ASUS A7S8X-MX User Manual
A7S8X-MX
Motherboard
E1766E1766
E1766
E1766E1766
First Edition V1First Edition V1
First Edition V1
First Edition V1First Edition V1
September 2004September 2004
September 2004
September 2004September 2004
Copyright © 2004 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.
No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form
or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the
express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).
Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or
altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2)
the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.
ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES
OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE
LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
(INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE
OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE), EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN
ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY DEFECT OR
ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.
SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED
FOR INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME
WITHOUT NOTICE, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS.
ASUS ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR
INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS
AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.
Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered
trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identification or
explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.
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Contents
Notices ................................................................................................ vi
Safety information ............................................................................. vii
About this guide ............................................................................... viii
Typography ......................................................................................... ix
A7S8X-MX specifications summary ...................................................... x
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 Welcome! .............................................................................. 1-2
1.2 Package contents ................................................................. 1-2
1.3 Special features .................................................................... 1-3
1.3.1 Product highlights................................................... 1-3
1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features ....................................... 1-4
1.4 Before you proceed .............................................................. 1-5
1.5 Motherboard overview .......................................................... 1-6
1.5.1 Placement direction ................................................ 1-6
1.5.2 Screw holes ............................................................ 1-6
1.5.3 Motherboard layout ................................................ 1-7
1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU) .............................................. 1-8
1.7 System memory ................................................................. 1-10
1.7.1 Overview ............................................................... 1-10
1.7.2 Memory Configurations .........................................1-10
1.7.3 Installing a DIMM ................................................... 1-12
1.7.4 Removing a DIMM ................................................. 1-12
1.8 Expansion slots ................................................................... 1-13
1.8.1 Installing an expansion card .................................. 1-13
1.8.2 Configuring an expansion card.............................. 1-13
1.8.3 Interrupt assignments .......................................... 1-14
1.8.4 PCI slots ................................................................ 1-15
1.8.5 AGP slot ................................................................ 1-15
1.9 Jumpers .............................................................................. 1-16
1.10 Connectors ......................................................................... 1-19
1.10.1 Rear panel connectors .......................................... 1-19
1.10.2 Internal connectors............................................... 1-21
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Contents
Chapter 2: BIOS setupChapter 2: BIOS setup
Chapter 2: BIOS setup
Chapter 2: BIOS setupChapter 2: BIOS setup
2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ........................................ 2-2
2.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy disk .............................. 2-2
2.1.2 AwardBIOS Flash Utility .......................................... 2-3
2.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash utility .............................................. 2-5
2.1.4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS utility ................................... 2-6
2.1.5 ASUS Update utility ................................................ 2-7
2.2 BIOS Setup program ........................................................... 2-10
2.2.1 BIOS menu bar ...................................................... 2-11
2.2.2 Legend bar ........................................................... 2-11
2.3 Main Menu........................................................................... 2-13
2.3.1 System Time ......................................................... 2-13
2.3.2 System Date ......................................................... 2-13
2.3.3 Legacy Diskette A ................................................ 2-13
2.3.4 HDD SMART Monitoring ........................................ 2-13
2.3.5 Installed Memory .................................................. 2-13
2.3.6 Primary and Secondary IDE Master/Slave ............. 2-14
2.3.7 First and Second SATA Master ............................. 2-15
2.4 Advanced Menu .................................................................. 2-16
2.4.1 CPU configuration ................................................. 2-17
2.4.2 Chipset configuration ........................................... 2-18
2.4.3 PCIPnP ................................................................... 2-21
2.4.4 Onboard device configuration ............................. 2-22
2.4.5 USB configuration ................................................ 2-24
2.5 Power Menu ........................................................................ 2-25
2.5.1 APM configuration ................................................ 2-26
2.5.2 Hardware monitor ................................................. 2-29
2.6 Boot Menu .......................................................................... 2-30
2.6.1 Boot Device Priority .............................................. 2-30
2.6.2 Removable drives ................................................. 2-31
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2.6.3 Hard Disk Drives ................................................... 2-31
2.6.4 CD-ROM drives ...................................................... 2-32
2.6.5 Boot settings configuration .................................. 2-32
2.6.6 Security ................................................................ 2-34
2.7 Exit menu ........................................................................... 2-35
Contents
Chapter 3: Software supportChapter 3: Software support
Chapter 3: Software support
Chapter 3: Software supportChapter 3: Software support
3.1 Installing an operating system ............................................. 3-2
3.2 Support CD information ........................................................ 3-2
3.2.1 Running the support CD ......................................... 3-2
3.2.2 Drivers menu .......................................................... 3-3
3.2.3 Utilities menu .......................................................... 3-4
3.2.4 ASUS Contact information ...................................... 3-5
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Notices
Federal Communications Commission StatementFederal Communications Commission Statement
Federal Communications Commission Statement
Federal Communications Commission StatementFederal Communications Commission Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions:
•
This device may not cause harmful interference, and
•
This device must accept any interference received including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
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 StatementCanadian Department of Communications Statement
Canadian Department of Communications Statement
Canadian Department of Communications StatementCanadian 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 CanadianThis class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian
This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian
This class B digital apparatus complies with CanadianThis class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian
ICES-003.ICES-003.
ICES-003.
ICES-003.ICES-003.
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Safety information
Electrical safetyElectrical safety
Electrical safety
Electrical safetyElectrical safety
•
To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from
the electrical outlet before relocating the system.
•
When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that
the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables
are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing
system before you add a device.
•
Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard,
ensure that all power cables are unplugged.
•
Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord.
These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.
•
Make sure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your
area. If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you
are using, contact your local power company.
•
If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a
qualified service technician or your retailer.
Operation safetyOperation safety
Operation safety
Operation safetyOperation safety
•
Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read
all the manuals that came with the package.
•
Before using the product, make sure all cables are correctly connected
and the power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage,
contact your dealer immediately.
•
To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from
connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry.
•
Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the
product in any area where it may become wet.
•
Place the product on a stable surface.
•
If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified
service technician or your retailer.
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About this guide
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and
configuring the motherboard.
How this guide is organizedHow this guide is organized
How this guide is organized
How this guide is organizedHow this guide is organized
This manual contains the following parts:
••
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
•
Chapter 1: Product introduction
••
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new
technology it supports. This chapter also lists the hardware setup
procedures that you have to perform when installing system
components. It includes description of the jumpers and connectors on
the motherboard.
••
Chapter 2: BIOS setupChapter 2: BIOS setup
•
Chapter 2: BIOS setup
••
Chapter 2: BIOS setupChapter 2: BIOS setup
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS
Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also
provided.
••
Chapter 3: Software supportChapter 3: Software support
•
Chapter 3: Software support
••
Chapter 3: Software supportChapter 3: Software support
This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes
with the motherboard package.
Where to find more informationWhere to find more information
Where to find more information
Where to find more informationWhere to find more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product
and software updates.
1.1.
ASUS websitesASUS websites
1.
ASUS websites
1.1.
ASUS websitesASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware
and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
2.2.
Optional documentationOptional documentation
2.
Optional documentation
2.2.
Optional documentationOptional documentation
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as
warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These
documents are not part of the standard package.
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Conventions used in this guideConventions used in this guide
Conventions used in this guide
Conventions used in this guideConventions used in this guide
To make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the
following symbols used throughout this manual.
DANGER/WARNING: DANGER/WARNING:
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself
DANGER/WARNING: DANGER/WARNING:
when trying to complete a task.
CAUTION:CAUTION:
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components
CAUTION:CAUTION:
when trying to complete a task.
IMPORTANT: IMPORTANT:
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a
IMPORTANT: IMPORTANT:
task.
NOTE: NOTE:
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a
NOTE: NOTE:
task.
Typography
Bold textBold text
Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select
Bold textBold text
Italics
<Key> Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than
<Key1+Key2+Key3> If you must press two or more keys
CommandCommand
Command Means that you must type the command exactly as
CommandCommand
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase
sign means that you must press the enclosed key
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the
Enter or Return key
simultaneously, the key names are linked with a
plus sign (+)
Example: <Ctrl+Alt+D>
shown
Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command
line:
D:\bootdisk\makeboot a:D:\bootdisk\makeboot a:
D:\bootdisk\makeboot a:
D:\bootdisk\makeboot a:D:\bootdisk\makeboot a:
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A7S8X-MX specifications summary
CPUCPU
CPU
CPUCPU
ChipsetChipset
Chipset
ChipsetChipset
Front Side BusFront Side Bus
Front Side Bus
Front Side BusFront Side Bus
MemoryMemory
Memory
MemoryMemory
Expansion slotsExpansion slots
Expansion slots
Expansion slotsExpansion slots
StorageStorage
Storage
StorageStorage
AudioAudio
Audio
AudioAudio
LANLAN
LAN
LANLAN
Socket A for AMD Athlon™ XP/Sempron™ processors
Northbridge: SiS 741GX
Southbridge: SiS 964 (without RAID support)
333/266/200 MHz
2 x 184-pin DIMM sockets support unbufferred non-ECC
333/266/200 MHz DDR SDRAM memory modules
1 x AGP slot for 1.5V AGP cards
2 x PCI slots
SiS 964 Southbridge supports:
- 4 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 hard disk drives
- 2 x Serial ATA hard disk drives (supported only
under Windows® XP/2000/2003
ADI AD1888 SoundMax
S/PDIF out interface support
Realtek® RTL 8201CL 10/100 Mbps LAN PHY
®
6-channel CODEC
USBUSB
USB
USBUSB
Special featuresSpecial features
Special features
Special featuresSpecial features
BIOS featuresBIOS features
BIOS features
BIOS featuresBIOS features
Rear panelRear panel
Rear panel
Rear panelRear panel
Supports up to 8 USB 2.0 ports
ASUS EZ Flash
ASUS CrashFree BIOS
ASUS C.O.P. (CPU Overheating Protection)
ASUS MyLogo™
2 Mb Flash EEPROM, Phoenix-Award BIOS with enhanced
ACPI, DMI, Green, and PnP features
1 x PS/2 mouse port
1 x Parallel port
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port
4 x USB 2.0 ports
1 x VGA port
1 x Coaxial S/PDIF out port
1 x PS/2 keyboard port
6-channel audio ports
(continued on the next page)
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A7S8X-MX specifications summary
InternalInternal
Internal
InternalInternal
connectorsconnectors
connectors
connectorsconnectors
InduIndu
stry standarstry standar
Indu
stry standar
InduIndu
stry standarstry standar
1 x Floppy disk drive connector
1 x Primary IDE connector
1 x Secondary IDE connector
2 x Serial ATA connectors
1 x CPU fan connector
1 x Chassis fan connector
2 x USB 2.0 connectors for 4 additional USB 2.0 ports
1 x GAME/MIDI connector
1 x 20-pin ATX power connector
1 x CD in connector
1 x AUX connector
1 x Front panel audio connector
1 x COM port connector
1 x Speaker out connector
1 x Power LED connector
1 x System panel connector
dd
d
PCI 2.2, USB 2.0
dd
Support CDSupport CD
Support CD
Support CDSupport CD
contentscontents
contents
contentscontents
Form FactorForm Factor
Form Factor
Form FactorForm Factor
Device drivers
ASUS PC Probe
ASUS Update
Anti-virus software (OEM version)
Micro ATX form factor: 9.6 in x 7.8 in (24.4 cm x 19.8 cm)
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.
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This chapter describes the motherboard
features and the new technologies
it supports.
introduction
Product
1
ASUS A7S8X-MXASUS A7S8X-MX
ASUS A7S8X-MX
ASUS A7S8X-MXASUS A7S8X-MX
1-11-1
1-1
1-11-1
1.1 Welcome!
®®
®
Thank you for buying an ASUSThank you for buying an ASUS
Thank you for buying an ASUS
Thank you for buying an ASUSThank you for buying an ASUS
®®
A7S8X-MX motherboard! A7S8X-MX motherboard!
A7S8X-MX motherboard!
A7S8X-MX motherboard! A7S8X-MX motherboard!
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies,
making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!
Before you start installing the motherboard and hardware devices on it,
check the items in your package with the list below.
1.2 Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items.
MotherboardMotherboard
Motherboard ASUS A7S8X-MX motherboard
MotherboardMotherboard
CablesCables
Cables 1 x Serial port (COM) cable
CablesCables
1 x Ultra DMA cable
1 x Floppy disk drive cable
AccessoryAccessory
Accessory I/O shield
AccessoryAccessory
Application CDApplication CD
Application CD ASUS motherboard support CD
Application CDApplication CD
DocumentationDocumentation
Documentation User guide
DocumentationDocumentation
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
1-21-2
1-2
1-21-2
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
1.3 Special features
1.3.11.3.1
1.3.1
1.3.11.3.1
AMD Athon™ XP/Sempron™ processor support AMD Athon™ XP/Sempron™ processor support
AMD Athon™ XP/Sempron™ processor support
AMD Athon™ XP/Sempron™ processor support AMD Athon™ XP/Sempron™ processor support
The motherboard comes with a 462-pin surface mount, Zero Insertion
Force (ZIF) socket that supports 333 MHz front side bus frequency for
AMD Athlon™ XP/Sempron™ processors. With an integrated low-latency
high-bandwidth memory controller, the motherboard allows increased office
productivity and enhanced digital media experience. See page 1-8.
AGP 8X support AGP 8X support
AGP 8X support
AGP 8X support AGP 8X support
The AGP 8X (AGP 3.0) VGA interface specification enables enhanced
graphics performance with high bandwidth speeds up to 2.12 GB/s. See
page 1-15.
Powerful integrated graphics Powerful integrated graphics
Powerful integrated graphics
Powerful integrated graphics Powerful integrated graphics
The SiS 741GX IGUI Host Memory Controller (HMC) features the SiS
Real256E, an integrated graphics engine for enhanced 3D, 2D, and video
capabilities.
Product highlightsProduct highlights
Product highlights
Product highlightsProduct highlights
Serial ATA technology Serial ATA technology
Serial ATA technology
Serial ATA technology Serial ATA technology
The motherboard supports the Serial ATA technology through the Serial ATA
interfaces and the SiS 964. The SATA specification allows for thinner, more
flexible cables with lower pin count, reduced voltage requirement, and up to
150 MB/s data transfer rate. See page 1-23.
6-channel digital audio 6-channel digital audio
6-channel digital audio
6-channel digital audio 6-channel digital audio
Providing high-quality, 6-channel audio solution is the onboard ADI AD1888
AC`97 audio CODEC. This motherboard comes with a coaxial S/PDIF
connector on the rear panel to turn your computer into a high-end
entertainment system with digital connectivity to powerful sound systems.
See page 1-19.
Integrated 10/100 LAN controller Integrated 10/100 LAN controller
Integrated 10/100 LAN controller
Integrated 10/100 LAN controller Integrated 10/100 LAN controller
The onboard Realtek RTL8201CL is an integrated single-chip Fast Ethernet
LAN controller with enhanced ACPI management function to provide
efficient power management for advanced operating systems. See page
1-19.
ASUS A7S8X-MXASUS A7S8X-MX
ASUS A7S8X-MX
ASUS A7S8X-MXASUS A7S8X-MX
1-31-3
1-3
1-31-3
S/PDIF digital sound ready S/PDIF digital sound ready
S/PDIF digital sound ready
S/PDIF digital sound ready S/PDIF digital sound ready
The motherboard supports the S/PDIF In/Out function through the S/PDIF
interfaces on the rear panel and at midboard. The S/PDIF technology turns
your computer into a high-end entertainment system with digital connectivity
to powerful audio and speaker systems. See page 1-20.
USB 2.0 technology USB 2.0 technology
USB 2.0 technology
USB 2.0 technology USB 2.0 technology
The motherboard implements the Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0
specification, dramatically increasing the connection speed from the
12 Mbps bandwidth on USB 1.1 to a fast 480 Mbps on USB 2.0. USB 2.0 is
backward compatible with USB 1.1. See pages 1-20 and 1-25.
1.3.21.3.2
1.3.2
1.3.21.3.2
C.O.P. (CPU Overheating ProtectionC.O.P. (CPU Overheating Protection
C.O.P. (CPU Overheating Protection)
C.O.P. (CPU Overheating ProtectionC.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 EZ Flash BIOS ASUS EZ Flash BIOS
ASUS EZ Flash BIOS
ASUS EZ Flash BIOS ASUS EZ Flash BIOS
With the ASUS EZ Flash, you can easily update the system BIOS even
before loading the operating system. No need to use a DOS-based utility or
boot from a floppy disk. See page 2-5.
ASUS CrashFree BIOS ASUS CrashFree BIOS
ASUS CrashFree BIOS
ASUS CrashFree BIOS ASUS CrashFree BIOS
This feature allows you to restore the original BIOS data from a floppy disk
when the BIOS codes and data are corrupted. This protection eliminates the
need to buy a replacement ROM chip. See page 2-6 for details.
Innovative ASUS featuresInnovative ASUS features
Innovative ASUS features
Innovative ASUS featuresInnovative ASUS features
ASUS MyLogo™ ASUS MyLogo™
ASUS MyLogo™
ASUS MyLogo™ ASUS MyLogo™
This new feature present in the motherboard allows you to personalize and
add style to your system with customizable boot logos. See page 2-33.
1-41-4
1-4
1-41-4
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
1.4 Before you proceed
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard
components or change any motherboard settings.
• Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any
component.
• Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or to a
metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling
components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity
• Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
• Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded
antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component.
Before you install or remove any component, ensureBefore you install or remove any component, ensure
•
Before you install or remove any component, ensure
Before you install or remove any component, ensureBefore you install or remove any component, ensure
that the ATX power supply is switched off or thethat the ATX power supply is switched off or the
that the ATX power supply is switched off or the
that the ATX power supply is switched off or thethat the ATX power supply is switched off or the
power cord is detached from the power supply. power cord is detached from the power supply.
power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure
power cord is detached from the power supply. power cord is detached from the power supply.
to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals,
and/or components.
Onboard LEDOnboard LED
Onboard LED
Onboard LEDOnboard LED
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to
indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode.
This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug
the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard
component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard
LED.
A7S8X-MX
SB_PWR1
®
A7S8X-MX Onboard LED
ON
Standby
Power
OFF
Powered
Off
ASUS A7S8X-MXASUS A7S8X-MX
ASUS A7S8X-MX
ASUS A7S8X-MXASUS A7S8X-MX
1-51-5
1-5
1-51-5
1.5 Motherboard overview
Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis
to ensure that the motherboard fits into it.
Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the
motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage
motherboard components.
1.5.11.5.1
1.5.1
1.5.11.5.1
Placement directionPlacement direction
Placement direction
Placement directionPlacement direction
When installing the motherboard, make sure that you place it into the
chassis in the correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the
rear part of the chassis as indicated in the image below.
1.5.21.5.2
1.5.2
1.5.21.5.2
Screw holesScrew holes
Screw holes
Screw holesScrew holes
Place six (6) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the
motherboard to the chassis.
Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
Place this side towardsPlace this side towards
Place this side towards
Place this side towardsPlace this side towards
the rear of the chassisthe rear of the chassis
the rear of the chassis
the rear of the chassisthe rear of the chassis
1-61-6
1-6
1-61-6
A7S8X-MX
®
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
1.5.31.5.3
1.5.3
1.5.31.5.3
PS/2KBMS
T: Mouse
B: Keyboard
Motherboard layoutMotherboard layout
Motherboard layout
Motherboard layoutMotherboard layout
19.8cm (7.8in)
SPDIF_O
VGA1
T:USB4
B:USB3
USB2.0
T: USB1
B: USB2
Top:Line In
Center:Line Out
Below:Mic In
PARALLEL PORT
Top:
RJ-45
CD1
CPU_FAN1
USBPW1234
REL8201CL
FSB_SEL1
FSB_SEL0
Socket 462
SIS
741GX
AGP1
DDR DIMM1 (64/72 bit, 184-pin module)
A7S8X-MX
ATXPWR
DDR DIMM2 (64/72 bit, 184-pin module)
24.4cm (9.6in)
PRI_IDE
SEC_IDE
AD1888
AUX1
FP_AUDIO1
I/O
Super
2Mbit
ISA
COM1
PCI1
PCI2
FLOPPY1
GAME1
®
CR2032 3V
Lithium Cell
CMOS Power
USB56
SB_PWR1
USBPW5678
USB78
SIS
964
SPEAKER1
CHA_FAN1
PWRLED1
CLRTC1
SATA 1 SATA 2
PANEL1
ASUS A7S8X-MXASUS A7S8X-MX
ASUS A7S8X-MX
ASUS A7S8X-MXASUS A7S8X-MX
1-71-7
1-7
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1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with a surface mount 462-pin Zero Insertion Force
(ZIF) socket designed for the AMD Athlon™ XP/Sempron™ processor.
Take note of the marked corner (with
gold triangle) on the CPU. This mark
should match a specific corner on the
socket to ensure correct installation.
Do not use processors with core speeds of less than 1 GHz on this
motherboard.
Installing the CPUInstalling the CPU
Installing the CPU
Installing the CPUInstalling the CPU
Follow these steps to install a CPU.
1. Locate the 462-pin ZIF socket on the motherboard.
CPU NOTCH
TO INNER
CORNER
GoldGold
Gold
GoldGold
triangletriangle
triangle
triangletriangle
A7S8X-MX
®
A7S8X-MX CPU Socket 462
AMD™ CPU
LOCK
LEVER
CPU NOTCH
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2. Unlock the socket by pressing
the lever sideways, then lift it up
to a 90°-100° angle.
SocketSocket
Socket
SocketSocket
leverlever
lever
leverlever
Make sure that the socket lever is lifted up to 90°-100° angle; otherwise
the CPU does not fit in completely.
3. Position the CPU above the
socket such that the CPU corner
with the gold triangle matches
the base of the socket lever.
90°-100°90°-100°
90°-100°
90°-100°90°-100°
angleangle
angle
angleangle
4. Carefully insert the CPU into the
socket until it fits in place.
The CPU fits only in one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into
the socket to prevent bending the pins and damaging the CPU!
5. When the CPU is in place, push
down the socket lever to secure
the CPU. The lever clicks on the
side tab to indicate that it is
locked.
Gold triangleGold triangle
Gold triangle
Gold triangleGold triangle
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1.7 System memory
1.7.11.7.1
1.7.1
1.7.11.7.1
OverviewOverview
Overview
OverviewOverview
The motherboard comes with two Double Data Rate (DDR) Dual Inline
Memory Module (DIMM) sockets. These sockets support up to 2 GB system
memory using 184-pin PC2700/PC2100 unbuffered DDR DIMMs and allow
up to 2.7 GB/s data transfer rate.
The following figure illustrates the location of the DDR DIMM sockets.
A7S8X-MX
®
A7S8X-MX 184-pin DDR DIMM sockets
DIMM1
DIMM2
80 Pins 104 Pins
1.7.21.7.2
1.7.2
1.7.21.7.2
Memory ConfigurationsMemory Configurations
Memory Configurations
Memory ConfigurationsMemory Configurations
You may install 64 MB, 128 MB, 256 MB, 512 MB and 1 GB unbuffered
non-ECC DDR DIMMs into the DIMM sockets using the memory
configurations in this section.
•
Installing DDR DIMMs other than the recommended configurations
may cause memory sizing error or system boot failure. Use any of
the recommended configurations in the table on the next page.
•
Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum
compatibility, we recommend that you obtain memory modules from
the same vendor.
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Recommended memory configurationsRecommended memory configurations
Recommended memory configurations
Recommended memory configurationsRecommended memory configurations
SocketsSockets
Sockets
SocketsSockets
ModeMode
Mode
ModeMode
DIMM_A1DIMM_A1
DIMM_A1
DIMM_A1DIMM_A1
DIMM_A2DIMM_A2
DIMM_A2
DIMM_A2DIMM_A2
Single-channel (1) Populated —
(2) — Populated
(3) Populated Populated
Memory frequency/CPU FSB synchronizationMemory frequency/CPU FSB synchronization
Memory frequency/CPU FSB synchronization
Memory frequency/CPU FSB synchronizationMemory frequency/CPU FSB synchronization
CPU FSBCPU FSB
CPU FSB
CPU FSBCPU FSB
333 MHz PC2700/PC2100 333/266 MHz
266 MHz PC2100 266 MHz
DDR DIMM TypeDDR DIMM Type
DDR DIMM Type
DDR DIMM TypeDDR DIMM Type
Memory FrequencyMemory Frequency
Memory Frequency
Memory FrequencyMemory Frequency
Obtain DDR DIMMs only from qualified vendors for better system
performance.
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1.7.31.7.3
1.7.3
1.7.31.7.3
Installing a DIMMInstalling a DIMM
Installing a DIMM
Installing a DIMMInstalling a DIMM
Make sure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs
or other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage
to both the motherboard and the components.
1. Unlock a DIMM socket by
pressing the retaining clips
outward.
2. Align a DIMM on the socket such
that the notch on the DIMM
matches the break on the
socket.
2
DDR DIMM notchDDR DIMM notch
DDR DIMM notch
DDR DIMM notchDDR DIMM notch
1
1
Unlocked retaining clipUnlocked retaining clip
Unlocked retaining clip
Unlocked retaining clipUnlocked retaining clip
A DDR DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it fits in only one direction.
DO NOT force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the DIMM.
3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the
socket until the retaining clips
snap back in place and the DIMM
is properly seated.
Locked retaining clipLocked retaining clip
Locked retaining clip
Locked retaining clipLocked retaining clip
1.7.41.7.4
1.7.4
1.7.41.7.4
Removing a DIMMRemoving a DIMM
Removing a DIMM
Removing a DIMMRemoving a DIMM
Follow these steps to remove a DIMM.
1. Simultaneously press the
retaining clips outward to unlock
the DIMM.
2
1
Support the DIMM lightly with your fingers when pressing the retaining
clips. The DIMM might get damaged when it flips out with extra force.
2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.
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DDR DIMM notchDDR DIMM notch
DDR DIMM notch
DDR DIMM notchDDR DIMM notch
1.8 Expansion slots
In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following
sub-sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support.
Make sure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing
expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and
damage motherboard components.
1.8.11.8.1
1.8.1
1.8.11.8.1
To install an expansion card:
1. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that
came with it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card.
2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already
installed in a chassis).
3. Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. 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.
1.8.21.8.2
1.8.2
1.8.21.8.2
After installing the expansion card, configure it by adjusting the software
settings.
Installing an expansion cardInstalling an expansion card
Installing an expansion card
Installing an expansion cardInstalling an expansion card
Configuring an expansion cardConfiguring an expansion card
Configuring an expansion card
Configuring an expansion cardConfiguring an expansion card
1. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any.
See Chapter 2 for information on BIOS setup.
2. Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the next page.
3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.
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1.8.31.8.3
1.8.3
1.8.31.8.3
Standard interrupt assignmentsStandard interrupt assignments
Standard interrupt assignments
Standard interrupt assignmentsStandard interrupt assignments
Interrupt assignmentsInterrupt assignments
Interrupt assignments
Interrupt assignmentsInterrupt assignments
IRQIRQ
IRQ
IRQIRQ
0 System Timer
1 Keyboard Controller
2 Programmable Interrupt
4* Communications Port (COM1)
5* Sound Card (sometimes LPT2)
6 Floppy Disk Controller
7* Printer Port (LPT1)
8 System CMOS/Real Time Clock
9* ACPI Mode when used
10* IRQ holder for PCI Steering
12* PS/2 Compatible Mouse Port
13 Numeric Data Processor
14* Primary IDE Channel
15* Secondary IDE Channel
Standard FunctionStandard Function
Standard Function
Standard FunctionStandard Function
* These IRQs are usually available for ISA or PCI devices.
IRQ assignments for this motherboardIRQ assignments for this motherboard
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
IRQ assignments for this motherboardIRQ assignments for this motherboard
AA
A
AA
AGP slot used — — —
PCI slot 1 — used — —
PCI slot 2 — — used —
BB
B
BB
CC
C
CC
DD
D
DD
When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support
“Share IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments; otherwise,
conflicts will arise between the two PCI groups, making the system
unstable and the card inoperable.
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