ASUS A8N-SLI User Manual 2
A8N-SLI
Premium
Motherboard
E1952E1952
E1952
E1952E1952
First EditionFirst Edition
First Edition
First EditionFirst Edition
March 2005March 2005
March 2005
March 2005March 2005
Copyright © 2005 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.
No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form
or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the
express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).
Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or
altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2)
the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.
ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES
OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE
LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
(INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE
OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE), EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN
ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY DEFECT OR
ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.
SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED
FOR INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME
WITHOUT NOTICE, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS.
ASUS ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR
INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS
AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.
Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered
trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identification or
explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.
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Contents
Notices .............................................................................................. viii
Safety information .............................................................................. ix
About this guide .................................................................................. x
How this guide is organized ..................................................... x
Where to find more information .............................................. xi
Conventions used in this guide ............................................... xi
Typography ......................................................................................... xi
A8N-SLI Premium specifications summary ......................................... xii
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 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
1.3.2 ASUS Proactive features ........................................ 1-5
1.3.3 Innovative ASUS features ....................................... 1-6
Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information
2.1 Before you proceed .............................................................. 2-1
2.2 Motherboard overview .......................................................... 2-2
2.2.1 Placement direction ................................................ 2-2
2.2.2 Screw holes ............................................................ 2-2
2.2.3 Motherboard layout ................................................ 2-3
2.2.4 Layout Contents ..................................................... 2-4
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) .............................................. 2-6
2.3.1 Overview ................................................................. 2-6
2.3.2 Installling the CPU ................................................... 2-6
2.3.3 Installing the heatsink and fan ................................ 2-8
2.4 System memory ................................................................. 2-11
2.4.1 Overview ............................................................... 2-11
2.4.2 Memory Configurations .........................................2-11
2.4.3 Installing a DIMM ................................................... 2-14
2.4.4 Removing a DIMM ................................................. 2-14
2.5 Expansion slots ................................................................... 2-15
2.5.1 Installing an expansion card .................................. 2-15
2.5.2 Configuring an expansion card.............................. 2-15
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Contents
2.5.3 Interrupt assignments .......................................... 2-16
2.5.4 PCI slots ................................................................ 2-16
2.5.5 Two PCI Express x16 slots ................................... 2-17
2.5.6 PCI Express x1 slot ............................................... 2-17
2.5.7 Universal PCIe slot (PCI Express x4 slot) .............. 2-17
2.6 Jumpers .............................................................................. 2-18
2.7 Connectors ......................................................................... 2-19
2.7.1 Rear panel connectors .......................................... 2-19
2.7.2 Internal connectors............................................... 2-21
Chapter 3: Powering upChapter 3: Powering up
Chapter 3: Powering up
Chapter 3: Powering upChapter 3: Powering up
3.1 Starting up for the first time................................................ 3-1
3.2 Powering off the computer .................................................. 3-2
3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function ........................... 3-2
3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch .................... 3-2
3.3 ASUS POST Reporter™ .......................................................... 3-3
3.3.1 Vocal POST messages ............................................ 3-3
3.3.2 Winbond Voice Editor ............................................. 3-5
Chapter 4: BIOS setupChapter 4: BIOS setup
Chapter 4: BIOS setup
Chapter 4: BIOS setupChapter 4: BIOS setup
4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ........................................ 4-1
4.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy disk .............................. 4-1
4.1.2 Updating the BIOS .................................................. 4-2
4.1.3 Saving the current BIOS file .................................... 4-4
4.1.4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility ................................ 4-5
4.1.5 ASUS EZ Flash utility .............................................. 4-7
4.1.6 ASUS Update utility ................................................ 4-8
4.2 BIOS setup program ........................................................... 4-11
4.2.1 BIOS menu screen ................................................. 4-12
4.2.2 Menu bar ............................................................... 4-12
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4.2.3 Legend bar ........................................................... 4-13
4.2.4 Menu items ........................................................... 4-13
4.2.5 Sub-menu items ................................................... 4-13
4.2.6 Configuration fields .............................................. 4-13
4.2.8 General help .......................................................... 4-14
4.2.7 Pop-up window ..................................................... 4-14
Contents
4.3 Main menu .......................................................................... 4-15
4.3.1 System Time ......................................................... 4-15
4.3.2 System Date ......................................................... 4-15
4.3.3 Language .............................................................. 4-15
4.3.4 Legacy Diskette A ................................................4-15
4.3.5 Primary and Secondary IDE Master/Slave ............. 4-16
4.3.5 First, Second, Third, Fourth SATA Master ............ 4-18
4.3.7 HDD SMART Monitoring ........................................ 4-19
4.3.8 Installed Memory .................................................. 4-19
4.4 Advanced menu .................................................................. 4-20
4.4.1 CPU Configuration ................................................. 4-20
4.4.2 PCIPnP ................................................................... 4-23
4.4.3 Onboard Devices Configuration ............................4-24
4.4.4 SLI Configuration .................................................. 4-29
4.4.5 JumperFree Configuration .................................... 4-30
4.4.6 LAN Cable Status ................................................. 4-32
4.4.7 PEG Link Mode ...................................................... 4-33
4.4.8 Speech Configuration ........................................... 4-34
4.4.9 Instant Music ........................................................ 4-34
4.5 Power menu ........................................................................ 4-35
4.5.1 ACPI Suspend Type............................................... 4-35
4.5.2 ACPI APIC Support ................................................ 4-35
4.5.3 APM Configuration ................................................ 4-36
4.5.4 Hardware Monitor ................................................. 4-38
4.6 Boot menu .......................................................................... 4-40
4.6.1 Boot Device Priority .............................................. 4-40
4.6.3 Hard Disk Drives ................................................... 4-41
4.6.2 Removable Drives ................................................. 4-41
4.6.4 CDROM Drives ....................................................... 4-42
4.6.5 Boot Settings Configuration ................................. 4-42
4.6.6 Security ................................................................ 4-44
4.7 Exit menu ........................................................................... 4-46
Chapter 5: Software supportChapter 5: Software support
Chapter 5: Software support
Chapter 5: Software supportChapter 5: Software support
5.1 Installing an operating system ............................................. 5-1
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Contents
5.2 Support CD information ........................................................ 5-1
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 Manuals menu ......................................................... 5-5
5.2.5 ASUS Contact information ...................................... 5-6
5.2.6 Other information ................................................... 5-6
5.4 Software information ........................................................... 5-9
5.4.1 ASUS MyLogo2™ .................................................... 5-9
5.4.2 AI NET 2 ............................................................... 5-11
Using the Virtual Cable Tester™ ........................... 5-11
5.4.3 Audio configurations ............................................ 5-12
®
5.4.4 Using the NVIDIA
Firewall™ ................................. 5-18
5.5 RAID configurations ............................................................ 5-21
5.5.1 Installing hard disks .............................................. 5-22
®
5.5.2 NVIDIA
RAID configurations ................................ 5-23
5.5.3 Silicon Image RAID configurations ........................ 5-30
5.6 Creating a RAID driver disk ................................................. 5-40
5.7 Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology ............................................... 5-41
5.7.1 Enabling Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology ................... 5-41
5.7.2 Launching the Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ software .............. 5-42
®
5.8 Using the NVIDIA
nTune™ utility ....................................... 5-43
5.8.1 Managing your nForce™ system ........................... 5-43
5.8.2 Clock control ........................................................ 5-44
5.8.3 Voltage/Fan control ............................................. 5-44
5.8.4 Information ...........................................................5-45
5.8.5 Other options ....................................................... 5-45
5.9 Using the ASUS AI Selector utility ...................................... 5-46
5.9.1 Launching the ASUS AI Selector ........................... 5-46
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5.9.2 Using the SLI mode ............................................... 5-47
Chapter 6: SLI™ technology supportChapter 6: SLI™ technology support
Chapter 6: SLI™ technology support
Chapter 6: SLI™ technology supportChapter 6: SLI™ technology support
6.1 Overview............................................................................... 6-1
6.1.1 Requirements .......................................................... 6-1
6.1.2 ASUS Certified SLI Graphics cards .......................... 6-1
6.2 Dual graphics card setup ...................................................... 6-3
6.2.1 Installing SLI-ready graphics cards ......................... 6-3
6.2.2 Setting the SLI mode in BIOS ................................. 6-7
6.2.3 Installing the device drivers .................................... 6-7
6.2.4 Enabling the multi-GPU feature in Windows ............ 6-7
AppendixAppendix
Appendix
AppendixAppendix
A.1 Using the SATA extension module ....................................... A-1
A.1.1 Installing the 2-port SATA extension module ......... A-1
A.1.1 Installing SATA hard drives ..................................... A-2
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Notices
Federal Communications Commission StatementFederal Communications Commission Statement
Federal Communications Commission Statement
Federal Communications Commission StatementFederal Communications Commission Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions:
•
This device may not cause harmful interference, and
•
This device must accept any interference received including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following measures:
•
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
•
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
•
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to
which the receiver is connected.
•
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics
card is required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or
modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate
this equipment.
Canadian Department of Communications StatementCanadian Department of Communications Statement
Canadian Department of Communications Statement
Canadian Department of Communications StatementCanadian Department of Communications Statement
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise
emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference
Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.
This class B digital apparatus complies with CanadianThis class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian
This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian
This class B digital apparatus complies with CanadianThis class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian
ICES-003.ICES-003.
ICES-003.
ICES-003.ICES-003.
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Safety information
Electrical safetyElectrical safety
Electrical safety
Electrical safetyElectrical safety
•
To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the
electrical outlet before relocating the system.
•
When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the
power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are
connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing
system before you add a device.
•
Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard,
ensure that all power cables are unplugged.
•
Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord.
These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.
•
Make sure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your
area. If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are
using, contact your local power company.
•
If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a
qualified service technician or your retailer.
Operation safetyOperation safety
Operation safety
Operation safetyOperation safety
•
Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read
all the manuals that came with the package.
•
Before using the product, make sure all cables are correctly connected
and the power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage,
contact your dealer immediately.
•
To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from
connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry.
•
Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the
product in any area where it may become wet.
•
Place the product on a stable surface.
•
If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified
service technician or your retailer.
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About this guide
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and
configuring the motherboard.
How this guide is organizedHow this guide is organized
How this guide is organized
How this guide is organizedHow this guide is organized
This manual contains the following parts:
••
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
•
Chapter 1: Product introduction
••
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new
technology it supports.
••
Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information
•
Chapter 2: Hardware information
••
Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 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 upChapter 3: Powering up
•
Chapter 3: Powering up
••
Chapter 3: Powering upChapter 3: Powering up
This chapter describes the power up sequence, the vocal POST
messages, and ways of shutting down the system.
••
Chapter 4: BIOS setupChapter 4: BIOS setup
•
Chapter 4: BIOS setup
••
Chapter 4: BIOS setupChapter 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 supportChapter 5: Software support
•
Chapter 5: Software support
••
Chapter 5: Software supportChapter 5: Software support
This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes
with the motherboard package.
®®
®
®®
••
Chapter 6: NVIDIAChapter 6: NVIDIA
•
Chapter 6: NVIDIA
••
Chapter 6: NVIDIAChapter 6: NVIDIA
SLI™ technology support SLI™ technology support
SLI™ technology support
SLI™ technology support SLI™ technology support
This chapter tells how to install SLI-ready PCI Express graphics cards.
••
Appendix: Installation optionsAppendix: Installation options
•
Appendix: Installation options
••
Appendix: Installation optionsAppendix: Installation options
This appendix describes how to install optional accessories to your
motherboard.
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Where to find more informationWhere to find more information
Where to find more information
Where to find more informationWhere to find more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product
and software updates.
1.1.
ASUS websitesASUS websites
1.
ASUS websites
1.1.
ASUS websitesASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware
and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
2.2.
Optional documentationOptional documentation
2.
Optional documentation
2.2.
Optional documentationOptional documentation
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as
warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These
documents are not part of the standard package.
Conventions used in this guideConventions used in this guide
Conventions used in this guide
Conventions used in this guideConventions used in this guide
To make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the
following symbols used throughout this manual.
DANGER/WARNING: DANGER/WARNING:
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself
DANGER/WARNING: DANGER/WARNING:
when trying to complete a task.
CAUTION:CAUTION:
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components
CAUTION:CAUTION:
when trying to complete a task.
IMPORTANT: IMPORTANT:
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a
IMPORTANT: IMPORTANT:
task.
NOTE: NOTE:
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a
NOTE: NOTE:
task.
Typography
Bold textBold text
Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select
Bold textBold text
Italics
<Key> Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign means
<Key1+Key2+Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase
that you must press the enclosed key
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or
Return key
key names are linked with a plus sign (+)
Example: <Ctrl+Alt+D>
Command Means that you must type the command exactly as shown,
then supply the required item or value enclosed in
brackets
Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:
awdflash A8NSLI.ROM
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A8N-SLI Premium specifications summary
CPUCPU
CPU
CPUCPU
Socket 939 for AMD Athlon™ 64FX/AMD Athlon™ 64
processor
Supports AMD 64 architecture that enables simultaneous
32-bit and 64-bit architecture
Supports AMD® Cool ‘n’ Quiet! Technology
ChipsetChipset
Chipset
ChipsetChipset
System BusSystem Bus
System Bus
System BusSystem Bus
MemoryMemory
Memory
MemoryMemory
Expansion slotsExpansion slots
Expansion slots
Expansion slotsExpansion slots
Scalable LinkScalable Link
Scalable Link
Scalable LinkScalable Link
Interface (SLI™)Interface (SLI™)
Interface (SLI™)
Interface (SLI™)Interface (SLI™)
NVIDIA
®
nForce™ 4 SLI
Supports NVIDIA® Scalable Link Interface™ (SLI)
technology
1600/2000 MT per second
Dual-channel memory architecture
4 x 184-pin DIMM sockets support ECC/non-ECC
unbufferred 400/333/266 MHz DDR memory modules
Supports up to 4 GB system memory
2 x PCI Express x16 slots with Scalable Link Interface
(SLI™) support
1 x PCI Express x1 slot
1 x PCI Express x4 slot running at 1 GB/s bandwidth
3 x PCI slots
SLI™ mode supports:
-2 x identical SLI™-ready PCI Express x16 graphics
cards
NoteNote
(
Note: In SLI mode, the PCI Express x16 slots work at the
NoteNote
bandwidth of PCI Express x8. The combined bandwidth of
these maintain the bandwidth of PCI Express x16.)
Single card mode supports (default):
-1 x any PCI Express x16 graphics card on the first
slot (blue)
ASUS AI Selector
ASUS EZ Plug™
ASUS PEG Link for dual PCI Express graphics cards
ASUS Two-slot thermal design
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StorageStorage
Storage
StorageStorage
®
NVIDIA
nForce™ 4 SLI chipset supports:
-2 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66/33
-4 x Serial ATA II devices
- RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, and JBOD that spans
across the Serial ATA and Parallel ATA drives
Silicon Image 3114R RAID controller supports:
-4 x Serial ATA with RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10, and
RAID 5 configuration
(continued on the next page)
A8N-SLI Premium specifications summary
AI OverclockingAI Overclocking
AI Overclocking
AI OverclockingAI Overclocking
Special featuresSpecial features
Special features
Special featuresSpecial features
AI NOS™ (Non-Delay Overclocking System)
ASUS AI Overclocking (Intelligent CPU frequency tuner)
ASUS PEG Link for single/dual graphics card
Fixed PCI Express/PCI/SATA frequencies
ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)
Precision Tweaker supports:
- DIMM voltage: 9-step DRAM voltage control
- Core voltage: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.0125
increment
- PCI Express Frequency: Allows 1MHz increment from
100MHz to 200MHz
- Stepless Frequency Selection(SFS) allows 1MHz
increment from 200 MHz to 400 MHz
ASUS AI Selector
ASUS Post Reporter™
ASUS EZFlash
ASUS Q-Fan
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2
ASUS Multi-language BIOS
ASUS MyLogo2
ASUS Instant Music
ASUS SLI Warning LED
ASUS EZ Plug
InternalInternal
Internal
InternalInternal
connectorsconnectors
connectors
connectorsconnectors
1 x Floppy disk drive connector
2 x IDE connectors
8 x Serial ATA connectors
1 x CPU fan connector
1 x Power fan connector
2 x Chassis fan connector
1 x Chipset fan connector
1 x Serial port connector (COM port)
1 x 24-pin ATX power connector
1 x 4-pin ATX 12 V power connector
1 x 4-pin ASUS EZ Plug™ connector
3 x USB 2.0 connectors for 6 additional USB 2.0 ports
1 x Internal audio connectors (CD\AUX)
1 x IEEE 1394 connector
1 x GAME/MIDI connector
1 x Chassis intrusion connector
1 x Front panel audio connector
System panel connector
(continued on the next page)
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A8N-SLI Premium specifications summary
LANLAN
LAN
LANLAN
AI AudioAI Audio
AI Audio
AI AudioAI Audio
IEEE 1394IEEE 1394
IEEE 1394
IEEE 1394IEEE 1394
USBUSB
USB
USBUSB
Rear panelRear panel
Rear panel
Rear panelRear panel
NVIDIA
®
nForce™ 4 built-in Gigabit MAC with external
Marvell® PHY supports:
- NV ActiveArmor
- NV Firewall
- AI NET2
Marvell® 88E81001 PCI Gigabit LAN controller supports:
- Marvell® Virtual Cable Tester technology
- AI NET2
Realtek
®
ALC850 8-channel CODEC
1 x Coaxial S/PDIF out port
1 x Optical S/PDIF out port
Supports Universal Audio Jack (UAJ®) Technology
Supports Audio Sensing and Enumeration Technology
T1 1394a controller supports:
- 2 x IEEE 1394 connector
Supports up to 10 USB 2.0 ports
1 x Parallel port
1 x IEEE 1394 port
2 x LAN (RJ-45) port
4 x USB 2.0 ports
1 x Optical S/PDIF out port
1 x Coaxial S/PDIF out port
1 x PS/2 keyboard port
1 x PS/2 mouse port
8-channel audio ports
BIOS featuresBIOS features
BIOS features
BIOS featuresBIOS features
4 Mb Flash ROM, Phoenix-Award BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0,
WfM2.0, SM BIOS 2.3
PowerPower
Power
PowerPower
RequirementRequirement
Requirement
RequirementRequirement
Form FactorForm Factor
Form Factor
Form FactorForm Factor
Support CDSupport CD
Support CD
Support CDSupport CD
contentscontents
contents
contentscontents
ATX power supply (with 24-pin and 4-pin 12 V plugs)
ATX 12 V 2.0 compliant
ATX form factor: 12 in x 9.6 in (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)
Device drivers
ASUS PC Probe
ASUS Live Update utility
ASUS Cool’n’Quiet! utility
Anti-virus utility (OEM version)
®
NVIDIA
nTune™ utility
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.
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This chapter describes the motherboard
features and the new technologies
it supports.
introduction
Product
1
Chapter summary
1.1 Welcome! .............................................................................. 1-1
1.2 Package contents ................................................................. 1-1
1.3 Special features .................................................................... 1-2
ASUS A8N-SLI PremiumASUS A8N-SLI Premium
ASUS A8N-SLI Premium
ASUS A8N-SLI PremiumASUS A8N-SLI Premium
1.1 Welcome!
®®
®
Thank you for buying an ASUSThank you for buying an ASUS
Thank you for buying an ASUS
Thank you for buying an ASUSThank you for buying an ASUS
motherboard!motherboard!
motherboard!
motherboard!motherboard!
®®
A8N-SLI Premium A8N-SLI Premium
A8N-SLI Premium
A8N-SLI Premium A8N-SLI Premium
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies,
making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it,
check the items in your package with the list below.
1.2 Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items.
MotherboardMotherboard
Motherboard ASUS A8N-SLI Premium motherboard
MotherboardMotherboard
I/O modulesI/O modules
I/O modules Serial ATA 2-port extension module
I/O modulesI/O modules
IEEE1394 (1 port) module
USB 2.0 2-port module
USB 2.0 + GAME port module
CablesCables
Cables 8 x Serial ATA signal cables
CablesCables
Serial ATA power cable with dual plugs
Ultra DMA/133 cable
40-conductor IDE cable
Floppy disk drive cable
COM cable
AccessoriesAccessories
Accessories I/O shield
AccessoriesAccessories
SLI™ connector
Retention bracket
Application CDsApplication CDs
Application CDs ASUS motherboard support CD
Application CDsApplication CDs
InterVideo® WinDVD Suite® (retail box only)
DocumentationDocumentation
Documentation User guide
DocumentationDocumentation
Instant Music sticker
Setting sticker
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
ASUS A8N-SLI PremiumASUS A8N-SLI Premium
ASUS A8N-SLI Premium
ASUS A8N-SLI PremiumASUS A8N-SLI Premium
1-11-1
1-1
1-11-1
1.3 Special features
1.3.11.3.1
1.3.1
1.3.11.3.1
Latest processor technology Latest processor technology
Latest processor technology
Latest processor technology Latest processor technology
The AMD Athlon™ 64FX and Athlon™ 64 desktop processors are based on
AMD’s 64-bit and 32-bit architecture, which represents the landmark
introduction of the industry’s first x86-64 technology. These processors
provide a dramatic leap forward in compatibility, performance, investment
protection, and reduced total cost of ownership and development.
See page 2-6.
Scalable Link Interface (SLI™) technology Scalable Link Interface (SLI™) technology
Scalable Link Interface (SLI™) technology
Scalable Link Interface (SLI™) technology Scalable Link Interface (SLI™) technology
The NVIDIA® nForce4® Scalable Link Interface (SLI™) technology allows two
graphics processing units (GPUs) in a single system. This technology takes
advantage of the PCI Express™ bus architecture and features intelligent
hardware and software solutions that allows multiple GPUs to work
together and achieve exceptional graphics performance. See Chapter 6 for
details.
Product highlightsProduct highlights
Product highlights
Product highlightsProduct highlights
Built-in NVFirewall™ and NVActiveArmor™Built-in NVFirewall™ and NVActiveArmor™
Built-in NVFirewall™ and NVActiveArmor™
Built-in NVFirewall™ and NVActiveArmor™Built-in NVFirewall™ and NVActiveArmor™
The NVIDIA® Firewall™ (NVFirewall™) is an easy-to-use high-performance
desktop firewall application that protects your system from intruders.
Integrated into the NVIDIA® nForce4® SLI™ chipset with the NVIDIA® Gigabit
Ethernet, it provides advanced anti-computer-hacking technologies, remote
management capabilities, and a user-friendly setup wizard that improves
overall system security.
Enhancing your network security is the NVIDIA
(NV ActiveArmor™) engine that provides advanced data packet inspection.
This innovative technology ensures that only safe data packets are passed
on the network. It boosts overall system performance by offloading the
CPU from the rigorous task of filtering data packets. See page 5-18 for
details.
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology
®
ActiveArmor™
The motherboard supports the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology that
dynamically and automatically changes the CPU speed, voltage and amount
of power depending on the task the CPU performs. See pages 4-20 and
5-41.
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Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
HyperTransport™ Technology HyperTransport™ Technology
HyperTransport™ Technology
HyperTransport™ Technology HyperTransport™ Technology
HyperTransport™ Technology is a high-speed, low latency, point-to-point
link designed to increase the communication speed between integrated
circuits in computers, networking and telecommunicatons equipment up to
48 times faster than other existing technologies.
Dual Channel DDR memory support Dual Channel DDR memory support
Dual Channel DDR memory support
Dual Channel DDR memory support Dual Channel DDR memory support
Employing the Double Data Rate (DDR) memory technology, the
motherboard supports up to 4GB of system memory using DDR400/333/
266 DIMMs. The ultra-fast 400MHz memory bus delivers the required
bandwidth for the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications.
See page 2-11.
Serial ATA II technology Serial ATA II technology
Serial ATA II technology
Serial ATA II technology Serial ATA II technology
The motherboard supports the next-generation Serial ATA 3Gb/s
technology through the Serial ATA interfaces and the NVIDIA® SLI™ chipset.
The SATA 3Gb/s specification provides twice the bandwidth of the current
Serial ATA products with a host of new features including Native Command
Queuing (NCQ), Power Management (PM) Implementation Algorithm, and
Hot Swap. Additionally, Serial ATA allows thinner, more flexible cables with
lower pin count, and reduced voltage requirement. See pages 2-22 and
2-23.
Dual RAID solutionDual RAID solution
Dual RAID solution
Dual RAID solutionDual RAID solution
Onboard RAID controllers provide the motherboard with dual-RAID
functionality that allows you to select the best RAID solution using IDE or
Serial ATA devices.
®
The NVIDIA
configuration for four SATA and two PATA connectors. See pages 2-22 and
5-23 for details.
The Sil3114R controller supports four additional SATA connectors and
allows RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10, and a software patch to support a
bootable RAID 5 configuration. See pages 2-23 and 5-30 for details.
PCI Express™ interface PCI Express™ interface
PCI Express™ interface
PCI Express™ interface PCI Express™ interface
The motherboard fully supports PCI Express, the latest I/O interconnect
technology that speeds up the PCI bus. PCI Express features point-to-point
serial interconnections between devices and allows higher clockspeeds by
carrying data in packets. This high speed interface is software compatible with
existing PCI specifications. See page 2-17 for details.
nForce4® SLI™ allows RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1 and JBOD
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S/PDIF digital sound ready S/PDIF digital sound ready
S/PDIF digital sound ready
S/PDIF digital sound ready S/PDIF digital sound ready
The motherboard supports the S/PDIF Out function through the S/PDIF
interfaces on the rear panel. The S/PDIF technology turns your computer into
a high-end entertainment system with digital connectivity to powerful audio
and speaker systems. See page 2-19 for details.
IEEE 1394a support IEEE 1394a support
IEEE 1394a support
IEEE 1394a support IEEE 1394a support
The IEEE 1394a interface provides high-speed and flexible PC connectivity
to a wide range of peripherals and devices compliant to the IEEE 1394a
standard. The IEEE 1394a interface allows up to 400 Mbps transfer rates
through simple, low-cost, high-bandwidth asynchronous (real-time) data
interfacing between computers, peripherals, and consumer electronic
devices such as camcorders, VCRs, printers, TVs, and digital cameras. See
pages 2-19 and 2-28 for details.
USB 2.0 technology USB 2.0 technology
USB 2.0 technology
USB 2.0 technology USB 2.0 technology
The motherboard implements the Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0
specification, dramatically increasing the connection speed from the
12 Mbps bandwidth on USB 1.1 to a fast 480 Mbps on USB 2.0. USB 2.0 is
backward compatible with USB 1.1. See page 2-19 and 2-25 for details.
Temperature, fan, and voltage monitoringTemperature, fan, and voltage monitoring
Temperature, fan, and voltage monitoring
Temperature, fan, and voltage monitoringTemperature, fan, and voltage monitoring
The CPU temperature is monitored by the ASIC (integrated in the Winbond
Super I/O) to prevent overheating and damage. The system fan rotations
per minute (RPM) is monitored for timely failure detection. The ASIC
monitors the voltage levels to ensure stable supply of current for critical
components. See section “4.5.4 Hardware Monitor” on page 4-38.
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Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
1.3.21.3.2
1.3.2
1.3.21.3.2
AI NOS™ (Non-Delay Overclocking System) AI NOS™ (Non-Delay Overclocking System)
AI NOS™ (Non-Delay Overclocking System)
AI NOS™ (Non-Delay Overclocking System) AI NOS™ (Non-Delay Overclocking System)
ASUS Non-delay Overclocking System™ (NOS) is a technology that
auto-detects the CPU loading and dynamically overclocks the CPU speed
only when needed. See page 4-30 for details.
Precision TweakerPrecision Tweaker
Precision Tweaker
Precision TweakerPrecision Tweaker
Designed for overclocking aficionados, this feature allows you to fine tune
the CPU/memory voltage and gradually increase the Front Side Bus (FSB)
and PCI Express frequency to achieve maximum system performance.
AI NET 2 AI NET 2
AI NET 2
AI NET 2 AI NET 2
AI NET 2 is a BIOS-based diagnostic tool that detects and reports Ethernet
cable faults and shorts. With this utility, you can easily monitor the
condition of the Ethernet cable(s) connected to the LAN (RJ-45) port(s).
During the bootup process, AI NET 2 immediately diagnoses the LAN
cable(s) and reports shorts and faults up to 100 meters at 1 meter
accuracy. See pages 4-32 and 5-11 for details.
ASUS Proactive featuresASUS Proactive features
ASUS Proactive features
ASUS Proactive featuresASUS Proactive features
AI Audio technology AI Audio technology
AI Audio technology
AI Audio technology AI Audio technology
The motherboard supports 8-channel audio through the onboard ALC850
CODEC with 16-bit DAC, a stereo 16-bit ADC, and an AC97 2.3 compatible
multi-channel audio designed for PC multimedia systems. It also provides
Jack-Sensing function, S/PDIF out support, interrupt capability and includes
the Realtek® proprietary UAJ® (Universal Audio Jack) technology. See pages
2-19, 2-20 and 5-12 for details.
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1.3.31.3.3
1.3.3
1.3.31.3.3
ASUS AI SelectorASUS AI Selector
ASUS AI Selector
ASUS AI SelectorASUS AI Selector
The AI Selector allows you to set the video card mode of your system. This
utility works when you have two graphics cards installed in your system.
See page 5-46 for details.
ASUS EZ Plug™ ASUS EZ Plug™
ASUS EZ Plug™
ASUS EZ Plug™ ASUS EZ Plug™
This patented ASUS technology is a 4-pin auxiliary +12V connector that is
designed to maintain the voltage integrity of your system. This plug
guarantees adequate supply of power to the motherboard and other
installed peripherals. See page 6-5 for illustration.
ASUS Two-slot thermal designASUS Two-slot thermal design
ASUS Two-slot thermal design
ASUS Two-slot thermal designASUS Two-slot thermal design
The motherboard is designed with two PCI Express x1 slots placed between
the PCI Express x16 slots allowing an increase in airflow between the two
PCI Express x16 graphics cards. This special design permits more room for
ventilation thus lowering the overall system temperature.
Innovative ASUS featuresInnovative ASUS features
Innovative ASUS features
Innovative ASUS featuresInnovative ASUS features
CrashFree BIOS 2 CrashFree BIOS 2
CrashFree BIOS 2
CrashFree BIOS 2 CrashFree BIOS 2
This feature allows you to restore the original BIOS data from the support CD
in case when the BIOS codes and data are corrupted. This protection
eliminates the need to buy a replacement ROM chip. See details on page 4-5.
ASUS Q-Fan technology ASUS Q-Fan technology
ASUS Q-Fan technology
ASUS Q-Fan technology ASUS Q-Fan technology
The ASUS Q-Fan technology smartly adjusts the fan speeds according to
the system loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efficient operation. See page
4-38 for details.
ASUS POST Reporter™ ASUS POST Reporter™
ASUS POST Reporter™
ASUS POST Reporter™ ASUS POST Reporter™
The motherboard offers a new exciting feature called the ASUS POST
Reporter™ to provide friendly voice messages and alerts during the
Power-On Self-Tests (POST) informing you of the system boot status and
causes of boot errors, if any. The bundled Winbond Voice Editor software
lets you to customize the voice messages in different languages. See page
3-4 for details.
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Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
ASUS Multi-language BIOS ASUS Multi-language BIOS
ASUS Multi-language BIOS
ASUS Multi-language BIOS 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. See page 4-15 for details.
ASUS MyLogo2™ ASUS MyLogo2™
ASUS MyLogo2™
ASUS MyLogo2™ ASUS MyLogo2™
This new feature present in the motherboard allows you to personalize and
add style to your system with customizable boot logos. See page 5-9 for
details.
ASUS Instant Music ASUS Instant Music
ASUS Instant Music
ASUS Instant Music ASUS Instant Music
This unique feature allows you to playback audio files even without booting
the system to Windows™. Just press the ASUS Instant Music special
function keys and enjoy the music! See pages 4-34.
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ASUS A8N-SLI Premium
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Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introduction
Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction
This chapter lists the hardware setup
procedures that you have to perform
when installing system components.
It includes description of the jumpers
and connectors on the motherboard.
information
Hardware
2
Chapter summary
2.1 Before you proceed .............................................................. 2-1
2.2 Motherboard overview .......................................................... 2-2
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) .............................................. 2-6
2.4 System memory ................................................................. 2-11
2.5 Expansion slots ................................................................... 2-15
2.6 Jumpers .............................................................................. 2-18
2.7 Connectors ......................................................................... 2-19
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2.1 Before you proceed
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard
components or change any motherboard settings.
• Make sure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least
the minimum power required by your system. See “8. ATX power
connectors” on page 2-25 for details.
• Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any
component.
• Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or to
a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling
components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity
• Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
• Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded
antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component.
Before you install or remove any component, ensureBefore you install or remove any component, ensure
•
Before you install or remove any component, ensure
Before you install or remove any component, ensureBefore you install or remove any component, ensure
that the ATX power supply is switched off or thethat the ATX power supply is switched off or the
that the ATX power supply is switched off or the
that the ATX power supply is switched off or thethat the ATX power supply is switched off or the
power cord is detached from the power supply. power cord is detached from the power supply.
power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure
power cord is detached from the power supply. power cord is detached from the power supply.
to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals,
and/or components.
Onboard LEDsOnboard LEDs
Onboard LEDs
Onboard LEDsOnboard LEDs
The motherboard comes with a green standby power LED that lights
up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off
mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and
unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any
motherboard component.
The red warning LED lights up when you installed two graphics card
but did not connect the ASUS EZ Plug™. The illustration below shows
the location of the onboard LEDs.
SLI_WARN_LED
ON OFF
A8N-SLI PREMIUM
®
When use 2 Graphics
but do not plug EZ-PLUG
SB_PWR
When use 2 Graphics
but do plug EZ-PLUG
A8N-SLI PREMIUM Onboard LED
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ON
Standby
Power
OFF
Powered
Off
2-12-1
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2.2 Motherboard overview
Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis
to ensure that the motherboard fits into it.
Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the
motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage
motherboard components.
2.2.12.2.1
2.2.1
2.2.12.2.1
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.
2.2.22.2.2
2.2.2
2.2.22.2.2
Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the
motherboard to the chassis.
Placement directionPlacement direction
Placement direction
Placement directionPlacement direction
Screw holesScrew holes
Screw holes
Screw holesScrew holes
Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
Place this side towardsPlace this side towards
Place this side towards
Place this side towardsPlace this side towards
the rear of the chassisthe rear of the chassis
the rear of the chassis
the rear of the chassisthe rear of the chassis
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Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.32.2.3
2.2.3
2.2.32.2.3
PS/2KBMS
T: Mouse
B: Keyboard
SPDIF_O
SPDIF_O2
1394
Motherboard layoutMotherboard layout
Motherboard layout
Motherboard layoutMotherboard layout
24.5cm (9.6in)
ATX12V
PARALLEL PORT
CHA2_FAN
CPU_FAN
LAN2_USB12
LAN1_USB34
Top:Rear Speaker Out
Center:
Side Speaker Out
Below:
Center/Subwoofer
Top:Line In
Center:Line Out
Bottom:Mic In
ACL850
Speech
Controller
Marvell
88E8001
1394
Controller
CD
AUX
PWR_FAN
FP_AUDIO
WARN_LED
EZ_PLUG
PCIEX1_1
PCIEX4_1
IE_1394_2
Marvell
88E1111
PCIEX16_1
A8N-SLI PREMIUM
PCIEX16_2
R
PCI1
PCI2
PCI3
USB78 USB56 USB910
SB_PWR
Socket 939
Silicon Image
Sil3114
CR2032 3V
Lithium Cell
CMOS Power
CLRTC
EATXPWR
DDR DIMM_A1 (64 bit,184-pin module)
NVIDIA
nForce4
SLI
SATA_RAID4
Super
I/O
DDR DIMM_B1 (64 bit,184-pin module)
DDR DIMM_A2 (64 bit,184-pin module)
SATA_RAID3
SATA_RAID1SATA_RAID2
DDR DIMM_B2 (64 bit,184-pin module)
SEC_IDE
CHIP_FAN
SATA3SATA4
SATA1SATA2
BIOS
CHA1_FAN
CHASSIS
PANEL
4Mb
GAME
COM1
FLOPPY
PRI_IDE
30.5cm (12.0in)
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2.2.42.2.4
2.2.4
2.2.42.2.4
Layout ContentsLayout Contents
Layout Contents
Layout ContentsLayout Contents
SlotsSlots
Slots
SlotsSlots
1. DDR DIMM slots 2-11
2. PCI slots 2-17
3. PCI Express x16 slot 2-17
4. PCI Express x1 slot 2-17
5. PCI Express x4 slot 2-17
JumpersJumpers
Jumpers
JumpersJumpers
1. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC1) 2-18
Rear panel connectorsRear panel connectors
Rear panel connectors
Rear panel connectorsRear panel connectors
1. PS/2 mouse port (green) 2-19
2. Parallel port 2-19
3. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port 2-19
4. LAN 1 (RJ-45) port 2-19
5. Rear Speaker Out port (gray) 2-19
6. Side Speaker Out port (black) 2-19
7. Line In port (light blue) 2-19
8. Line Out port (lime) 2-19
9. Microphone port (pink) 2-20
10. Center/Subwoofer port (yellow orange) 2-20
11. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4 2-20
12. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2 2-20
13. IEEE 1394a port 2-20
14. Optical S/PDIF out port 2-20
15. Coaxial S/PDIF out port 2-20
16. PS/2 keyboard port (purple) 2-20
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Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information
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