ASUS A7A266 User Manual

®

A7A266

DDR SDRAM

266MHz FSB AGP Pro/4X

Socket A Motherboard

USER’S MANUAL

USER'S NOTICE

No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form
or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the
express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).

ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EI­THER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED T O THE IMPLIED WAR­RANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A P ARTICULAR
PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR
AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUEN­TIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS,
LOSS OF USE OR DA TA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE), EVEN IF ASUS
HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY
DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.

Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or al­tered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the
serial number of the product is defaced or missing.

Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks
or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identification or explanation
and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.

• AMD, Athlon™ are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

• VIA is a trademark of VIA Technologies, Inc.

• Windows and MS-DOS are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

• Adobe and Acrobat are registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated.

• Trend and ChipAwayVirus are trademarks of Trend Micro, Inc.

• Other company and product names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective
companies with which they are associated.

The product name and revision number are both printed on the product itself. Manual revisions
are released for each product design represented by the digit before and after the period of the
manual revision number . Manual updates are represented by the third digit in the manual revision
number.

For previous or updated manuals, BIOS, drivers, or product release information, contact ASUS at
http://www .asus.com.tw or through any of the means indicated on the following page.

SPECIFICA TIONS AND INFORMATION CONT AINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED
FOR INFORMA TIONAL USE ONL Y, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITH­OUT NOTICE, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS
ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURA­CIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFT­WARE DESCRIBED IN IT.

Copyright © 2001 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.

Product Name: ASUS A7A266
Manual Revision: 1.04 E828
Release Date: August 2001

2

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

ASUS CONTACT INFORMATION

ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (Asia-Pacific)

Marketing

Address: 150 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 112
Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Technical Support

MB/Others (Tel): [phone] (English)
Notebook (Tel): [phone] (English)
Desktop/Server (Tel):[phone] (English)
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
WWW: www.asus.com.tw
FTP: ftp.asus.com.tw/pub/ASUS

ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)

Marketing

Address: 6737 Mowry Avenue, Mowry Business Center, Building 2

Newark, CA 94560, USA
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Technical Support

Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
WWW: www.asus.com
FTP: ftp.asus.com/Pub/ASUS

ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Europe)

Marketing

Address: Harkortstr. 25, 40880 Ratingen, BRD, Germany
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail] (for marketing requests only)

Technical Support

Hotline: MB/Others: [phone] Notebook: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Support (Email): www.asuscom.de/de/support (for online support)
WWW: www.asuscom.de
FTP: ftp.asuscom.de/pub/ASUSCOM

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 3

CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION 7

1.1 How This Manual Is Organized ................................................... 7

1.2 Item Checklist .............................................................................. 7

2. FEATURES 8

2.1 The ASUS A7A266...................................................................... 8

2.1.1 Specifications ..................................................................... 8

2.1.2 Optional Components......................................................... 9

2.1.3 Special Features................................................................ 10

2.1.4 Performance Features ....................................................... 10

2.1.5 Intelligence ....................................................................... 11

2.2 Motherboard Components.......................................................... 12

2.2.1 Component Locations....................................................... 13

3. HARDWARE SETUP 14

3.1 Motherboard Layout .................................................................. 14

3.2 Layout Contents ......................................................................... 15

3.3 Getting Started ........................................................................... 17

3.4 Motherboard Settings ................................................................. 18

3.5 System Memory ......................................................................... 24

3.5.1 DDR DIMM Support........................................................ 24

3.5.2 SDR DIMM Support ........................................................ 25

3.5.3 General DIMM Notes....................................................... 25

3.5.4 Memory Installation ......................................................... 26

3.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU) .................................................. 27

3.7 Expansion Cards ........................................................................ 28

3.7.1 Expansion Card Installation Procedure ............................ 28

3.7.2 Assigning IRQs for Expansion Cards .............................. 29

3.7.3 Accelerated Graphics Port Pro (AGP Pro) ....................... 30

3.7.4 Audio Modem Riser (AMR) Slot ..................................... 31

3.8 Connectors ................................................................................. 33

3.9 Starting Up the First Time.......................................................... 45

4. BIOS SETUP 47

4.1 Managing and Updating Your BIOS .......................................... 47

4.1.1 Upon First Use of the Computer System.......................... 47

4.1.2 Updating BIOS Procedures .............................................. 48

4.2 BIOS Setup Program.................................................................. 51

4.2.1 BIOS Menu Bar................................................................ 52

4

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

CONTENTS

4.2.2 Legend Bar ....................................................................... 52

4.3 Main Menu ................................................................................. 54

4.3.1 Primary & Secondary Master/Slave ................................. 55

4.3.2 Keyboard Features............................................................ 58

4.4 Advanced Menu ......................................................................... 60

4.4.1 Chip Configuration........................................................... 63

4.4.2 I/O Device Configuration ................................................. 65

4.4.3 PCI Configuration ............................................................ 67

4.5 Power Menu ............................................................................... 69

4.5.1 Power Up Control............................................................. 71

4.5.2 Hardware Monitor ............................................................ 73

4.6 Boot Menu ................................................................................. 74

4.7 Exit Menu................................................................................... 76

5. SOFTWARE SETUP 79

5.1 Install Operating System............................................................ 79

5.2 Start Windows............................................................................ 79

5.3 A7A266 Series Motherboard Support CD................................... 80

6. SOFTWARE REFERENCE 81

6.1 ASUS PC Probe ......................................................................... 81

6.2 CyberLink PowerPlayer SE ....................................................... 86

6.3 CyberLink V ideoLive Mail ........................................................ 87

6.4 ASUS Live Update..................................................................... 89

6.5 Multi-Channel Audio Feature Setup .......................................... 90

7. APPENDIX 93

7.1 Glossary ..................................................................................... 93

INDEX 97

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 5

FCC & DOC COMPLIANCE

Federal Communications Commission Statement

This device complies with FCC Rules Part 15. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference, and

• This device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installa­tion. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interfer­ence by one or more of the following measures:

• Re-orient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

WARNING! Any changes or modifications to this product not expressly ap-

proved by the manufacturer could void any assurances of safety or performance
and could result in violation of Part 15 of the FCC Rules.

Reprinted from the Code of Federal Regulations #47, part 15.193, 1993. Washington DC: Office of the
Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration, U.S. Government Printing Office.

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions
from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian
Department of Communications.

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

6

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 How This Manual Is Organized

This manual is divided into the following sections:

1. INTRODUCTION Manual information and checklist

2. FEATURES Production information and specifications

3. HARDWARE SETUP Instructions on setting up the motherboard.

4. BIOS SETUP Instructions on setting up the BIOS

5. SOFTWARE SETUP Instructions on setting up the included software

6. SOFTWARE REFERENCE Reference material for the included software

7. APPENDIX Optional items and general reference

1.2 Item Checklist

Check that your package is complete. If you discover damaged or missing items,
contact your retailer.

Manual / Checklist

1. INTRODUCTION

Package Contents

(1) ASUS Motherboard
(1) 40-pin 80-conductor ribbon

cable for internal UltraDMA/
100 / UltraDMA/66 (also
compatible with UltraDMA/33
IDE drives/devices)

(1) Ribbon cable for internal

UltraDMA/33 IDE drives

(1) Ribbon cable for one 5.25” and

two 3.5” floppy disk drives
(1) ASUS 2-port USB Connector Set
(1) Bag of spare jumper caps
(1) ASUS Support CD with drivers

and utilities
(1) This Motherboard User’s

Manual

Optional Items

ASUS CIDB chassis intrusion detec­tion module

ASUS IrDA-compliant infrared
module

ASUS MR-I Modem Riser Card

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 7

2.1 The ASUS A7A266

The ASUS A7A266 motherboard is carefully designed for the value-conscious PC
user who wants advanced features processed by the fastest processors.

2.1.1 Specifications

• AMD® Athlon™/ Duron™ Processor Support: Supports AMD’s new socket-

2. FEATURES

Specifications

• North Bridge System Chipset: ALi M1647™ chipset with AGP/PCI/Memory

• South Bridge System PCIset: ALi M1535D+™ PCIset with PCI Super-I/O In-

2. FEATURES

A Palomino™ / Thunderbird™ processor cores.

controller supports a 133/100MHz Front Side Bus (FSB), supports DDR SDRAM
DIMM, complies with AGP 2.0 specifications for 4X, 2X and 1X AGP modes
and PCI 2.2. bus interface. It is optimized to deliver enhanced AMD Athlon™
processor system performance.

tegrated Peripheral Controller (PSIPC) with support for UltraDMA/100, which
allows burst mode data transfer rates of up to 100MB/sec; AC97 audio; USB
controller with root hub and four function ports.

• PC2100 / PC1600 DDR and PC133 SDR SDRAM Support: Equipped with

two Double Data Rate Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR DIMM) sockets to
support up to 2GB of DDR SDRAM and three SDR DIMM sockets to support
up to 3GB of SDR SDRAM. DDR SDRAM is the newest memory standard with
the highest bandwidth and lowest latency currently available and dramatically
improves the memory system’s ability to service, among others, high multimedia
requirements. (Caution: Do not use DDR & SDRAM modules simultaneously.)

• Stepless Frequency Selection: Allows CPU external (FSB) frequency settings

to be set in 1MHz-increments or reduction.

• JumperFree™ Mode: Allows processor settings and easy overclocking of fre-

quency and Vcore voltage all through BIOS setup when JumperFree™ mode is
enabled. Easy-to-use DIP switches instead of jumpers are included to allow
manual adjustment of the processor’s external frequency.

• AGP Pro Slot: Supports AGP/AGP Pro cards for high performance, component

level interconnection targeted at 3D graphical applications supporting 133MHz
4X mode.

• UltraDMA/100 Support: Comes with an onboard PCI Bus Master IDE con-

troller with two connectors that support four IDE devices on two channels. Sup­ports UltraDMA/100, UltraDMA/66, UltraDMA/33, PIO Modes 3 & 4 and Bus
Master IDE DMA Mode 2, and Enhanced IDE devices, such as DVD-ROM,
CD-ROM, CD-R/RW, LS-120, and Tape Backup drives.

• Wake-On-LAN Connector: Supports Wake-On-LAN activity through an

optional PCI Fast Ethernet card.

• Wake-On-Ring Connector: Supports Wake-On-Ring activity through a PCI

modem card that supports a Wake-On-Ring connector.

8

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

2. FEATURES

• USB: Supports up to six USB ports, two on the back panel and four midboard,

for more peripheral connectivity options.

• One T ouch Management: Supports an optional ASUS iPanel, an easy to access

box with system information LED display, front I/O ports, and space reserved
for a hard disk drive. With an ASUS iPanel, you can monitor your computer
system’s vital components.

• PC Health Monitoring: Provides an easy way to examine and manage system

status information, such as CPU and systerm voltages, temperatures, and fan
status through the onboard hardware ASUS ASIC and the bundled ASUS PC
Probe.

• SMBus: Features the System Management Bus interface, which is used to physi-

cally transport commands and information between SMBus devices.

• PCI/AMR Expansion Slots: Provides five 32-bit PCI (Rev. 2.2) expansion

slots, which can support Bus Master PCI cards, such as SCSI or LAN cards (PCI
supports up to 133MB/s maximum throughput), and one Audio Modem Riser
(AMR) slot (shared), which supports a very affordable audio and/or modem
riser card.

• Super Multi-I/O: Provides two high-speed UART compatible serial ports and

one parallel port with EPP and ECP capabilities.

• Enhanced ACPI & Anti-Boot Virus Protection: Programmable BIOS (Flash

EEPROM), offering enhanced ACPI for Windows 982000/Millenium
compatibility , built-in firmware-based virus protection, and autodetection of most
devices for virtually automatic setup.

• Concurrent PCI: Concurrent PCI allows multiple PCI transfers from PCI mas-

ter busses to the memory and processor.

• Smart BIOS: 2Mb firmware provides Vcore and CPU/SDRAM frequency ad-

justments, boot block write protection, and HD/SCSI/MO/ZIP/CD/Floppy boot
selection.

• Integrated Infrared (IrDA) Support: Integrated IR supports an optional re-

mote control package for wireless interfacing with external peripherals, per­sonal gadgets, or an optional remote controller.

Specifications

2. FEATURES

• Desktop Management Interface (DMI): Supports DMI through BIOS, which

allows hardware to communicate within a standard protocol creating a higher
level of compatibility. (Requires DMI-enabled components.)

• Color -coded Connectors: To enhance user accessibility to system components

and to meet PC 99 compliancy , major connectors in this motherboard are color ­coded.

2.1.2 Optional Components

• Onboard Audio: C-Media Audio Chip CMI8738 supporting the latest PCI 6

channel and HRTF 3D Audio sound circuitry.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 9

2.1.3 Special Features

• ACPI Ready: Advanced Configuration Power Interface (ACPI) provides more

2. FEATURES

Performance

• Easy Installation: Incorporates BIOS that supports autodetection of hard disk

• New Compliancy: Both the BIOS and hardware levels of this motherboard meet

2. FEATURES

Energy Saving Features for operating systems that support OS Direct Power
Management (OSPM) functionality . W ith these features implemented in the OS,
PCs can be ready around the clock, yet satisfy all the energy saving standards.
To fully utilize the benefits of ACPI, an ACPI-supported OS, such as Windows
98/2000/Millenium must be used.

drives, PS/2 mouse, and Plug and Play devices to make the setup of hard disk
drives, expansion cards, and other devices virtually automatic.

the stringent requirements for PC 99 certification. The new PC 99 requirements
for systems and components are based on the following high-level goals: Sup­port for Plug and Play compatibility and power management for configuring
and managing all system components, and 32-bit device drivers and installation
procedures for W indows95/98/NT. Color-coded connectors and descriptive icons
make identification easy as required by PC 99.

2.1.4 Performance Features

• High-Speed Data Transfer Interface: IDE transfers using UltraDMA/33 Bus

Master IDE can handle rates up to 33MB/s. This motherboard with its chipset
and support for UltraDMA/100 increases the data transfer rate to 100MB/s.
UltraDMA/100 is backward compatible with DMA/66, DMA/33, and DMA and
with existing DMA devices and systems so there is no need to upgrade current
EIDE/IDE drives and host systems. (UltraDMA100/66 require a 40-pin 80-con­ductor cable to be enabled.)

• DDR SDRAM Optimized Performance: This motherboard supports a new gen-

eration memory, Double Data Rate (DDR) Dynamic Random Access Memory
(SDRAM), which is compatible to the industry standard SDRAM. This new memory
technology increases performance by executing two actions per clock cycle,
resulting in data transfer rates of up to 2.1 GB/s for 133MHz DDR SDRAM and

1.6GB/s for 100MHz DDR SDRAM.

10

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

2. FEATURES

2.1.5 Intelligence

• Dual Function Power Button: Pushing the power button for less than 4 sec-

onds when the system is in the working state places the system into one of two
states: sleep mode or soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS or OS setting (see
PWR Button < 4 Secs in 4.5 Power Menu). When the power button is pressed
for more than 4 seconds, the system enters the soft-off mode regardless of the
BIOS setting.

• Fan Status Monitoring and Alarm: To prevent system overheat and system

damage, the CPU, power supply, and system fans can be monitored for RPM
and failure. All fans are set for its normal RPM range and alarm thresholds.

• Message LED (requires ACPI OS support): Turbo LEDs now act as informa-

tion providers. Through the way a particular LED illuminates, the user can de­termine if there are messages waiting in the mailbox. A simple glimpse provides
useful information to the user.

• Remote Ring On (requires modem): This allows a computer to be turned on

remotely through an internal or external modem. With this benefit on-hand, users
can access vital information from their computers from anywhere in the world!

Intelligence

2. FEATURES

• System Resources Alert: Today’s operating systems such as Windows 98/

Millenium and Windows NT/2000, require much more memory and hard drive
space to present enormous user interfaces and run large applications. The sys­tem resource monitor will warn the user before the system resources are used up
to prevent possible application crashes. Suggestions will give the user informa­tion on managing their limited resources more efficiently.

• Temperature Monitoring and Alert: CPU temperature is monitored by the

ASUS ASIC to prevent system overheat and system damage.

• Voltage Monitoring and Alert: System voltage levels are monitored to ensure

stable voltage to critical motherboard components. Voltage specifications are
more critical for future processors, so monitoring is necessary to ensure proper
system configuration and management.

• Chassis Intrusion Detection: Supports chassis-intrusion monitoring through

the ASUS ASIC. A chassis intrusion event is kept in memory on battery power
for more protection.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 11

2. FEATURES

2.2 Motherboard Components

See opposite page for locations.

Processor Support Socket A (462) for AMD Athlon/Duron CPUs ......................... 2

Motherboard Parts

2. FEATURES

Main Memory Maximum 2GB support

Expansion Slots 5 PCI Slots .............................................................................. 19

Location

(NOTE: A CPU thermal sensor is integrated on the motherboard,

located near the center of the CPU heat source, just below the
CPU socket)

DIP Switches ............................................................................ 8

Chipsets ALi M1647 system controller ................................................... 1

ALi M1535D+ PCIset ............................................................ 15

2Mbit Programmable Flash EEPROM ................................... 12

3 SDR DIMM Sockets (maximum 3GB) ................................. 4

2 DDR DIMM Sockets (maximum 2GB) ................................ 3

PC2100 / PC1600 DDR and PC133 SDR memory support

1 Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) Pro Slot ......................... 20

1 Audio Modem Riser (AMR) Slot ........................ (Shared) 17

System I/O 1 Floppy Disk Drive Connector ............................................. 13

2 IDE Connectors (UltraDMA/100 Support) ........................... 7

1 Parallel Port Connector ............................................. (Top) 24

1 Serial COM1 Port Connector .............................. (Bottom) 25

1 Serial COM2 Port Connector .............................. (Bottom) 23

USB Connectors (Port 0 & Port 1) ........................................ 26

USB Header (Port 2,3 & Port 4,5).......................................... 14

1 PS/2 Mouse Connector .............................................. (Top) 27

1 PS/2 Keyboard Connector ................................... (Bottom) 27

1 ASUS IrDA/iPanel Connector................................. (Right) 9

1 ASUS IR Connector .................................................. (Left) 9

1 ASUS iPanel Audio Connector............................................ 21

Audio PCI Audio Chipset (optional)................................................. 18

1 Game/MIDI Connector (on audio model only) ......... (Top) 22

1 Line Out Connector (on audio model only) ........ (Bottom) 22

1 Line In Connector (on audio model only) ........... (Bottom) 22

1 Microphone Connector (on audio model only) ... (Bottom) 22

Network Features Wake-On-LAN Connector...................................................... 16

Wake-On-Ring Connector ...................................................... 11

Hardware Monitoring ASUS ASIC ............................................................................ 10

3 Fan Power and Speed Monitoring Connectors

Power ATX Power Supply Connector ................................................. 5

Special Feature Onboard LED ........................................................................... 6

Form Factor ATX

12

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

2. FEATURES

2.2.1 Component Locations

27
26

25

24

23

22
21

1 4 5

2

3

6

7

2. FEATURES

Motherboard Parts

20
19

18

17

12

11

13141516

9

10 9

8

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 13

3. HARDWARE SETUP

3.1 Motherboard Layout

24.5cm (9.64in)

PS/2

T: Mouse
B: Keyboard

CPU_FAN

USB1
USB2

COM1

PARALLEL PORT

COM2

Motherboard Layout

3. H/W SETUP

Line
Out

Line

In

Mic

In

GAME_AUDIO

MIC2

BCS1
BCS2

AUX

AUDIO_PANEL

CD1

MODEM

C-Media

CMI-8738

Socket 462

ALi

PWR_FAN

Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP Pro)

M1647

Chipset

PCI 1

PCI 2

PCI 3

01

01

JTPWR

DDR DIMM1 (64/72 bit, 184-pin module)

0 1

A7A266

DDR DIMM2 (64/72 bit, 184-pin module)

2 3

DIMM Socket 1 (64/72-bit, 168-pin module)

DIMM Socket 2 (64/72-bit, 168-pin module)

DIMM Socket 3 (64/72-bit, 168-pin module)

0

2

4

1

3

5

FLOPPY

ALi

M1535D+

Chipset

WOR

LED

ATX Power Connector

Flash EEPROM

(Programable BIOS)

CMOS Power

CLRTC

Secondary IDE

CR2032 3V
Lithium Cell

JEN

VID

Primary IDE

30.5cm (12.0in)

ASIC

Monitor

ASUS

with Hardware

AFPANEL
PANEL

DSW

DIP Switches

WOL_CON

Audio Modem Riser

(AMR)

PCI 4

PCI 5

USB2

USB1

IR

CHASIS

SMB

CHA_FAN

IDELED

Grayed components are available only on certain models at the time of purchase.

14

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

3. HARDWARE SETUP

3.2 Layout Contents

Motherboard Settings

1) JEN p. 19 JumperFree Mode (JumperFree/Jumper Mode)

2) VID p. 20 Voltage Regulator Output Setting (Enable/Disable)

3) DSW Switch 5 p. 20 DDR / SDR Memory Selection (Off/On)

4) DSW Switches 1–4 p. 21 CPU External Frequency Setting

5) DSW Switches 5-10 p. 22 Manual CPU Ratio Setting

6) BCS1, BCS2 p. 23 Bass Center Setting

Expansion Slots/Sockets

1) System Memory p. 24 System Memory Support

2) DDR1/DDR2 p. 24 DDR DIMM Memory Module Support

3) DIMM1/2/3 p. 25 SDR DIMM Memory Module Support

4) Socket 462 (Socket A) p. 27 CPU Support

5) PCI1/2/3/4/5 p. 28 32-bit PCI Bus Expansion Slots

6) AGP PRO p. 30 Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) Pro

7) AMR p. 31 Audio Modem Riser (AMR) Slot

Connectors

1) PS2KBMS p. 33 PS/2 Mouse Porv #onnector (6 pin female)

2) PS2KBMS p. 33 PS/2 Keyboard Port Connector (6 pin female)

3) USB p. 34 Universal Serial Bus Connectors 0 & 1 (T wo 4-pin female)

4) COM1/COM2 p. 34 Serial Port Connector (9-pin male)

5) PRINTER p. 34 Parallel Port Connector (25-pin female)

6) GAME_AUDIO p. 35 Game/MIDI Connector (15-pin female) (optional)

7) GAME_AUDIO p. 35 Audio Port Connectors (Three 1/8”) (optional)

8) FLOPPY p. 35 Floppy Disk Drive Connector (34 pin)

9) PRIMAR Y IDE p. 36 IDE Connectors (Two 40-1 pin)
SECONDARY IDE

10) IDELED p. 37 IDE Activity LED (2 pin)

11) CHASSIS p. 37 Chassis Intrusion Lead (4-1 pin)

Layout Contents

3. H/W SETUP

12) WOL_CON p. 38 Wake-On-LAN Connector (3 pin)

13) WOR p. 38 Wake-On-Ring Connector (2 pin)

14) CHA_FAN p. 39 Chassis, Power Supply, CPU Fan Connectors (3 pin)
PWR_FAN
CPU_FAN

15) USB1/USB2 p. 40 USB Headers (Two 10-1 pin)

continued...

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 15

16) SMB p. 40 SMBus Connector (5-1 pin)

17) IrDA/AFPANEL p. 41 ASUS IrDA/iPanel Connector (24-1 pin)

18) AAPANEL p. 41 ASUS iPanel Audio Connector (12-1 pin)

19) CD1, AUX, MODEM p. 42 Internal Audio Connector (4 pin)

20) MIC2 p. 42 Internal Microphone Connector (3 pin)

21)

PLED (

22) KEYLOCK (PANEL) p. 43 Keyboard Lock Switch Lead (2 pin)

23) SPEAKER (PANEL) p. 43 System Warning Speaker Connector (4 pin)

24) MLED (PANEL) p. 43 System Message LED (2 pin)

25) SMI (PANEL) p. 43 System Management Interrupt Lead (2 pin)

26) PWRBTN (PANEL) p. 43 ATX / Soft-Off Switch Lead (2 pin)

27) RESET (PANEL) p. 43 Reset Switch Lead (2 pin)

28) ATXPWR p. 44 ATX Power Supply Connector (20 pin)

3. H/W SETUP

Layout Contents

29) JTPWR p. 44 Thermal Sensor Connector (2 pin)

3. HARDWARE SETUP

PANEL

)

p. 43 System Power LED Lead (3 pin)

16

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

3. HARDWARE SETUP

3.3 Getting Started

Before using your computer, you must complete the following steps:

1. Check Motherboard Settings

2. Install Memory Modules

3. Install the Central Processing Unit (CPU)

4. Install Expansion Cards

5. Connect Ribbon Cables, Panel Wires, and Power Supply

6. Setup the BIOS Software

Getting Started

3. H/W SETUP

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 17

3.4 Motherboard Settings

This section explains in detail how to change your motherboard’s function settings
through the use of switches and/or jumpers.

W ARNING! Computer motherboards and expansion cards contain very delicate

Integrated Circuit (IC) chips. To protect them against damage from static electric­ity, you should follow some precautions whenever you work on your computer.

1. Unplug your computer when working on the inside.

2. Use a grounded wrist strap before handling computer components. If you do
not have one, touch both of your hands to a safely grounded object or to a
metal object, such as the power supply case.

3. Hold components by the edges and try not to touch the IC chips, leads or
connectors, or other components.

Motherboard Settings

3. H/W SETUP

4. Place components on a grounded antistatic pad or on the bag that came with
the component whenever the components are separated from the system.

5. Ensure that the ATX power supply is switched off before you plug in or
remove the ATX power connector on the motherboard.

3. HARDWARE SETUP

WARNING! Make sure that you unplug your power supply when adding or re-

moving system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to your
motherboard, peripherals, and/or components. The onboard LED when lit acts as
a reminder that the system is in suspend or soft-off mode and not powered OFF.

0 10 1

ON

Standby

Power

A7A266

A7A266 Onboard LED

OFF

Powered

Off

18

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

3. HARDWARE SETUP

Motherboard Features Settings (DIP Switches - DSW)

The motherboard’s onboard functions are adjusted through the DIP switches. The
white block represents the switch’s position. The example below shows all the

switches in the OFF position.

0101

ON

11 5
2 34

1-10: Frequency Multiples

DSW

A7A266

6
7
8 9

10

A7A266 DIP Switch

OFF ON

1) JumperFree™ Mode (JEN)

This jumper allows you to enable or disable the JumperFree™ mode. The
JumperFree™ mode allows processor settings to be made through the BIOS
setup (see 4.4 Advanced Menu). The default setting is for JumperFree mode: all
DSWs come set to the OFF position and the JEN jumpers are set to [2-3].

Setting JEN

JumperFree [2-3] (default)
Jumper Mode [1-2]

12

0101

Jumper Mode

JEN

2

3

Jumper Free (Default)

DSW

ON

11 5
2 34

3. H/W SETUP

Motherboard Settings

A7A266

A7A266 Jumper Mode Setting

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 19

6
7
8 9

10

OFF (Default)

3. HARDWARE SETUP

2) Voltage Regulator Output Setting (VID)

This jumper allows you to manually adjust the CPU core voltage. It is better to
use the CPU Default for the CPU core voltage. CPU Default means the Vcore
is generated according to the CPU VID configuration. Disabling the Voltage
regulator output allows higher voltage settings to be made; however care must
be exercised not to damage the CPU.

0101

Motherboard Settings

3. H/W SETUP

A7A266 VID Selection

3) DDR / SDR Memory Selection (DSW Switch 5)
DSW switch 5 is OFF, for auto-detecting all settings using DDR RAM or
SDRAM memory.
DSW switch 5 is ON, for all settings using SDRAM memory.

A7A266

12345 678910

ON

VID

DSW

Disable

23

12345 678910

ON

Enable

(Default)

12

0101

20

A7A266

A7A266 DDR/SDR DIMM Selection

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

OFF
Auto-Detect

(Default)

ON

SDRAM

3. HARDWARE SETUP

4) CPU External Frequency Setting (DSW Switches 1–4)

This option tells the clock generator which frequency to send to the CPU,
SDRAM, and chipset. This allows the selection of the CPU’s External frequency.
(The CPU External Frequency multiplied by the Frequency Multiple equals the
CPU’s Internal frequency (the advertised CPU speed).

IMPORTANT:

1. To use this feature, JEN must be set to Jumper Mode, [1-2].

(See 1, JumperFree™ Mode (JEN) in 3, HARDWARE SETUP.)

2. In JumperFree mode, all dip switches (DSW-1–DSW-4) must be set to OFF .

3. When JumperFree mode is enabled, use BIOS setup in place of these switches.

(Set Operating Frequency Setting to User Define under 4.4 Advanced Menu
in BIOS Setup so you can set the CPU Frequency.)

1234

5
6
7
8 9

10

100MHz
133MHz

1234

5
6
7
8 9

10

101MHz
101MHz

ON

ON

1234

5
6

7
8 9

10

120MHz
120MHz

1234

5
6
7
8 9

10

126MHz
126MHz

ON

ON

1234

5
6
7
8 9

10

133MHz
133MHz

ON

0101

A7A266

A7A266 CPU External
Frequency Selection

DSW

CPU

SDRAM

CPU

SDRAM

→
→

→
→

ON

1234

5
6
7
8 9

10

100MHz
100MHz

ON

1234

5
6
7

8 9
10

90MHz
90MHz

WARNING! Frequencies other than recommended CPU bus frequencies are not

guaranteed to be stable. Overclocking your processor is not advised. It may result
in a slower speed and premature wearing of the processor.

3. H/W SETUP

Motherboard Settings

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 21

3. HARDWARE SETUP

5) Manual CPU Ratio Settings (DSW Switches 5-10)

Set DSW switches (5-10) to use the clock multiplier to coordinate the ratio of
bus speeds with CPU settings. Set the DSW switches according to the internal
speed of your processor and the bus frequency (133/100MHz).

IMPORTANT:

1. To use this feature, JEN must be set to Jumper Mode, [1-2].

(See 1, JumperFree™ Mode (JEN) in 3, HARDWARE SETUP.)

2. Ensure the DSW settings are correct:
DSW switch 10 is OFF to disable the manual CPU ratio settings.
DSW switch 10 is ON, for all manual CPU ratio settings.

Motherboard Settings

3. H/W SETUP

A7A266 CPU Ratio Setting

Set DSW switches 6 through 9 as follows according to the desired multiplier:

Multiplier 6 7 8 9

12.5x and up [OFF] [OFF] [ON] [ON]

12.0x [ON] [OFF] [ON] [ON]

11.5x [OFF] [ON] [ON] [ON]

11.0x [ON] [ON] [ON] [ON]

10.5x [OFF] [OFF] [OFF] [OFF]

10.0x [ON] [OFF] [OFF] [OFF]

9.5x [OFF] [ON] [OFF] [OFF]

9.0x [ON] [ON] [OFF] [OFF]

8.5x [OFF] [OFF] [ON] [OFF]

8.0x [ON] [OFF] [ON] [OFF]

7.5x [OFF] [ON] [ON] [OFF]

7.0x [ON] [ON] [ON] [OFF]

6.5x [OFF] [OFF] [OFF] [ON]

6.0x [ON] [OFF] [OFF] [ON]

5.5x [OFF] [ON] [OFF] [ON]

5.0x [ON] [ON] [OFF] [ON]

A7A266

12345 678910

ON

DSW

ON

12345 678910

ON

CPU Ratio

Disable

0101

OFF

CPU Ratio

Enable

22

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

3. HARDWARE SETUP

0101

A7A266

A7A266 CPU External
Clock (BUS) Frequency
Selection

DSW

ON

12345 678910

5.0x 5.5x 6.0x 6.5x

ON

12345 678910

8.0x 8.5x

ON

12345 678910

11.0x 11.5x 12.0x >=12.5x

ON

12345 678910

ON

12345 678910

ON

12345 678910

ON

12345 678910

ON

12345 678910ON12345 678910ON12345 678910ON12345 678910

9.0x 9.5x 10.0x 10.5x

12345 678910

12345 678910

ON

ON

12345 678910

ON

ON

12345 678910

ON

12345 678910

7.0x 7.5x

ON

12345 678910

ON

12345 678910

ON

12345 678910

6) Bass Center Setting (BCS1, BCS2)
(NOTE: Only available on PCB 1.10 & later versions)

Use these jumpers in conjunction with the C-Media PCI Audio Driver to adjust
output for 6 speaker audio. No audio standard exists for the three pick-up
surfaces on male audio jacks, therefore it may be necessary to switch jumpers
from the default position, type 1, to type 2, in order to reroute signals among the
internal leads to the female Line-In, Line-Out, Mic sockets. Make sure a test is
made using the C-Media Audio Driver software setup available on the Support
CD. These jumpers effectively swap the audio channels for bass and center.
NOTE: the default setting is compatible with Creative 6-Channel audio speaker
system.

0101

BCS1
BCS2

23

12

A7A266

type 1 Bass

(BASS/CENTER)

(Default)

type 2 Bass

(CENTER/BASS)

3. H/W SETUP

Motherboard Settings

A7A266 Jumper Mode Setting

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 23

3.5 System Memory

This motherboard features two Double Data Rate (DDR) Dual Inline Memory Mod­ule sockets and three Single Data Rate (SDR) Dual Inline Memory Module sockets.

3.5.1 DDR DIMM Support

The two DDR DIMM sockets support 2.5Volt (power level) unbuffered/registered
Double Data Rate Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (DDR SDRAM)
of 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, and 1GB to form a memory size between 64MB
to 2GB. One side (with memory chips) of the DIMM takes up one row on the
motherboard.

DDR DIMMs support non-ECC modules that are available in both registered
(typically used in servers) and unbuffered (typically used in PCs) versions.

NOTE: The DDR memory bus runs at the same frequency as the CPU front side bus.

3. H/W SETUP

System Memory

Install memory in any combination as follows:

3. HARDWARE SETUP

DIMM Location 184-pin DDR DIMM Total Memory

Socket 1 (Rows 0&1) 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, 1GB x1
Socket 2 (Rows 2&3) 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, 1GB x1

Total System Memory (Max 2GB) =

24

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

3. HARDWARE SETUP

3.5.2 SDR DIMM Support

The three SDR DIMM sockets support 3.3Volt (power level) unbuffered/registered
Single Data Rate Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDR SDRAM)
of 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, and 1GB to form a memory size between 64MB
to 3GB. One side (with memory chips) of the DIMM takes up one row on the
motherboard.

SDR DIMMs supports non-ECC (used in desktops/laptops) and are available in
both registered (typically used in servers) and unbuffered (typically used in PCs)
versions.

Install memory in any combination as follows:

DIMM Location 168-pin SDR DIMM Total Memory

Socket 1 (Rows 0&1) 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, 1GB x1
Socket 2 (Rows 2&3) 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, 1GB x1
Socket 3 (Rows 4&5) 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, 1GB x1

Total System Memory (Max 3GB) =

3.5.3 General DIMM Notes

• DIMMs that have more than 18 chips are not supported on this motherboard.

• ASUS motherboards support SPD (Serial Presence Detect) DIMMs. This is the

memory of choice for best performance vs. stability.

• BIOS shows SDRAM memory on bootup screen.

IMPORTANT! DO NOT mix DDR and SDR SDRAMs. Mixing DDR and SDR

SDRAMs may damage the DDR modules!

WARNING! Be sure that the DIMMs you use can handle the specified SDRAM

MHz or else bootup will not be possible.

System Memory

3. H/W SETUP

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 25

3.5.4 Memory Installation

WARNING! Unplug your power supply when adding or removing memory

modules or other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage
to both your motherboard and expansion cards (see 3.3 Hardware Setup
Procedure for more information).

Insert the module(s) as shown. Each type of module will only fit in the orientations
shown below:

The 184-pin DIMM must be a 2.5V unbuf fered DDR SDRAM. Each DDR DIMM
has a single notch slightly to the right of center:

3. H/W SETUP

System Memory

3. HARDWARE SETUP

0101

104 Pins

A7A266

80 Pins

A7A266 184-Pin DDR DIMM Sockets

The 168-pin DIMM must be a 3.3V unbuffered SDR SDRAM. Look for two notches
on each SDR DIMM:

0101

88 Pins

A7A266

A7A266 168-Pin SDR DIMM Sockets

60 Pins

20 Pins

Lock

168-Pin DIMM Notch Key Definitions (3.3V)

DRAM Key Position

RFU

26

Unbuffered

Buffered

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

Voltage Key Position

5.0V

Reserved

3.3V

3. HARDWARE SETUP

3.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The motherboard provides a Socket 462 or Socket A for CPU installation. A fan and
heatsink should be attached to the CPU to prevent overheating. Purchase and install
a fan and heatsink before turning on the system.

010 1

A7A266

A7A266 Socket A

NOTCH

AMD™ CPU

LOCK

LEVER

1. Locate the Socket 462 and open it by pulling the lever gently sideways away from
the socket. Then lift the lever upwards. The
socket lever must be fully opened (90 to 100
degrees).

2. Insert the CPU with the correct orientation. The
notched corner of the CPU must be oriented
toward the inner corner of the socket base
nearest to the lever hinge.

CAUTION! The CPU fits in one orientation

and should drop easily into place. Do not force
the CPU into the socket to avoid bending the

pins. If the CPU does not fit, check its
alignment and look for bent pins.

CPU

3. H/W SETUP

3. Once completely inserted, press the CPU firmly
and close the socket lever until it snaps into its locked position.

4. Place the CPU fan and heatsink on the CPU. The heatsink should entirely cover
the CPU. Carefully attach the heatsink locking brace to the plastic clips on the
socket base. With the added weight of the CPU fan and heatsink locking brace,
no extra force is required to keep the CPU in place.

CAUTION! Take care not to scrape the motherboard surface when mounting a

clamp-style processor fan, or else damage may occur . When mounting a heatsink
onto your CPU, make sure that exposed CPU capacitors do not touch the
heatsink, or else damage may occur! Refer to heatsink/CPU documentation.

NOTE! Do not forget to set the correct Bus Frequency and Multiple (available

only on unlocked processors) to avoid start-up problems.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 27

3.7 Expansion Cards

WARNING! Unplug your power supply when adding or removing expansion

cards or other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to
both your motherboard and expansion cards.

3.7.1 Expansion Card Installation Procedure

1. Read the documentation for your expansion card and make any necessary hard­ware or software settings for your expansion card, such as jumpers.

2. Remove your computer system’s cover and the bracket plate on the slot you
intend to use. Keep the bracket for possible future use.

3. Carefully align the card’s connectors and press firmly.

4. Secure the card on the slot with the screw you removed above.

Expansion Cards

3. H/W SETUP

5. Replace the computer system’s cover.

6. Set up the BIOS if necessary
(such as IRQ xx Used By ISA: Yes in 4.4.3 PCI Configuration)

7. Install the necessary software drivers for your expansion card.

3. HARDWARE SETUP

28 ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

3. HARDWARE SETUP

3.7.2 Assigning IRQs for Expansion Cards

Some expansion cards need an IRQ to operate. Generally, an IRQ must be exclu­sively assigned to one use. In a standard design, there are 16 IRQs available but
most of them are already in use, leaving 6 IRQs free for expansion cards. If your
motherboard has PCI audio onboard, an additional IRQ will be used. If your moth­erboard also has MIDI enabled, another IRQ will be used, leaving 4 IRQs free.

IMPORTANT: If using PCI cards on shared slots, make sure that the drivers sup­port “Share IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Conflicts will
arise between the two PCI groups that will make the system unstable or cards inop­erable.

The following table lists the default IRQ assignments for standard PC devices. Use
this table when configuring your system and for resolving IRQ conflicts.

Standard Interrupt Assignments

IRQ Priority Standard Function

0 1 System Timer
1 2 Keyboard Controller
2 N/A Programmable Interrupt
3* 11 Communications Port (COM2)
4* 12 Communications Port (COM1)
5* 13 Sound Card (sometimes LPT2)
6 14 Floppy Disk Controller
7* 15 Printer Port (LPT1)
8 3 System CMOS/Real Time Clock
9* 4 ACPI Mode when used
10* 5 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering
11* 6 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering
12* 7 PS/2 Compatible Mouse Port
13 8 Numeric Data Processor
14* 9 Primary IDE Channel
15* 10 Secondary IDE Channel

3. H/W SETUP

Expansion Cards

*These IRQs are usually available for PCI devices.

Interrupt Request Table for this Motherboard

INT-A INT-B INT-C INT-D INT-E INT-F

PCI slot 1 shared —————
PCI slot 2 — shared —— ——
PCI slot 3 ——shared ———
PCI slot 4 —— —shared ——
PCI slot 5 —— — ——shared
AGP Pro slot shared shared ————
Onboard PCI audio ———— —shared
Onboard USB controller —— ——used —

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 29

Expansion Cards

3. HARDWARE SETUP

3.7.3 Accelerated Graphics Port Pro (AGP Pro)

This motherboard provides an Accelerated Graphics Port Pro (AGP Pro) slot to sup­port AGP/AGP Pro graphics cards, such as an ASUS AGP-V6800DDR/64M.

CAUTION! T o avoid damaging your AGP/AGP Pro graphics card, your computer’s

power supply should be unplugged before inserting your graphics card into the slot.

3. H/W SETUP

Expansion Cards

A7A266 Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP PRO)

CAUTION! The AGP Pro slot is shipped with a safety tab on the 20-pin bay for

use with AGP cards without a retention notch. DO NOT remove
this tab if you will be using such cards; removing may cause these
cards to shift, which may cause damage to your card, slot, and
motherboard. Remove ONLY when you will be using an AGP
Pro card. Use a rigid tip, such as a pen tip, to dislodge and re­move the tab from the bay.

A7A266

0101

AGP Card without Retention Notch

20-pin bay

Rib (inside slot) Rib

TOP VIEW

28-pin bay

Removing the tab

30 ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

3. HARDWARE SETUP

3.7.4 Audio Modem Riser (AMR) Slot

This connector supports a specially designed audio and/or modem card called an AMR.
Main processing is done through software and controlled by the motherboard’s sys-
tem chipset. This provides an upgradeable audio and/or modem solution at an incred­ibly low cost.

IMPORTANT: The AMR slot of this motherboard shares the same expansion slot

as PCI Slot 5. Because of this and its location, the slot can only accept a specially
designed AMR card (optional). The components of a standard AMR card and its
bracket face toward the edge of the motherboard while those of the specially­designed card face the expansion slots. For availability , see your vendor or dealer .

0101

A7A266

A7A266 Audio Modem Riser (AMR) Slot ASUS MR-I Card

3. H/W SETUP

Expansion Cards

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 31

(This page was intentionally left blank.)

Expansion Cards

3. H/W SETUP

3. HARDWARE SETUP

32 ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

3. HARDWARE SETUP

3.8 Connectors

WARNING! Some pins are used for connectors or power sources. These are

clearly distinguished from jumpers in the Motherboard Layout. Placing jumper
caps over these connector pins will cause damage to your motherboard.

IMPORTANT: Ribbon cables should always be connected with the red stripe to

Pin 1 on the connectors. Pin 1 is usually on the side closest to the power connector
on hard drives and CD-ROM drives, but may be on the opposite side on floppy
disk drives. Check the connectors before installation because there may be
exceptions. IDE ribbon cables must be less than 46 cm (18 in.), with the second
drive connector no more than 15 cm (6 in.) from the first connector.

1) PS/2 Mouse Connector (Green 6-pin PS2KBMS)

The system will direct IRQ12 to the PS/2 mouse if one is detected. If one is not
detected, expansion cards can use IRQ12. See PS/2 Mouse Function Control
in 4.4 Advanced Menu.

PS/2 Mouse (6-pin Female)

2) PS/2 Keyboard Connector (Purple 6-pin PS2KBMS)
This connection is for a standard keyboard using an PS/2 plug (mini DIN). This
connector will not allow standard AT size (large DIN) keyboard plugs. You
may use a DIN to mini DIN adapter on standard AT keyboards.

Connectors

3. H/W SETUP

PS/2 Keyboard (6-pin Female)

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 33

3. H/W SETUP

Connectors

3. HARDWARE SETUP

3) Universal Serial Bus Ports 0 & 1 (Black two 4-pin USB)

Two USB ports are available for connecting USB devices. An optional USB
header is available if you need more USB ports.

USB 0

Universal Serial Bus (USB) 1

4) Serial Port Connectors (Teal/Turquoise 9-pin COM1 / COM2)

Two serial ports can be used for pointing devices or other serial devices. For
setting up these ports, see Onboard Serial Port 1 in 4.4.2 I/O Device
Configuration for settings.

COM2COM1

Serial Ports (9-pin Male)

5) Parallel Port Connector (Burgundy 25-pin PRINTER)
You can enable the parallel port and choose the IRQ through Onboard Parallel
Port (see 4.4.2 I/O Device Configuration).
NOTE: Serial printers must be connected to the serial port.

Parallel Port (25-pin Female)

34 ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

3. HARDWARE SETUP

6) Game/MIDI Connector (Gold 15-pin GAME_AUDIO) (optional)

You may connect game joysticks or game pads to this connector for playing
games. Connect MIDI devices for playing or editing professional audio.

Game/MIDI (15-pin Female)

7) Audio Port Connectors (Three 1/8” GAME_AUDIO) (optional)
Line Out (lime) can be connected to headphones or preferably powered speakers.
Line In (light blue) allows tape players or other audio sources to be recorded by

your computer or played through the Line Out (lime). Mic (pink) allows
microphones to be connected for inputting voice.

MicLine InLine Out

1/8" Stereo Audio Connectors

8) Floppy Disk Drive Connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY)

This connector supports the provided floppy drive ribbon cable. After connecting
the single end to the board, connect the two plugs on the other end to the floppy
drives. (Pin 5 is r emoved to prevent inserting in the wr ong orientation when

using ribbon cables with pin 5 plugged).

0101

NOTE: Orient the red markings on
the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1

A7A266

Connectors

3. H/W SETUP

A7A266 Floppy Disk Drive Connector

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 35

PIN 1

3. HARDWARE SETUP

9) Primary (Blue) / Secondary IDE Connectors (Two 40-1pin IDE)

These connectors support the provided UltraDMA/100 IDE hard disk ribbon
cable. Connect the cable’s blue connector to the motherboard’s primary
(recommended) or secondary IDE connector, and then connect the gray connector
to your UltraDMA/100 slave device (hard disk drive) and the black connector to
your UltraDMA/100 master device. It is recommended that non-UltraDMA/100
devices be connected to the secondary IDE connector. If you install two hard
disks, you must configure the second drive to Slave mode by setting its jumper
accordingly . Please refer to your hard disk documentation for the jumper settings.
BIOS now supports specific device bootup (see 4.6 Boot Menu). (Pin 20 is

removed to prevent inserting in the wrong orientation when using ribbon
cables with pin 20 plugged).

TIP: You may configure two hard disks to be both Masters with two ribbon

cables – one for the primary IDE connector and another for the secondary IDE
connector . You may install one operating system on an IDE drive and another on
a SCSI drive and select the boot disk through the BIOS.

3. H/W SETUP

Connectors

IMPORTANT: UltraDMA100/66 IDE devices must use a 40-pin 80-conductor

IDE cable for 100MB/s transfer rates.

0101

NOTE: Orient the red markings
(usually zigzag) on the IDE

A7A266

A7A266 IDE Connectors

Secondary IDE Connector

PIN 1

ribbon cable to PIN 1.

Primary IDE Connector

36 ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

3. HARDWARE SETUP

10) IDE Activity LED (2-pin IDELED)

This lead supplies power to the cabinet’s IDE activity LED. Read and write
activity by devices connected to the Primary/Secondary IDE and Primary/
Secondary ATA100 connectors will cause the LED to light up.

0101

A7A266

IDELED

TIP: If the case-mounted LED does not
light, try reversing the 2-pin plug.

A7A266 IDE Activity LED

11) Chassis Intrusion Lead (4-1 pin CHASSIS)

This requires an external detection mechanism such as a chassis intrusion monitor/
sensor or microswitch. The sensor is triggered when a high level signal is sent to
the Chassis Signal lead, which occurs when a panel switch or light detector is
triggered. This function works with an optional ASUS CIDB chassis intrusion

module (see your vendor for more details). If the chassis intrusion lead is not
used, a jumper cap must be placed over the pins to close the circuit.

0101

A7A266

CHASSIS

Ground

Chassis Signal

+5Volt

(Power Supply Stand By)

1

Connectors

3. H/W SETUP

A7A266 Chassis Open Alarm Lead

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 37

3. H/W SETUP

Connectors

3. HARDWARE SETUP

12) Wake-On-LAN Connector (3-pin WOL_CON)

This connector connects to a LAN card with a Wake-On-LAN output, such as
the ASUS PCI-L101 Ethernet card (see 7. Appendix). The connector powers up
the system when a wakeup packet or signal is received through the LAN card.

IMPORTANT: This feature requires that the Wake-On-LAN or PCI Modem
feature is enabled (see 4.5.1 Power Up Control) and that your system has an
ATX power supply with at least 720mA +5V standby power.

0101

IMPORTANT: Requires an ATX power
supply with at least 720mA +5 volt
standby power.

WOL_CON

A7A266

+5 Volt Standby

PME

Ground

A7A266 Wake-On-LAN Connector

13) Wake-On-Ring Connector (2-pin WOR)

This connector connects to internal modem cards with a Wake-On-Ring output.
The connector powers up the system when a ringup packet or signal is received
through the internal modem card. NOTE: For external modems, W ake-On-Ring
is detected through the COM port.

IMPORTANT: This feature requires that the Wake-On-LAN or PCI Modem
feature is enabled (see 4.5.1 Power Up Control) and that your system has an
ATX power supply with at least 720mA +5V standby power.

0101

WOR

A7A266

RI# Ground

A7A266 Wake-On-Ring Connector

21

38 ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

3. HARDWARE SETUP

14) Chassis, Power Supply, CPU, and Chipset Fan Connectors
(3-pin CHA_FAN, PWR_FAN, CPU_FAN)

These connectors support cooling fans of 350mA (4.2 Watts) or less. Orientate
the fans so that the heat sink fins allow airflow to go across the onboard heat
sink(s) instead of the expansion slots. Depending on the fan manufacturer, the
wiring and plug may be different. The red wire should be positive, while the
black should be ground. Connect the fan’s plug to the board taking into
consideration the polarity of the connector.

NOTE: The “Rotation” signal is to be used only by a specially designed fan with
rotation signal. The Rotations per Minute (RPM) can be monitored using ASUS PC
Probe (see 6. SOFTWARE REFERENCE).

WARNING! The CPU and/or motherboard will overheat if there is no airflow

across the CPU and onboard heatsinks. Damage may occur to the motherboard
and/or the CPU fan if these pins are incorrectly used. These are not jumpers,

do not place jumper caps over these pins.

0101

A7A266

A7A266 12-Volt Cooling Fan Power

CPU_FAN

PWR_FAN

CHA_FAN

GND

Rotation

+12V

GND
+12V

Rotation

GND

Rotation

+12V

Connectors

3. H/W SETUP

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 39

3. H/W SETUP

Connectors

3. HARDWARE SETUP

15) USB Headers (10-1 pin USB1, 10-1 pin USB2)

If the USB port connectors on the back panel are inadequate, two USB headers
are available for four additional USB port connectors. Connect each USB header
to an optional 2-port USB connector set and mount the bracket to an open slot
on your chassis.

0101

USB1
USB2

USB Power

USBP2–

USBP2+

GND

USBP3–

USBP3+

NC

GND

A7A266

A7A266 Front Panel USB Headers

15
610

USB Power

16) SMBus Connector (5-1 pin SMB)

This connector allows you to connect SMBus (System Management Bus) devices.
SMBus devices communicate by means of the SMBus with an SMBus host and/

2

or other SMBus devices. SMBus is a specific implementation of an I

C bus,
which is a multi-device bus; that is, multiple chips can be connected to the same
bus and each one can act as a master by initiating data transfer.

0101

SMB

A7A266

A7A266 SMBus Connector

1

Ground

SMBCLK

+5V

SMBDATA

40 ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

3. HARDWARE SETUP

17) ASUS IrDA / iPanel Connector (24-1 pin AFPANEL)

This connector allows you to connect an optional ASUS iPanel, an easy to access
drive bay with front I/O ports, status LEDs, and space reserved for a hard disk
drive. If you are not using an ASUS iPanel, you can connect an optional wireless
transmitting and receiving infrared module to the SIR connector or an optional
consumer infrared connector set to the CIR and SIR connectors for both wireless

transmitting and remote control functions through one external infrared module.
This module mounts to a small opening on system cases that support this feature.
You must also configure the setting through UART2 Use Infrar ed (see 4.4.2 I/
O Device Configuration) to select whether UART2 is directed for use with COM2
or IrDA. Use the five pins as shown in Back View and connect a ribbon cable
from the module to the motherboard’s SIR connector according to the pin
definitions.

0101

AFPANEL

IRRX

+5 V

NC

NC

GND

GND

IRTX

CIRRX

+5VSB

SMBDATA

+3VSB

+5V SMBCLK

EXTSMI#

CHASSIS#

LOCKKEYNCNC

NC

BATT

MLED-

PCIRST#

GND

IRRX

GND

NC

IRTX

CIRRX

+5VSB

Standard Infrared (SIR)

Front View Back View

IRTX
GND

IRRX

+5V
(NC)

+5 V

SIR
CIR

NC

A7A266

IR_CON

A7A266 Front Panel Connectors

18) ASUS iPanel Audio Connector (12-1 pin AAPANEL)

(on audio model only)

Connect the audio cable from the optional ASUS iPanel to this for front panel
audio control.

0101

AAPANEL

MICPWR

Line out_L

Line out_R

A7A266

MIC2

AGND

Line in_L

AGND2 AGND3

Line in_R

Connectors

3. H/W SETUP

A7A266 Audio Panel Connector

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 41

3. HARDWARE SETUP

19) Internal Audio Connectors (4-pin CD1, AUX, MODEM)

These connectors allow you to receive stereo audio input from such sound sources
as a CD-ROM, TV tuner, or MPEG card. The MODEM connector allows the
onboard audio to interface with a voice modem card with a similar connector

3. H/W SETUP

Connectors

0101

A7A266

A7A266 Internal Audio Connectors

CD1 (White)

AUX (Black)

Right Audio Channel

Left Audio Channel

Ground

Left Audio Channel
Ground

Right Audio Channel

Modem-Out
Ground
Ground
Modem-In

MODEM

20) Internal Microphone Connector (3-pin MIC2)

This connector allows you to connect a chassis mounted microphone to the
motherboard instead of having to connect an external microphone to the Line
Out connector on the back panel.

0101

MIC2

13

A7A266

Ground

MIC Input

MIC Power

A7A266 Internal Microphone Connector

42 ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

3. HARDWARE SETUP

The following PANEL illustration is used for items 21-27

*

0101

A7A266

A7A266 System Panel Connectors

21) System Power LED Lead (3-1 pin PLED)

This 3-1 pin connector connects to the system power LED, which lights when
the system is powered on and blinks when it is in sleep or soft-off mode.

22) Keyboard Lock Switch Lead (2-pin KEYLOCK)

This 2-pin connector connects to the case-mounted key switch to allow
keyboard locking.

Requires an ATX power supply.

Keylock

Power LED

+5 V

Message LED

SMI Lead

+5 V

PLED

MLED

Keylock

ExtSMI#

Speaker

Connector

SPKR

Ground

Ground

+5V

Ground

Ground

Ground

ResetCon

Reset SW

Ground

PWR_SW

ATX Power Switch*

23) System Warning Speaker Connector (4-pin SPEAKER)

This 4-pin connector connects to the case-mounted speaker.

24) System Message LED Lead (2-pin MLED)

This indicates whether a message has been received from a fax/modem. The
LED will remain lit when there is no signal and blink when there is data received.
This function requires an ACPI OS and driver support.

25) System Management Interrupt Lead (2-pin SMI)

This allows the user to manually place the system into a suspend mode or “Green”
mode where system activity will be instantly decreased to save electricity and
expand the life of certain components when the system is not in use. This 2-pin
connector (see the preceding figure) connects to the case-mounted suspend switch.

26) ATX Power Switch / Soft-Off Switch Lead (2-pin PWRBTN)

The system power is controlled by a momentary switch connected to this lead.
Pushing the button once will switch the system between ON and SLEEP or ON
and SOFT OFF, depending on your BIOS or OS setting. Pushing the switch
while in the ON mode for more than 4 seconds will turn the system off. The
system power LED shows the status of the system’s power.

Connectors

3. H/W SETUP

27) Reset Switch Lead (2-pin RESET)

This 2-pin connector connects to the case-mounted reset switch for rebooting
your computer without having to turn off your power switch. This is a preferred
method of rebooting to prolong the life of the system’s power supply.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 43

3. H/W SETUP

Connectors

3. HARDWARE SETUP

28) ATX Power Supply Connector (20-pin block ATXPWR)

This connector connects to an ATX power supply . The plug from the power supply
will only insert in one orientation because of the different hole sizes. Find the
proper orientation and push down firmly making sure that the pins are aligned.

IMPORTANT: Make sure that your ATX power supply can supply at least 10mA

on the +5-volt standby lead (+5VSB). You may experience difficulty in powering
ON your system if your power supply cannot support the load. For Wake-On­LAN support, your ATX power supply must supply at least 720mA +5VSB.

0101

A7A266

+12.0Volts

+5V Standby

Power Good

Ground

+5.0 Volts

Ground

+5.0 Volts

Ground
+3.3 Volts
+3.3 Volts

+5.0 Volts
+5.0 Volts

-5.0 Volts
Ground
Ground
Ground
Power Supply On
Ground

-12.0Volts
+3.3Volts

A7A266 ATX Power Connector

29) Power Supply Thermal Sensor Connector (2-pin block JTPWR)

If you have a power supply with thermal monitoring, connect its thermal sensor
cable to this connector.

0101

JTPWR

A7A266

A7A266 Thermal Sensor Connector

Power Supply
Thermal Sensor

44 ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

3. HARDWARE SETUP

3.9 Starting Up the First T ime

1. After all connections are made, close the system case cover.

2. Be sure that all switches are off (in some systems, marked with
the power input voltage is set to comply with the standard used in your
country (220V-240V or 110-120V).

3. Connect the power supply cord into the power supply located on the
back of your system case according to your system user’s manual.

4. Connect the power cord into a power outlet that is equipped with a surge
protector .

5. You may then turn on your devices in the following order:
a. Your monitor
b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)
c. Your system power . For ATX power supplies, you need to switch on

the power supply as well as press the ATX power switch on the front
of the case.

6. The power LED on the front panel of the system case will light. For
ATX power supplies, the system LED will light when the ATX power
switch is pressed. The LED on the monitor may light up or switch be­tween orange and green after the system’s if it complies with “green”
standards or if it has a power standby feature. The system will then run
power-on tests. While the tests are running, the BIOS will alarm beeps
or additional messages will appear on the screen. If you do not see
anything within 30 seconds from the time you turn on the power, the
system may have failed a power-on test. Recheck your jumper settings
and connections or call your retailer for assistance.

), and

Powering Up

3. H/W SETUP

Award BIOS Beep Codes

Beep Meaning

One short beep when No error during POST
displaying logo
Long beeps in an endless loop No DRAM installed or detected
One long beep followed by Video card not found or video card
three short beeps memory bad
High frequency beeps when CPU overheated
system is working System running at a lower frequency

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 45

7. During power-on, hold down <Delete> to enter BIOS setup. Follow the

* Powering Off your computer: You must first exit or shut down your

3. H/W SETUP

Powering Up

3. HARDWARE SETUP

instructions in 4. BIOS SETUP.

operating system before switching off the power switch. For ATX power
supplies, you can press the ATX power switch after exiting or shutting
down your operating system. If you use Windows 9X, click the Start
button, click Shut Down, and then click Shut down the computer?
The power supply should turn off after Windows shuts down.

NOTE: The message “You can now safely turn off your computer”
will not appear when shutting down with ATX power supplies.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual46

4. BIOS SETUP

4.1 Managing and Updating Your BIOS

4.1.1 Upon First Use of the Computer System

It is recommended that you save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS
along with a Flash Memory Writer utility (AFLASH.EXE) to a bootable
floppy disk in case you need to reinstall the BIOS later . AFLASH.EXE is a
Flash Memory W riter utility that updates the BIOS by uploading a new BIOS
file to the programmable flash ROM on the motherboard. This file works
only in DOS mode. To determine the BIOS version of your motherboard,
check the last four numbers of the code displayed on the upper left-hand
corner of your screen during bootup. Larger numbers represent a newer BIOS
file.

1. Type FORMAT A:/S at the DOS prompt to create a bootable system
floppy disk. DO NOT copy AUTOEXEC.BAT & CONFIG.SYS to the
disk.

2. Type COPY D:\AFLASH\AFLASH.EXE A:\ (assuming D is your CD-
ROM drive) to copy AFLASH.EXE to the just created boot disk.

NOTE: AFLASH works only in DOS mode. It will not work with DOS
prompt in Windows and will not work with certain memory drivers that
may be loaded when you boot from your hard drive. It is recommended
that you reboot using a floppy.

3. Reboot your computer from the floppy disk. NOTE: BIOS setup must
specify “Floppy” as the first item in the boot sequence.

4. In DOS mode, type A:\AFLASH <Enter> to run AFLASH.

Updating BIOS

4. BIOS SETUP

IMPORTANT! If “unknown” is displayed after Flash Memory:, the memory

chip is either not programmable or is not supported by the ACPI BIOS and
therefore, cannot be programmed by the Flash Memory Writer utility.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 47

4. BIOS SETUP

5. Select 1. Save Current BIOS to File from the Main menu and press
<Enter>. The Save Current BIOS To File screen appears.

6. T ype a filename and the path, for example, A:\XXX-XX.XXX and then
press <Enter>.

4.1.2 Updating BIOS Procedures

WARNING! Only update your BIOS if you have problems with your mother-

board and you know that the new BIOS revision will solve your problems.
Careless updating can result in your motherboard having more problems!

4. BIOS SETUP

Updating BIOS

1. Download an updated ASUS BIOS file from the Internet (WWW or

2. Boot from the disk you created earlier.

3. At the “A:\” prompt, type AFLASH and then press <Enter>.

4. At the Main Menu, type 2 and then press <Enter>. The Update BIOS

5. T ype the filename of your new BIOS and the path, for example, A:\XXX-

FTP) (see ASUS CONTACT INFORMATION on page 3 for details)
and save to the disk you created earlier.

Including Boot Block and ESCD screen appears.
XX.XXX, and then press <Enter>.

NOTE: To cancel this operation, press <Enter>.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual48

4. BIOS SETUP

6. When prompted to confirm the BIOS update, press Y to start the up-

date.

7. The utility starts to program the new BIOS information into the flash
ROM. The boot block will be updated automatically only when neces­sary. This will minimize the chance that a failed update will prevent
your system from booting up. When the programming is finished,
Flashed Successfully will be displayed.

NOTE: When you see the message “Boot Block is different”, you
may still press <Y> to update the BIOS. Yet if the update fails, your
system will run a greater risk of boot failure depending on whether
the boot block is damaged or not.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 49

Updating BIOS

4. BIOS SETUP

4. BIOS SETUP

8. Follow the onscreen instructions to continue.

WARNING! If you encounter problems while updating the new BIOS, DO

NOT turn off your system since this might prevent your system from booting
up. Just repeat the process, and if the problem still persists, update the original
BIOS file you saved to disk above. If the Flash Memory Writer utility was not
able to successfully update a complete BIOS file, your system may not be able
to boot up. If this happens, your system will need servicing.

4. BIOS SETUP

Updating BIOS

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual50

4. BIOS SETUP

4.2 BIOS Setup Program

This motherboard supports a programmable EEPROM that can be updated using
the provided utility as described in 4.1 Managing and Updating Your BIOS.

The utility is used if you are installing a motherboard, reconfiguring your system,
or prompted to “Run Setup”. This section describes how to configure your system
using this utility.

Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, at some time in the future
you may want to change the configuration of your computer. For example, you
may want to enable the Security Password Feature or make changes to the power
management settings. It will then be necessary to reconfigure your system using
the BIOS Setup program so that the computer can recognize these changes and
record them in the CMOS RAM of the EEPROM.

The EEPROM on the motherboard stores the Setup utility. When you start up the
computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. This
appears during the Power-On Self Test (POST). Press <Delete> to call up the Setup
utility . If you are a little bit late in pressing the mentioned key, POST will continue
with its test routines, thus preventing you from calling up Setup. If you still need to
call Setup, restart the system by pressing <Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Delete>, or by press­ing the Reset button on the system chassis. You can also restart by turning the
system off and then back on again. But do so only if the first two methods fail.

The Setup program has been designed to make it as easy to use as possible. It is a
menu-driven program, which means you can scroll through the various sub-menus
and make your selections among the predetermined choices.

To access the BIOS Setup program, press the <Delete> key after
the computer has run through its POST.

NOTE: Because the BIOS software is constantly being updated, the following
BIOS screens and descriptions are for reference purposes only and may not re­flect your BIOS screens exactly.

4. BIOS SETUP

Program Information

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 51

4. BIOS SETUP

4.2.1 BIOS Menu Bar

The top of the screen has a menu bar with the following selections:

MAIN Use this menu to make changes to the basic system configuration.
ADVANCED Use this menu to enable and make changes to the advanced

features.

POWER Use this menu to configure and enable Power Management

features.

BOOT Use this menu to configure the default system device used to lo-

cate and load the Operating System.

EXIT Use this menu to exit the current menu or specify how to exit the

Setup program.

To access the menu bar items, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard
until the desired item is highlighted.

4.2.2 Legend Bar

At the bottom of the Setup screen you will notice a legend bar. The keys in the
legend bar allow you to navigate through the various setup menus. The following
table lists the keys found in the legend bar with their corresponding alternates and
functions.

Menu Introduction

4. BIOS SETUP

Navigation Key(s) Function Description

<F1> or <Alt + H> Displays the General Help screen from anywhere in the BIOS

<Esc> Jumps to the Exit menu or returns to the main menu from a sub-

← or → (keypad arrow) Selects the menu item to the left or right
↑ or ↓ (keypad arrow) Moves the highlight up or down between fields

- (minus key) Scrolls backward through the values for the highlighted field
+ (plus key) or spacebar Scrolls forward through the values for the highlighted field
<Enter> Brings up a selection menu for the highlighted field
<Home> or <PgUp> Moves the cursor to the first field
<End> or <PgDn> Moves the cursor to the last field

Setup

menu

<F5> Resets the current screen to its Setup Defaults
<F10> Saves changes and exits Setup

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual52

4. BIOS SETUP

General Help

In addition to the Item Specific Help window, the BIOS setup program also pro­vides a General Help screen. This screen can be called up from any menu by sim­ply pressing <F1> or the <Alt> + <H> combination. The General Help screen lists
the legend keys with their corresponding alternates and functions.

Saving Changes and Exiting the Setup Program

See 4.7 Exit Menu for detailed information on saving changes and exiting the
setup program.

Scroll Bar

When a scroll bar appears to the right of a help window, it indicates that there is
more information to be displayed that will not fit in the window. Use <PgUp> and
<PgDn> or the up and down arrow keys to scroll through the entire help docu­ment. Press <Home> to display the first page, press <End> to go to the last page.
To exit the help window, press <Enter> or <Esc>.

Sub-Menu

Note that a right pointer symbol (as shown in the left view) appears to the left of

certain fields. This pointer indicates that a sub-menu can be
launched from this field. A sub-menu contains additional op­tions for a field parameter . T o call up a sub-menu, simply move
the highlight to the field and press <Enter>. The sub-menu
will then immediately appear. Use the legend keys to enter
values and move from field to field within a sub-menu just as
you would within a menu. Use the <Esc> key to return to the
main menu.

Take some time to familiarize yourself with each of the leg­end keys and their corresponding functions. Practice navigating through the vari­ous menus and sub-menus. If you accidentally make unwanted changes to any of
the fields, use the set default hot key <F5>. While moving around through the
Setup program, note that explanations appear in the Item Specific Help window
located to the right of each menu. This window displays the help text for the cur­rently highlighted field.

NOTE: The item heading in square brackets represents the default setting for
that field.

4. BIOS SETUP

Menu Introduction

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 53

4. BIOS SETUP

4.3 Main Menu

When the Setup program is accessed, the following screen appears:

System Time [XX:XX:XX]

Sets your system to the time that you specify (usually the current time).
The format is hour, minute, second. Valid values for hour, minute and sec-

4. BIOS SETUP

Main Menu

ond are Hour: (00 to 23), Minute: (00 to 59), Second: (00 to 59). Use the
<Tab> or <Shift> + <Tab> keys to move between the hour, minute, and
second fields.

System Date [XX/XX/XXXX]

Sets your system to the date that you specify (usually the current date). The
format is month, day , year . Valid values for month, day, and year are Month:
(1 to 12), Day: (1 to 31), Y ear: (100 year range). Use the <T ab> or <Shift>
+ <Tab> keys to move between the month, day, and year fields.

Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.], Legacy Diskette B [None]

Sets the type of floppy drives installed. Configuration options: [None]
[360K, 5.25 in.] [1.2M , 5.25 in.] [720K , 3.5 in.] [1.44M, 3.5 in.]
[2.88M, 3.5 in.]

Floppy 3 Mode Support [Disabled]

This is required to support older Japanese floppy drives. Floppy 3 Mode
support will allow reading and writing of 1.2MB (as opposed to 1.44MB)
on a 3.5-inch diskette. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Drive A]
[Drive B] [Both]

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual54

4. BIOS SETUP

4.3.1 Primary & Secondary Master/Slave

NOTE: Before attempting to configure a hard disk drive, make sure you
have the configuration information supplied by the manufacturer of the
drive. Incorrect settings may cause your system to not recognize the in­stalled hard disk. To allow the BIOS to detect the drive type automati­cally, select [Auto].

Type [Auto]

Select [Auto] to automatically detect an IDE hard disk drive. If automatic
detection is successful, the correct values will be filled in for the remaining
fields on this sub-menu. If automatic detection fails, your hard disk drive
may be too old or too new. You can try updating your BIOS or enter the
IDE hard disk drive parameters manually.

NOTE: After the IDE hard disk drive information has been entered into
BIOS, new IDE hard disk drives must be partitioned (such as with FDISK)
and then formatted before data can be read from and write on. Primary
IDE hard disk drives must have its partition set to active (also possible
with FDISK).

4. BIOS SETUP

Master/Slave Drives

Other options for the Type field are:

[None] - to disable IDE devices

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 55

4. BIOS SETUP

IMPORTANT: If your hard disk was already formatted on an older previous system,

incorrect parameters may be detected. You will need to enter the correct parameters
manually or use low-level format if you do not need the data stored on the hard disk.

If the parameters listed differ from the ones used when the disk was formatted, the
disk will not be readable. If the auto-detected parameters do not match the ones that
should be used for your disk, you should enter the correct ones manually by setting
[User Type HDD].

[User Type HDD]

Master/Slave Drives

4. BIOS SETUP

Manually enter the number of cylinders, heads and sectors per track for
your drive. Refer to your drive documentation or look on the drive for this
information. If no drive is installed or if you are removing a drive and not
replacing it, select [None].

Translation Method [LBA]

Select the hard disk drive type in this field. When Logical Block Address­ing is enabled, 28-bit addressing of the hard drive is used without regard
for cylinders, heads, or sectors. Note that LBA Mode is necessary for drives
with greater than 504MB in storage capacity . Configuration options: [LBA]
[LARGE] [Normal] [Match Partition Table] [Manual]

Cylinders

This field configures the number of cylinders. Refer to your drive docu­mentation to determine the correct value to enter into this field. NOTE: To
make changes to this field, the Type field must be set to [User Type HDD]
and the Translation Method field must be set to [Manual].

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual56

4. BIOS SETUP

Head

This field configures the number of read/write heads. Refer to your drive
documentation to determine the correct value to enter into this field. NOTE:
To make changes to this field, the Type field must be set to [User Type
HDD] and the Translation Method field must be set to [Manual].

Sector

This field configures the number of sectors per track. Refer to your drive
documentation to determine the correct value to enter into this field. NOTE:
To make changes to this field, the Type field must be set to [User Type
HDD] and the Translation Method field must be set to [Manual].

CHS Capacity

This field shows the drive’s maximum CHS capacity calculated automati-
cally by the BIOS from the drive information you entered.

Maximum LBA Capacity

This field shows the drive’s maximum LBA capacity calculated automati-
cally by the BIOS from the drive information you entered.

Multi-Sector Transfers [Maximum]

This option automatically sets the number of sectors per block to the high­est number supported by the drive. This field can also be configured manu­ally. Note that when this field is automatically configured, the set value
may not always be the fastest value for the drive. Refer to the documenta­tion that came with your hard drive to determine the optimal value and set
it manually. NOTE: T o make changes to this field, the Type field must be
set to [User Type HDD]. Configuration options: [Disabled] [2 Sectors] [4
Sectors] [8 Sectors] [16 Sectors] [32 Sectors] [Maximum]

SMART Monitoring [Disabled]

This allows the enabling or disabling of the S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring,
Analysis and Reporting Technology) system which utilizes internal hard
disk drive monitoring technology. This feature is normally disabled be­cause system resources used in this feature may decrease system perfor­mance. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

PIO Mode [4]

This option lets you set a PIO (Programmed Input/Output) mode for the
IDE device. Modes 0 through 4 provide successively increased performance.
Configuration options: [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]

4. BIOS SETUP

Master/Slave Drives

Ultra DMA Mode [Disabled]

Ultra DMA capability allows improved transfer speeds and data integrity
for compatible IDE devices. Set to [Disabled] to suppress Ultra DMA ca­pability. NOTE: To make changes to this field, the Type field must be set
to [User Type HDD]. Configuration options: [0] [1] [2] [3] [4] [Disabled]

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 57

4. BIOS SETUP

Other options for “Type:” are:
[CD-ROM] - for IDE CD-ROM drives

[LS-120] - for LS-120 compatible floppy disk drives
[ZIP-100] - for ZIP-100 compatible disk drives
[MO] - for IDE magneto optical disk drives
[Other ATAPI Device] - for IDE devices not listed here

After using the legend keys to make your selections on this sub-menu,
press the <Esc> key to exit back to the Main menu. When the Main menu
appears, you will notice that the drive size appear in the field for the hard
disk drive that you just configured.

4.3.2 Keyboard Features

4. BIOS SETUP

Main Menu

Boot Up NumLock Status [On]

This field enables users to activate the Number Lock function upon system
boot. Configuration options: [Off] [On]

Keyboard Auto-Repeat Rate [12/Sec]

This controls the speed at which the system registers repeated keystrokes.
Options range from 6 to 30 characters per second. Configuration options:
[6/Sec] [8/Sec] [10/Sec] [12/Sec] [15/Sec] [20/Sec] [24/Sec] [30/Sec]

Keyboard Auto-Repeat Delay [1/4 Sec]

This field sets the time interval for displaying the first and second charac­ters. Configuration options: [1/4 Sec] [1/2 Sec] [3/4 Sec] [1 Sec]

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual58

4. BIOS SETUP

Language [English]

This allows selection of the BIOS’ displayed language. Currently only English is avail­able.

Supervisor Password [Disabled] / User Password [Disabled]

These fields allow you to set the passwords. To set the password, highlight the ap­propriate field and press <Enter>. Type in a password and press <Enter>. You can
type up to eight alphanumeric characters. Symbols and other keys are ignored. To
confirm the password, type the password again and press the <Enter>. The password
is now set to [Enabled]. This password allows full access to the BIOS Setup menus.
T o clear the password, highlight this field and press <Enter>. The same dialog box as

above will appear. Press <Enter> and the password will be set to [Disabled].

A Note about Passwords

The BIOS Setup program allows you to specify passwords in the Main menu.
The passwords control access to the BIOS during system startup. The pass­words are not case sensitive. In other words, it makes no difference whether
you enter a password using upper or lowercase letters. The BIOS Setup pro­gram allows you to specify two separate passwords: a Supervisor password
and a User password. When disabled, anyone may access all BIOS Setup
program functions. When enabled, the Supervisor password is required for
entering the BIOS Setup program and having full access to all configuration
fields.

Forgot the Password?

If you forgot the password, you can clear the password by erasing the CMOS Real
Time Clock (RTC) RAM. The RAM data containing the password information is
powered by the onboard button cell battery. To erase the RTC RAM: (1) Unplug
your computer, (2) Short the solder points, (3) Turn ON your computer, (4) Hold
down <Delete> during bootup and enter BIOS setup to re-enter user preferences.

0101

CR2032 3V

Lithium Cell

CMOS Power

A7A266

CLRTC

Short solder points
to Clear CMOS

A7A266 Clear RTC RAM

Halt On [All Errors]

This field determines which types of errors will cause the system to halt.
Configuration options: [All Errors] [No Error] [All but Keyboard] [All but
Disk] [All but Disk/Keyboard]

Main Menu

4. BIOS SETUP

Installed Memory [XXX MB]

This display-only field displays the amount of conventional memory detected
by the system during bootup. You do not need to make changes to this field.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 59

4. BIOS SETUP

4.4 Advanced Menu

CPU Speed

In JumperFree™ Mode, this field allows you to select the internal frequency
of your CPU. Select [Manual] if you want to make changes to the subse­quent 2 fields. Note that selecting a frequency higher than the CPU manu­facturer recommends may cause the system to hang or crash. See System

4. BIOS SETUP

Advanced Menu

Hangup on page 60. Configuration options: [Manual] [700MHz] [933Mhz]

System/SDRAM/PCI (MHz)

This field determines the frequency ratio among the Front Side
Bus, SDRAM, and PCI bus. You may set the memory clock
frequency in synchronous or asynchronous mode with respect
to the Front Side Bus frequency. Configuration options:
[66:100:33] [100:100:33] [133:133:33] [133:100:33]

(When CPU Internal Frequency is set to [Manual])

Available options

when FSB:SDRAM:PCI Freq. Ratio

is set to [133:133:33]

CPU Vcore

In JumperFree mode, this field displays the core voltage sup­plied to the CPU. If you want to set it manually, always refer
to the CPU documentation. The picture shown here provides only
an example of possible Vcore ranges.

CPU Level 1 Cache, CPU Level 2 Cache [Enabled]

These fields allow you to choose from the default of [Enabled] or choose
[Disabled] to turn on or off the CPU’s Level 1 and Level 2 built-in cache.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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4. BIOS SETUP

CPU Level 2 Cache ECC Check [Disabled]

This function controls the ECC capability in the CPU level 2 cache. Con­figuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

BIOS Update [Enabled]

This functions as an update loader integrated into the BIOS to supply the
processor with the required data. In the default position of [Enabled], the
BIOS will load the update on all processors during system bootup. Con­figuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

PS/2 Mouse Function Control [Auto]

The default of [Auto] allows the system to detect a PS/2 mouse on startup.
If detected, IRQ12 will be used for the PS/2 mouse. IRQ12 will be re­served for expansion cards only if a PS/2 mouse is not detected. [Enabled]
will always reserve IRQ12, whether on startup a PS/2 mouse is detected or
not. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Auto]

USB Legacy Support [Auto]

This motherboard supports Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices. The de­fault of [Auto] allows the system to detect a USB device on startup. If
detected, USB controller legacy mode will be enabled. If not detected, USB
controller legacy mode will be disabled. When this field is set to [Dis­abled], USB controller legacy mode is disabled no matter whether you are
using a USB device or not. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
[Auto]

OS/2 Onboard Memory > 64M [Disabled]

When using OS/2 operating systems with installed DRAM of greater than
64MB, you need to set this option to [Enabled]; otherwise, leave this on
[Disabled]. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Advanced Menu

4. BIOS SETUP

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4. BIOS SETUP

Notes for JumperFree Mode

CPU Upgrade/Reinstallation

To ensure that your system can enter BIOS setup after the processor has
been changed or reinstalled, your system will start up running at a bus
speed of 66MHz and a fail-safe CPU internal frequency (4x66MHz). It
will then automatically take you to the Advanced menu with a popup menu
of all the officially possible CPU internal frequencies.

JumperFree Notes

4. BIOS SETUP

System Hangup

If your system crashes or hangs due to improper frequency settings, power
OFF your system and restart. The system will start up in safe mode running
at a bus speed of 66MHz and enter BIOS setup.

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4. BIOS SETUP

4.4.1 Chip Configuration

SDRAM Configuration [By SPD]

This sets the optimal timings for items 4-7, depending on the memory mod­ules that you are using. The default setting [By SPD] configures items 4-7
by reading the contents in the SPD (Serial Presence Detect) device. The
EEPROM on the memory module stores critical parameter information
about the module, such as memory type, size, speed, voltage interface, and
module banks. Configuration options: [User Define] [By SPD]

NOTE: The following 3 fields will only be adjustable when SDRAM Con­figuration is set to [User Define].

SDRAM CAS Latency

This controls the latency between the SDRAM read command and the
time that the data actually becomes available.

SDRAM RAS to CAS Delay

This controls the latency between the SDRAM active command and
the read/write command.

SDRAM RAS Precharge Time

This controls the idle clocks after issuing a precharge command to the
SDRAM.

4. BIOS SETUP

Chip Configuration

SDRAM Cycle Time (Tras, Trc) [6T, 8T]

This feature controls the number of SDRAM clocks used for SDRAM pa­rameters Tras and Trc. Tras specifies the minimum clocks required be­tween active command and precharge command. Trc specifies the mini­mum clocks required between active command and re-active command.
Configuration options: [5T, 7T] [6T, 8T]

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4. BIOS SETUP

Graphics Aperture Size [64MB]

This feature allows you to select the size of mapped memory for AGP
graphic data. Configuration options: [64MB] [32MB]

Video Memory Cache Mode [UC]

USWC (uncacheable, speculative write combining) is a new cache tech­nology for the video memory of the processor. It can greatly improve the
display speed by caching the display data. You must set this to UC
(uncacheable) if your display card cannot support this feature; otherwise
your system may not boot. Configuration options: [UC] [USWC]

Memory Hole At 15M-16M [Disabled]

This field allows you to reserve an address space for ISA devices that re­quire it. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

PCI 2.1 Latency Compliant [Enabled]

This function allows you to enable or disable PCI 2.1 features including
passive release and delayed transaction. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]

Delay Transaction [Disabled]

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Onboard PCI IDE [Both]

You can select to enable the primary IDE channel, secondary IDE channel,

Chip Configuration

4. BIOS SETUP

both, or disable both channels. Configuration options: [Both] [Disabled]

Onboard PCI Audio [Enabled]

Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

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4. BIOS SETUP

4.4.2 I/O Device Configuration

Onboard FDC Swap A & B [No Swap]

This field allows you to reverse the hardware drive letter assignments of
your floppy disk drives. Configuration options: [No Swap] [Swap AB]

Floppy Disk Access Control [R/W]

When set to [Read Only], this field protects files from being copied to
floppy disks by allowing reads from the floppy disk drive but not writes.
The setup default [R/W] allows both reads and writes. Configuration op­tions: [R/W] [Read Only]

Onboard Serial Port 1 [3F8H/IRQ4]
Onboard Serial Port 2 [2F8H/IRQ3]

These fields allow you to set the addresses for the onboard serial connec­tors. Serial Port 1 and Serial Port 2 must have different addresses. Con­figuration options: [3F8H/IRQ4] [2F8H/IRQ3] [3E8H/IRQ4] [2E8H/
IRQ10] [Disabled]

Onboard IR Port [Disabled]

When enabled, this field activates the onboard standard infrared feature
and sets the second serial UART to support the infrared module connector
on the motherboard. If your system already has a second serial port con­nected to the onboard COM2 connector, it will no longer work if you en­able the infrared feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

4. BIOS SETUP

I/O Device Config

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4. BIOS SETUP

Onboard Parallel Port [378H/IRQ7]

This field sets the address of the onboard parallel port connector. If you
disable this feature, Parallel Port Mode and ECP DMA Select configura­tions will not be available. Configuration options: [Disabled] [378H/IRQ7]
[278H/IRQ5]

Parallel Port Mode [ECP+EPP]

This field allows you to set the operation mode of the parallel port. [Nor­mal] allows normal-speed operation but in one direction only; [EPP] al­lows bidirectional parallel port operation; [ECP] allows the parallel port to
operate in bidirectional DMA mode; [ECP+EPP] allows normal speed op­eration in a two-way mode. Configuration options: [Normal] [EPP] [ECP]
[ECP+EPP]

ECP DMA Select [3]

This field allows you to configure the parallel port DMA channel for the
selected ECP mode. This selection is available only if you select [ECP] or
[ECP+EPP] in Parallel Port Mode above. Configuration options: [1] [3]

I/O Device Config

4. BIOS SETUP

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual66

4. BIOS SETUP

4.4.3 PCI Configuration

Slot 1/5, Slot 2, Slot 3, Slot 4, Slot 5 IRQ [Auto]

These fields set how IRQ use is determined for each PCI slot. The default
setting for each field is [Auto], which utilizes auto-routing to determine
IRQ use. Configuration options: [Auto] [NA] [3] [4] [5] [7] [9] [10] [11]
[12] [14] [15]

PCI/VGA Palette Snoop [Disabled]

Some nonstandard VGA cards, such as graphics accelerators or MPEG video
cards, may not show colors properly. The setting [Enabled] should correct
this problem. Otherwise, leave this on the default setting of [Disabled].
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

PCI Latency Timer [32]

Leave on default setting for best performance vs. stability.

SYMBIOS SCSI BIOS [Auto]

[Auto] allows the motherboard’s BIOS to detect whether you have a Symbios
SCSI controller. If the Symbios SCSI controller is detected, the
motherboard’s Symbios BIOS will be enabled; if no Symbios SCSI control­ler is detected, the onboard Symbios SCSI BIOS will be disabled.

4. BIOS SETUP

PCI Configuration

[Disabled] will disable the motherboard’s Symbios SCSI BIOS so that the
BIOS on an add-on Symbios SCSI card can be used. If your Symbios SCSI
card does not have a BIOS, the Symbios SCSI card will not function. Con­figuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 67

4. BIOS SETUP

USB Function [Enabled]

This motherboard supports Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices. Set to [En­abled] if you want to use USB devices. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]

Primary VGA BIOS Sequence [PCI VGA Card]

If your computer has both PCI and AGP VGA controllers, this field allows
you to select which of the controllers will act as your primary graphics
controller . The default, [PCI/AGP], allows your PCI controller to take pre­cedent when detected. [AGP/PCI] uses the AGP controller as your primary
controller. Configuration options: [PCI VGA Card] [AGP VGA Card]

PCI/PNP IRQ Resource Exclusion

PCI Configuration

4. BIOS SETUP

IRQ XX Reserved [No]

These fields indicate whether or not the displayed IRQ for each field is
being used by a specified device. The default value indicates that the dis­played IRQ is not used. Configuration options: [No] [Yes]

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual68

4. BIOS SETUP

4.5 Power Menu

The Power menu allows you to reduce power consumption. This feature turns off the
video display and shuts down the hard disk after a period of inactivity.

Power Management [User Define]

This option must be enabled to use any of the automatic power saving features. If
this menu item is set to [Disabled], power management features will not function
regardless of other field settings on this menu. The [User Define] option allows
you to make your own selections in the Power menu. When set to [Max Saving],
system power will be conserved to its greatest amount.
field will then be set to predefined value that ensures maximum power
savings.

This field acts as the master control for the power management modes. [Max Sav­ing] puts the system into power saving mode after a brief period of system inactiv­ity; [Min Saving] is almost the same as [Max Saving] except that the system inac­tivity period is longer; [Disabled] disables the power saving features; [User De­fine] allows you to set power saving options according to your preference. Con­figuration options: [User Define] [Disabled] [Min Saving] [Max Saving]

IMPORT ANT: Advanced Power Management (APM) should be installed to keep

the system time updated when the computer enters suspend mode activated by
the BIOS Power Management. For DOS environments, you need to add the
statement, DEVICE=C:\DOS\POWER.EXE, to your CONFIG.SYS file. For
Windows 3.x and Windows 95, you need to install Windows with the APM
feature. For Windows 98 and later, APM is automatically installed. A battery
and power cord icon labeled “Power Management” will appear in the “Control
Panel.” Choose “Advanced” in the Power Management Properties dialog box.

The Suspend Mode

Power Menu

4. BIOS SETUP

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4. BIOS SETUP

Video Off Option [Suspend -> Off ]

This field determines when to activate the video off feature for monitor
power management. Configuration options: [Always On] [Suspend -> Off]

Video Off Method [DPMS OFF]

This field defines the video off features. The DPMS (Display Power Man­agement System) feature allows the BIOS to control the video display card if
it supports the DPMS feature. [Blank Screen] only blanks the screen (use
this for monitors without power management or “green” features. If set up in
your system, your screen saver will not display with [Blank Screen] selected).
[V/H SYNC+Blank] blanks the screen and turns off vertical and horizontal
scanning. Configuration options: [Blank Screen] [V/H SYNC+Blank] [DPMS
Standby] [DPMS Suspend] [DPMS OFF] [DPMS Reduce ON]

HDD Power Down [Disabled]

This feature shuts down any IDE hard disk drives in the system after a
period of inactivity as set in this user-configurable field. This feature
does not affect SCSI hard drives. Configuration options: [Disabled] [1
Min] [2 Min] [3 Min]...[15 Min]

Suspend Mode [Disabled]

Sets the time period before the system goes into suspend mode. NOTE:
This field is effective for DOS, Windows 9x, and Windows NT 4.0 envi­ronments. Configuration options: [Disabled] [1~2 Min] [2~3 Min]...[1
Hour]

4. BIOS SETUP

Power Menu

PWR Button < 4 Secs [Soft Off]

When set to [Soft off], the ATX switch can be used as a normal system
power-off button when pressed for less than 4 seconds. [Suspend] allows
the button to have a dual function where pressing less than 4 seconds will
place the system in sleep mode. Regardless of the setting, holding the ATX
switch for more than 4 seconds will power off the system. Configuration
options: [Soft off] [Suspend]

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual70

4. BIOS SETUP

4.5.1 Power Up Control

AC PWR Loss Restart [Previous State]

This allows you to set whether you want your system to reboot after the
power has been interrupted. [Disabled] leaves your system off and [En­abled] reboots your system. [Previous State] sets your system back to the
state it is before the power interruption. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled] [Previous State]

Wake/Power Up On Ext. Modem [Disabled]

This allows either settings of [Enabled] or [Disabled] for powering up the
computer when the external modem receives a call while the computer is
in Soft-off mode. NOTE: The computer cannot receive or transmit data
until the computer and applications are fully running. Thus connection can­not be made on the first try. Turning an external modem off and then back
on while the computer is off causes an initialization string that will also
cause the system to power on. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Power Up On PCI Card [Disabled]

Wake-On-LAN/PCI Modem allows your computer to be booted from an­other computer via a network by sending a wake-up frame or signal. Con­figuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

4. BIOS SETUP

Power Up Control

IMPORTANT: This feature requires an optional network interface card with W ake-

On-LAN and an ATX power supply with at least 720mA +5V standby power.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 71

4. BIOS SETUP

Power Up On PCI Card On PS2 KB/Mouse [Disabled]

Set this field to [Enabled] if you wish to use your PS2 keyboard, PS2 mouse,
or consumer IR device to power up your computer . This feature requires an
ATX power supply that can supply at least 300mA on the +5VSB lead. The
default is set to [Disabled] because not all computers have the appropriate
ATX power supply. Your computer will not power ON if you set this to
[Enabled] and do not have the appropriate ATX power supply. Configura­tion options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Automatic Power Up [Disabled]

This allows an unattended or automatic system power up. You may config­ure your system to power up at a certain time of the day by selecting [Ev­eryday] or at a certain time and day by selecting [By Date]. NOTE: Auto-
matic Power Up will not work if the system is powered down by operating
systems, such as Windows 98, which have ACPI support enabled. Con­figuration options: [Disabled] [Everyday] [By Date]

Power Up Control

4. BIOS SETUP

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual72

4. BIOS SETUP

4.5.2 Hardware Monitor

MB Temperature [xxxC/xxxF]
CPU Temperature [xxxC/xxxF]

The onboard hardware monitor is able to detect the MB (motherboard) and
CPU temperatures. Set to [Ignore] only if necessary.

CPU Fan Speed [xxxxRPM]
Power Fan Speed [xxxxRPM]
Chassis Fan Speed [xxxxRPM]

The onboard hardware monitor is able to detect the CPU, power supply,
and chassis fan speeds in rotations per minute (RPM). The presence of the
fans is automatically detected. Set to [Ignore] only if necessary.

VCORE1 Voltage, +3.3V Voltage, +5V Voltage, +12V Voltage
Voltage, -5V Voltage

The onboard hardware monitor is able to detect the voltage output by the
onboard voltage regulators. Set to [Ignore] only if necessary.

NOTE: If any of the monitored items is out of range, an error message will
appear: “Hardware Monitor found an error. Enter Power setup menu for
details”. You will then be prompted to “Press F1 to continue, DEL to enter
SETUP”.

[xx.xV]

, -12V

4. BIOS SETUP

Hardware Monitor

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 73

4. BIOS SETUP

4.6 Boot Menu

Boot Sequence

The Boot menu allows you to select among the four possible types of boot
devices listed using the up and down arrow keys. By using the <+> or <Space>
key, you can promote devices and by using the <-> key, you can demote
devices. Promotion or demotion of devices alters the priority which the sys-

4. BIOS SETUP

Boot Menu

tem uses to search for a boot device on system power up. Configuration
fields include Removable Devices, IDE Hard Drive, ATAPI CD-ROM,
and Other Boot Device.

Removable Device [Legacy Floppy]

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Legacy Floppy] [LS120] [ZIP-100]
[ATAPI MO]

IDE Hard Drive

This field allows you to select which IDE hard disk drive to use in the boot
sequence. Pressing [Enter] will show the product IDs of all connected IDE
hard disk drives.

ATAPI CD-ROM

This field allows you to select which ATAPI CD-ROM drive to use in the
boot sequence. Pressing [Enter] will show the product IDs of all your con­nected ATAPI CD-ROM drives.

Other Boot Device Select [INT18 Device (Network)]

Configuration options: [Disabled] [SCSI Boot Device] [INT18 Device (Net­work)] [LANDesk (R) Service Agent]

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual74

4. BIOS SETUP

Plug & Play O/S [No]

This field allows you to use a Plug-and-Play (PnP) operating system to
configure the PCI bus slots instead of using the BIOS. When [Yes] is se­lected, interrupts may be reassigned by the OS. When a non-PnP OS is
installed or you want to prevent reassigning of interrupt settings, select the
default setting of [No]. Configuration options: [No] [Yes]

Reset Configuration Data [No]

Configuration options: [No] [Yes]

Boot Virus Detection [Enabled]

This field allows you to set boot virus detection, ensuring a virus-free boot
sector . The system halts and displays a warning message when it detects a
virus. If this occurs, you can either allow the operation to continue or use a
virus-free bootable floppy disk to restart and investigate your system. Con­figuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Quick Power On Self Test [Enabled]

This field speeds up the Power-On-Self Test (POST) routine by skipping
retesting a second, third, and fourth time. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]

Boot Up Floppy Seek [Enabled]

When enabled, the BIOS will seek the floppy disk drive to determine
whether the drive has 40 or 80 tracks. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]

Boot Menu

4. BIOS SETUP

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 75

4. BIOS SETUP

4.7 Exit Menu

Once you have made all of your selections from the various menus in the Setup pro­gram, you should save your changes and exit Setup. Select Exit from the menu bar to
display the following menu:

NOTE: Pressing <Esc> does not exit this menu. You must select one of the

4. BIOS SETUP

Exit Menu

options from this menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit this menu.

Exit Saving Changes

Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the
Exit menu to ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM.
The CMOS RAM is sustained by an onboard backup battery and stays on
even when the PC is turned off. Once this option is selected, a confirma­tion is asked. Select [Yes] to save changes and exit.

NOTE: If you attempt to exit the Setup program without saving your
changes, the program will prompt you with a message asking if you want
to save your changes before exiting. Pressing <Enter> will then save changes
while exiting.

Exit Discarding Changes

This option should only be used if you do not want to save the changes you
have made to the Setup program. If you have made changes to fields other
than system date, system time, and password, the system will ask for con­firmation before exiting.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual76

4. BIOS SETUP

Load Setup Defaults

This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters
on the Setup menus. When this option is selected or if <F5> is pressed, a
confirmation is requested. Select [Yes] to load default values. You can now
select Exit Saving Changes or make other changes before saving the val-
ues to the non-volatile RAM.

Discard Changes

This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the
values you previously saved. After selecting this option, a confirmation is
requested. Select [Y es] to discard any changes and load the previously saved
values.

Save Changes

This option saves your selections without exiting the Setup program. You
can then return to other menus and make changes. After selecting this op­tion, all selections are saved and a confirmation is requested. Select [Yes]
to save any changes to the non-volatile RAM.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 77

Exit Menu

4. BIOS SETUP

4. BIOS SETUP

(This page intentionally left blank.)

4. BIOS SETUP

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual78

5. SOFTWARE SETUP

5.1 Install Operating System

You should always use the latest operating system and updates when using new
hardware to ensure full compliancy . You may use any version of Windows 98/2000/
Millenium, but for Windows 95, you must use OSR 2.0 or later. For Windows NT

4.0, you must use Service Pack 3.0 or later.

5.2 Start Windows

When you start Windows 98 for the first time after installing your motherboard,
Windows will detect all plug-and play devices. Follow the Add New Hardware W iz­ard to install all necessary device drivers. When prompted to restart, select No and
then follow the setup procedures in this section.

NOTE: Because there are various motherboard settings, options, and expansion
cards, the following can only be used as a general reference and may not reflect
exactly the screen contents displayed on your screen.

Windows 98

5. S/W SETUP

79ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

5. SOFTWARE SETUP

5.3 A7A266 Series Motherboard Support CD

NOTE: The support CD contents are subject to change at any time without notice.
T o begin using your support CD disc, just insert it into your CD-ROM drive and the

support CD installation menu should appear. If the menu does not appear, double­click or run D:\ASSETUP.EXE (assuming that your CD-ROM drive is drive D:).

5.3.1 Installation Menu

• ALi AGP Driver: Installs ALi chipset AGP Driver.

• ALi IDE Cache and Utility: Installs the ALi IDE cache and Utility V1.05.

• C-Media PCI Audio Driver Application: Installs C-Media Audio drivers.

• ASUS PC Probe Vx.xx: Installs a smart utility to monitor your computer’s fan,

• ASUS Update Vx.xx: Installs ASUS\Update to help you update your BIOS or

• Microsoft Direct X 8.0 Driver: Installs Microsoft .

• PC-Cillin 2000 Vx.xx: Installs the PC-cillin virus protection software. View the

• ADOBE Acrobat Reader Vx.xx: Installs the Adobe Acrobat Reader software neces-

5. S/W SETUP

Windows 98

• Install Cyberlink Video and Audio Applications: (optional) Installs Cyberlink

•

• Show Motherboard Information: Allows you to view information about your

• Browse Support CD: Allows you to view the contents of the CD.

• ReadMe: Allows you to view the support CD file list and contact information.

• Exit: Exits the CD installation menu.

Additonal CD Content: Flash BIOS writer can be found in the AFLASH folder.

temperature, and voltages.
download BIOS image file from the Internet. Install Network Card and TCP/IP

network driver first, or the ASUS Update cannot function.

online help for more information.
sary to view user’s manuals saved in PDF format. Updated or other language versions of

this motherboard's manual is available in PDF format at any of our web sites.
PowerPlayer SE, PowerDVD Trial, and Cyberlink VideoLive Mail.

ASUS Screen Saver: Installs the ASUS Screen Saver.

(TO SEE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS, CLICK RIGHT ARROW ON THE LOWER-RIGHT CORNER OF THE

MAIN MENU)

motherboard, such as product name, BIOS version, and CPU.

(TO RETURN TO THE MAIN MENU, CLICK LEFT ARROW ON THE LOWER-RIGHT CORNER OF THE

SECONDARY MENU)

80

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

6. SOFTWARE REFERENCE

6.1 ASUS PC Probe

ASUS PC Probe is a convenient utility to continuously monitor your com­puter system’s vital components, such as fan rotations, voltages, and tem-
peratures. It also has a utility that lets you review useful information about
your computer, such as hard disk space, memory usage, and CPU type, CPU
speed, and internal/external frequencies through the DMI Explorer.

6.1.1 Starting ASUS PC Probe

When ASUS PC Probe starts, a splash screen appears allowing you to select
whether to show the screen again when you open PC Probe or not. To by­pass this startup screen, clear the Show up in next execution check box.

ASUS PC Probe

6. S/W REFERENCE

To open ASUS PC Probe, click the Windows Start button, point to Pro­grams, and then ASUS Utility, and then click Probe Vx.xx.

The PC Probe icon
that ASUS PC Probe is running. Clicking the icon will allow you to see the
status of your PC.

will appear on the taskbar’s system tray indicating

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 81

6. SOFTWARE REFERENCE

6. S/W REFERENCE

ASUS PC Probe

6.1.2 Using ASUS PC Probe

Monitoring

Monitor Summary

Shows a summary of the items being
monitored.

Temperature Monitor

Shows the PC’s temperature (for
supported processors only).

(Move the slider up to increase the
threshold level or down to decrease

Temperature Warning

threshold adjustment

the threshold level)

Fan Monitor

Shows the PC’s fan rotation.

Fan Warning

threshold adjustment

(Move the slider up to increase the
threshold level or down to decrease

the threshold level)

Voltage Monitor

Shows the PC’s voltages.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual82

6. SOFTWARE REFERENCE

Settings

Lets you set threshold levels and poll­ing intervals or refresh times of the PC’s
temperature, fan rotation, and voltages.

CPU Cooling System Setup

Lets you select when to enable software CPU

cooling. When When CPU Overheated is selected,

the CPU cooling system is enabled whenever the

CPU temperature reaches the threshold value.

History

Lets you record the monitoring activ­ity of a certain component of your PC
for future reference.

ASUS PC Probe

6. S/W REFERENCE

Fan Control

Lets you enable/disable Smart Fan
Control. Smart Fan Control adjusts the
fan speed automatically based on the
current CPU temperature and pre­defined threshold.

NOTE: This feature is not available on
ASUS Probe version 2.12.01/2.12.02

Information

Hard Drives

Shows the used and free space of the
PC’s hard disk drives and the file allo-
cation table or file system used.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 83

6. SOFTWARE REFERENCE

6. S/W REFERENCE

ASUS PC Probe

Memory

Shows the PC’s memory load, memory
usage, and paging file usage.

Device Summary

Shows a summary of devices in your PC.

DMI Explorer

Shows information pertinent to the PC,
such as CPU type, CPU speed, and in­ternal/external frequencies, and memory
size.

Utility

Lets you run programs outside of the
ASUS Probe modules. T o run a program,
click Execute Program. NOTE: This
feature is currently unavailable.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual84

6. SOFTWARE REFERENCE

6.1.3 ASUS PC Probe Task Bar Icon

Right clicking the PC Probe
icon will bring up a menu to
open or exit ASUS PC Probe
and pause or resume all sys­tem monitoring.

When the ASUS PC Probe
senses a problem with your
PC, portions of the ASUS PC
Probe icon changes to red, the
PC speaker beeps, and the
ASUS PC Probe monitor is dis­played.

ASUS PC Probe

6. S/W REFERENCE

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 85

6. SOFTWARE REFERENCE

6. S/W REFERENCE

6.2 CyberLink PowerPlayer SE

PowerPlayer

CyberLink PowerPlayer SE is an intelligent software player that can automatically
detect and playback all kinds of video/audio files, CD and MP3 files as well. This is
the only software you need for all types of video and audio files. No need to waste
time identifying your file types.

6.2.1 Starting CyberLink PowerPlayer SE

To start CyberLink Power Player, click the Windows Start button, point
to Programs, and then CyberLink PowerPlayer SE, and then click
PowerPlayer.

6.2.2 CyberLink PowerPlayer Control Panel

Minimize

Zoom
About

Eject
Help

Power Off

Stop

Backward Scan

Backstep Frame

Previous

Stop

Configuration

i-Power!

CD Mode

Shuffle

Karaoke Next angle Next audio stream Next subtitle Add bookmark

Forward Scan
Step Frame

Next

Play

Increase Volume
Mute

Decrease Volume

Capture frame Go-Up Repeat Menu Go to bookmark

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual86

6. SOFTWARE REFERENCE

6.3 CyberLink VideoLive Mail

CyberLink’s VideoLive Mail Plus Ver 3.0 (a.k.a. VLM 3) is a convenient and excel-
lent way to create professional quality video mails from PC video/audio input de­vices and to send the mails to any recipients via VLM 3’s built-in e-mail system
through the Internet. VLM 3’s mails comprise video, sound, or snapshot informa-
tion; and thus may convey the most profound information to target audiences. It is
very convenient for mail recipients who do not need to install additional software
component in order to view VLM 3 mails.

VLM 3 works as a very applicant sales tool. It efficiently delivers profound and live
product information to your target customers without costing a fortune. VLM 3 also
helps corporate managers easily give vivid speeches and broadcast through corpo­rate E-mail system. For personal or home users, VLM 3 easily records live video
clips allowing users to send them to friends or family members across the Internet.

VLM 3 loads video messages from PC cameras, digital camcorders, analog camcorder
via video capture cards, or from an existing AVI video clips, and captures audio
messages from PC microphones. Video and audio messages are encoded at a very
high compressed rate in a real-time mode. From data input, data conversion, to
sending video mails via Internet, or saving data to disks, the whole procedure is
done in an easy and continuous process.

PowerDVD

6. S/W REFERENCE

VLM 3’s video clip compression rate is up to 1:900, and its playback rate is up to 30
frame per second. VLM 3 provides CIF (352 x 288 pixel) display resolution, and
support true color configuration. A one-minute video mail with QCIF (176 x 144)
resolution takes up less than 500KB of memory , making it easy to transmit and save
mail. Users may always adjust resolution and recording parameters for different
purpose.

VLM 3 supports all the hardware devices that are compliant with Video for Win­dows standard. V ideo for W indows is a well-accepted and well-tested standard. Thus,
users do not have to worry about compatibility issues.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 87

6. SOFTWARE REFERENCE

6. S/W REFERENCE

VideoLive Mail

6.3.1 Starting VideoLive Mail

To start VideoLive Mail, click the Windows Start button, point to Programs, and
then CyberLink VideoLive Mail, and then click VideoLive Mail x.x. VLM 3’s
Setup W izard will start and guide you through configuring the video and audio input
peripherals and to setup the e-mail environment.

1. Setup Wizard first will prompt a dialog to confirm that you want to configure

the hardware and E-mail setting. Click Yes to continue the system parameter
configuration.

2. The e-mail configuration screen appears. You will need to enter your name and

the e-mail address. Click Next to continue.

3. The Internet e-mail configuration screen appears. You may choose to use the
VLM 3 built-in E-mail functionality (SMTP mail), or use MAPI compliant e­mail system. Consult your ISP or MIS staff for the E-mail server IP address if
you are not sure. Click Next to continue.

4. Then the Video Configuration screen shows up. You may have to specify the
video driver for VLM 3, if there are several video-input devices installed. Then
configure the number of video frames to be captured per second. Note that the
more frames you choose, the bigger the file size will be. Click Next to continue.

5. Then the Setup Wizard will then search for the GSM CODECS module for au­dio compression, and prompt you with the result. Click Next to continue.

6. Setup Wizard then tests the audio volume during playing and recording. Click
Next when ready.

7. Configuration done. Click Finish to complete the environmental setting proce­dure.

6.3.2 CyberLink VideoLive Mail User Interface

Exit
Minimize

Help
Video Mail Wizard

Snapshot to File

Video Configuration

Start Playback

Stop Recording / Playback

Start Recording

Pause

Save Video File
Send Mail

Load Video File

Send Mail

Increase MIC volume

Decrease MIC volume

Increase speaker volume

Decrease speaker volume

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual88

6. SOFTWARE REFERENCE

6.4 ASUS Update

ASUS LiveUpdate is a utility that allows you to update your motherboard’s
BIOS and drivers. The use of this utility requires that you are properly con­nected to the Internet through an Internet Service Provider (ISP).

1. Start ASUS Update
Launch the utility from Start | Programs | ASUS

Utility | ASUS Update Vx.xx.

2. Select an update method.

VideoLive Mail

6. S/W REFERENCE

3. If you selected updating/downloading from the

Internet, you will need to select an Internet site.
Choose the site that is closest to you or click
Auto Select.

If you selected Update from a file, you will
be prompted to locate the file.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 89

6. S/W REFERENCE

Multi-Channel Audio

6.5 Multi-Channel Audio Feature Setup

The C-Media PCI Audio Driver and Applications are located on the
Support CD. Installing the programs enables the multi-channel audio
feature. Note: You must use 4 or 6 channel speakers for this setup.

6.5.1 The C-Media Audio Mixer

1. The C-Media Mixer
Icon appears on the

bottom right of the screen, or the Mixer
may be turned on from the PCI Audio

Applications & Audio Rack groups on the
Main Program menu using the Windows Start button:
Click on the icon to display the C-Media Audio Mixer:

6. SOFTWARE REFERENCE

2. The Advanced button activates the
Speaker, Volume, Sound Effects and
Options menus. The Speaker menu

offers various configurations for your
speaker system. This menu enables the
Line-In and Mic-In audio jacks on the
back panel to setup additional speakers
for 4 and 6-Channel Audio.

6.5.2 The C-Media Audio Demo Program

1. The Audio Demo program offers an easy way to test and tune your new
speaker system. Activate the

Multi-Channel Audio Demo
program from the PCI Audio
Applications group on the
Main Program menu using the
Windows Start button:

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual90

6. SOFTWARE REFERENCE

2. The PCI Multi-Channel Audio Demo has several Demos to help fine
tune your PC speaker system. The Help menu features several pages of
instructions and hardware diagrams
to help configure and test the
system. To activate the Speaker
Channel Configuration Menu,
point your mouse arrow and click on
the TV box.

3. The Speaker Channel Configuration
Menu displays all the options
available to help tune the multi­channel audio system even more
precisely.

Multi-Channel Audio

6. S/W REFERENCE

6.5.3 Connector Configuration

The chart below displays the configurations for

the line connectors on the yellow MIDI/Game/
Audio connector port located on the
back panel. The three female connectors are
available for use in the 6-Channel audio
system.

Connector Settings and Functions

Headphone/ 4-Speaker 6-Speaker
2-Speaker

Lime Line Out/ Line Out/ Line Out/

Front Spkr Out Front Spkr Out Front Spkr Out
Light Blue Line In
Pink Mic In Mic In Center Speaker Out,

Rear Speaker Out

Rear Speaker Out

Sub-woofer

MicLine InLine Out

Note: See 6 in Section 3, Motherboar d settings for the Bass/Center Jumper
settings to fine tune the output signals.

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 91

6. SOFTWARE REFERENCE

(This page was intentionally left blank.)

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual92

7. APPENDIX

7.1 Glossary

1394

1394 is the IEEE designation for the high performance serial bus at 12.5, 25 or
50MBytes/sec speeds. This serial bus defines both a back plane physical layer and a
point-to-point cable-connected virtual bus. The primary application of the cable ver­sion is the integration of I/O connectivity at the back panel of personal computers
using a low-cost, scalable, high-speed serial interface. The 1394 standard also pro­vides new services such as live connect/disconnect capability for external devices
including disk drives, printers and hand-held peripherals such as scanners and cam­eras. This is a new standard to complement the slower USB interface and to compete
with the more expensive SCSI interface.

AC97 (Audio Codec '97)

AC '97 is the next step in enabling PCs with audio quality comparable to consumer
electronics devices. The specification defines new cost-effective options to help in­tegrate the components necessary to support next-generation auto-intensive PC ap­plications such as DVD, 3-D multiplayer gaming and interactive music. The speci­fication also defines new extensions supporting modem and docking to help both
desktop and mobile manufacturers adopt these new technologies more quickly and
cost-effectively . This specification uses software emulation to compete with the PCI
SoundBlaster specification.

ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Interface)

The ACPI specification defines a cross-platform interface designed to support many
operating systems. ACPI defines a flexible and abstract hardware interface that pro­vides a standard way to integrate power management features throughout a PC sys­tem, including hardware, operating system and application software. This enables
the system to automatically turn ON and OFF peripherals such as CD-ROMs, net­work cards, hard disk drives, and printers, as well as consumer devices connected to
the PC such as VCRs, TVs, phones, and stereos. With this technology, peripherals
will also be able to activate the PC. For example, inserting a tape into a VCR can
turn on the PC, which could then activate a large-screen TV and high-fidelity sound
system.

AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port)

An interface specification that enables high-performance 3D graphics on mainstream
PCs. AGP was designed to offer the necessary bandwidth and latency to perform
texture mapping directly from system memory.

Glossary

7 . APPENDIX

Bus Bus Frequency Bandwidth Data Transfer Rate

PCI 33MHz 33MHz 133MByte/sec
AGP 1X 66MHz 66MHz 266MByte/sec
AGP 2X 66MHz 133MHz 512MByte/sec

AGP 4X 66MHz 266MHz 1024MByte/sec

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System)

BIOS is a set of routines that affect how the computer transfers data between com­puter components, such as memory, disks, and the display adapter. The BIOS in­structions are built into the computer’s read-only memory. BIOS parameters can be
configured by the user through the BIOS Setup program. The BIOS can be updated
using the provided utility to copy a new BIOS file into the EEPROM.

Bit (Binary Digit)

Represents the smallest unit of data used by the computer . A bit can have one of two
values: 0 or 1.

ASUS A7V133 User’s Manual 93

7. APPENDIX

Glossary

7. APPENDIX

Boot

Boot means to start the computer operating system by loading it into system memory .
When the manual instructs you to “boot” your system (or computer), it means to
turn ON your computer . “Reboot” means to restart your computer . When using W in­dows 95 or later, selecting “Restart” from “Start | Shut Down...” will reboot your
computer.

Bus Master IDE

PIO (Programmable I/O) IDE requires that the CPU be involved in IDE access and
waiting for mechanical events. Bus master IDE transfers data to/from the memory
without interrupting the CPU. Bus master IDE driver and bus master IDE hard disk
drives are required to support bus master IDE mode.

Byte (Binary Term)

One byte is a group of eight contiguous bits. A byte is used to represent a single
alphanumeric character, punctuation mark, or other symbol.

COM Port

COM is a logical device name used by to designate the computer serial ports. Point­ing devices, modems, and infrared modules can be connected to COM ports. Each
COM port is configured to use a different IRQ and address assignment.

Concurrent PCI

Concurrent PCI maximizes system performance with simultaneous CPU, PCI and
ISA bus activities. It includes multi-transaction timing, enhanced write performance,
a passive release mechanism and support for PCI 2.1 compliant delayed transac­tions. Concurrent PCI provides increased bandwidth, reduced system latencies, im­proves video and audio performance, and improves processing of host based appli­cations.

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The CPU, sometimes called “Processor,” actually functions as the “brain” of the
computer. It interprets and executes program commands and processes data stored
in memory. Currently, there are socket 370 (for Pentium III FC-PGA and Celeron­PPGA), socket 7 (for Pentium, AMD, Cyrix, IBM), slot 1 (for Pentium II and III),
slot 2 (for Xeon), and slot A (for AMD) processors.

Device Driver

A device driver is a special set of instructions that allows the computer’s operating
system to communicate with devices such as VGA, audio, printer, or modem.

DOS (Disk Operating System)

DOS is the foundation on which all other programs and software applications oper­ate, including W indows. DOS is responsible for allocating system resources such as
memory, CPU time, disk space, and access to peripheral devices. For this reason,
DOS constitutes the basic interface between you and your computer.

DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory)

There are several different types of DRAM such as, EDO DRAM (Extended Data
Output DRAM), SDRAM (Synchronous DRAM), and RDRAM (Rambus DRAM).

Flash ROM

The flash ROM is designed to be a resident program and can be updated by a spe­cific programming method. Normally , the flash ROM is used for system BIOS which
initiates hardware devices and sets up necessary parameters for the OS. Since the
contents of flash ROM can be modified, users are able to update the BIOS by them­selves.

IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics)

IDE devices integrate the drive control circuitry directly on the drive itself, elimi­nating the need for a separate adapter card (in the case for SCSI devices). UltraDMA/
33 IDE devices can achieve up to 33MB/Sec transfer.

ASUS A7V133 User’s Manual94

7. APPENDIX

LPT Port (Line Printer Port)

Logical device name reserved by DOS for the computer parallel ports. Each LPT
port is configured to use a different IRQ and address assignment.

MMX

A set of 57 new instructions based on a technique called Single Instruction, Multiple
Data (SIMD), which is built into the new Intel Pentium PP/MT (P55C) and Pentium
II (Klamath) CPU as well as other x86-compatible microprocessors. The MMX in­structions are designed to accelerate multimedia and communications applications,
such as 3D video, 3D sound, video conference.

OnNow

The OnNow design initiative is a comprehensive, system-wide approach to system
and device power control. OnNow is a term for PC that is always ON but appears
OFF and responds immediately to user or other requests. The OnNow design initia­tive involves changes that will occur in the Microsoft Windows operating system,
device drivers, hardware, and applications, and also relies on the changes defined in
the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) specification.

PC100

SDRAM is Intel's goal is to ensure that memory subsystems continue to support
evolving platform requirements and to assure that memory does not become a bottle­neck to system performance. It is especially important to ensure that the PC memory
roadmap evolves together with the performance roadmaps for the processors, I/O
and graphics.

PCI Bus (Peripheral Component Interconnect Local Bus)

PCI bus is a specification that defines a 32-bit data bus interface. PCI is a standard
widely used by expansion card manufacturers.

PCI Bus Master

The PCI Bus Master can perform data transfer without local CPU help and further­more, the CPU can be treated as one of the Bus Masters. PCI 2.1 supports concur­rent PCI operation to allow the local CPU and bus master to work simultaneously.

Plug and Play BIOS

The ISA bus architecture requires the allocation of memory and I/O address, DMA
channels and interrupt levels among multiple ISA cards. However, configuration of
ISA cards is typically done with jumpers that change the decode maps for memory
and I/O space and steer the DMA and interrupt signals to different pins on the bus.
Further, system configuration files may need to be updated to reflect these changes.
Users typically resolve sharing conflicts by referring to documentation provided by
each manufacturer. For the average user, this configuration process can be unreli­able and frustrating. Plug and play (PnP) BIOS eliminates the ISA add-on card hard­ware conflict problem. The PnP BIOS uses a memory block to define and remember
each card's configuration, which allows the user to change the card's IRQs and DMA
in BIOS either automatically or manually.

POST (Power On Self Test)

When you turn ON the computer, it will first run through the POST, a series of
software-controlled diagnostic tests. The POST checks system memory, the mother­board circuitry, the display, the keyboard, the diskette drive, and other I/O devices.

PS/2 Port

PS/2 ports are based on IBM Micro Channel Architecture. This type of architecture
transfers data through a 16-bit or 32-bit bus. A PS/2 mouse and/or keyboard may be
used on ATX motherboards.

Glossary

7 . APPENDIX

RDRAM (Rambus DRAM)

Developed by Rambus, Inc., this type of memory can deliver up to 1.6GB of data
per second. RDRAM is the first interface standard that can be directly implemented
on high performance VLSI components such as, CMOS DRAMs, memory control-

lers, and graphics/video ICs.

ASUS A7V133 User’s Manual 95

7. APPENDIX

Glossary

7. APPENDIX

ROM (Read Only Memory)

ROM is nonvolatile memory used to store permanent programs (called firmware)
used in certain computer components. Flash ROM (or EEPROM) can be repro­grammed with new programs (or BIOS).

SCSI (Small Computer System Interface)

High speed multi-threaded I/O interface defined by the X3T9.2 committee of the
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for connecting many peripheral de­vices. The standard started from 10MBytes/sec to 160MBytes/sec available today.

SDRAM (Synchronous DRAM)

The SDRAM features a fully synchronous operation referenced to a positive edge
clock whereby all operations are synchronized at a clock input which enables the
coexistence of high performance and a simple user interface. SDRAM takes memory
access away from the CPU's control; internal registers in the chips accept the re­quest, and let the CPU do something else while the data requested is assembled for
the next time the CPU talks to the memory. As they work on their own clock cycle,
the rest of the system can be clocked faster. There is a version optimized for video
cards, and main memory for motherboards.

SPD for SDRAM module

Serial Presence Detect (SPD) is most like an ID detect for SDRAM module, it using
a EEPROM component on DIMM module for storing module configuration infor­mation inside. The Serial Presence Detect function is implemented using a 2048 bit
EEPROM component. This nonvolatile storage device contains data programmed
by the DIMM manufacturer that identifies the module type and various SDRAM
organization and timing parameters.

SSE (Streaming SIMD Extensions)

A set of new instructions added to existing architectures that enables a better visual
experience with an accelerated 3D geometry pipeline and support for new applica­tions, such as real-time video encoding and speech recognition.

System Disk

A system disk contains the core file of an operating system and is used to boot up the
operating system.

UltraDMA

Ultra DMA/33 is a "synchronous DMA" protocol designed by Intel. This function is
included into Intel's PIIX4 chipset. The traditional IDE transfer only uses one edge
of the data stroke as the data transfer. Ultra DMA/33 uses both edges of data strobe
when the data is transferred. Hence, the data transfer rate is double of the PIO mode
4 or DMA mode 2 (16.6MB/s x2 = 33MB/s) on ATA-2 devices.

Ultra ATA/66, also known as Ultra DMA/66, is an extension of current Ultra ATA/
33 interface. This new high-speed interface has doubled the Ultra AT A/33 burst data
transfer rate to 66.6 Mbytes/sec and maximized disk performance under current PCI
local bus environment

USB (Universal Serial Bus)

A 4-pin serial cable bus that allows up to 127 plug and play computer peripherals
such as keyboard, mouse, joystick, scanner, printer, modem, and monitor to share a
bandwidth through a host scheduled token based protocol. This allows attaching or
detaching while the host and other peripherals are in operation. Supports synchro­nous and asynchronous transfer types over the same set of wires up to 12Mbit/sec.
USB 2.0 provides twice the transfer rate compared to USB 1.0 and competes with
the 1394 standard.

Wake-On-LAN

Computer will automatically wake-up upon receiving a wake-up packet through a
Network interface when it is under power soft-off, suspend or sleep mode.

ASUS A7V133 User’s Manual96

INDEX

A

AC PWR Loss Restart 71
ASUS PC Probe

Using 81

ASUS Update

Using 89
ATAPI CD-ROM 74
ATX Power Supply Connector 44
Audio Port Connectors 35
Automatic Power Up 72

B

BIOS

Beep Code 45
BIOS Beep Codes 45
Boot Sequence 74
Boot Up Floppy Seek 75
Boot Up NumLock Status 58
Boot Virus Detection 75

C

USB 34
Wake-On-LAN 39
Wake-On-Ring 39

CyberLink

PowerPlayer SE 87
VideoLive Mail 87

CyberLink PowerPlayer SE

Using 87

CyberLink V ideoLive Mail

Using 87

Cylinders 56

D

Discard Changes 77

E

ECP DMA Select 66
Exit Discarding Changes 76
Exit Saving Changes 76
Expansion Cards

Assigning IRQs 29

C-Media Audio Setup 90
Central Processing Unit 27
Chassis Intrusion Lead 37
CHS Capacity 57
Connectors

ATX Power Supply 44

Audio Port 35

External 33

Floppy Disk Drive 35

Joystick 35

Keyboard 33

MIDI 35

Parallel Port 34

Power Supply Thermal Sensor 44

PS/2 Keyboard 33

PS/2 Mouse 33

Serial Port 34

SMBus 40

Thermal Sensor 44

F

Floppy 3 Mode Support 54
Floppy Disk Access Control 65
Floppy Disk Drive Connector 35

G

Graphics Window Size 64

H

Halt On 59
Hardware Setup

CPU Installation 27

Memory Installation 26
HDD Power Down 70
Head 57
Headers

USB 40

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 97

INDEX

I

IDE Activity LED Lead 42
IDE Hard Drive 74
Installation

CPU 27
Installed Memory 59
Interrupts

Standard Assignments 29

J

Joystick Connector 35

K

Keyboard

Connector 33
Keyboard Connector 33

L

Language 59
Leads

Chassis Intrusion 37

IDE Activity LED 42

Reset Switch 43

System Message LED 43

System Power LED 43
Legacy Diskette A 54
Legacy Diskette B 54
Load Setup Defaults 77

O

Onboard AC97 Modem Controlle 66
Onboard FDC Swap A & B 65
Onboard Serial Port 1 65
Onboard Serial Port 2 65
OS/2 Onboard Memory > 64M 61
Other Boot Device Select 74

P

Parallel Port Connector 34
Parallel Port Mode 66
PCI 2.1 Support 64
PCI Latency Timer 67
PCI/VGA Palette Snoop 67
PIO Mode 57
Plug & Play O/S 75
Ports. See Connectors
Power Fan Speed 73
Power Management 69
PowerPlayer SE

Using 87
Procedure
CPU Installation 27

Procedure
Updating BIOS 48
PS/2 Keyboard 33

PS/2 Keyboard Connector 33
PS/2 Mouse 33

M

Maximum LBA Capacity 57
MB Temperature 73
Memory Installation 26
MIDI Connector 35
Mouse

Connector 33
Mouse Connector 33
Multi-Channel Audio 90

Using 90
Multi-Sector Transfers 57

PS/2 Mouse Connector 33
PWR Button < 4 Secs 70
PWR Up On Modem Act 71

Q

Quick Power On Self Test 75

R

Removable Device 74

Reset Switch Lead 43

98 ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual

INDEX

S

Save Changes 77
SDRAM

RAS Precharge Time 63
SDRAM CAS Latency 63
SDRAM Configuration 63
Sector 57
Serial Port Connectors 34
SMART Monitoring 57
SMBus Connector 40
Starting Up 45
Supervisor Password 59

Suspend Mode 70
Suspend-to-RAM Capability 70

SYMBIOS SCSI BIOS 67
System Date 54
System Message LED Lead 43

VGA BIOS Sequence 68
Video Off Method 70
Video Off Option 70

VideoLive Mail 87

Using 87

Voltage

+12 73
+3.3 73
+5 73

-12 73

-5 73
VCORE 73

W

Wake On LAN 71
Wake On PS2 KB/PS2 Mouse/CIR 72
Wake-On-LAN Connector 39
Wake-On-Ring Connector 39

System Power LED Lead 43
System Time 54

T

Thermal Sensor Connector 44
Translation Method 56
Type 55

U

UART2 Use Standard Infrared 65
Ultra DMA Mode 57
Updating Your BIOS 47
USB Function 68
USB Headers 40
USB Legacy Support 61
USB Ports 34
Using

ASUS PC Probe 81

ASUS Update 89

PowerPlayer SE 87

V

VCORE Voltage 73

ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual 99

NOTES

100 ASUS A7A266 User’s Manual