
only be operated in a system equipped with an AOpen motherboard. Before running AOConfig, all applications must
be closed.
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RRAAIIDD IInnttrroodduuccttiioonn
WWhhaatt’’ss RRAAIIDD??
Two major challenges facing the storage industry today are keeping pace with the increasing performance demands of computer
systems by improving disk I/O throughput and providing data accessibility in the face of hard disk failures.
The idea of RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) was first introduced by David A. Patterson, Garth Gibson and Randy H. Katz
at the University California at Berkeley in 1988. RAID is a purpose of storing the same data in different places on multiple hard disks and
improves storage subsystem performance. The advantage of RAID is to provide better throughput performance and/or data fault
tolerance. Better performance is accomplished by sharing the workload in parallel among multiple physical hard drives. Fault-tolerance
is achieved through data redundant operation where if one (or more) drive fails or has a sector failure, a mirrored copy of the data can
be found on another drive(s).
A RAID appears to the operating system to be a single logical hard disk. The RAID controller manages how the data is stored and
accessed across the physical and logical arrays. The RAID controller help users to ensure that the operating system only sees the
logical drives and users do not need to worry about managing the complicated schema.
For optimal performance results, select identical hard drives to install in disk arrays. The drives’ matched performance allows the array
to function better as a single drive.
Warning: The Serial ATA RAID function
can be supported under Windows XP and
Windows .Net environments.
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AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
WWhhaatt aarree tthhee RRAAIIDD lleevveellss??
SSttrriippiinngg // SSppaann ((RRAAIIDD 00))
RAID level 0, which is the fastest drive array you can have, is a performance-oriented disk mapping method. The data in this array gets
written across a stripe or different disks for a faster transfer. This technique has striping but no redundancy of data. It offers the best
performance but no fault-tolerance. Reads and writes sector of data interleaved between multiple drives. When any disk member fails, it
affects the entire array. Performance is better than a single drive since the workload is balanced between the array members. This array
type is for high performance systems. Identical drives are recommended for performance as well as data storage efficiency. The disk
array data capacity is equal to the number of members times the smallest member capacity. For example, one 40GB and one 60GB
drives will form an 80GB (40GBx2) disk array.
Block 1
Block 2
Block 3
Block 4
Striping
Block 1
Block 3
Block 5
Block 7
Block 5
Block 6
Block 7
Block 8
Block 2
Block 4
Block 6
Block 8
Logical Drive
80
Physical Disks
AAXX4
4
55FF--44DD SSeerriieess
OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
MMiirrrroorriinngg ((RRAAIIDD 11))
RAID level 1 uses at least two duplicate hard drives and store the exact same
blocks of information between them. This is the slowest form of fault
tolerance because the data has to be replicated onto two disks at the same
time. However, this is the simplest way to provide high reliability.
If one of the mirrored drives suffers a mechanical failure or does not respond,
the remaining drive will continue to serve and provide correct data. If one
drive has a physical sector error, the mirrored drive will continue to function.
Due to redundancy, the drive capacity of the array is half the total drive
capacity. For example, two 40GB drives that have a combined capacity of
80GB would have 40GB of usable storage. With drives of different capacities,
there may be unused capacity on the larger drive. RAID 1 increases cost as it
takes twice as much hard drives to build our arrays.
Block 1
Block 2
Block 3
Block 4
Block 5
Block 6
Block 7
Block 8
Logical Drive
Mirroring
Block 1
Block 2
Block 3
Block 4
Block 5
Block 6
Block 7
Block 8
Block 1
Block 2
Block 3
Block 4
Block 5
Block 6
Block 7
Block 8
81
Physical Disks
AAXX4455FF--44DD SSeerriieess OOnnlliinnee MMaannuuaall
HHDDDD CCaappaacciittyy ooff RRAAIIDD LLeevveellss
SSttrriippiinngg // SSppaann ((RRAAIIDD 00))
MMiirrrroorriinngg ((RRAAIIDD 11))
Physical Disks
40 GB
Physical Disks
40 GB
Physical Disks
40 GB
Physical Disks
40 GB
Logical Drive
80 GB
Logical Drive
40 GB
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SSeerriiaall AATTAA RRAAIIDD ffoorr SSiiSS996644
With the latest chipsets implemented, SiS964 provides RAID 0 and RAID1 function for the Serial ATA hard disks. You may follow the
steps shown below to setup your disk array.
AArroouussee RRAAIIDD ffuunnccttiioonn iinn BBIIOOSS
After having properly installed your Serial ATA hard disks, you may directly get into the BIOS setting screen for adjustment. You may
simply press “Integrated Peripherals Æ OnChip IDE Device Æ OnChip Serial ATA Mode” to choose RAID mode. Finally, do save the
changes and exit BIOS setup screen.
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RRAAIIDD CCoonnffiigguurraattiioonn UUttiilliittyy
In order to make sure your system can recognize and operate Serial ATA RAID device smoothly, we have to enter RAID Setting Utility to
do some configuration. After finishing the BIOS setup and reboot, you will see [Press CTRL + S to enter RAID Setting Utility] about half
way through the boot up. Please press these two buttons simultaneously. When you enter you will be presented with a screen as shown
below:
1. Create RAID Mode:
This section allows users to choose the
disk volume of RAID.
2. Delete RAID Mode:
This section allows users to delete the
volume of RAID. Please be noted that
deleting a volume will destroy volume
data and cause any member disks to
become available as non-RAID disks.
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PPhhooeenniixx--AAWWAARRDD BBIIOOSS
System parameters can be modified by going into BIOS Setup menu, this menu allows you to configure the system parameters and
save the configuration into the 128 bytes CMOS area, (normally in the RTC chip or in the main chipset).
Phoenix-Award BIOS™ installed in the Flash ROM
provides critical low-level support for standard devices such as hard disk drives, serial and parallel ports.
Most BIOS settings of AX45F-4D Series have been optimized by AOpen’s R&D engineering team. But, the default setting of BIOS still
can’t fine-tune the chipset controlling entire system. Therefore, the rest of this chapter intends to guide you the process of configuring
your system setup.
To enter to BIOS setup menu, press <Del> when POST (Power-On Self Test)
Note: Because the BIOS code is the most often
changed part of the motherboard design, the BIOS
information contained in this manual may be different
with actual BIOS that come with your motherboard.
of the motherboard is a custom version of an industry standard BIOS. The BIOS
screen is shown on your monitor.
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Generally, you can use arrow keys to highlight items that you want to choose, then press <Enter> key to select, and use the <Page Up>
and <Page Down> key to change setting values. You can press <Esc> key to quit Phoenix-Award™ BIOS setup program. The following
table provides details about how to use keyboard in the Phoenix-Award BIOS setup program. Alternatively, it's strongly recommended
to install AOpen’s newest WinBIOS
Page Up or + Changing setting to next value or increase the value.
Page Down or - Changing setting to previous value or decrease value.
Enter Select the item.
Esc 1. In main menu: Quit and don’t save any change.
Up Arrow Highlight previous item.
Down Arrow Highlight next item.
Left Arrow Move the light bar to left side of menu.
Right Arrow Move the light bar to right side of menu.
F6 Load fail-save setting value from CMOS.
F7 Load turbo setting value from CMOS.
F10 Save changed setting and exit setup program.
Utility to get more detailed description, further powerful functions and advanced setting of BIOS.
Key Description
2. In sub menu: Exit current menu to main menu.
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After you finish jumper settings and connect correct cables, power on and enter the BIOS Setup. Press <Del> during POST (Power-On
Self Test) and choose "Load Setup Defaults" for recommended optimal performance.
Del
Warning: Please avoid of using "Load Turbo Defaults", unless you
are sure your system components (CPU, DRAM, HDD, etc.) are
good enough for turbo setting.
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With outstanding R&D ability of AOpen, we now bring you a whole new BIOS Flash wizard ----
EzWinFlash. With an eye to users convenience, EzWinFlash combines the BIOS binary code
and flash module together, so the only thing you have to do is just clicking on the utility you
downloaded from web and let it helps you complete the flash process automatically. EzWinFlash detects your motherboard and checks
the BIOS version cleverly to prevent your system from any possible failure. Moreover, EzWinFlash has been taken into consideration to
go with any windows platform you might be using, no matter if you’re using Windows 95/98, 98SE/ME, NT4.0/2000, or Windows XP.
In the meanwhile, in order to provide a much more user-friendly operating environment, AOpen EzWinFlash is natively designed to have
multi-language function to provide easier way for users’ usage in changing BIOS setting.
Caution: By updating your motherboard,
you are taking a risk of BIOS flash failure. If
your motherboard is working stable, and
there are no major bugs that had been fixed
by a latter BIOS revision, we recommend
that you DO NOT try to upgrade your BIOS.
If you intent on upgrading, PLEASE BE
SURE to get the right BIOS revision for the
right motherboard model to avoid any
possibility failure.
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You may accomplish BIOS upgrade procedure with EzWinFlash by the following steps, and it’s STRONGLY RECOMMENDED to close
all the applications before you start the upgrading.
1. Download the new version of BIOS package zip
2. Unzip the download BIOS package (ex: W45F4DMAX102.ZIP) with WinZip (http://www.winzip.com
3. Save the unzipped files into a folder, for example, W45F4DMAX102.EXE & W45F4DMAX102.BIN.
4. Double click on the W45F4DMAX102.EXE; EzWinFlash will detect the model name and BIOS version of your motherboard. If you
had got the wrong BIOS, you will not be allowed to proceed with the flash steps.
5. You may select preferred language in the main menu, then click [Start Flash] to start the BIOS upgrade procedure.
6. EzWinFlash will complete all the process automatically, and a dialogue box will pop up to ask you to restart Windows. You may
click [YES] to reboot Windows.
7. Press <Del> at POST to enter BIOS setup; choose "Load Setup Defaults", then “Save & Exit Setup”. Done!
It is strongly recommended NOT to turn off the power or run any application during FLASH PROCESS.
Warning: The new BIOS upgrade will permanently replace your
original BIOS’s settings when flashing. You may need to reconfigure
your BIOS setting so that your system can go back to work as normal.
file from AOpen official web site. (Ex: http://www.aopen.com)
) in Windows environment.
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In the past, users have to keep
punching the DEL key at a good
timing during POST (Power-On-Self-Test) screen to get into the
BIOS, which is inconvenient and clumsy. From now on, AOpen
provides an easier way to configure your BIOS. WinBIOS is a
customized utility for running exclusively on AOpen motherboards,
which allows you to setup your BIOS under Windows environment.
Designed with traditional-BIOS-alike interface, you may adjust BIOS
parameter with clear descriptions for each item.
WinBIOS is natively designed with multi-language support. There are
various widely-use languages provided on our website for your
downloading, which also helps to prevent wrong settings caused by
misunderstanding of the languages. The only thing you have to do is
to visit our official website and download your respective language
pack (of few KB size), then double-click on it to activate the support
with your chosen language.
Moreover, with high scalability, either for newly bought motherboard or the latest BIOS version with new function, you don’t have to
re-install the whole program again and again. All you have to do is to grab the latest profile from our website, simply double-click on it as
well to support the latest version of your BIOS. You don’t have to spend any extra effort to have your motherboard supported by
WinBIOS.
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Function keys:
It’s definitely easy to handle WinBIOS as if you’re using traditional
BIOS setting. Users can use the arrow keys such
as
And use
are available. Press to get back to the previous screen.
Furthermore, the hotkeys shown in the table may help you and save
your time. Some settings may not come into effect until you reboot
your system.
Caution: After updating your BIOS, please remember to update
WinBIOS profile as well. If the upgraded BIOS version is newer
than WinBIOS profile, WinBIOS will not be able to launch and a
dialog box with error message will pop up. This verification is
designed on purpose to protect your BIOS from damaged by
wrong profile version.
For the latest WinBIOS profile and language pack modules, you may
find them from AOpen official web site as shown below:
(http://english.aopen.com.tw/tech/download/WinBIOS/default.htm
Note: Due to BIOS versions are updated in an extremely fast speed, it's strongly recommended to download the latest BIOS
version and WinBIOS profile from our website upon receipt of the motherboard.
to move around the items in WinBIOS screen.
, “+” or “-” to change the setting value if they
Hotkey Function Description
F1 Get help description.
F2 Item Help
F3 Changing menu language.
F5 Load previous setting
F6 Load setup default setting
F7 Load turbo setting
F10 Save changed setting and exit setup program.
F12 Full Screen / Normal Mode
)
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Here we are pleased to provide you a brand-new powerful interface—Open JukeBox. Without any
cost you can have your PC turn into a fashionable CD player! This latest Open JukeBox
motherboard aims at helping you directly operate your CD player on the PC without any hassle of
entering Windows operation system.
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How Your Open JukeBox Works
The operation of Open JukeBox Player is the same as other CD players. By pressing specific keys on the keyboard you will find playing
Open JukeBox Player couldn’t be easier than the traditional CD Players. Below is the function description of respective buttons.
Power-Off Button
Boot to
Operation System
Power: Pressing O
Boot: Pressing B
Play: Pressing A
Stop: Pressing S
Pause: Pressing P
Eject: Pressing E
Repeat: Like other CD Players, pressing R
Volume +/-: Pressing + or – to adjust the volume of playing music.
Rewind/Forward Å / Æ: Pressing arrow keys, to rewind or forward the music.
, to directly power off your computer with no hassle of entering Windows Operation System.
, to intelligently boot to Windows Operation System for you.
, to start playing CD music.
, to stop the music playing.
, to pause the music playing temporarily.
, to eject CD tray for you to change CD disc.
, to shift the repeat mode.
Note: Though some of the latest version
of Windows support “Digital Audio”
through IDE bus. However, in order to use
Open Jukebox player, which is driven
under BIOS, it is a MUST to insert audio
cable to CD-IN connector on the
motherboard.
Dis
Function Key
Screen
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Your Open JukeBox Settings in BIOS
There are three Open JukeBox settings in BIOS as follows.
Auto
: The default setting is “Auto” with which the Open JukeBox will automatically check the CD player every time you power on. The
Open JukeBox will automatically be launched when it detects a music CD in your CD player.
Press Insert Key
pressing “Ins” key on your keyboard to start Open JukeBox Player; otherwise the system will launch the Windows Operation System.
CD Player
on your keyboard the Windows Operation System will be launched.
: Choosing this setting will allow a reminder message popped up on the screen during BIOS POST. It reminds you of
: Choosing this setting allows the system to launch Open JukeBox Player every time you power on. However, by pressing B
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Your Open JukeBox EzSkin
Except these powerful functions above, Open JukeBox Player is also equipped with another fancy feature for you to change its
“skin”. You can download as many skins as you want from AOpen Website, and changing them whenever you want by using
this useful utility – EzSkin – which may also be downloaded from our website.
Even more, you may design your own skins with innovative idea and sharing them to users around the world by uploading to our
website. For further technical information, we welcome you to visit our website at http://english.aopen.com.tw/tech/download/skin
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Unlike earlier graphic POST screen which could occupy the whole screen and mask text information during POST, AOpen VividBIOS
deals with graphics and texts separately, and makes them running simultaneously during POST. With this innovative design, VividBIOS
now brings you a beautiful and sleek 256 colours screen without missing any important information shown on POST screen.
In addition, the limited space of BIOS ROM is another big issue. When all of the traditional BIOS can only show space-consuming and
uncompressed Bitmap, AOpen has considerately tuned the BIOS to next generation, to recognize the smaller-sized GIF format and
even dynamic-showing GIF animation.
Vivid BIOS shares the same fundamental technology with Open JukeBox CD Player, you may use the same EzSkin utility to change
your Vivid BIOS screen or to download your favourite Open JukeBox skin. If you see this little logo
name on the BIOS download page,
supports this innovative feature!
Have you been fed up with the conservative and immutable POST screen? Let’s rule out the tradition
idea that POST screen are stiff and frigid, and let AOpen show you the newly developed VividBIOS
to experience the lively vivid colourful POST screen!
shown beside your model
http://english.aopen.com.tw/tech/download/skin, it is assured that your motherboard
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There are motherboard drivers and utilities in AOpen Bonus CD. You don’t need to install all of them to boot your system. But after you
finish the hardware installation, you have to install your operation system first (such as Windows XP) before you install any drivers or
utilities. Please refer to your operation system’s installation guide.
AAuuttoo--rruunn MMeennuu ffrroomm BBoonnuuss CCDD
You can use the auto-run menu of Bonus CD. Choose the utility and driver and select model name.
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You can find AGP driver from the Bonus Pack CD auto-run menu.
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This motherboard comes with RealTek AC97 CODEC. This audio driver supports Windows 98SE and upper Windows OS; you can find
the audio driver from the Bonus Pack CD auto-run menu.
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Install LAN Driver in Windows 98SE
1. Open the Device Manager and check if there is a "PCI Ethernet Controller" in "Other devices"
2. Insert the supplied "Bonus CD"
3. Double click "PCI Ethernet Controller”
4. Click "Reinstall Driver" in the General Tab.
5. Select "Search for a better driver than the one your device is using now. (Recommended)"
6. Select "Specify a location", and type "G:\Driver\LAN\RTL8100S-32\Win98" in the text box that appears. Press “Next".
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