ASUS A7V8X User Manual

A7V8X

User Guide

Motherboard

Checklist

E1 119
Second Edition

September 2002

Copyright © 2002 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.

ii

Contents

FCC/CDC statements.....................................................................vi

Safety information ......................................................................... vii

About this guide............................................................................ viii

How this guide is organized ................................................ viii

Conventions used in this guide .............................................ix

Where to find more information .............................................ix

ASUS contact information ...............................................................x

A7V8X specifications summary......................................................xi

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1 Welcome! ........................................................................... 1-1

1.2 Package contents............................................................... 1-1

1.3 Special features.................................................................. 1-2

1.3.1 Product highlights .................................................. 1-2

1.4 Motherboard overview........................................................ 1-6

1.4.1 Major components ................................................. 1-6

1.4.2 Core specifications ................................................ 1-8

Chapter 2: Hardware information

Features

2.1 Motherboard installation ..................................................... 2-1

2.1.1 Placement direction ............................................... 2-1

2.1.2 Screw holes ........................................................... 2-1

2.2 Motherboard layout ............................................................ 2-2

2.3 Before you proceed ............................................................ 2-3

2.4 Central Processing Unit (CPU)........................................... 2-4

2.4.1 Overview ................................................................ 2-4

2.4.2 Installing the CPU .................................................. 2-5

2.5 System memory ................................................................. 2-6

2.5.1 Overview ................................................................ 2-6

2.5.2 Memory configurations .......................................... 2-7

2.5.3 Qualified Vendor List.............................................. 2-7

2.5.4 Installing a DIMM ................................................... 2-8

2.5.5 Removing a DIMM ................................................. 2-9

2.6 Expansion slots .................................................................2-11

2.6.1 Installing an expansion card ..............................................2-11

2.6.2 Configuring an expansion card..........................................2-11

iii

Safeguards

Contents

2.6.3 PCI slots .............................................................. 2-13

2.6.4 AGP slot............................................................... 2-13

2.7 Switches and jumpers ...................................................... 2-14

2.8 Connectors ....................................................................... 2-17

Chapter 3: Powering up

3.1 Starting up for the first time ................................................ 3-1

3.2 Vocal POST Messages ...................................................... 3-2

3.3 Powering off the computer ................................................. 3-4

Chapter 4: BIOS setup

4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS .................................... 4-1

4.1.1 Using ASUS EZ Flash to update the BIOS ............ 4-1

4.1.2 Using AFLASH to update the BIOS ....................... 4-3

4.2 BIOS Setup program .......................................................... 4-7

4.2.1 BIOS menu bar ...................................................... 4-8

4.2.2 Legend bar............................................................. 4-8

4.3 Main Menu........................................................................ 4-10

4.3.1 Primary and Secondary Master/Slave ................. 4-12

4.3.2 Keyboard Features .............................................. 4-16

4.4 Advanced Menu ............................................................... 4-17

4.4.1 Chip Configuration ............................................... 4-20

4.4.2 I/O Device Configuration...................................... 4-23

4.4.3 PCI Configuration ................................................ 4-25

4.5 Power Menu ..................................................................... 4-29

4.5.1 Power Up Control ................................................ 4-29

4.5.2 Hardware Monitor ................................................ 4-31

4.6 Boot Menu ........................................................................ 4-33

4.7 Exit Menu ......................................................................... 4-35

Chapter 5: Software support

iv

5.1 Install an operating system................................................. 5-1

5.2 Support CD information...................................................... 5-1

Contents

5.2.1 Running the support CD ........................................ 5-1

5.2.2 Drivers menu ......................................................... 5-2

5.2.3 Utilities menu ......................................................... 5-3

5.2.4 ASUS Contact Information..................................... 5-6

5.2.5 Other information ................................................... 5-7

5.3 Software information .......................................................... 5-9

5.3.1 ASUS Update ........................................................ 5-9

5.3.2 ASUS MyLogo2™................................................ 5-10

5.3.3 ASUS PC Probe .................................................. 5-12

5.3.4 E-Color 3Deep ..................................................... 5-17

5.3.5 Winbond Voice Editor .......................................... 5-20

5.3.6 Multi-Channel Audio Feature ............................... 5-24

5.4 Using the Promise Chip for RAID 0 or 1........................... 5-26

5.4.1 Installing the Hard Disks ...................................... 5-27

™

5.4.2 Enter FastTrak376

5.4.3 Creating a RAID 0 Array ...................................... 5-29

5.4.4 Creating a RAID 1 Array ...................................... 5-30

5.4.5 Other FastBuild Utility Commands....................... 5-32

BIOS and FastBuild Utility... 5-28

5.5 Manual Installation of IDE/RAID Drivers .......................... 5-34

®

5.5.1 Win9x-ME Promise

FastTrak376™ Driver........... 5-34

5.5.2 Win2000 / XP Promise® FastTrak376™ Driver ..... 5-34

5.5.3 Win NT Promise® FastTrak376™ Driver ............... 5-35

5.5.4 Installing the Promise® FastTrak376

™

Driver in a New Windows 2000 / XP System ....... 5-35

Index ........................................................................................ I-1

v

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.

vi

Safety information

Electrical safety

• To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from
the electrical outlet before relocating the system.

• When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that
the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal
cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the
existing system before you add a device.

• Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard,
ensure that all power cables are unplugged.

• Seek professional assistance before using an adpater or extension
cord. These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.

• Make sure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your
area. If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you
are using, contact your local power company.

• If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a
qualified service technician or your retailer.

Operation safety

• Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully
read all the manuals that came with the package.

• Before using the product, make sure all cables are correctly connected
and the power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage,
contact your dealer immediately.

• To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from
connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry.

• Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the
product in any area where it may become wet.

• Place the product on a stable surface.

• If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a

qualified service technician or your retailer.

vii

About this guide

This user guide contains the information you need when installing the
ASUS A7V8X motherboard.

How this guide is organized

This manual contains the following parts:

• Chapter 1: Product introduction

This chapter describes the features of the A7V8X motherboard. It
includes brief descriptions of the special attributes of the motherboard
and the new technology it supports.

• Chapter 2: Hardware information

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

• Chapter 3: Powering up

This chapter describes the power up sequence and gives information
on the BIOS beep codes.

• Chapter 4: 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 5: Software support

This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes with
the motherboard package.

• Index

This part contains an alphabetical list of the topics found in this
document.

viii

Conventions 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: Information to prevent injury to yourself
when trying to complete a task.

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components
when trying to complete a task.

IMPORTANT: Information that you MUST follow to complete a
task.

NOTE: Tips and additional information to aid in completing a task.

Where to find more information

Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product
and software updates.

1. ASUS Websites

The ASUS websites worldwide provide updated information on ASUS
hardware and software products. The ASUS websites are listed in the
ASUS Contact Information on page x.

2. Optional 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.

ix

ASUS contact information

ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (Asia-Pacific)

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

Technical Support

MB/Others (Tel): [phone] (English)
Notebook (Tel): [phone] (English)
Desktop/Server (Tel): [phone] (English)
Support Fax: [phone]
Support Email: [e-mail]
Web Site: www.asus.com.tw
Newsgroup: cscnews.asus.com.tw

ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)

Address: 6737 Mowry Avenue, Mowry Business Center,

Building 2, Newark, CA 94560, USA
General Fax: [phone]
General Email: [e-mail]

Technical Support

Support Fax: [phone]
General Support: [phone]
Web Site: www.asus.com
Support Email: [e-mail]

ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Europe)

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

Technical Support

Support Hotline: MB/Others: [phone]
Notebook (Tel): [phone]
Support Fax: [phone]
Support (Email): www.asuscom.de/de/support (for online support)
Web Site: www.asuscom.de

x

A7V8X specifications summary

CPU

Chipset

Front Side Bus (FSB)
Memory

Expansion slots

IDE
Flexible Serial ATA

(optional)
RAID (optional)

Socket A for AMD Thoroughbred, Athlon XP/Athlon/Duron
600 MHz ~ 2.4 GHz+

Northbridge: VIA KT400
Southbridge: VIA VT8235

333/266/200Mhz
3 x DDR DIMM Sockets

Maximum 3 GB unbuffered PC2100/1600 non-ECC SDRAM
Memory.(Note: PC2700 maximum to 2 DIMM support only.
PC3200 maximum to 1 DIMM support only.)

Visit the ASUS website for the latest qualified DDR400/DDR333 module list

1 x AGP 8X
6 x PCI (one shared with ASUS BlueMagic PCI slot.)

2 x UltraDMA 133/100/66
Promise controller supports one ATA133 channel and two

Serial A T A connectors
RAID 0 supported by two or three Parallel ATA or Serial ATA

connectors. RAID 1 supported by two Parallel or Serial ATA
connectors.

Audio (optional)

LAN (optional)
USB 2.0

IEEE 1394 (optional)

Special Features

Realtek 6-channel CODEC
S/PDIF in/out interface

Broadcom 10/100 Mbps or 1 Gbps Ethernet controller
VT8235 built-in USB 2.0

6 x USB 2.0 port
VIA 1394 controller

2 x 1394 port
ASUS POST Reporter (optional)

ASUS MyLogo2
ASUS EZ Flash
ASUS Q-Fan
Multi-language BIOS
Power Loss Restart
ASUS Jumperfree
SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection)
support S/PDIF in/out interface (on audio model only)
ASUS C.O.P. (CPU Overheating Protection)
AGP Warning LED

(continued on the next page)

xi

A7V8X specifications summary

Back Panel I/O Ports

Internal I/O
Connectors

BIOS features

1 x Parallel
2 x Serial
1 x PS/2 Keyboard
1 x PS/2 Mouse
1 x Audio I/O (on audio model only)
4 x USB 2.0
1 x RJ-45 Port (on LAN model only)

CPU/Power/Chassis FAN connectors
20 pin ATX power connector
IDE LED connector
Chassis Intrusion, SM Bus, SIR
Smart Card reader connector
Front panel audio connector (on audio model only)
Game port
S/PDIF in/out connector (on audio model only)
CD/AUX/Modem audio in (on audio model only)
2 x 1394 port (on 1394 model only)
1 x USB 2.0 connector supports additional 2 USB 2.0 ports
2 x Serial ATA port (on serial ATA model only)

4Mb Flash ROM, Award BIOS, TCAV, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0,
SM BIOS2.3, Multi-language BIOS, ASUS EZ Flash, ASUS
MyLogo2

Industry standard
Manageability
Form Factor
Support CD contents

Accessories

PCI 2.2, USB 2.0
WfM 2.0. DMI 2.0, chassis intrusion, SMBus
ATX form factor: 12 in x 9.6 in (30.5 cm x 24.5 cm)
Device drivers

ASUS PC Probe
Trend Micro
ASUS LiveUpdate Utility
InterVideo WinCinema [WinDVD/WinRip/WinCorder/
WinProducer] software (optional)

User’s manual
Support CD
2 x UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable
IDE cable
FDD cable
I/O shield
2-port USB 2.0/ Game port module
2-port IEEE 1394 module (on 1394 model only)
2 x IEEE 1394 cable (on 1394 model only)
2 x Serial ATA cable (on Serial ATA model only)

tm

PC-cillin 2002 anti-virus software

* Specifications are subject to change without notice.

xii

Chapter 1

This chapter describes the features of the
ASUS A7V8X motherboard. It includes brief
explanations of the special attributes of the
motherboard and the new technology it
supports.

Product introduction

Chapter summary

1.1 Welcome! ........................................................ 1-1

1.2 Package contents .......................................... 1-1

1.3 Special features ............................................. 1-2

1.4 Motherboard overview................................... 1-6

ASUS A7V8X motherboard

1.1 Welcome!

Thank you for buying the ASUS® A7V8X motherboard!

The ASUS A7V8X motherboard is loaded with the most advanced
technologies to deliver the maximum performance for socket A processors.
Based on the advanced VIA KT400 chipset with DDR 400 support, the
ASUS A7V8X also features AGP 8X, serial ATA, USB 2.0 as well as
optional 6-channel audio, Gigabit LAN and 1394. Unique ASUS features
such as ASUS C.O.P., Q-Fan and MyLogo2 and more are included to
ensure the best user experience and value in a motherboard.

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 ASUS A7V8X package for the following items.

ASUS A7V8X motherboard

ATX form factor: 12 in x 9.6 in (30.5 cm x 24.5 cm)
ASUS A7V8X series support CD
ASUS 2-port USB 2.0/ GAME port module
ASUS 2-port IEEE 1394 module (on 1394 model only)
ASUS S/PDIF in/out module (on audio model only)
2 pcs. 1394 cable (on 1394 model only)
2 pcs. Serial ATA cable (on Serial ATA model only)
2 pcs. 80-conductor ribbon cable for UltraDMA/66/100/133 IDE drives
40-conductor IDE cable
Ribbon cable for a 3.5-inch floppy drive
I/O shield
Bag of extra jumper caps
User Guide
Quick Setup Guide and Reference Card (retail box only)
Jumpers and Connectors Sticker (retail box only)

If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

1-1

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

333MHz FSB Athlon XP CPU support

AMD’s Athlon XP 2700+ and all follow-up CPUs now support 333MHz
Front Side Bus (FSB) for increased application program productivity and

enhanced digital media experience.

AGP 8X support

AGP 8X (AGP 3.0) is the next generation VGA interface specification that
enables enhanced graphics performance with high bandwidth speeds up
to 2.12 GB/s. With a bus of 533Mhz, AGP 8X is twice as fast as AGP 4X.

Serial ATA technology (optional)

Serial ATA is the next generation ATA specification that provides scalable
performance for today and tomorrow. With up to 150MB/s data transfer
rate, Serial ATA is faster than current Parallel ATA, while providing 100%

software compatibility.

DDR400 (PC3200) support

DDR400 (PC3200), the latest and fastest DDR memory standard, supports
bandwidth up to 3.2 GB/s to provide enhanced system performance.

(Note: PC2700 maximum to 2 DIMM support only. PC3200 maximum to 1 DIMM
support only.)

Gigabit LAN (optional)

The A7V8X with BroadCom Gigabit LAN, delivers transfer speeds up to
ten times faster than conventional 10/100 Ethernet connections. Gigabit
LAN is the networking standard for the future and is ideal for handling
large amounts of data such as video, audio and voice.

USB 2.0 technology

USB 2.0 is the latest connectivity standard for next generation components
and peripherals. USB 2.0 delivers fast transfer speeds up to 40 times
faster at 480 MB/s, for easy connectivity and ultra-fast data transfers. The
higher bandwidth of USB 2.0 allows connection of devices such as high
resolution video conferencing cameras, next generation scanners, printers,
and fast storage units. USB 2.0 is backward compatible with USB 1.1.

1-2

Chapter 1: Product introduction

IEEE 1394 support (optional)

IEEE 1394 interface provides high speed digital interface for audio / video
appliances such as digital television, digital video camcorders, storage

peripherals & other PC portable devices.

ASUS Q-Fan feature

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

details on page 4-32.

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 POST Reporter™ (optional)

A7V8X offers a new exciting feature called the ASUS POST Reporter™ to
provide friendly voice messages and alerts during the Power-On Self-Tests
(POST). Through the system’s internal speaker, or an added external
speaker, you will hear the messages informing you of the system boot
status and causes of boot errors, if any. The bundled Winbond Voice
Editor software allows you to customize the voice messages, and provides
multi-language support.

ASUS MyLogo2™

This new feature present in the A7V8X motherboard allows you to
personalize and add style to your system with customizable boot logos.

ASUS Multi-language BIOS

The multi-language BIOS allows you to select the language of your choice
from the available options. The localized BIOS menus allow you to
configure easier and faster. Visit the ASUS website for information on the
supported languages. See page 4-11 on how to select your desired
language.

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

1-3

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.

6-channel Audio (optional)

The A7V8X uses an onboard Realtek CODEC that lets you enjoy high­quality 6-channel audio without having to buy advanced sound cards.

InterVideo WinCinema Software (on Gold version only)

A full array of bundled software is now available with ASUS motherboards!
Submerge yourself in ahole new multimedia experience.

WinDVD: the world’s most popular DVD software supporting 5.1-channel
audio

WinRip: MP3 Player/Encoder/Ripper featuring virtual 5.1-channel and
surround sound effects.

WinCoder: Real-time MPEG-1 & 2 software video encoder.
WinProducer: Easy-of-use MPEG-1 & 2 video editing software.

1-4

Chapter 1: Product introduction

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

1-5

1.4 Motherboard overview

Before you install the A7V8X motherboard, familiarize yourself with its
physical configuration and available features to facilitate the motherboard
installation and future upgrades. A sufficient knowledge of the motherboard
specifications will also help you avoid mistakes that may damage the
board and its components.

1.4.1 Major components

The following are the major components of the A7V8X motherboard as
pointed out in the picture on page 1-7.

1. North Bridge controller

2. CPU socket

3. DDR DIMM sockets

4. ATX power connector

5. Floppy disk connector

6. IDE connectors

7. AGP warning LED

8. South Bridge controller

9. ASUS ASIC

10. RAID IDE connector*

11. SATA connectors*

12. Flash ROM

13. SATA controller*

14. Stand-by LED

15. Super I/O controller
16 IEEE 1394 connector

17. IEEE 1394 controller

E

E

18. PCI slots

19. Audio CODEC

20. 10/100 or 1Gbit LAN controller

A

L

21. AGP slot

22. Mouse port

23. Parallel port

24. RJ-45 port

25. Line In jack

26. Line Out jack

27. Microphone jack

L

A

A

A

28. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4

29. Serial ports 1 and 2

30. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2

31. Keyboard port

* - on SATA model only

E

- on IEEE model only

L

- on LAN model only

A

- on Audio model only

1-6

(Note: The ASUS BlueMagic

PCI slot works as a normal
PCI slot and it is also compatible
with the ASUS proprietary
wireless card - Spacelink B&W)

See page 1-8 for the specifications of each major component. Refer to
Chapter 2 for detailed information on the components.

Chapter 1: Product introduction

21

1

243

5
6

7

20
19

18

17

16

22

14 13

15

23 24

8

9
10

11
12

25

31 30 29

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

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1-7

1.4.2 Core specifications

1

North bridge controller. The VIA® KT400 supports AGP 8X mode,

266/200MHz Front Side Bus, and the latest 400/333/266/200MHz
64-bit memory bus.

2

CPU socket. Socket 462 (Socket A) surface mount, Zero Insertion

Force (ZIF) socket for the AMD Athlon XP/Athlon/Duron
Processors, with 600 MHz ~ 2.4GHz system bus. (Note: When

using 333MHz FSB CPU, system memory supports DDR333 or
DDR400 only.)

TABLE 1.4.2

FSB/DDR
Support Table

3

DDR DIMM sockets. These three 184-pin DIMM sockets support up

FSB DDR 266 DDR 333 DDR 400
200/266 MHz
333 MHz

to 3GB system memory using unbuffered non-ECC PC2100/1600
DDR DIMMs.(Note: PC2700 maximum to 2 DIMM support only.
PC3200 maximum to 1 DIMM support only.)

Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for the latest qualified DDR400 module list.

4

ATX power connector. This 20-pin connector connects to an ATX

+12V power supply. The power supply must have at least 1A on the
+5V standby lead (+5VSB).

5

Floppy disk connector. This connector accommodates the

provided ribbon cable for the floppy disk drive. One side of the
connector is slotted to prevent incorrect insertion of the floppy disk
cable.

6

IDE connectors. These dual-channel bus master IDE connectors

support up to four Ultra DMA133/100/66, PIO Modes 3 & 4 IDE
devices. Both the primary (blue) and secondary (black) connectors
are slotted to prevent incorrect insertion of the IDE ribbon cable.

7

AGP warning LED. Serving as a smart burn-out protection for the

motherboard, this red LED lights up if you plug in any 3.3V AGP
card into the AGP slot. When this LED is lit, there is no way you
can turn on the system power even if you press the power button.

8

South bridge controller. The VIA

®

VT8235 integrated peripheral
controller supports various I/O functions including, 2-channel ATA/
133 bus master IDE controller, up to six USB 2.0 ports, LPC Super
I/O interface, AC’97 interface and PCI 2.2 interface.

1-8

Chapter 1: Product introduction

9

ASUS ASIC. This chip performs multiple system functions that

include hardware and system voltage monitoring among others.

10

11

12

13

14

15

RAID IDE connector. This one-channel connector supports Ultra

ATA133/100/66 hard disk drivers in RAID 0 or RAID 1
configurations. (on SATA model only)

SATA connectors. This connector accomodates the provided
Serial ATA cable. One side of the connector is slotted to prevent
incorrect insertion of the cable. The Serial ATA is an evolutionary
replacement for the Parallel ATA. (on SATA model only)

Flash ROM. This 4Mb firmware contains the programmable BIOS
program.

SATA controller. The Promise controller supports one ATA133
channel and two Serial A TA connectors. (on SATA model only)

Standby power LED. This LED lights up if there is a standby
power on the motherboard. This LED acts as a reminder to turn off
the system power before plugging or unplugging devices.

Super I/O controller. This Low Pin Count (LPC) interface provides
the commonly used Super I/O functionality. The chipset supports a
high-performance floppy disk controller for a 360K/720K/1.44M/

2.88M floppy disk drive, a multi-mode parallel port, two standard
compatible UARTs, a Standard Infrared (SIR), a Smart Card
Reader and a Flash ROM interface.

16

17

18

19

IEEE 1394 connectors. This connectors accomodate the bundled

two (2) IEEE 1394 cables. (on 1394 model only)
IEEE 1394 controller. This high speed serial bus provides

enhanced PC connectivity for Audio and Video, high-speed
peripheral devices for storage and other portable devices.
(on 1394 model only)

PCI slots. These six 32-bit PCI 2.2 expansion slots support bus
master PCI cards like SCSI or LAN cards with 133MB/s maximum
throughput. (Note: The ASUS BlueMagic PCI slot works as a

normal PCI slot and it is also compatible with the ASUS proprietary
wireless card - Spacelink B&W)

Audio CODEC . The Realtek ALC650 is an AC’97 compliant audio
CODEC for PC multimedia systems. (on audio models only)

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

1-9

20

Gigabit LAN or LAN controller. The BroadCom Gigabit LAN

delivers transfer rates up to ten times faster than conventional 10/
100 Ethernet connections. Ideal for handling large amounts of data
such as video, audio and voice. (on LAN models only)

21

22
23

24

25

26

27

AGP slot. This Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) slot supports 1.5V

AGP8X mode graphics cards for 3D graphical applications.

PS/2 mouse port. This green 6-pin connector is for a PS/2 mouse.
Parallel port. This 25-pin port connects a parallel printer, a

scanner, or other devices.
RJ-45 port. This port allows connection to a Local Area Network

(LAN) through a network hub. (on LAN models only)
Line In jack. This Line In (light blue) jack connects a tape player or

other audio sources. In 6-channel mode, the function of this jack
becomes Line Out/Front Speaker Out. (on audio models only)

Line Out jack. This Line Out (lime) jack connects a headphone or
a speaker. In 6-channel mode, the function of this jack becomes
Front Speaker Out. (on audio models only)

Microphone jack. This Mic (pink) jack connects a microphone. In
6-channel mode, the function of this jack becomes Center Speaker
Out/Subwoofer. (on audio models only)

28

29

30

31

USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus

(USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.
Serial ports 1 and 2. This 9-pin COM1/COM2 ports are for

pointing devices or other serial devices.
USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus

(USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.
PS/2 keyboard port. This purple 6-pin connector is for a PS/2

keyboard.

1-10

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 2

This chapter describes the hardware setup
procedures that you have to perform when
installing system components. It includes
details on the switches, jumpers, and
connectors on the motherboard.

Hardware information

Chapter summary

2.1 Motherboard installation ............................... 2-1

2.2 Motherboard layout ....................................... 2-2

2.3 Before you proceed ....................................... 2-3

2.4 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ..................... 2-4

2.5 System memory ............................................. 2-6

2.6 Expansion slots ............................................2-11

2.7 Switches and jumpers ................................. 2-14

2.8 Connectors ................................................... 2-18

ASUS A7V8X motherboard

2.1 Motherboard installation

Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis
to ensure that the motherboard fits into it. The A7V8X uses the ATX form
factor that measures 12 inches x 9.6 inches (30.5 x 24.5 cm).

Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the
motherboard. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and
damage motherboard components.

2.1.1 Placement direction

When installing the motherboard, make sure that you place it into the
chassis in the correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the
rear part of the chassis as indicated in the image below.

2.1.2 Screw holes

Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the
motherboard to the chassis.

Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so may damage the
motherboard.

Place this side towards
the rear of the chassis

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

2-1

2.2 Motherboard layout

24.5cm (9.6in)

PS/2KBMS
T: Mouse
B: Keyboard

USB1.1

T: USB0

B: USB1

COM1

COM2

USB2.0

Top:

T: USB1

RJ-45

B: USB2

Top:Line In
Center:Line Out
Below:Mic In

Audio
Codec

MODEM1

SPEECH
Controller

VIA

1394

Controller

PARALLEL PORT

GBLAN

or

LAN

Chip

KBPWR1
USBPWR_12
USBPWR_34

AUX1
CD1

FP_AUDIO1

SPDIF1

OVER_VOLT1

VIA

KT400

PWR_FAN1

Chipset

Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP Pro)

PCI1

PCI2

PCI3

®

A7V8X

PCI4

PCI5

PCI6

AGP_WARN1

USB56

CPU_FAN1

Socket 462

0 1

CR2032 3V
Lithium Cell

CMOS Power

I/O

Super

USBPWR_56

SMARTCARD1

ATX Power Connector

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

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

DDR DIMM3 (64/72 bit, 184-pin module)

2 3

4 5

VIA

VT8235

Chipset

SMB_CON1

TRPWR1

PRI_ IDE1

SEC_ IDE1

ASUS

ASIC

with Hardware

SEC_SATA1

Controller

SerialATA

PRI_SATA1

CHA_FAN1

Monitor

4Mbit

Firmware

Hub

CHASSIS1

CLRTC1

PROMISE

SB_PWR1

PDC20376

FLOPPY1

30.5cm (12.0in)

PRI_RAID1

IDELED1

2-2

IEEE1394_1

IEEE1394_2

GAME1

WPCI_USB1

IR_CON1

AFPANEL1

PANEL1

The audio, SATA, Gigabit LAN, LAN and 1394 features are optional.
These components are grayed out in the above motherboard layout.

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.3 Before you proceed

Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard
components or change any motherboard settings.

1. Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any
component.

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 to avoid touching 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

ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is
detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause

severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, and/or
components.

When lit, the green LED (SB_PWR1) indicates that the system is ON,
in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode, a reminder that you should shut
down the system before removing or plugging in any motherboard
component.

The red LED (AGP_WARN1) is a smart protection from motherboard
burn out caused by an incorrect AGP card. If you plug in any 3.3V AGP
card into the 1.5V AGP slot, this LED lights up thus preventing the
system to power up. This LED remains off if you plug in a 1.5V AGP
card.

AGP_WARN1

ON

Incorrect

AGP Card

SB_PWR1

®

A7V8X

OFF

Correct

AGP Card

ON

A7V8X Onboard LED

Standby

Power

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

OFF

Powered

Off

2-3

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 A7V8X supports AthlonTM XP/AthlonTM and Duron
processors.

CPU NOTCH
TO INNER
CORNER

AMD™ CPU

®

A7V8X

TM

CPU NOTCH

LEVER

A7V8X Socket A

LOCK

Each AMD CPU has a “marked” corner. This corner is indicated with a notch,
and/or a golden square or triangle. Refer to this indicator while orienting the
CPU. See the next section for installation details.

A fan and heatsink should be attached to the CPU to prevent overheating.

2-4

Chapter 2: Hardware information

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.

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

T ake care not to scrape the motherboard surface when mounting a clamp­style 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!

Do not neglect to set the correct Bus Frequency and leave the CPU
Multiple setting at default to avoid start-up problems.

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

2-5

2.5 System memory

2.5.1 Overview

The motherboard comes with three Double Data Rate (DDR) Dual Inline
Memory Module (DIMM) sockets. These sockets support up to 3GB
system memory using 184-pin unbuffered non-ECC PC3200/PC2700/
2100/1600 DIMMs. (Note: DDR400 supports one (1) socket only. DDR333
supports two (2) sockets only.)

104 Pins

®

A7V8X

80 Pins

A7V8X 184-Pin DDR DIMM Sockets

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.

The DDR SDRAM technology evolved from the mainstream PC66, PC100,
PC133 memory known as Single Data Rate (SDR) SDRAM. DDR memory
however, has the ability to perform two data operations in one clock cycle,
thus providing twice the throughput of SDR memory. For example, a
200MHz DDR DIMM will support a 100MHz memory bus, and a 266MHz
DDR DIMM will support a 133MHz memory bus.

DDR Data Transfer Rate DDR Base Frequency

400MHz 200MHz
333MHz 166MHz
266MHz 133MHz
200MHz 100MHz

A DDR DIMM has the same physical dimensions as an SDR DIMM, but it
has a 184-pin footprint compared to the 168-pin of the SDR DIMM. Also, a
DDR DIMM is single notched while an SDR DIMM is double notched.
Therefore, a DDR DIMM is not backward compatible with SDR, and should
be installed only in a socket specially designed for DDR DIMMs.

2-6

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.5.2 Memory configurations

You may install any DDR DIMMs with 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, and
1GB densities into the DIMM sockets.

Use only the following combinations to install DDR DIMMs. Otherwise,
the system may not boot up.

DDR DIMM1 DDR DIMM2 DDR DIMM3

(Rows 0&1) (Rows 2&3) (Rows 4&5)
SS/DS SS/DS SS/DS

SS/DS SS/DS SS/DS

* SS - Single-sided DIMM

DS - Double-sided DIMM

2.5.3 DDR400 Qualified Vendor List

The following table lists the PC3200-DDR400 memory modules that have
been tested and qualified for use with this motherboard.

Vendor Model Size

Samsung M368L6423DTM-CC4 512MB
Samsung M368L3223DTM-CC4 256MB
Kingston KVR400X64C25/512 512MB

Currently , only one (1) DIMM slot supports DDR400 modules. Make sure
to use only the tested and qualified DDR400 DIMMs listed above. Other
DDR DIMMs manufactured by other vendors may not be suitable for this
motherboard. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for the latest
qualified vendor DDR400 module list.

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

2-7

2.5.3 Installing a DIMM

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

Follow these steps to install a DIMM.

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.

Unlocked Retaining Clip

3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the socket until the retaining clips snap
back in place and the DIMM is properly seated.

Locked Retaining Clip

2-8

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.5.4 Removing a DIMM

Follow these steps to remove a DIMM.

1. Simultaneously press the retaining clips outward to unlock the DIMM.

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.

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

2-9

2-10

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.6 Expansion slots

In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The motherboard
has six PCI slots and one Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) slot. 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.

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 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.

2.6.2 Configuring an expansion card

After installing the expansion card, configure the it by adjusting the
software settings.

1. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any.
See Chapter 4 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.

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

2-11

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.

IRQ assignments for this motherboard

ABCDEFGH

PCI slot 1 — — — shared — — — —
PCI slot 2 shared — — — — — — —
PCI slot 3 — shared — — — — — —
PCI slot 4 — — shared — — — — —
PCI slot 5 — — — shared — — — —
PCI slot 6 shared — — — — — — —
AGP slot shared — — — — — — —
USB 1.1 UHCI 1 — — — — — shared — —
USB 1.1 UHCI 2 — — — — — shared — —
USB 1.1 UHCI 3 — — — — — shared — —
USB 2.0 EHCI — — — — — shared — —
AC97 Codec — — — — — — used —
Onboard LAN — — shared — — — — —
Onboard 1394 — shared — — — — — —
Onboard SATA — shared — — — — — —
Onboard IDE — — — — used — — —

When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support
“Share IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments.
Otherwise, conflicts will arise between the two PCI groups, making the
system unstable and the card inoperable.

2-12

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.6.3 PCI slots

There are six 32-bit PCI slots in this motherboard. The slots support PCI
cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that
comply with PCI specifications. The following figure shows a LAN card
installed on a PCI slot.

The ASUS BlueMagic PCI slot
works as a normal PCI slot
and it is also compatible with
the ASUS proprietary wireless
card - SpaceLink B&W.

2.6.4 AGP slot

This motherboard has an Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) slot that
supports +1.5V AGP cards. When you buy an AGP card, make sure that
you ask for one with +1.5V specification. Note the notches on the card
golden fingers to ensure that they fit the AGP slot on your motherboard.

If you installed an incorrect AGP card, such as a SiS305-based AGP card
or any other 3.3V AGP card, the onboard red LED (AGP_WARN1) lights
up, an indication that the card is not supported on the motherboard. As
long as this LED is lighted, you cannot turn on the system power even if
you press the power button, thus preventing permanent damage to the
motherboard.

Install only 1.5V AGP cards on this motherboard!

®

A7V8X

Keyed for 1.5v

A7V8X Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP)

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

2-13

2.7 Jumpers

1. Keyboard power (3-pin KBPWR1)

This jumper allows you to enable or disable the keyboard wake-up
feature. Set this jumper to pins 2-3 (+5VSB) if you wish to wake up the
computer when you press a key on the keyboard (the default value is
[Disabled]). This feature requires an ATX power supply that can supply
at least 1A on the +5VSB lead, and a corresponding setting in the
BIOS (see section 4.5.1 Power Up Control).

KBPWR1

2

1

+5V

®

A7V8X

(Default)

A7V8X Keyboard Power Setting

2. V

over-voltage (3-pin OVER_VOLT1)

CORE

When enabled, this jumper allows CPU V
When this jumper is disabled, V

+1.85V. You may adjust the CPU V

Setting to a very high core voltage may cause permanent damage to
the CPU. It is recommended that you keep the default setting
(Disable).

setting has a range of +1.5V to

CORE

CORE

2

3

+5VSB

ranges of 1.7V to 2.05V.

CORE

through the BIOS Setup.

2-14

12 23

OVERVOLT

ENABLE

®

A7V8X

A7V8X CPU Over Voltage Setting

OVER_VOLT1

OVERVOLT

DISABLE

(Default)

Chapter 2: Hardware information

3. USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPWR_12, USBPWR_34,
USBPWR_56)

Set these jumpers to +5V to wake up the computer from S1 sleep
mode (CPU stopped, DRAM refreshed, system running in low power
mode) using the connected USB devices. Set to +5VSB to wake up
from S3 sleep mode (no power to CPU, DRAM in slow refresh, power
supply in reduced power mode). Both jumpers are set to pins 1-2 (+5V)
by default because not all computers have the appropriate power
supply to support this feature.

The USBPWR_12 and USBPWR_34 jumpers are for the rear USB
ports. The USBPWR_56 jumper is for the internal USB header that you
can connect to the front USB ports.

1. This feature requires a power supply that can provide at least 2A
on the +5VSB lead when these jumpers are set to +5VSB.
Otherwise, the system does not power up.

2. The total current consumed must NOT exceed the power supply
capability (+5VSB) whether under normal condition or in sleep
mode.

®

A7V8X

A7V8X USB Device Wake Up

USBPWR_12
USBPWR_34

12

+5V

(Default)

USBPWR_56

12

+5V

(Default)

23

+5VSB

23

+5VSB

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

2-15

4. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC1)

These jumpers allow you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in
CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system
setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The RAM
data in CMOS is powered by the onboard button cell battery.

To erase the RTC RAM:

1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.

2. Remove the battery.

3. Short the jumper by replacing the jumper cap and removing it
after 3 seconds.

4. Re-install the battery.

5. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.

6. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS
setup to re-enter data.

CLRTC1

®

A7V8X

12 23

Clear CMOS

Normal

(Default)

A7V8X Clear RTC RAM

5. WPCI_USB Setting (6-pin WPCI_USB1)

This jumper connects one set of USB signal to PCI slot 6 to support
ASUS wireless card. Since USB signals are used by some reserved pins
of PCI slot and to ensure the compatibility of the other PCI cards, it should
be kept at default setting except when ASUS wireless card is used.

WPCI_USB1

2-16

®

A7V8X

A7V8X WPCI_USB Setting

4
2

Wireless

PCI_USB

3
1

reserved pin

6
4

Original

(Default)

5
3

PCI

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.8 Connectors

This section describes and illustrates the internal connectors on the
motherboard.

Always connect ribbon cables 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.

1. Hard disk activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED1)

This connector supplies power to the hard disk activity LED. The read
or write activities of any device connected to the primary or secondary
IDE connector cause this LED to light up.

®

A7V8X

A7V8X IDE Activity LED

TIP: If the case-mounted LED does not

light, try reversing the 2-pin plug.

IDELED1

2. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY1)

This connector supports the provided floppy drive ribbon cable. After
connecting one end to the motherboard, connect the other end to the
floppy drive. (Pin 5 is removed to prevent incorrect insertion when
using ribbon cables with pin 5 plug).

FLOPPY1

®

A7V8X

NOTE: Orient the red markings on

the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.

PIN 1

A7V8X Floppy Disk Drive Connector

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

2-17

3. IDE connectors (40-1 pin IDE1, IDE2)

This connector supports the provided UltraDMA/133/100/66 IDE hard
disk ribbon cable. Connect the cable’s blue connector to the primary
(recommended) or secondary IDE connector, then connect the gray
connector to the UltraDMA/133/100/66 slave device (hard disk drive)
and the black connector to the UltraDMA/133/100/66 master device. It
is recommended that you connect non-UltraDMA/133/100/66 devices
to the secondary IDE connector. If you install two hard disks, you must
configure the second drive as a slave device by setting its jumper
accordingly. Refer to the hard disk documentation for the jumper
settings. BIOS supports specific device bootup. If you have more than
two UltraDMA/133/100/66 devices, purchase another UltraDMA/133/
100/66 cable. You may configure two hard disks to be both master
devices with two ribbon cables – one for the primary IDE connector
and another for the secondary IDE connector.

1. Pin 20 on each IDE connector is removed to match the covered
hole on the UltraDMA cable connector. This prevents incorrect
orientation when you connect the cables.

2. The hole near the blue connector on the UltraDMA/133/100/66
cable is intentional.

®

A7V8X

A7V8X IDE Connectors

For UltraDMA/133/100/66 IDE devices, use an 80-conductor IDE
cable. The UltraDMA/66 cable included in the motherboard package
also supports UltraDMA/133/100.

PRI_IDE1

PIN 1

NOTE: Orient the red markings
(usually zigzag) on the IDE
ribbon cable to PIN 1.

SEC_IDE1

2-18

Chapter 2: Hardware information

4. RAID ATA/133/100/66/33 connector (40-1 pin PRI_RAID)

This connector supports either RAID 0 or RAID 1 configuration through
the onboard Serial ATA controller chip. You can use the RAID feature to
set up a disk array configuration or to support additional IDE devices.
You can only install one hard disk (master mode) with this connector.

NOTE: Orient the red markings
(usually zigzag) on the IDE
ribbon cable to PIN 1.

®

A7V8X

PRI_RAID1

PIN 1

A7V8X PRI_RAID Connectors

Important notes on the RAID feature:

1. By default, the drives that you connect to the PRI_RAID
connectors follow the ATA133/100/66/33 protocol as
independent drives, not as a disk array.

2. The connector does not support ATAPI devices such as
CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, etc.

3. For RAID 1, you may choose any two connectors of Parallel
ATA and Serial ATA connectors. For RAID 0, you may choose
any two or three connectors of Parallel ATA and Serial ATA
connectors.

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

2-19

5. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS1)

This lead is for a chassis designed with intrusion detection feature.
This requires an external detection mechanism such as a chassis
intrusion sensor or microswitch. When you remove any chassis
component, the sensor triggers and sends a high-level signal to this
lead to record a chassis intrusion event.

By default, the pins labeled “Chassis Signal” and “Ground” are shorted
with a jumper cap. If you wish to use the chassis intrusion detection
feature, remove the jumper cap from the pins.

CHASSIS1

®

A7V8X

+5VSB_MB

Chassis Signal

GND

A7V8X Chassis Alarm Lead

6. SMBus connector (6-1 pin SMB_CON1)

This connector allows you to connect SMBus (System Management
Bus) devices. Devices communicate with an SMBus host and/or other
SMBus devices using the SMBus interface. SMBus is a specific
implementation of an I

2

C bus, a multi-device bus that allows multiple
chips to connect to the same bus and enable each one to act as a
master by initiating data transfer.

SMB_CON1

®

A7V8X

1

2-20

A7V8X SMBus Connector

+3V

Ground

SMBCLK

FLOATING

SMBDATA

Chapter 2: Hardware information

7. ATX power connectors (20-pin ATXPWR1)

These connectors connect to an ATX 12V power supply. The plugs
from the power supply are designed to fit these connectors in only one
orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the
connectors completely fit.

Make sure that your ATX 12V power supply can provide 8A on the
+12V lead and at least 1A on the +5-volt standby lead (+5VSB). The
minimum recommended wattage is 230W, or 300W for a fully
configured system. The system may become unstable and may
experience difficulty powering up if the power supply is inadequate.

ATXPWR1

+3.3VDC
+3.3VDC
COM
+5.0VDC
COM
+5.0VDC
COM
PWR_OK
+5VSB
+12.0VDC

®

A7V8X

+3.3VDC

-12.0VDC
COM

PS_ON#

COM
COM
COM

-5.0VDC
+5.0VDC
+5.0VDC

A7V8X ATX Power Connectors

8. Smart Card Reader connector (14-1 pin SMARTCON1)

This connector accommodates an optional Smart Card Reader that
allows you to conveniently make transactions such as financial, health
care, telephony, or traveling services through a Smart Card user
interface software.

SMARTCARD1

SCRREST

NC

®

A7V8X

A7V8X Smartcard Connector

NC

1

NC

VCC

SCPWR#

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

SCIO

SCRRES#

NC

NC

GND

SCRCLK

NC2

2-21

9. CPU, Chassis, and Power Fan Connectors
(3-pin CPU_FAN1, PWR_FAN1, CHA_FAN1)

The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350mA~740mA (8.88W
max.) or a total of 1A~2.22A (26.64W max.) at +12V. Connect the fan
cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, making sure that the
black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.

Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Lack of
sufficient air flow within the system may damage the motherboard
components. These are not jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on
the fan connectors!

CPU_FAN1

GND

+12V

Rotation

PWR_FAN1

GND
+12V
Rotation

®

A7V8X

CHA_FAN1

GND

Rotation

+12V

A7V8X 12-Volt Fan Connectors

10.Power supply thermal connector (2-pin TRPWR1)

If your power supply has a thermal monitoring feature, connect its
thermal sensor cable to this connector.

®

A7V8X

TRPWR1

Power Supply
Thermal Sensor

2-22

A7V8X Thermal Sensor Connector

Chapter 2: Hardware information

11. USB header (10-1 pin USB_56)

If the USB ports on the rear panel are inadequate, a USB header is
available for additional USB ports. The USB header complies with USB

2.0 specification that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed. This
speed advantage over the conventional 12 Mbps on USB 1.1.

If your package came with a USB 2.0/GAME module, connect the USB
cable to this header. The module has two USB 2.0 ports that support
the next generation USB peripherals such as high resolution cameras,
scanners, and printers.

USB+5V

LDM5

LDP5

GND

NC

®

A7V8X

USB_56

(Blue)

1

GND

LDP6

LDM6

A7V8X USB 2.0 Header

USB+5V

12.GAME/MIDI connector (16-1 pin GAME1) (on Audio model only)

This connector supports a GAME/MIDI module. If your package came
with the optional USB 2.0/GAME module, connect the GAME/MIDI
cable to this connector. The GAME/MIDI port on the module connects
a joystick or a game pad for playing games, and MIDI devices for
playing or editing audio files.

GND

J1CY

J1B2

GND

J1CX

J1B1

+5V

®

+5V

A7V8X

GAM1

A7V8X Game Connector

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

J2B2

J2CY

MIDI_IN

+5V

J2B1

J2CX

MIDI_OUT

2-23

13.Internal audio connectors (4-pin CD1, AUX1, MODEM1)

(on audio models only)

These connectors allow you to receive stereo audio input from sound
sources such 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. It also allows the sharing of mono_in
(such as a phone) and a mono_out (such as a speaker) between the
audio and a voice modem card.

AUX1(White)

CD1(Black)

MODEM1

Modem-In

®

A7V8X

Ground
Ground

Modem-Out

Ground

Ground

A7V8X Internal Audio Connectors

Left Audio Channel

Right Audio Channel

14.ASUS iPanel connector (24-1 pin AFPANEL1)

This connector allows you to connect an optional ASUS iPanel, an
easy-to-access drive bay with front I/O ports and status LEDs. If you
are not using an ASUS iPanel, you can connect an optional wireless
transmitting and receiving infrared module to the SIR connector.

AFPANEL1

®

A7V8X

SIR

+5 V

NC

+5 V

GND

IRRX

NC

IRRX

GND

NC

GND

SMBDATA

IRTX

+5VSB

CHASSIS#

IRTX

+3VSB

EXTSMI#

NC

NCNCNC

+5V SMBCLK

NC

BATT

MLED-

PCIRST#

Connect to AFPANEL Connector

Connect to iPanel

2-24

A7V8X iPanel Connector

NC

NC

GND

IR_CON

NC

+5VSB

Chapter 2: Hardware information

15.IEEE 1394 connector (8-1 pin IEEE1394_1, IEEE1394_2)

(on 1394 model only)

This connector accommodates two IEEE 1394 ports using a bundled
IEEE 1394 port bracket. Connect the bracket cable to this connector
then install the bracket into a slot opening at the back of the system
chassis.

Make sure to connect IEEE 1394 devices needing internal power
supply to the blue IEEE 1394 connector on-board (IEEEE1394_1). For
IEEE 1394 devices that doesn’t require internal power, you may
connect to the white IEEE 1394 connector (IEEE1394_2) on-board.

®

A7V8X

A7V8X IEEE-1394 Connectors

blue IEEE 1394 connector

blue IEEE1394 connector

Ground

Ground

TPA+

TPA-

TPB-

TPB+

Ground

+12V

IEEE1394_1 IEEE1394_2

+12V

TPB-

Ground

TPB+

TPA-

TPA+

Ground

Ground

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

2-25

16.Digital audio connector (6-1 pin SPDIF1) (on audio models only)

This connector is for the bundled S/PDIF audio module that allows
digital instead of analog sound output. Connect one end of the audio
cable to the S/PDIF In/Out connector on the motherboard, and the
other end to the S/PDIF module.

SPDIF1

®

A7V8X

SPDIF_IN

+5V

SPDIF_OUT

GND

GND

1

A7V8X Digital Audio Connector

17.Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin FP_AUDIO1)

(on audio models only)

This is an interface for the Intel front panel audio cable that allow
convenient connection and control of audio devices.

Make sure to remove the caps from the Line out_R, BLINE_OUT_R,
Line out_L and BLINE_OUT_L jumpers if you installed the Intel front
panel audio cable.

2-26

FP_AUDIO1

MIC2

MICPWR +5VA

Line out_R

®

A7V8X

NC

Line out_L

A7V8X Front Panel Audio Connector

Chapter 2: Hardware information

AGND

BLINE_OUT_R

BLINE_OUT_L

18. Serial ATA connector (7 pin PRI_SATA1, SEC_SATA1)

(on SATA model only)

These connectors accommodate the primary serial ATA (PRI_SATA1)
and a secondary serial ATA (SEC_SATA1) cables. Connect the serial
ATA cable to this connector then install to a serial ATA ready hard disk.

®

A7V8X

GND

RSAT A_TXN2

RSAT A_TXP2

GND

RSAT A_RXP2

RSAT A_RXN2

GND

A7V8X SATA Connectors SEC_SATA1 PRI_SATA1

GND

RSAT A_TXN1

RSAT A_TXP1

GND

RSAT A_RXP1

RSAT A_RXN1

GND

19.Infrared Module connector (10-1 or 10-2 pin SIR)

These connectors support an optional wireless transmitting and
receiving infrared module. The module mounts to a small opening on
the system chassis that support this feature. You must also configure
the UART2 Use As parameter in BIOS to set UART2 for use with IR.

Use the ten pins as shown in Back View and connect a ribbon cable
from the module to the motherboard SIR connector according to the
pin definitions.

Standard Infrared (SIR)

Front View Back View

IRTX
GND

IRRX

®

A7V8X

+5V

IRTX

GND

IRRX

GND

IRTX

CIRRX

CIR+5V

SIR

+5V
(NC)

A7V8X Infrared Module Connector

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

2-27

20.System panel connector (20-pin PANEL1)

This connector accommodates several system front panel functions.

®

A7V8X

Keyboard Lock
Power LED

PLED-

PLED+

Speaker
Connector

Ground

Keylock

PWR

Ground

ExtSMI#

Ground

Speaker

Ground

+5V

Reset

Ground

Ground

Reset SW

ATX Power

SMI Lead

*

Requires an ATX power supply.

Switch*

A7V8X System Panel Connectors

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

This 3-1 pin connector connects to the system power LED. The LED
lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the
system is in sleep mode.

• Keyboard Lock Lead (2-pin KEYLOCK)

This 2-pin connector connects to a chassis-mounted switch to allow
the use of the keyboard lock feature.

• System Warning Speaker Lead (4-pin SPKR)

This 4-pin connector connects to the case-mounted speaker and
allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.

• System Management Interrupt Lead (2-pin SMI)

This 2-pin connector allows you to manually place the system into a
suspend mode, or “green” mode, where system activity is instantly
decreased to save power and to expand the life of certain system
components. Attach the case-mounted suspend switch to this 2-pin
connector.

• ATX Power Switch/Soft-off Switch Lead (2-pin PWR)

This connector connects a switch that controls the system power.
Pressing the power switch turns the system between ON and SLEEP,
or ON and SOFT OFF, depending on the BIOS or OS settings.
Pressing the power switch while in the ON mode for more than 4
seconds turns the system OFF.

• Reset Switch Lead (2-pin RESET)

2-28

This 2-pin connector connects to the case-mounted reset switch for
rebooting the system without turning off the system power.

Chapter 2: Hardware information

Chapter 3

This chapter describes the power up
sequence and gives information on the
BIOS beep codes.

Powering up

Chapter summary

3.1 Starting up for the first time.......................... 3-1

3.2 Vocal POST Messages................................... 3-2

3.3 Powering off the computer ........................... 3-4

ASUS A7V8X motherboard

3.1 Starting up for the first time

1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.

2. Be sure that all switches are off.

3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system
chassis.

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

5. Turn on the devices in the following order:
a. Monitor
b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)
c. System power (if you are using an ATX power supply, you need to

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

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

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

You will not hear the BIOS beeps when the ASUS POST Reporter™ is
enabled. You will hear the vocal POST messages instead.

7. At power on, hold down <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup. Follow the
instructions in Chapter 4.

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

3-1

3.2 Vocal POST Messages

This motherboard includes the Winbond speech controller to support a
special feature called the ASUS POST Reporter™. This feature gives you
vocal POST messages and alerts to inform you of system events and boot
status. In case of a boot failure, you will hear the specific cause of the
problem.

These POST messages are customizable using the Winbond Voice Editor
software that came with your package. You can record your own
messages to replace the default messages.

Following is a list of the default POST messages and their corresponding
actions, if any.

POST Message Action

No CPU installed • Install an AMD Thoroughbred/Athlon

XP/Athlon/ Duron Processor
into the CPU socket.

System failed CPU test • Check the CPU if properly installed.

• Call ASUS technical support for
assistance. See the “ASUS contact
information” on page x.

System failed memory test • Install 184-pin unbuffered

PC3200/2700/2100/1600 DIMMs
into the DIMM sockets.

• Check if the DIMMs on the DIMM
sockets are properly installed.

• Make sure that your DIMMs are
not defective.

• Refer to section “2.5 System
memory” for instruction on installing
a DIMM.

System failed VGA test • Install a PCI VGA card into one of

the PCI slots, or an AGP card
into the AGP slot.

• Make sure that your VGA/AGP card
is not defective.

3-2

System failed due to CPU • Check your CPU settings in BIOS
over-clocking and make sure you only set to the

recommended settings. See section
“4.4Advanced menu.”

Chapter 3: Powering up

POST Message Action

No keyboard detected • Check your keyboard if properly

connected to the purple PS/2
connector on the rear panel.

• See section “1.4.1 Major
components” for the location of the
connector.

No floppy disk detected • Make sure you have connected a

floppy disk to the floppy disk
connector on the motherboard.

• See section “2.8 Connectors.”

No IDE hard disk detected • Make sure you have connected an

IDE hard disk drive to the one of the
IDE connectors on the motherboard.

• See section “2.8 Connectors.”

CPU temperature too high • Check CPU fan if working properly.
CPU fan failed • Check the CPU fan and make sure

it turns on after you applied power
to the system.

CPU voltage out of range • Check your power supply and

make sure it is not defective.

• Call ASUS technical support for
assistance. See the “ASUS contact
information” on page x.

System completed Power-On Self Test • No action required
Computer now booting from operating • No action required

system

You may disable the ASUS POST Reporter™ in the BIOS setup. See
section “4.4.2 I/O Device Configuration”.

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

3-3

3.3 Powering off the computer

You must first exit the operating system and shut down the system before
switching off the power. For ATX power supplies, you can press the ATX
power switch after exiting or shutting down the operating system. If you
use Windows 95/98/2000/XP, click the Start button, click Shut Down, then
click the OK button to shut down the computer. The power supply should
turn off after Windows shuts down.

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

3-4

Chapter 3: Powering up

Chapter 4

This chapter tells how to change system
settings through the BIOS Setup menus.
Detailed descriptions of the BIOS
parameters are also provided.

BIOS setup

Chapter summary

4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS .............. 4-1

4.2 BIOS Setup program...................................... 4-7

4.3 Main Menu .................................................... 4-10

4.4 Advanced Menu ........................................... 4-17

4.5 Power Menu.................................................. 4-27

4.6 Boot Menu .................................................... 4-33

4.7 Exit Menu ...................................................... 4-35

ASUS A7V8X motherboard

4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS

It is recommended that you save a copy of the motherboard’s original
BIOS to a bootable floppy disk in case you need to reinstall the original

BIOS later.

4.1.1 Using ASUS EZ Flash to update the BIOS

The ASUS EZ Flash feature allows you to easily update the BIOS without
having to go through the long process of booting from a diskette and using
a DOS-based utility. The EZ Flash is built-in the BIOS firmware so it is
accessible by simply pressing <Alt> + <F2> during the Power-On Self
Tests (POST).

Follow these steps to update the BIOS using ASUS EZ Flash.

1. Download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS website (see ASUS
contact information on page x). Save the file to a floppy disk.

Write down the BIOS file name on a piece of paper. You need to type
the exact BIOS file name at the EZ Flash screen.

2. Reboot the computer.

3. To use EZ Flash, press <Alt> + <F2> during POST to display the
following screen.

ASUS EZ Flash V1.00

Copyright (C) 2002, ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.

[Onboard BIOS Information]
BIOS Version : ASUS A7V8X ACPI BIOS Revision 1001 Beta 003
BIOS Model : A7V8X
BIOS Built Date : 07/29/02

Please Enter File Name for NEW BIOS: _
*Note: EZ Flash will copy file from A:\, Press [ESC] to reboot

The BIOS information in the above screen is for reference only. What
you see on your screen may not be exactly the same as shown.

4. Insert the disk that contains the new BIOS file into the floppy drive. You
will receive the error message,

“WARNING! Device not ready.” if you

proceed to step 5 without the disk in the drive.

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

4-1

5. At the prompt, “Please Enter File Name for NEW BIOS: _”, type in the
BIOS file name that you downloaded from the ASUS website, then
press <Enter>.

EZ Flash will automatically access drive A to look for the file name that
you typed. When found, the following message appears on screen.

[BIOS Information in File]
BIOS Version: A7V8X Boot Block

WARNING! Continue to update the BIOS (Y/N)? _

If you accidentally typed in a wrong BIOS file name, the error
message, “WARNING! File not found.” appears. Press <Enter> to
remove the message, then type in the correct file name. Press
<Enter>.

6. At the above prompt, type

Y to continue with the update process.

Pressing N exits the EZ Flash screen and reboots the system without
updating the BIOS.

The following prompts appear if you typed

Flash Memory: SST 49LF004

1. Update Main BIOS area (Y/N)? _

2. Update Boot Block area (Y/N)? _

7. Press

Y for both items to completely update the main BIOS area and

Y.

the boot block area.

DO NOT shutdown or reset the system while updating the BIOS boot
block area! Doing so may cause system boot failure.

8. When the update process is done, the message, “Press a key to

reboot”

appears. Press any key to reboot the system with the new

BIOS.

4-2

Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

4.1.2 Using AFLASH to update the BIOS

Creating a bootable disk

AFLASH.EXE is a Flash Memory Writer 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
disk. DO NOT copy AUTOEXEC.BAT and 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 boot disk you created.

AFLASH works only in DOS mode. It does not work in the DOS prompt
within Windows, and does not work with certain memory drivers that
may be loaded when you boot from the hard drive. It is recommended
that you reboot using a floppy disk.

3. Reboot the computer from the floppy disk.

BIOS setup must specify “Floppy” as the first item in the boot
sequence.

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

If the word “unknown” appears 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 A7V8X motherboard user guide

4-3

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

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

4-4

Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

Updating the BIOS

Update the BIOS only if you have problems with the motherboard and
you are sure that the new BIOS revision will solve your problems.
Careless updating may result to more problems with the motherboard!

1. Download an updated ASUS BIOS file from the Internet (WWW or
FTP) (see ASUS CONTACT INFORMATION on page x for details) and
save to the boot floppy disk you created earlier.

2. Boot from the floppy disk.

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

4. At the Main Menu, type 2 then press <Enter>. The Update BIOS
Including Boot Block and ESCD screen appears.

5. Type the filename of your new BIOS and the path, for example,
A:\XXX-XX.XXX, then press <Enter>.

To cancel this operation, press <Enter>.

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

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

4-5

7. The utility starts to program the new BIOS information into the Flash
ROM. The boot block is updated automatically only when necessary.
This minimizes the possibility of boot problems in case of update
failures. When the programming is done, the message “Flashed
Successfully” appears.

8. Follow the onscreen instructions to continue.

4-6

If you encounter problems while updating the new BIOS, DO NOT turn
off the system because this may cause boot problems. Just repeat the
process, and if the problem persists, load the original BIOS file you
saved to the boot disk. If the Flash Memory Writer utility is not able to
successfully update a complete BIOS file, the system may not boot. If
this happens, call the ASUS service center for support.

Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

4.2 BIOS Setup program

This motherboard supports a programmable Flash ROM that you can
update using the provided utility described in section “4.1 Managing and
updating your BIOS.”

Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard,
reconfiguring your system, or prompted to “Run Setup”. This section
explains how to configure your system using this utility.

Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you may want to
change the configuration of your computer in the future. For example, you
may want to enable the security password feature or make changes to the
power management settings. This requires you 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 Flash ROM.

The Flash ROM on the motherboard stores the Setup utility. When you
start up the computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run
this program. Press <Delete> during the Power-On Self Test (POST) to
enter the Setup utility, otherwise, POST continues with its test routines.

If you wish to enter Setup after POST, 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.
Do this last option only if the first two failed.

The Setup program is 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.

Because the BIOS software is constantly being updated, the following
BIOS setup screens and descriptions are for reference purposes only,
and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

4-7

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 locate and load the Operating System.

EXIT Use this menu to exit the current menu or 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 is 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
functions.

Navigation Key(s) Function Description

<F1> or <Alt + H> Displays the General Help screen from any-

where in the BIOS Setup

<Esc> Jumps to the Exit menu or returns to the main

menu from a sub-menu

Left or Right arrow Selects the menu item to the left or right
Up or Down 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 high-

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

4-8

Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

General help

In addition to the Item Specific Help window, the BIOS setup program also
provides a General Help screen. You may launch this screen from any
menu by simply pressing <F1> or the <Alt> + <H> combination. The
General Help screen lists the legend keys and their corresponding
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 on the
left) appears to the left of certain fields. This pointer
indicates that you can display a sub-menu from this
field. A sub-menu contains additional options for a
field parameter. To display a sub-menu, move the
highlight to the field and press <Enter>. The sub­menu appears. Use the legend keys to enter values
and move from field to field within a sub-menu as
you would within a menu. Use the <Esc> key to
return to the main menu.

Take some time to familiarize yourself with 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> to load the Setup default values.
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.

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

4-9

4.3 Main Menu

When you enter the Setup program, the following screen appears.

System Time [XX:XX:XX]

Sets the system to the time that you specify (usually the current time). The
format is hour, minute, second. Valid values for hour, minute and second
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 the 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), Year: (up to 2099). Use the <Tab> or
<Shift> + <Tab> keys to move between the month, day, and year fields.

Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.];
Legacy Diskette B [1.44M, 3.5 in.]

Sets the type of floppy drive 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. The Floppy 3
Mode feature allows reading and writing of 1.2MB (as opposed to 1.44MB)
on a 3.5-inch diskette. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

Language [English US]

This field allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the
available options.

Supervisor Password [Disabled] / User Password [Disabled]

These fields allow you to set passwords. To set a password, highlight the
appropriate field and press <Enter>. Type in a password then press
<Enter>. You can type up to eight alphanumeric characters. Symbols and
other characters are ignored. To confirm the password, type the password
again and press <Enter>. The password is now set to [Enabled]. This
password allows full access to the BIOS Setup menus. To clear the
password, highlight this field and press <Enter>. The same dialog box as
above appears. Press <Enter>. The password is 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. Passwords are not case sensitive, meaning, passwords typed
in either uppercase or lowercase letters are accepted. The BIOS Setup
program allows you to specify two different passwords: a Supervisor
password and a User password. If you did not set a Supervisor
password, anyone can access the BIOS Setup program. If you did, the
Supervisor password is required to enter the BIOS Setup program and
to gain full access to the configuration fields.

Forgot the password?

If you forget your password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS
Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM. The RAM data containing the password
information is powered by the onboard button cell battery. See section
“2.7Switches and jumpers” for information on how to erase the R TC
RAM.

Halt On [All Errors]

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

Installed Memory [XXX MB]

This field automatically displays the amount of conventional memory
detected by the system during the boot process.

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4.3.1 Primary and Secondary Master/Slave

Type [Auto]

Select [Auto] to automatically detect an IDE hard disk drive. If automatic
detection is successful, Setup automatically fills in the correct values for
the remaining fields on this sub-menu. If automatic detection fails, this may
be because the hard disk drive is too old or too new. If the hard disk was
already formatted on an older system, Setup may detect incorrect
parameters. In these cases, select [User Type HDD] to manually enter the
IDE hard disk drive parameters. Refer to the next section for details.

Before attempting to configure a hard disk drive, make sure you have
the correct configuration information supplied by the drive
manufacturer. Incorrect settings may cause the system to fail to
recognize the installed hard disk.

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

[User Type HDD]

Manually enter the number of cylinders, heads and sectors per track for
the drive. Refer to the drive documentation or on the drive label for this
information.

After entering the IDE hard disk drive information into BIOS, use a disk
utility, such as FDISK, to partition and format new IDE hard disk drives.
This is necessary so that you can write or read data from the hard disk.
Make sure to set the partition of the Primary IDE hard disk drives to
active.

If no drive is installed or if you are removing a drive and not replacing it,
select [None].

Other options for the Type field are:

[CD-ROM] - for IDE CD-ROM drives
[LS-120] - for LS-120 compatible floppy disk drives
[ZIP] - for ZIP-compatible disk drives
[MO] - for IDE magneto optical disk drives
[Other A TAPI Device] - for IDE devices not listed here

After making your selections on this sub-menu, press the <Esc> key to
return to the Main menu. When the Main menu appears, the hard disk
drive field displays the size for the hard disk drive that you configured.

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Translation Method [LBA]

Select the hard disk drive type in this field. When Logical Block Addressing
(LBA) is enabled, the 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 more than 504MB storage capacity. Configuration options:
[LBA] [LARGE] [Normal] [Match Partition Table] [Manual]

Cylinders

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

Head

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

Sector

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

CHS Capacity

This field shows the drive’s maximum CHS capacity as calculated by the
BIOS based on the drive information you entered.

Maximum LBA Capacity

This field shows the drive’s maximum LBA capacity as calculated by the
BIOS based on the drive information you entered.

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

Multi-Sector Transfers [Maximum]

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

SMART Monitoring [Disabled]

This field allows you to enable or disable the S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring,
Analysis and Reporting Technology) system that utilizes internal hard disk
drive monitoring technology. This parameter is normally disabled because
the resources used in the SMART monitoring 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 successive increase in
performance. Configuration options: [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]

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. To make changes to this field, set the Type field to [User Type
HDD]. Configuration options: [0] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [Disabled]

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4.3.2 Keyboard Features

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 [6/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]

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

4.4 Advanced Menu

CPU Speed [Manual]

When the motherboard is set to JumperFree™ mode, this field allows you
to select the internal frequency of the CPU. Select [Manual] if you want to
make changes to the two subsequent fields. Note that selecting a
frequency higher than the CPU manufacturer recommends may cause the
system to hang or crash.

System memory can only operate at a frequency higher than or equal
to the CPU front side bus frequency. Refer to Table 1.4.2 “FSB/DDR
Support Table” on page 1-8 for more information.

CPU Frequency Multiple (when CPU Speed is set to [Manual])

This field sets the frequency multiple between the CPU’s internal
frequency (CPU speed) and external frequency. Set this field in
conjunction with CPU Frequency (MHz) to match the speed of the CPU.

The item CPU Frequency Multiple is accessible only if you have an
unlocked processor. If your processor frequency multiple is locked, you
cannot change the setting of this item.

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CPU External Frequency (MHz) (when CPU Speed is set to [Manual])

This feature tells the clock generator what frequency to send to the system
bus and PCI bus. The bus frequency (external frequency) multiplied by the
bus multiple equals the CPU speed.

Memory Frequency (Mhz) [Auto]

This field allows you to select a higher memory frequency for better
system performance. The options that appear in the popup menu vary
according to the CPU Frequency (MHz). Configuration options: [Auto]
[200] [266] [333] [400]

CPU VCore Setting [Auto]

The [Manual] setting allows you to manually select the core voltage
supplied to the CPU (see next item). This item can only be changed in
JumperFree mode, otherwise, it is recommended that you keep the default
setting [Auto] to allow the system to automatically determine the
appropriate CPU core voltage.

CPU VCore [1.750V]

When the CPU VCore Setting parameter above is set to [Manual], the
CPU VCore item allows you to select a specific CPU core voltage. This
field is not accessible when the CPU VCore Setting is set to [Auto].

AGP Voltage [Auto]

This item controls the AGP operating voltage. This item can only be
changed at JmpreFree mode, otherwise keep [Auto]. Configuration
options: [1.8V] [1.7V] [1.6V] [1.5V] [Auto]

DRAM Voltage [Auto]

This item controls the DRAM operating voltage. This item can only be
changed at JmpreFree mode, otherwise keep [Auto]. Configuration
options: [Auto] [2.85V] [2.75V] [2.65V] [2.55V]

System Performance [Optimal]

This field allows you to adjust the DRAM SPD timing. Set to [TURBO] is
fastest, just make sure the DRAM has the ability to support it.
Configuration options: [Optimal] [Turbo]

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

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

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

PS/2 Mouse Function Control [Auto]

The default setting [Auto] allows the system to detect a PS/2 mouse at
startup. If a mouse is detected, the BIOS assigns IRQ12 to the PS/2
mouse. Otherwise, IRQ12 can be used for expansion cards. When you set
this field to [Enabled], BIOS reserves IRQ12, whether or not a PS/2 mouse
is detected at startup. 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 at startup. If
detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If not detected, the
USB controller legacy mode is disabled.

When you set this field to [Disabled], the USB controller legacy mode is
disabled whether or not you are using a USB device. 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 to the
default setting [Disabled]. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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4.4.1 Chip Configuration

SDRAM Configuration [By SPD]

This parameter allows you to set the optimal timings for items 2–5,
depending on the memory modules that you are using. The default setting
is [By SPD], which configures items 2–5 by reading the contents in the
SPD (Serial Presence Detect) device. The EEPROM on the memory
module stores critical information about the module, such as memory type,
size, speed, voltage interface, and module banks.
Configuration options: [User Defined] [By SPD]

The SDRAM parameters (items 2~5) become configurable only when
you set the SDRAM Configuration to [User Defined].

SDRAM CAS Latency (value depends on SDRAM SPD)

This item controls the latency between the SDRAM read command and
the time the data actually becomes available. Configuration options: [1.5T]
[2T] [2.5T]

SDRAM RAS to CAS Delay (value depends on SDRAM SPD)

This item controls the latency between the DDR SDRAM active command
and the read/write command. Configuration options: [2T] [3T].

SDRAM RAS Precharge Delay (value depends on SDRAM SPD)

This item controls the idle clocks after issuing a precharge command to
the DDR SDRAM. Configuration options: [2T] [3T]

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

SDRAM Active Precharge Delay (value depends on SDRAM SPD)

This item controls the number of DDR SDRAM clocks used for DDR
SDRAM parameters. Configuration options: [5T] [6T] [7T] [8T]

SDRAM 1T Command Control

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto]

SDRAM Bank Interleave

Configuration options: [Disabled] [2 Bank] [4 Bank] [Auto]

Graphics Aperture Size [64MB]

This feature allows you to select the size of mapped memory for AGP
graphic data. Configuration options: [4MB] [8MB] [16MB] [32MB] [64MB]
[128MB] [256MB] [512MB] [1024MB]

The [1024MB] and [512MB] configuration options are available only
when you use AGP 8X graphics card.

AGP Capability [8X Mode]

This motherboard supports the AGP 8X interface that enables enhanced
graphics performance with high bandwidth speeds up to 2.12GB/s.
AGP8X is backward-compatible. When set to [1X Mode], the AGP
interface only provides a peak data throughput of 266MB/s even if you are
using an AGP 8X card.
Configuration options: [Auto] [1X Mode] [2X Mode] [4X Mode] [8X Mode]

AGP Drive Strength [Auto]

Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]

AGP Drive N Control [E]

Configuration options: [0][1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][A][B][C][D][E][F]

AGP Drive P Control [F]

Configuration options: [0][1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][A][B][C][D][E][F]

AGP performance control [Disabled]

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

AGP Fast Write control [Disabled]

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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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 does not support this feature, otherwise
the 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 expansion cards.
Setting the address space to a particular setting makes that memory
space unavailable to other system components. Expansion cards can only
access memory up to 16MB. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Delayed Transaction [Disabled]

When set to [Enabled], this feature frees the PCI bus when the CPU is
accessing 8-bit ISA cards. This process normally consumes about 50-60
PCI clocks without PCI delayed transaction. Set this field to [Disabled]
when using ISA cards that are not PCI 2.1 compliant. Configuration
options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Onboard PCI IDE [Both]

This field allows you to enable either the primary IDE channel or
secondary IDE channel, or both. You can also set both channels to
[Disabled]. Configuration options: [Both] [Primary] [Secondary] [Disabled]

DRAM Burst Length

Configuration options: [4] [Auto]

S2K Bus Driving Strength

Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]

S2K Strobe P Control

Configuration options: [0][1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][A][B][C][D][E][F]

S2K Strobe N Control

Configuration options: [0][1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][A][B][C][D][E][F]

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

4.4.2 I/O Device Configuration

Onboard FDC Swap A & B

These fields set option to switch drive letter assignments. Configuration
Options: [No Swap] [Swap AB]

Floppy Disk Access Control [R/W]

When set to [Read Only], this parameter protects files from being copied to
floppy disks by allowing reads from, but not writes to, the floppy disk drive.
The default setting [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]

UART2 Use As [COM Port]

This field allows you to select the device on which to assign UART2.
Configuration options: [COM Port] [IR] [Smart Card Reader]

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Onboard Parallel Port [378H/IRQ7]

This field allows you to set the address of the onboard parallel port
connector . If you disable this field, the Parallel Port Mode and ECP DMA
Select configurations are not 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]

Onboard AC97 Audio Controller [Auto]

These fields allow you to enable or disable the onboard AC97 audio
controller.Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]

Onboard Game Port [200H-207H]

These fields allow you to set the addresses for the onboard game
connectors. Game ports must have different addresses.
Configuration options: [200H/207H] [208H-20FH] [Disabled]

Onboard MIDI I/O [Disabled]

These fields allow you to set the addresses for the onboard MIDI
connectors. MIDI ports must have different addresses.
Configuration options: [330H-331H] [300H-301H] [Disabled]

Speech POST Reporter [Enabled]

This field enables or disables the ASUS POST Reporter™ feature. See
section “1.3 Special Features” and “3.2 Vocal POST messages” for more
information. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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The buzzer warning sound is disabled if you enable the POST reporter.

Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

4.4.3 PCI Configuration

Slot 1/5, Slot 2, Slot 3, Slot 4, Slot 6 IRQ [Auto]

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

PCI/VGA Palette Snoop [Disabled]

Some non-standard VGA cards, like graphics accelerators or MPEG video
cards, may not show colors properly. Setting this field to [Enabled] corrects
this problem. If you are using standard VGA cards, leave this field to the
default setting [Disabled]. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

PCI Latency Timer [32]

Leave this field to the default setting [32] for best performance and
stability.

USB Function [Enabled]

This field allows you to select the USB port that you wish to activate.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Primary VGA BIOS [PCI VGA Card]

This field allows you to select the primary graphics card. Configuration
options: [PCI VGA Card] [AGP VGA Card]

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Onboard LAN Boot ROM

This field allows you to enable or disable the onboard LAN Boot ROM.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Onboard ATA device First [No]

This field allows you to select the onboard A TA first.
Configuration options: [No] [Yes]

4.4.3.1 PCI IRQ Resource Exclusion

IRQ XX Reserved [No/ICU]

These fields indicate whether or not the displayed IRQ for each field is
being used by a legacy (non-PnP) ISA card. The setting [No/ICU] for an
IRQ field indicates that you are using the ISA Configuration Utility (ICU),
and that this particular IRQ is NOT required by a legacy ISA card. Set the
IRQ field to [Yes] if you install a legacy ISA card that requires a unique IRQ
and you are NOT using ICU. Configuration options: [No/ICU] [Yes]

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Chapter 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 Defined]

This field allows you to activate or deactivate the automatic power saving
features. When set to [Disabled], the power management features do not
function regardless of the other settings on this menu. The [User Defined]
option allows you to set the period of inactivity before the system enters
suspend mode. Refer to “Suspend Mode” item.

When set to [Max Saving], system power is conserved to its greatest
amount. This setting automatically puts the system into suspend mode
after a brief period of system inactivity. [Min Saving] allows the least power
saving as the system enters suspend mode only after a long period of
inactivity. Configuration options: [User Defined] [Disabled] [Min Saving]
[Max Saving]

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]

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Video Off Method [DPMS OFF]

This field defines the video off features. The Display Power Management
System (DPMS) 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.

Even if installed, your screen saver does not display when you select
[Blank Screen] for the above field.

[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]

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]

ACPI Suspend To RAM [Disabled]

This field allows you to enable or disable the ACPI Suspend-to-RAM
feature. To support this feature, the +5VSB of the power supply should
have the capacity to provide more than 720mA current. Configuration
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Suspend Mode [Disabled]

Sets the time period before the system goes into suspend mode.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [1~2 Min] [2~3 Min] [4~5 min] [8~9 Min]
[20 Min] [30 Min]

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
puts the system in sleep mode. Regardless of the setting, holding the ATX
switch for more than 4 seconds powers off the system. Configuration
options: [Soft off] [Suspend]

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

4.5.1 Power Up Control

AC PWR Loss Restart [Disabled]

This allows you to set whether or not to reboot the system after power
interruptions. [Disabled] leaves your system off while [Enabled] reboots the
system. [Previous State] sets the system back to the state it was 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. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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 turns the system
power on.

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Wake/Power Up By PS/2 Keyboard [Space Bar]

This parameter allows you to use specific keys on the keyboard to turn on
the system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at
least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar]
[Ctrl-Esc] [Power Key]

Wake/Power Up By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]

When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to use the PS/2 mouse
to turn on the system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that
provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]

Power Up On PCI Card [Disabled]

When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to turn on the system
through a PCI LAN or modem card. This feature requires an ATX power
supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.
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].
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Everyday] [By Date]

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

4.5.2 Hardware Monitor

MB Temperature [xxxC/xxxF]
CPU Temperature [xxxC/xxxF]
POWER Temperature [N/A]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the
motherboard and CPU temperatures.

If your power supply comes with a two-pin thermal sensor cable, connect
this cable to the TRPWR connector on the motherboard to allow BIOS to
auto-detect the power supply temperature (see page 2-29 for the location
of the TRPWR connector). The POWER temperature item shows N/A if
you do not have the appropriate power supply. Select [Ignore] to disable
the power temperature auto-detect function.

CPU Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [N/A]
Chassis Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [N/A]
Power Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [N/A]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the
CPU, chassis, and power fan speeds in rotations per minute (RPM). If any
of the fans is not connected to the motherboard, the specific field shows
N/A.

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VCORE Voltage, +3.3V Voltage, +5V Voltage, +12V Voltage

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output
through the onboard voltage regulators.

Q-Fan Control [Disabled]

This item allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Q-Fan feature that
smartly adjusts the fan speeds for more efficient system operation. When
this field is set to [Enabled], the Fan Speed Ratio and Speed Up/Down

Response Time

items appear to allow selection of the appropriate fan

speeds and the corresponding response time. Configuration options:
[Disabled] [Enabled]

Fan Speed Ratio [10/15]

This item allows you to select the appropriate fan speed ratio for the
system. The default [10/15] is the minimum fan speed ratio. Select a
higher ratio if you installed additional devices and the system requires
more ventilation. This item appears only when the Q-Fan Control item is
set to [Enabled]. Configuration options: [10/15] [11/15] [12/15] [13/15]
[14/15] [Full Speed]

Speed Up/Down Response Time [16 Sec/32Sec]

This item indicates the time period before the fan speeds adjust to the
value set in the Fan Speed Ratio field. This item appears only when the

Q-Fan Control item is set to [Enabled]. Configuration options:

[16 Sec/32 Sec] [32 Sec/64 Sec] [48 Sec/96 Sec] [64 Sec/128 Sec]

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

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Chapter 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 system 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] [LS-120] [ZIP]
[ATAPIMO]

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)]

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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. If you installed a non­PnP OS or if you want to prevent reassigning of interrupt settings, keep
the default setting [No]. Configuration options: [No] [Yes]

Reset Configuration Data [No]

The Extended System Configuration Data (ESCD) contain information
about non-PnP devices. It also holds the complete record of how the
system was configured the last time it was booted. Select [Yes] if you want
to clear these data during the Power-On-Self-Test (POST).
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]

Full Screen Logo [Enabled]

This allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Make sure that the above item is set to [Enabled] if you wish to use the
ASUS MyLogo2™ feature.

Interrupt Mode [APIC]

The Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC) setting allows
you to distribute interrupt routings other than the 16 IRQs. The
Programmable Interrupt Controller (PIC) setting allows you to use the 16
IRQs only. Configuration options: [PIC] [APIC]

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

4.7 Exit Menu

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

Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the
options from this menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit.

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. When you select this option, a
confirmation window appears. Select [Yes] to save changes and exit.

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

Exit Discarding Changes

Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you
made to the Setup program. If you made changes to fields other than
system date, system time, and password, the BIOS asks for a confirmation
before exiting.

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4-35

Load Setup Defaults

This option allows you to load the default values for each of the
parameters on the Setup menus. When you select this option or if you
press <F5>, a confirmation window appears. Select [Yes] to load default
values. Select Exit Saving Changes or make other changes before saving
the values to the non-volatile RAM.

Discard Changes

This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the
previously saved values. After selecting this option, a confirmation
appears. Select [Yes] 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 further changes. After you select
this option, a confirmation window appears. Select [Yes] to save any
changes to the non-volatile RAM.

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

Chapter 5

This chapter describes the contents of the
support CD that comes with the
motherboard package.

Software support

Chapter summary

5.1 Install an operating system........................... 5-1

5.2 Support CD information ................................ 5-1

5.3 Software information ..................................... 5-9

5.4 Using the Promise Chip for RAID 0 or 1 .... 5-26

5.5 Manual Installation of IDE/RAID drivers .... 5-34

ASUS A7V8X motherboard