ASUS A7V8X User Manual

A7V8X

User Guide

Motherboard

Checklist

E1 119 Second Edition

September 2002

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.

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

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

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.

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.

ASUS contact information

ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (Asia-Pacific)

Address: 150 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 112 General Tel: +886-2-2894-3447 General Fax: +886-2-2894-3449 General Email: info@asus.com.tw

Technical Support

MB/Others (Tel): +886-2-2890-7121 (English) Notebook (Tel): +886-2-2890-7122 (English) Desktop/Server (Tel): +886-2-2890-7123 (English) Support Fax: +886-2-2890-7698 Support Email: tsd@asus.com.tw 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: +1-510-608-4555 General Email: tmd1@asus.com

Technical Support

Support Fax: +1-510-608-4555 General Support: +1-502-995-0883 Web Site: www.asus.com Support Email: tsd@asus.com

ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Europe)

Address: Harkortstr. 25, 40880 Ratingen, BRD, Germany General Fax: +49-2102-442066 General Email: sales@asuscom.de (for marketing requests only)

Technical Support

Support Hotline: MB/Others: +49-2102-9599-0 Notebook (Tel): +49-2102-9599-10 Support Fax: +49-2102-9599-11 Support (Email): www.asuscom.de/de/support (for online support) Web Site: www.asuscom.de

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)

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)

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

18. PCI slots

19. Audio CODEC

20. 10/100 or 1Gbit LAN controller

21. AGP slot

22. Mouse port

23. Parallel port

24. RJ-45 port

25. Line In jack

26. Line Out jack

27. Microphone jack

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

- on IEEE model only

- on LAN model only

- 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

243

5 6

20 19

14 13

23 24

9 10

11 12

31 30 29

ASUS A7V8X motherboard user guide

26 27

1-7

1.4.2 Core specifications

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.

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

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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

ASUS ASIC. This chip performs multiple system functions that

include hardware and system voltage monitoring among others.

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.

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

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)

22 23

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)

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

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

Incorrect

AGP Card

SB_PWR1

A7V8X

OFF

Correct

AGP Card

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

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

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