ASUS P9A-I-C2550-4L, E9515 User Manual

P9A-I Series
Motherboard
E9515 Second Edition June 2014
Copyright © 2014 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted,
Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modied or altered, unless such repair, modication 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 identication or explanation and to the owners’ benet, without intent to infringe.
ii
Contents
Notices ....................................................................................................................... vi
Safety information ..................................................................................................... vii
About this guide ......................................................................................................... ix
P9A-I Series Specifications Summary...................................................................... xi
Chapter 1: Product Introduction
1.1 Welcome! .................................................................................................... 1-3
1.2 Package contents ......................................................................................1-3
1.3 Serial number label .................................................................................... 1-3
1.4 Special features..........................................................................................1-3
1.4.1 Product highlights........................................................................1-3
1.4.2 Innovative ASUS features ...........................................................1-4
Chapter 2: Hardware Information
2.1 Before you proceed ...................................................................................2-3
2.2 Motherboard overview ............................................................................... 2-4
2.2.1 Placement direction.....................................................................2-4
2.2.2 Screw holes.................................................................................2-4
2.2.3 Motherboard layout .....................................................................2-5
2.2.4 Layout contents ...........................................................................2-6
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) .................................................................2-8
2.4 System memory .........................................................................................2-8
2.4.1 Overview ..................................................................................... 2-8
2.4.2 Memory Congurations ...............................................................2-8
2.4.3 Installing a DIMM on a single clip DIMM socket..........................2-9
2.5 Expansion slots ........................................................................................2-10
2.5.1 Installing an expansion card......................................................2-10
2.5.2 Conguring an expansion card .................................................2-10
2.5.3 Interrupt assignments................................................................2-11
2.5.4 PCI Express x8 slot (x4 Gen2 link) ...........................................2-11
2.6 Onboard LEDs .......................................................................................... 2-12
2.7 Jumpers .................................................................................................... 2-13
2.8 Connectors ............................................................................................... 2-15
2.8.1 Rear panel connectors ..............................................................2-15
2.8.2 Internal connectors....................................................................2-16
Chapter 3: Powering Up
3.1 Starting up for the first time ...................................................................... 3-3
3.2 Powering off the computer ........................................................................3-4
3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function ................................................3-4
3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch ..........................................3-4
iii
Contents
Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS .......................................................... 4-3
4.1.1 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility...................................................4-3
4.1.2 ASUS EzFlash Utility...................................................................4-4
4.1.3 BUPDATER utility .......................................................................4-5
4.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................................. 4-7
4.2.1 BIOS menu screen ......................................................................4-8
4.2.2 Menu bar .....................................................................................4-8
4.2.3 Menu items..................................................................................4-9
4.2.4 Submenu items ...........................................................................4-9
4.2.5 Navigation keys ...........................................................................4-9
4.2.6 General help................................................................................4-9
4.2.7 Conguration elds .....................................................................4-9
4.2.8 Pop-up window............................................................................4-9
4.2.9 Scroll bar .....................................................................................4-9
4.3 Main menu ................................................................................................4-10
4.3.1 System Language [English] ......................................................4-10
4.3.2 System Date .............................................................................4-10
4.3.3 System Time .............................................................................4-10
4.4 Advanced menu .......................................................................................4-11
4.4.1 Enable CRID [Disabled] ............................................................4-11
4.4.2 ACPI Settings ............................................................................4-12
4.4.3 NCT6779D Super IO Conguration ..........................................4-13
4.4.4 Serial Port Console Redirection ................................................4-14
4.4.5 Onboard LAN I354 Conguration ..............................................4-16
4.4.6 APM .......................................................................................... 4-17
4.4.7 PCI Subsystem Settings ........................................................... 4-18
4.4.8 Network Stack Conguration.....................................................4-22
4.4.9 CSM Conguration .................................................................... 4-22
4.4.10 Trusted Computing....................................................................4-24
4.4.11 USB Conguration .................................................................... 4-24
4.4.12 iSCSI Conguration...................................................................4-26
4.4.13 Intel(R) Ethernet Connection I354............................................. 4-26
4.4.14 Driver Health ............................................................................. 4-27
4.5 IntelRCSetup menu .................................................................................. 4-28
4.5.1 Processor Conguration............................................................4-29
4.5.2 Thermal Conguration...............................................................4-32
4.5.3 USB Conguration ....................................................................4-36
4.5.4 CK420 Conguration .................................................................4-36
4.5.5 Network Conguration...............................................................4-37
iv
Contents
4.5.6 North Bridge Chipset Conguration ..........................................4-37
4.5.7 Wake On Lan Conguration ......................................................4-44
4.5.8 South Bridge Chipset Conguration ..........................................4-44
4.5.9 System Event Log .....................................................................4-48
4.6 Server Mgmt menu ................................................................................... 4-50
4.6.1 System Event Log .....................................................................4-51
4.6.2 View FRU information ...............................................................4-52
4.6.3 BMC network conguration .......................................................4-52
4.6.4 View System Event Log ............................................................4-53
4.6.5 IPv6 BMC Network Conguration .............................................4-53
4.7 Event Logs menu ..................................................................................... 4-55
4.7.1 Change Smbios Event Log Settings .........................................4-55
4.7.2 View Smbios Event Log ............................................................4-56
4.8 Security ..................................................................................................... 4-57
4.9 Boot menu ................................................................................................4-60
4.10 Monitor menu ........................................................................................... 4-61
4.11 Tool menu ................................................................................................. 4-62
4.12 Exit menu .................................................................................................. 4-62
Chapter 5: Driver installation
5.1 Management applications and utilities installation ................................ 5-3
5.2 Running the Support DVD ........................................................................ 5-3
5.3 Installing the LAN driver ..........................................................................5-11
5.4 Installing the VGA driver .........................................................................5-16
5.5 Installing the Intel® I354 Gigabit Adapters driver .................................. 5-19
Appendix A: Reference Information
A.1 Block diagram ........................................................................................... A-3
ASUS contact information .......................................................................................... 1
v

Notices

Federal 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 modications 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.
REACH
Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of
Chemicals) regulatory framework, we publish the chemical substances in our products at ASUS REACH website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.
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 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 x it by yourself. Contact a qualied 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 qualied service
technician or your retailer.
DO NOT
throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to enable proper reuse of parts and recycling. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.
DO NOT
throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal waste.
vii
Australia statement notice
From 1 January 2012 updated warranties apply to all ASUS products, consistent with the Australian Consumer Law. For the latest product warranty details please visit http:// support.asus.com. Our goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law. You are entitled to a replacement or refund for a major failure and compensation for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. You are also entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced if the goods fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.
If you require assistance please call ASUS Customer Service 1300 2787 88 or visit us at http://support.asus.com
viii

About this guide

This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring the
motherboard.
How this guide is organized
This user guide contains the following parts:
• Chapter1:Productintroduction
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technologies 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 ways of shutting down the system.
• 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:Driverinstallation
This chapter provides instructions for installing the necessary drivers for different
system components.
• Appendix:Referenceinformation
This appendix includes additional information that you may refer to when conguring
the motherboard.
Where to find more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates.
1. ASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
2. Optional documentation
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty yers,
that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.
ix
Conventions used in this guide
To ensure 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: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.
.
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
Typography
Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.
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 key
Command
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.
names are linked with a plus sign (+).
Example: <Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Del> Means that you must type the command exactly as shown, then supply the required item or value enclosed in brackets.
Example: At DOS prompt, type the command line:
format A:/S
x

P9A-I Series Specifications Summary

Model Name P9A-I/C2750/SAS/4L P9A-I/C2550/SAS/4L P9A-I/C2550/4L
Processor Support / System Bus
Form Factor
ASUS Features
Memory
Expansion Slots (follow SSI Location number)
Storage
Networking
Graphic
Onboard I/O Connectors
Rear I/O Connectors
Management Solution
Monitoring
Fan Speed Control
ASWM Enterprise
Total Slots
Capacity
Memory Type Total PCI//PCI-X/
PCI-E Slots
Slot Location 7
SATA Controller
SAS Controller
LAN
VGA
PSU Connector
Fan Header Chassis Intruder Front LAN LED Serial Port Header SATA DOM Power
Connector M.2 Connector External USB Port VGA Port
RJ-45
Software Out of Band
Remote Management
CPU Temperature
FAN RPM
Regulatory Compliance
Intel® Atom® C-Series FCBGA processor (Avoton)
C2750 C2550
Mini-ITX, 6.7 in. x 6.7 in.
2 (2 Channels)
Maximum up to 32GB
DDR3 1333/1600 ECC/Non-ECC UDIMM
1
1 x PCI-E x8 (x4 Gen2 link)
2 x SATA 6Gb/s ports (1 for SATA 6Gb/s or M.2 connector)
4 x MiniSAS connector (Marvell 88SE9485 x 2; supports up to 16 SAS/
_
SATA 6Gb/s HDD connections)
4 x Marvell 88E1543 Quad PHY ports 1 x Management port
Aspeed AST2300 32MB 24-pin ATX power connector
4-pin ATX 12V power connector 5 x 4-pin headers 1 4 1
1
1 (NGFF Type 2242, Capacity 16~128 GB) 2 x USB 2.0 1 4 x GbE LAN
1 x Management LAN ASWM Enterprise
ASMB7-iKVM for KVM-over-Internet
CE, FCC(Class B)
(continued on the next page)
xi
P9A-I Series Specifications Summary
Operation temperature:
10oC – 35oC (50oF – 95oF)
Environment
Product SKUs
Specications are subject to change without notice.
Standard Gift Box Pack with ASMB7
Standard Bulk Pack with ASMB7
Non operation temperature:
-40oC – 70oC (-40oF – 158oF)
Non operation humidity:
20% – 90% (Non condensing)
xii

Chapter 1: Product Introduction

Chapter summary
1
This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports. This chapter contains the following sections:
1.1 Welcome! .................................................................................................... 1-3
1.2 Package contents ......................................................................................1-3
1.3 Serial number label .................................................................................... 1-3
1.4 Special features..........................................................................................1-3
ASUS P9A-I Series

1.1 Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ASUS® P9A-I Series motherboard!
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!
Before you start installing the motherboard and hardware devices on it, check the items in your package with the list below.

1.2 Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.
Items Standard Gift Box Pack Standard Bulk Pack
CPU fan (P9A-I/C2750/SAS/4L only) I/O Shield
Cables
Application CD
Packaging Qty.
SATA 6Gb/s cable COM port cable Support CD ASWM Enterprise SDVD
Install a CPU fan on P9A-I/C2750/SAS/4L, when the airow through the heatsink is
below 1.5CFM.
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
1 1 2 ­1 ­2 2
1 1
1 pc per carton 10 pcs per carton
1 1

1.3 Serial number label

Before requesting support from the ASUS Technical Support team, you must take note of the motherboard's serial number containing 12 characters below. With the correct serial number of the product, ASUS Technical Support team members can then offer a quicker and satisfying solution to your problems.
P9A-I Series
xxS2xxxxxxxx
xxS2xxxxxxxx
Made
in
China
合格
shown as the gure

1.4 Special features

1.4.1 Product highlights

Latest processor technology
This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Atom® C-Series FCBGA processor, which has memory and PCI Express controller integrated to support 2-channel (2 DIMMs) DDR3 memory and 4 PCI Express 2.0 lanes. The Intel® Atom® C-Series FCBGA processor has improve CPU performance and integrated voltage regulators making it one of the most
powerful and energy efcient CPU in the world.
ASUS P9A-I Series
1-3
Intel® Turbo Boost
Intel® Turbo Boost automatically allows the processor to run faster than the marked frequency
if the processor is operating below its power, current, and temperature specication
limits. This technology increases performance of both multi-threaded and single-threaded workloads.
DDR3 memory support
The motherboard supports ECC/Non-ECC UDIMM DDR3 memory that features data transfer
rates of 1600/1333 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of server and workstation
applications. The dual-channel DDR3 architecture boosts system performance, eliminates bottlenecks with peak bandwidth up to 25.6GB/s, and dramatically reduces the memory voltage to just 1.5V compared to DDR2's memory voltage of 1.8V.
Marvell 88E1543 Quad PHY LAN Solution
The motherboard comes with four LAN controllers and ports which provide a total solution for your networking needs. The onboard Marvell 88E1543 Quad PHY LAN controllers use the SGMII interface and could achieve network throughput close to Gigabit bandwidth.
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology (EIST)
The Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology (EIST) intelligently manages the CPU resources by automatically adjusting the CPU voltage and core frequency depending on the CPU loading and system speed or power requirement.
Serial ATA III technology
The motherboard supports the Serial ATA III 6 Gb/s technology through the Serial ATA interface. Get enhanced scalability, faster data retrieval, double the bandwidth of current bus systems with up to 6Gbps data transfer rates.
M.2 Support
This motherboard features the M.2 slot, which shares bandwidth with the SATA 6Gb/s port and is dedicated to the operating system.
Temperature, fan, and voltage monitoring
The CPU temperature is monitored to prevent overheating and damage. The system fan rotations per minute (RPM) is monitored for timely failure detection. The chip monitors the voltage levels to ensure stable supply of current for critical components.

1.4.2 Innovative ASUS features

ASUS Fan Speed technology
The ASUS Fan Speed technology smartly adjusts the fan speeds according to the system
loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efcient operation.
1-4
Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 2: Hardware Information

Chapter summary
2
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. This chapter contains the following sections:
2.1 Before you proceed ...................................................................................2-3
2.2 Motherboard overview ............................................................................... 2-4
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) .................................................................2-8
2.4 System memory .........................................................................................2-8
2.5 Expansion slots ........................................................................................2-10
2.6 Onboard LEDs .......................................................................................... 2-12
2.7 Jumpers .................................................................................................... 2-13
2.8 Connectors ............................................................................................... 2-15
Chapter 1: Product introduction

2.1 Before you proceed

Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings.
Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.
Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or 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, ensure that the 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.
ASUS P9A-I Series
2-3

2.2 Motherboard overview

Before you install the motherboard, study the conguration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard ts into it.
To optimize the motherboard features, we highly recommend that you install it in an ATX 2.0
compliant chassis.
Ensure to unplug the chassis power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components!

2.2.1 Placement direction

When installing the motherboard, ensure 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.

2.2.2 Screw holes

Place four screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.
DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
Place this side towards
the rear of the chassis
2-4
P9A-I
Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.2.3 Motherboard layout

P9A-I/C2750/SAS/4L, P9A-I/C2550/SAS/4L
LAN34_LED1
PWR_SW1
LED1
VGA1
DM_LAN1 _USB2_1
LAN1
LAN2
LAN3
LAN4
SB_PWR1
64Mb BIOS
BATTERY
M.2(SOCKET3)
Marvell
88E1543
Quad PHY
BMC
FW
P9A-I
COM1
BMC_LED1
AST2300
Realtek
RTL8211D
VGA_SW1 BMC_SW1 PHY_SW1
AUX_PANEL1
EATXPWR1
DDR3_DIMM_B1 (64bit, 240-pin module)
DDR3_DIMM_A1 (64bit, 240-pin module)
®
Intel
C-series FCBGA
processor
BUZZER
ICS
VR544200L
MSATA_SW1
Super
I/O
PANEL1
PCIE1
Atom
CLRTC1
ICS
3816565F
SATAPWR1
SATA6G_1
SATA6G_2
CON1
FRNT_FAN2 FRNT_FAN1
CPU_FAN1
RT8166B
Marvell
88SE9485
Marvell
88SE9485
TR1
MiniSAS4MiniSAS3MiniSAS2MiniSAS1
FRNT_FAN4FRNT_FAN3
ASUS P9A-I Series
2-5
P9A-I/C2550/4L
LAN34_LED1
SB_PWR1
PWR_SW1
LED1
VGA1
DM_LAN1 _USB2_1
LAN1
LAN2
LAN3
LAN4
64Mb BIOS
BATTERY
P9A-I/C2550/4L
COM1
BMC_LED1
AST2300
Realtek
RTL8211D
M.2(SOCKET3)
Marvell
88E1543
Quad PHY
VGA_SW1 BMC_SW1 PHY_SW1
BMC
FW
AUX_PANEL1
EATXPWR1
DDR3_DIMM_B1 (64bit, 240-pin module)
DDR3_DIMM_A1 (64bit, 240-pin module)
®
Intel
C-series FCBGA
processor
BUZZER
ICS
VR544200L
MSATA_SW1
Super
I/O
PANEL1
PCIE1
Atom
CLRTC1
ICS
3816565F
SATAPWR1
SATA6G_1
SATA6G_2
FRNT_FAN2 FRNT_FAN1
RT8166B
FRNT_FAN4FRNT_FAN3
CON1
CPU_FAN1
TR1

2.2.4 Layout contents

Slots/Sockets Page
1. DDR3 sockets 2-8
2. PCI Express x8 2-11
Onboard LEDs Page
1. Standby Power LED (SB_PWR1) 2-12
2. Baseboard Management Controller LED (BMC_LED1) 2-12
2-6
Chapter 2: Hardware information
Jumpers Page
1. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC1)
2. SATA M.2 and SATA II selection (3-pin MSATA_SW1)
3. VGA controller setting (3-pin VGA_SW1) 2-14
4. Baseboard Management Controller setting (3-pin BMC_SW1) 2-14
5. Marvell 88E1543 Quad PHY LAN controller setting (3-pin PHY_ SW1)
Rear panel connectors Page
1. Power button 2-15
2. Location LED 2-15
3. Message LED 2-15
4. HDD Error LED 2-15
5. Video Graphics Adapter port 2-15
6. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2 2-15
7. RJ-45 ports (4 x GbE LAN, 1 x Management LAN) 2-15
2-13
2-13
2-14
Internal connectors Page
1. Serial ATA 6.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA 6G_1 connector [Light Blue]) (7-pin SATA 6G_2 connector [Gray], for SATA 6.0 Gb/s or M.2
connector)
2. Mini-SAS connectors
3. CPU and front fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN1, 4-pin FRNT_FAN1~4)
4. M.2 Socket 3
5. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR1, 4-pin CON1) 2-18
6. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)
7. System panel connector (20-1 pin PANEL1)
8. LAN34_LED connector (5-1 pin LAN34_LED1)
9. SATA power connector (4-pin SATAPWR1)
10. Thermal sensor cable connector (3-pin TR1)
11. Auxiliary panel connector (20-2 pin AUX_PANEL1) 2-20
ASUS P9A-I Series
2-16
2-21
2-17
2-16
2-17
2-19
2-22
2-18
2-21
2-7

2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The motherboard comes with an integrated Intel® Atom® C-Series FCBGA processor.
P9A-I
Integrated Intel
C-series FCBGA processor
®
Atom
P9A-I CPU

2.4 System memory

2.4.1 Overview

The motherboard comes with two Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets.
A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR2 DIMM but is notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR2 DIMM socket. DDR3 modules are developed for better performance with less power consumption.
The gure illustrates the location of the DDR3 DIMM sockets:
P9A-I
DIMM_B1 DIMM_A1
P9A-I 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets
When using only one memory module, install it into slot DIMM_A1.
Always install identical DIMMs into both the slots.

2.4.2 Memory Configurations

You may install 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB, and 16 GB Unbuffered with ECC/Non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs
into the DIMM sockets using the memory congurations in this section.
DIMM Slot Per
Channel
2-8
DIMM Populated
per Channel
1 1 Unbuffered DDR3 1333/1600 Single Rank, Dual Rank
Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, it is recommended that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.
UDIMM
DIMM Type Speed Rank per DIMM
Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.4.3 Installing a DIMM on a single clip DIMM socket

1. Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clip outward.
2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the DIMM slot key on the socket.
A DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it ts in only one direction. DO NOT force a DIMM into
a socket in the wrong direction to avoid damaging the DIMM.
3. Hold the DIMM by both of its ends then insert the DIMM vertically into the socket. Apply force to both ends of the DIMM simultaneously until the retaining clip snaps back into place and the DIMM cannot be pushed in any further to ensure proper sitting of the DIMM.
Always insert the DIMM into the socket vertically to prevent DIMM notch damage.
To install two or more DIMMs, refer to the user guide bundled in the motherboard
package.
Refer to the user guide for qualied vendor lists of the memory modules.
DIMM notch
DIMM slot key
1
2
Unlocked retaining clip
3
Locked Retaining Clip
Removing a DIMM from a single clip DIMM socket
1. Press the retaining clip outward to unlock the DIMM.
2
2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.
Support the DIMM lightly with your ngers when pressing the retaining clips. The DIMM might get damaged when it ips out with extra force.
ASUS P9A-I Series
1
2-9

2.5 Expansion slots

In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following subsections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support.
Ensure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

2.5.1 Installing an expansion card

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 rmly 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.

2.5.2 Configuring an expansion card

After installing the expansion card, congure 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.
When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that
the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conicts will arise between the two PCI
groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable.
2-10
Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.5.3 Interrupt assignments

Standard Interrupt assignments
IRQ Priority Standard function
0 1 System Timer
1 2 Keyboard Controller
2 - Programmable Interrupt
3* 12 Communications Port (COM1)
4* 13 --
5 14 Floppy Disk Controller
6* 15 --
7 3 System CMOS/Real Time Clock
8* 4 ACPI Mode when used
9* 5 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering
10* 6 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering
11 8 Numeric Data Processor
12* 9 Primary IDE Channel
13* 10 Secondary IDE Channel
* These IRQs are usually available for ISA or PCI devices.

2.5.4 PCI Express x8 slot (x4 Gen2 link)

The onboard PCIE x8 slot provides one x4 Gen2 link to CPU1. This slot supports various
server class high performance add-on cards such as SCSI RAID card, ber-channel card,
and others.
P9A-I
No.(Slot location) Short Description
1
ASUS P9A-I Series
PCIE1
1 x PCI-E x8 (x4 Gen2 link)
2-11

2.6 Onboard LEDs

1. Standby Power LED (SB_PWR1)
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED. The green LED lights up to
indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED.
P9A-I
P9A-I Standby power LED
2. Baseboard Management Controller LED (BMC_LED1)
The green heartbeat LED blinks per second to indicate that the ASMB7 is working
normally. The BMC LED works with the ASUS ASMB7 management device and indicates its initiation status. When the PSU is plugged and the system is OFF, ASUS ASMB7 management device starts system initiation for about one (1) minute. The BMC
LED blinks after system initiation nishes.
P9A-I BMC LED
2-12
P9A-I
BMC_LED1
The heartbeat LED functions only when you install the ASUS ASMB7 Management
card.
Everytime after the AC power is replugged, you have to wait for about 60 seconds
for the system to power up.
Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.7 Jumpers

1. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC1)
This jumper allows 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 onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords.
To erase the RTC RAM:
1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.
2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1–2 (default) to pins 2–3. Keep the cap on pins
2–3 for about 5–10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1–2.
3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.
4. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re­enter data.
Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!
If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the jumper again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After the CMOS clearance, reinstall the battery.
P9A-I
(Default)
1 2
Normal
CLRTC
2 3
Clear RTC
P9A-I Clear RTC RAM
2. SATA M.2 and SATA III selection (3-pin MSATA_SW1)
Set to pins 1–2 to allow the system to automatically enable the SATA M.2 or SATA III controllers when SATA M.2 or SATA III devices are detected. Set to pins 2–3 to enable the SATA M.2 controller with SATA III interface disabled.
P9A-I
MSATA_SW1
Auto
(Default)
32
21
m2Sata
P9A-I SATA M.2 and SATA III selection
ASUS P9A-I Series
2-13
3. VGA controller setting (3-pin VGA_SW1)
This jumper allows you to enable or disable the onboard VGA controller. Set to pins 1– 2 to activate the VGA feature.
P9A-I
VGA_SW1
1 2
2 3
Enable
(Default)
Disable
P9A-I VGA setting
4. Baseboard Management Controller setting (3-pin BMC_SW1)
This jumper allows you to enable or disable the ASMB7 remote server management feature.
P9A-I
BMC_SW1
1 2
Enable
(Default)
2 3
Disable
P9A-I BMC setting
5. Marvell 88E1543 Quad PHY LAN controller setting (3-pin PHY_SW1)
This jumper allows you to enable or disable the onboard Marvell 88E1543 Quad PHY LAN controller. Set to pins 1–2 to enable the onboard Marvell 88E1543 Quad PHY LAN controller.
P9A-I
PHY_SW1
1 2
2 3
P9A-I LAN controller setting
2-14
Enable
(Default)
Disable
Chapter 2: Hardware information
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