ASUS A7N8X DELUXE User Manual
®
A7N8X
Series
User Manual
Motherboard
Checklist
Product Name: A7N8X
Manual Revision: Revised Edition V4 E1292
Release Date: April 2003
Copyright © 2003 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.
No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any
form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes,
without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).
Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or
altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2)
the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.
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.
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 or through any of the means indicated on the following page.
ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS
DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE),
EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM
ANY DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.
SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR
INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE,
AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO
RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN
THIS MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.
ii
About this guide
This user manual contains complete information for installing the ASUS
A7N8X Deluxe motherboard.
How this guide is organized
• Chapter 1: Product introduction. A summary of product features and
special attributes of new technologies.
• Chapter 2: Hardware information. A list of hardware setup procedures
and descriptions of all jumpers and connectors on the motherboard.
• Chapter 3: Powering up. Describes the power up sequence with
information on BIOS beep codes.
• Chapter 4: BIOS setup. How to change system settings using onboard
BIOS firmware. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are supplied.
• Chapter 5: Software support. A summary of contents on the
motherboard support CD ROM.
• Appendix and Glossary . Optional components and technical definitions.
• Index
Conventions used in this guide
Features
T o make sure that you perform set-up tasks properly , take note of the following
symbols used throughout this manual.
WARNING! Information to prevent injury to yourself.
CAUTION! Information to prevent damage to the components.
IMPORTANT! Information that you MUST follow to complete a task.
NOTE! Tips and helpful information.
References
1. NVIDIA nForce Audio Panel Manual
2. Silicon Image Sil 3112 SATALink Controller Driver Installation
3. SATARAID Software User’s Manual
iii
Safeguards
Contents
About this guide ..........................................................................................iii
How this guide is organized...............................................................iii
Conventions used in this guide..........................................................iii
Safety information ...................................................................................... vi
FCC/CDC statements.................................................................................vii
ASUS contact information ......................................................................... viii
A7N8X Specifications summary ................................................................. ix
Chapter 1: Product introduction ............................................. 1
Welcome! .................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Package contents.............................................................................. 1
1.2 Core Specifications ........................................................................... 2
1.3 ASUS Special Features..................................................................... 3
1.4 Motherboard Components................................................................. 4
1.5 Special Features ............................................................................... 6
Chapter 2: Hardware information ............................................ 7
2.1 Motherboard installation .................................................................... 7
2.2 Layout contents ................................................................................. 9
2.3 Before you proceed ......................................................................... 10
2.4 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ........................................................ 11
2.5 System memory .............................................................................. 13
2.6 Expansion slots ............................................................................... 15
2.7 Jumpers .......................................................................................... 19
2.8 Connectors...................................................................................... 22
Chapter 3: Powering up ......................................................... 35
3.1 Starting up for the first time.............................................................. 35
3.2 Vocal POST Messages ................................................................... 36
3.3 Powering-off the computer .............................................................. 38
Chapter 4: BIOS ..................................................................... 39
iv
4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS.................................................. 39
4.2 BIOS Setup program ....................................................................... 42
4.3 Main Menu ...................................................................................... 46
4.4 Advanced Menu .............................................................................. 51
Contents
4.4.1 Advanced BIOS Features.................................................. 51
4.4.2 Advanced Chipset Features .............................................. 55
4.4.3 Integrated Peripherals ....................................................... 58
4.4.4 Power Management Setup ................................................ 61
4.4.5 PnP / PCI Configurations................................................... 63
4.5 Security Menu ................................................................................. 65
4.6 Hardware Monitor Menu .................................................................. 66
4.7 Exit Menu ....................................................................................... 68
Chapter 5: Software support ................................................. 71
5.1 Install an operating system .............................................................. 71
5.2 Support CD information ................................................................... 71
5.3 A7N8X Motherboard Support CD .................................................... 72
5.3.1 Installation Procedure........................................................ 72
5.3.2 Installation of PCI Drivers: Win98 ...................................... 73
5.4 ASUS PC Probe.............................................................................. 75
5.5 ASUS Live Update .......................................................................... 80
5.6 3Deep Color Tuner.......................................................................... 81
5.7 NVIDIA nForce Control Panel .......................................................... 83
5.8 Winbond Editor................................................................................ 88
5.9 RAID 0/1 Configurations.................................................................. 91
Chapter 6: Appendix .............................................................. 95
6.1 Glossary.......................................................................................... 95
Index ........................................................................................ 99
v
Safety information
Electrical safety
• To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the
electrical outlet before relocating the system.
• When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the
power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are
connected. Disconnect all power cables from the existing system before
you add a device.
• Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure
that all power cables are unplugged.
• Seek professional assistance before using an adpater or extension cord.
These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.
• Make sure that your power supply is set to the voltage available in your
area.
• If the power supply is broken, contact a qualified service technician or your
retailer .
Operational safety
• Before installing the motherboard and adding new devices, carefully read
all the manuals that came with the package.
• Before use ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power cables
are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact the dealer immediately .
• To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from
connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry.
• Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product
in any area where it may become wet.
• Mount the motherboard inside a standard PC enclosure.
• If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified
service technician or the dealer.
vi
FCC/CDC statements
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:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to
which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the
graphics card is required to assure compliance with FCC regulations.
Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the
party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to
operate this equipment.
Canadian Department of Communications Statement
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise
emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference
Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.
This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
vii
ASUS contact information
ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (Asia-Pacific)
Address: 150 Li-T e Road, Peitou, Taipei, T aiwan 1 12
General T el: +886-2-2894-3447
General Fax: +886-2-2894-3449
General Email: info@asus.com.tw
Technical Support
MB/Others (T el): +886-2-2890-7121 (English)
Notebook (T el): +886-2-2890-7122 (English)
Desktop/Server (Tel): +886-2-2890-7123 (English)
Support Fax: +886-2-2890-7698
Web Site: www.asus.com.tw
ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)
Address: 44370 Nobel Drive, Fremont, CA 94538, USA
General Fax: +1-510-608-4555
General Email: tmd1@asus.com
Technical Support
Support Fax: +1-510-608-4555
General Support: +1-510-739-3777
Web Site: www.asus.com
Support Email: tsd@asus.com
ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany & Austria)
Address: Harkortstr . 25, 40880 Ratingen, BRD, Germany
General Fax: +49-2102-442066
General Email: sales@asuscom.de (for marketing requests only)
Technical Support
Support Hotline: MB/Others: +49-2102-9599-0
Notebook (T el): +49-2102-9599-10
Support Fax: +49-2102-9599-1 1
Support (Email): www .asuscom.de/de/support (for online support)
Web Site: www .asuscom.de
viii
A7N8X specifications summary
CPU
Chipset
Front Side Bus (FSB)
Memory
Expansion slots
IDE
Serial A TA (optional)
Audio (optional)
Socket A for AMD Duron™/Athlon™/Athlon™XP 3000+ or
higher
400*/333 MHz FSB Support (*PCB 2.0 or later versions)
®
Northbridge: NVIDIA
Southbridge: NVIDIA® nForce2 MCP-T (Deluxe Model)/MCP
400*/333/266/200Mhz (*PCB 2.0 or later versions)
3 x 184-pin DDR DIMM Sockets
Max. 3 GB unbuffered PC3200/2700/2100/1600 non-ECC
DDR RAM memory. Dual-Channel DDR400 support.
(Visit ASUS website for latest qualified DDR400 module list.)
5 x PCI
1 x AGP Pro/8X (1.5V only)
2 x UltraDMA 133/100/66/33
Silicon Image Sil 3112A Controller with 2 Ports
(Supports RAID 0/1) (Deluxe model only)
Realtek ALC650 6CH with built-in HP amplifier
Integrated APU (Audio Processor Unit) (Deluxe model only)
SoundStorm™/Dolby® Digital (AC-3) Encoder
(Deluxe model only)
nForce2 SPP (Ultra 400)
LAN (optional)
1394 (optional)
Special Features
Back Panel I/O Ports
2 Ports
MCP integrated NVIDIA MAC + Realtek 8201BL PHY
MCP integrated 3Com MAC + BroadCom AC101L PHY
(Deluxe model only)
2 Ports MCP-T integrated IEEE 1394a + Realtek PHY
8801B (Deluxe model only)
ASUS Q-Fan Technology
ASUS POST Reporter (Deluxe model only)
ASUS C.O.P. (CPU Overheating Protection)
Power Loss Restart
CPU Throttle
Support S/PDIF in/out (optional)
1 x Parallel
1 x Serial
1 x PS/2 Keyboard
1 x PS/2 Mouse
1 x S/PDIF out + 1 x Surround L/R audio jack + 1 x CNTR/
LFE audio jack (Deluxe model only)
1 x Audio I/O
2 x RJ-45 Port (3COM RJ-45 port - Deluxe model only)
4 x USB 2.0
(continued on the next page)
ix
A7N8X specifications summary
Internal I/O
Connectors
BIOS features
Industry standard
Manageability
Support CD contents
1 x USB 2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB 2.0 ports
(optional)
Game connector
CPU/Power/Chassis FAN connectors
20-pin ATX Power connector
IDE LED connector, Power LED connector
2 x SATA connector (Deluxe model only)
2 x 1394 connector (Deluxe model only)
WOR, WOL, Chassis Intrusion, SM Bus, SIR
Headphone (optional)
Front MIC (optional)
CD / AUX / Modem audio in
Front Panel Audio connector (optional)
4Mb Flash ROM, Award BIOS, TCAV, PnP, DMI2.0, DMI,
Green
PCI 2.2, USB 1.1/2.0.
DMI 2.0, WOL, WOR, Chassis Intrusion, SM Bus
Device drivers
ASUS PC Probe
Trend Micro
ASUS LiveUpdate Utility
tm
PC-cillin 2002 anti-virus software
Accessories
Form Factor
* Specifications are subject to change without notice.
InterVideo WinCinema (optional)
User’s manual
Support CD
SATA cable (Deluxe model only)
2-port 1394 Bracket (Deluxe model only)
1 x UltraDMA 33 cable
1 x UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable
FDD cable
9-pin COM cable
2-port USB/Game port bracket (Deluxe model only)
I/O shield
ATX form factor: 12 in x 9.6 in
x
Chapter 1
Product introduction
ASUS A7N8X motherboard
Welcome!
Thank you for buying the ASUS® A7N8X motherboard!
The A7N8X is powered by AMD
and supplies advanced features to ensure long-lasting, superlative
performance. The ASUS® A7N8X motherboard is the prime choice for home
PCs and workstations.
~ Up to 3 GB of DDR RAM
~ New ultra-compact Serial ATA IDE connectors. (optional)
~ High-resolution graphics via an AGP 8X slot
~ Digital Audio Interface for 3D sound
~ Onboard LAN PHY for instant networking (optional)
~ Four USB ports plus one header for two more
~ UltraDMA133 data rates
The A7N8X is the perfect vehicle to get ahead in the world of power computing!
®
Athlon™, Athlon™ XP and Duron™ processors
1.1 Package contents
Check your A7N8X package for the following items.
ASUS A7N8X motherboard (ATX form factor: 12 in x 9.6 in)
ASUS A7N8X support CD
ASUS 2-port USB / Game port module (optional)
40-pin 80 conductor UltraDMA133/100/66/33 IDE ribbon cable
Ribbon cable for a 3.5-inch floppy drive
COM 2 bracket
I/O shield
Bag of extra jumper caps
User Guide
2 pcs. Serial ATA Cable (optional)
2 pcs. ASUS IEEE 1394 2-port bracket (optional)
2 pcs. ASUS IEEE 1394 cable (optional)
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
ASUS A7N8X motherboard user guide
1
1.2
Core Specifications
The A7N8X motherboard is designed and assembled according to the highest
standards. This ASUS motherboard represents the latest advances and
offers users the finest componentry available today...
®
AMD
North Bridge Chipset: the nVidia
Athlon™/ Athlon™ XP and Duron™ Socket A (462) Processor
®
nForce2™ SPP (Ultra 400) North Bridge
controller chipset. The controller supports a 64/128bit DDR memory
controller and up to 3 GB of 400/333/266/200MHz DDR memory. The
128bit memory controller provides a exceptional 6.4 GB/second system
memory bandwidth.
®
South Bridge Chipset: Features the brand new nV idia
nForce2™ MCP-T/
MCP integrated peripheral South Bridge controller operates at 800MB/
sec to communicate with the North Bridge for maximum bandwith required
for PCI, USB and support for Fast Ethernet devices. The chipset has an
™
integrated APU (Audio Processing Unit) for Dolby
digital
encoding(optional). The controller supports standard UltraDMA133/100/
66/33 for burst mode data transfer rates of up to 133MB/sec. Separate
data paths for each IDE channel are built-in for up to two IDE devices.
The controller supports 2 IEEE 1394 ports (optional), six USB ports, two
LAN ports (optional), and is PCI rev2.2 compliant. The MCP-T/MCP
supplies an LPC 1.0 interface along with AT legacy functions, a clock
synthesizer and meets ACPI 1.0 and PCI Power Management 1.1
specifications.
PC3200 / PC2700 DDR Support: Equipped with three Double Data Rate
Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR DIMM) sockets to support up to 3GB of
DDR DRAM, the newest memory standard with the highest bandwidth
and lowest latency currently available. This new memory technology
supplies data transfer rates up to 6.4 GB/s for 400MHz DDR SDRAM
and 5.4GB/s for 333MHz DDR SDRAM.
UltraDMA133/100 Support: Comes with an onboard PCI Bus Master IDE
controller with two connectors that support four IDE devices on two
channels. Supports UltraDMA133/100/66/33, PIO Modes 3 & 4, Bus
Master IDE DMA Mode 2, and Enhanced IDE devices, such as DVDROM, CD-ROM, CD-R/RW, LS-120, and Tape Backup drives.
Multi-I/O Chipset: ITE IT8708 offers support for a variety of I/O functions.
Provides two high-speed UART compatible serial ports and one parallel
port with EPP and ECP capabilities. UART2 can also be directed from
COM2 to the Infrared Module for wireless connections. The Super I/O
controller supports a floppy disk drive, PS/2 keyboard, and PS/2 mouse.
2
Chapter 1: Product introduction
Connections: Parallel Port, PS/2 mouse Port, PS/2 keyboard, four USB
ports, two LAN ports (optional), Surround L/R audio jack(optional), CNTR/
LFE audio jack(optional), COM port, Microphone, Line In Jack, Line Out
Jack, S/PDIF_OUT (optional), ATX power.
Expansion: One AGP Pro 8X, a USB header , two serial A TA IDE connectors
(optional), two 1394 connectors (optional), COM port header, five PCI
slots, S/PDIF digital audio connector (optional), front audio panel
connector, game port header.
1.3 ASUS Special Features
ASUS POST Reporter™ (optional)
A7N8X offers the ASUS POST Reporter™ to provide friendly voice
messages and alerts during the Power-On Self-Test (POST). Through
an added external speaker, messages inform you of system boot
™
status and causes of boot errors. Bundled Winbond
software helpsa you customize voice messages, and offers multilanguage support.
Voice Editor
ASUS Q-Fan Technology
The ASUS Q-Fan technology smartly adjusts the fan speeds according
to the system loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efficient operation.
C.O.P. (CPU Overheating Protection):
With AMD
®
Athlon XP™ installed, the motherboard offers automatic CPU
Overheating Protection to prolong the life of the entire system. If the CPU
temperature exceeds the set criteria, the PC shuts down automatically.
ASUS A7N8X motherboard user guide
3
1.4
Motherboard Components
Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9Multi-I/O controller 9
Before installing the A7N8X motherboard, take time to familiarize yourself
with its configuration:
Processor Support Socket A for AMD
Chipsets nVidia
4Mbit Programmable Flash EEPROM (see page 6)........ 7
nVidia
Multi-I/O controller ........................................................... 9
Serial A T A Controller ...................................................... 18
1394 PHY Realtek 8801B .............................................. 22
Main Memory Maximum 3GB support
3 DDR DIMM Sockets...................................................... 3
Expansion Slots 5 PCI Slots..................................................................... 20
1 Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) Pro Slot ................. 31
System I/O 1 Floppy Disk Drive Connector ........................................ 5
2 IDE Connectors (UltraDMA133/100/66 Support).......... 6
1 COM2 Header............................................................. 10
1 Gameport Connector ...................................................11
1 Infrared Connector...................................................... 12
1 Panel Connector ......................................................... 13
1 SM Bus Connector...................................................... 14
USB Headers (Ports 5/6) ............................................... 15
Serial A T A Headers ........................................................ 17
Modem Connector ......................................................... 21
IEEE 1394 Headers ....................................................... 23
S/PDIF Connector.......................................................... 24
1 PS/2 Mouse Connector.................................. (green) 32
1 PS/2 Keyboard Connector ............................ (purple) 45
RJ45 Connector (3COM LAN Controller) ...................... 33
RJ45 Connector (NVIDIA LAN Controller) ..................... 35
1 Parallel Port ................................................................ 34
USB Connectors (Ports 3/4) .......................................... 44
USB Connectors (Ports 1/2) .......................................... 39
1 Serial Ports (COM1) ................................................... 43
Hardware Monitoring System Voltage Monitor (integrated in ASUS ASIC)...... 16
Special Feature Onboard LED (Green) ................................................... 19
Onboard AGP Warning LED (Red) ................................ 29
Network Feature Realtek 8201BL PHY .................................................... 28
BroadCom PHY ............................................................ 30
3Com LAN ..................................................................... 33
NVIDIA LAN ................................................................... 35
Audio Features Audio Codec .................................................................. 25
CD / AUX Audio Connectors .......................................... 26
Front Panel Audio Connectors....................................... 27
1 Line In Connector .................................... (light blue) 36
1 Line Out Connector........................................... (lime) 37
1 Microphone Connector .....................................(pink) 38
1 S/PDIF out Connector................................... (yellow) 40
1 Surround L/R audio Connector .......................(violet) 41
1 CNTR / LFE Connector................................ (orange) 42
Power ATX Power Supply Connector ......................................... 4
Form Factor ATX
®
nForce2™ SPP (Ultra 400) North Bridge.............. 2
®
nForce2™ MCP-T/MCP South Bridge.................. 8
®
Athlon™ and Duron™ Processors ....... 1
Location
4
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.4.1 Component Locations
2351
4
0
1
2
3
32 34
33
35
31
30
29
28
27
26
25
24
23
22
21
20
6
19
18
16
7
8
9
1
1
1
1
141517
45 43
ASUS A7N8X motherboard user guide
44
42 41 40
36
37
38
39
5
1.4.1 Component Locations (cont’)
CAUTION!
• This motherboard uses the A7N8X Deluxe BIOS file for 4Mb flash
ROM. Another series model A7N8X uses the BIOS file for a 2Mb
flash ROM. Make sure to use the correct BIOS file on each model.
• PCB 2.0 BIOS version or later are not compatible with PCB 1.06 or
earlier BIOS versions.
NOTE!
• The A7N8X series motherboard support Front Side Bus (FSB) 400
starting from PCB version 2.0 or later.
• The PCB (Printed Circuit Board) version is located beside the
motherboard name printed on the motherboard.
1.5 Special Features
Serial ATA: Silicon Image supplies the Sil-3112A chipset, supporting the
ultra-compact 7-pin Serial-ATA IDE device support.
Dual LAN/DualNet: Two south bridge integrated 3COM and Nvidia LAN
controllers supply two separate outputs for the network. (optional)
IEEE 1394: Two header support a multiplicity of connections for IEEE 1394
compatible devices. (optional)
T emperature, Fan and V oltage Monitoring: CPU temperature is monitored
by ASUS ASIC through a thermal sensor mounted under the CPU. The
sensor signals the computer to prevent overheating and damage. The
CPU and system fans can be monitored for RPM and failure. System
voltage levels are monitored to ensure stable current to critical
motherboard components.
ACPI Ready: Advanced Configuration Power Interface (ACPI) provides more
Energy Saving Features for operating systems that support OS Direct
Power Management (OSPM).
Concurrent PCI: Concurrent PCI allows multiple PCI transfers from PCI
master busses to the memory and processor.
Auto Fan Off: The system fans powers off automatically even in sleep mode.
Dual Function Power Button: Push the power button for less than 4 seconds
when the system is operating places the system into sleep or soft-off
modes; press the power button for more than 4 seconds, and the system
enters the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting.
Dolby
™
Integrated Audio: MCP-T South bridge integrated Audio Processing
™
Unit (APU) for Dolby
Digital Encoding. (optional)
Dual Channel DDR 400: The 128-bit TwinBank DDR Memory architecture
doubles the DDR400 (PC3200) bandwidth. System bottlenecks are
eliminated and traffic improved with peak bandwidths of up to 6.4 GB/s.
Chapter 2
Hardware information
ASUS A7N8X motherboard
2.1 Motherboard installation
The A7N8X uses the ATX form factor, measuring 24.5 cm
(9.6 in.) x 30.5 cm (12.0 in.) - a standard fit for most large chassis.
WARNING! Unplug the power cord before installing the motherboard.
Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard
components.
2.1.1 Placement direction
When installing the motherboard, take care to orient the chassis correctly:
The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis. Refer to the
image below. It may be more convenient to install major cables, the CPU
and modular components before fixing the motherboard inside the case frame.
2.1.2 Screw holes
Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the
motherboard to the chassis.
CAUTION! Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so may damage the
motherboard.
Place this side towards
the rear of the chassis
ASUS A7N8X motherboard user guide
7
24.5cm (9.64in)
®
PS/2
T: Mouse
B: Keyboard
Bottom:
Top:
USB3
RJ-45
USB4
COM1
CNTR/
LFE1
SURR1
SPDIFOUT2
Bottom:
Top:
USB1
RJ-45
USB2
Top:Line In
Center:Line Out
Below:Mic In
PARALLEL PORT
KBPWR1
USBPWR_34
USBPWR_12
CPU_FSB
ACL101L
Socket 462
nVidia
nForce2
SPP
(Ultra400)
Chipset
CPU_FAN1
ATX Power Connector
DDR DIMM1 (64/72 bit, 184-pin module)
DDR DIMM2 (64/72 bit, 184-pin module)
DDR DIMM3 (64/72 bit, 184-pin module)
0 1
2 3
4 5
FLOPPY1
FPAUDIO1
Audio
Codec
IEEE1394_2
MODEM1
AGP_WARN1
PCI 1
PCI 2
PCI 3
PCI 4
PCI 5
CHA_FAN1
A7N8X
CR2032 3V
Lithium Cell
CMOS Power
SATA_EN1
SATALInk
Chipset
SEC_SATA1 PRI_SATA1
nForce2
MCP-T/MCP
Chipset
CLRTC1
with Hardware
ASUS
ASIC
Monitor
PWRTMP1
CHASSIS1
USB56
USBPWR_56
BUZZ1
SEC_IDE1
Super
IR_CON1
IDELED1
CTRL_PANEL1
PRI_IDE1
4Mb
BIOS
I/O
COM2
GAME1
SMB1
Realtek
RTL8201
AUX1
SPDIF1
Realtek
RTL8801
Speech
Controller
PWR_FAN1
Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP Pro)
CD1
IEEE1394_1
PWR_LED1
Optional components are grayed in the above motherboard layout.
30.5cm (12.0in)
8
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2 Layout contents
CPU, Memory and Expansion Slots
1) Socket 462 p. 11 CPU Support
2) DIMM 1/2/3 p. 13 System Memory Support
3) PCI 1/2/3/4/5 p. 15 32-bit PCI Bus Expansion Slots
4) AGP Pro 8x p. 18 Accelerated Graphics Slot
Motherboard Settings (Jumpers)
1) SATA_EN1 p. 19 Serial ATA Setting (3 pin)
2) KBPWR1 p. 19 Keyboard Wake Up (3 pin)
3) USBPWR12, 34, 56 p. 20 USB Device Wake-up (2x3 pin)
4) CLRTC1 p. 21 Clear RTC/CMOS RAM (3 Pin)
Connectors
1) PS2KBMS p. 22 PS/2 Mouse Port (6 pin female)
2) PS2KBMS p. 22 PS/2 Keyboard Port (6 pin female)
3) USB p. 23 Universal Serial Bus Ports 1 & 2 (2 x 4 pin female)
4) COM2 p. 23 Serial Port and Header (9 pin male, 10-1 pin male)
5) RJ45 p. 24 Fast-Ethernet Port Connector (4 pin) (Optional)
6) PRINTER p. 24 Parallel Port (25 pin female)
7) AUDIO p. 25 Audio Connectors (Six 1/8” jacks)
8) IDELED p. 25 IDE Activity LED (Two 40-1 pin)
9) FLOPPY p. 26 Floppy Disk Drive Connector (34-1 pin)
10) PRIMARY / SEC. IDE p. 26 IDE Connectors (2 x 40-1 pin)
11) PRI/SEC_SAT A1 p. 27
12) IR_CON1 p. 27 ASUS Front Panel Audio Connector (10 pin)
13) CPU_FAN1 p. 28 CPU Fan Connector (3 pin)
14) 1394HEAD p. 28 IEEE-1394 Header (8-pin) (Optional)
15) ATXPWR p. 29 Power Supply Connectors (20 pin block)
16) SMB p. 29 SMBus Connector (6-1 pin)
MODEM, CD_IN1, AUX
17)
18) SPDIF1 p. 30 Digital Audio Interfaces (6 pin) (Optional)
19) USB_56 p. 31 USB Headers (10-1 pin)
20) PWRTMP1 p. 31
21) GAME p. 32 Game Connector (16-1 pin)
p. 30 Internal Audio Connectors (2 x 4 pin ) (Optional)
SATA Serial ATA Connectors (2 x 7-pin)
Power Supply Thermal Sensor (2-pin ) (Optional)
22) CHASSIS1 p. 32 Chassis Open Alarm Lead (4-1 pin)
23) FPAUDIO1 p. 33 Front Panel Audio (10-1 pin)
24) PWR_LED (Panel) p. 33 System Power LED Lead (3-1 pin )
25) KEYLOCK (Panel) p. 33 Keyboard Lock Switch Lead (2 pin )
26) SPEAKER (Panel) p. 33 System Warning Speaker Lead (4 pin )
27) SMI (Panel) p. 34 System Management Interrupt Lead (2 pin)
28) PWR (Panel) p. 34 ATX Power Switch / Soft-Off Switch Lead (2 pin)
29) RESET (Panel) p. 34 Reset Switch Lead (2 pin)
ASUS A7N8X motherboard user guide
9
2.3 Before you proceed
®
d
d
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard
components or change any motherboard settings.
CAUTION!
1. Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching
components.
2. Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or to a
metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling
components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity.
3. Hold components by the edges and do not to touch the ICs on them.
4. Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded
antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component.
5. Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the
A TX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached
from the power supply . Failure to do so may cause severe damage
to the motherboard, peripherals, and/or components.
NOTE! When lit, the onboard GREEN LED indicates that the system is
ON, in sleep mode or in soft-off mode, not powered OFF. See the
illustration below. The RED LED warns if the AGP card is incorrectly
installed, or is the wrong type of card for this particular motherboard.
WARNING
A7N8X
A7N8X Onboard LED
ON
Incorrect
AGP Card
PWR_LED
ON
Standby
Power
OFF
Correct
AGP Car
OFF
Powere
Off
10
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.4 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
®
2.4.1 Overview
The motherboard provides a Socket A (462) for CPU installation. AMD
processors offer gigahertz speeds to support all the latest computing platforms
and applications. The A7N8X supports Athlon™ XP processors with
“QuantiSpeed” data processing, large data caches, 3D enhancements and
333/266Mhz bus speeds.
NOTE! Do not use processors with core speeds of less than 1GHz on
this motherboard.
CPU NOTCH
TO INNER
CORNER
LOCK
LEVER
A7N8X
A7N8X Socket 462
AMD™ CPU
CPU NOTCH
Each AMD CPU has a “marked” corner . This corner is usually indicated with
a notch, and/or a golden square or triangle. Refer to this indicator while
orienting the CPU. See the next page for installation details. A fan and
heatsink should be attached to the CPU to prevent overheating.
ASUS A7N8X motherboard user guide
11
2.4.2 Installing the CPU
Follow these steps to install a CPU:
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 or golden
corner of the CPU must be oriented
toward the inner corner of the socket
base nearest to the lever hinge.
CAUTION! The CPU 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.
4. Once completely inserted, press the CPU firmly and close the socket
lever until it snaps shut.
5. 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 damage may occur!
NOTE! Do not neglect to set the correct Bus Frequency and leave the
CPU Multiple setting at default to avoid start-up problems.
12
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.5 System memory
®
s
2.5.1 Overview
This motherboard uses only Double Data Rate (DDR) Synchronous Dynamic
Random Access Memory (SDRAM) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMMs).
These sockets support up to 1GB system memory using non-ECC PC400/
333/266/200 DIMMs.
Each DIMM socket/module is two-sided: each side defines one “row” of
memory. DIMMs come in combinations of single or double-sided types
ranging through 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB to form a total memory size
of 64MB to 1GB.
~ Three (3) sockets are available for 400MHz-PC3200, 333MHz-PC2700,
266MHz-PC2100, or 200MHz-PC1600 DDR DIMMs to form a memory size
of 64MB to 1GB.
104 Pin
A7N8X
A7N8X 184-Pin DDR
DIMM Sockets
CAUTION! DIMMs are keyed to fit into notches with only one direction.
DO NOT force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the DIMM.
• DIMMs with more than 18 chips are not supported.
• DIMMs with more than 8 devices on each side of the module
are not supported.
• ASUS motherboards support SPD (Serial Presence Detect)DIMMs.
This is the memory of choice for best performance vs. stability
• BIOS shows DDR SDRAM memory on bootup screen.
80 Pins
ASUS A7N8X motherboard user guide
13
2.5.2 Memory configurations
Install DIMMs in any of the following combinations.
DIMM Location 184-pin DIMM (DDR) Total Memory
Socket 1 (Rows 0&1) 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, 1G x1
Socket 2 (Rows 2&3) 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, 1G x1
Socket 2 (Rows 4&5) 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, 1G x1
Total system memory (Max. 3GB) =
NOTE: To enhance system performance, utilize dual-channel feature
when installing additional DIMMs. You may install the DIMMs in the
following sequence: Sockets 1 and 3 or Sockets 2 and 3 or Sockets 1,
2 and 3.
2.5.3 Installing a DIMM
CAUTION! Make sure to unplug the power supply before adding or
removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so may cause
severe damage to both the motherboard and the components.
Installing a DIMM:
1. Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clips outward.
2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notches on the DIMM exactly
match the notches in the socket.
3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the socket until the retaining clips snap back
in place.
14
NOTE: Visit the ASUS
website at www.asus.com
for the latest DIMM
Qualified Vendors List.
Make sure to use only
tested and qualified
DDR400 DIMMs.
Unlocked Retaining Clip Locked Retaining Clip
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.6 Expansion slots
The motherboard has five PCI slots and one Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP)
slot.. The following sub-sections describe the slots and the expansion cards
that they support.
WARNING! Unplug your power supply when adding or removing
expansion cards or other system components. Failure to do so may cause
you physical injury and damage motherboard components.
2.6.1 Installing an expansion card
Follow these steps to install an expansion
card.
1. Before installing the expansion card, read
the documentation that came with it and
make the necessary hardware settings.
2. Remove the system unit cover (if your
motherboard is already installed in a
chassis).
3. Remove the bracket opposite the PCI slot.
Keep the screw for later use.
4. Align the card connector with the slot and
press firmly until the card is completely
seated on the slot.
5. Secure the card to the chassis with the
screw you removed earlier.
6. Replace the system cover.
7. Set up the BIOS if necessary.
8. Install the necessary software drivers for your expansion card.
ASUS A7N8X motherboard user guide
15
2.6.2 Configuring an expansion card
Some expansion cards need an IRQ to operate. Generally , an IRQ must be
exclusively assigned to one function at a time. In a standard design
configuration, 16 IRQs are available but most are already in use. Normally,
6 IRQs are free for expansion cards. If the 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. Sometimes IRQs
are “shared” by more than one function; in this case, IRQ assignments are
swapped automatically or adjusted through the BIOS firmware.
IMPORTANT! When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the
drivers support “Share IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ
assignments. Otherwise, conflicts will arise between the three PCI groups,
making the system unstable and the card inoperative.
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
*These IRQs are usually available for ISA or PCI devices.
16
Chapter 2: Hardware information
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