ASUS K8N4-E SE User Manual

K8N4-E SE

Motherboard

E2284E2284

E2284

E2284E2284

First Edition V1First Edition V1

First Edition V1

First Edition V1First Edition V1 November 2005November 2005

November 2005

November 2005November 2005

Copyright © 2005 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.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 ................................................................................................ vi

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

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

Typography ......................................................................................... ix

K8N4-E SE specifications summary ..................................................... x

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

1.1 Welcome! .............................................................................. 1-2

1.2 Package contents ................................................................. 1-2

1.3 Special features .................................................................... 1-3

1.3.1 Product highlights................................................... 1-3

1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features ....................................... 1-5

1.4 Before you proceed .............................................................. 1-7

1.5 Motherboard overview .......................................................... 1-8

1.5.1 Placement direction ................................................ 1-8

1.5.2 Screw holes ............................................................ 1-8

1.5.3 Motherboard layout ................................................ 1-9

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ....................................... 1-10

1.6.1 Overview ............................................................... 1-10

1.6.2 Installing the CPU..................................................1-10

1.6.3 Installing the heatsink and fan .............................. 1-12

1.7 System memory ................................................................. 1-15

1.7.1 Overview ............................................................... 1-15

1.7.2 Memory Configurations .........................................1-15

1.7.3 Installing a DIMM ................................................... 1-16

1.7.4 Removing a DIMM ................................................. 1-16

1.8 Expansion slots ................................................................... 1-17

1.8.1 Installing an expansion card .................................. 1-17

1.8.2 Configuring an expansion card.............................. 1-17

1.8.3 Interrupt assignments .......................................... 1-18

1.8.4 PCI slots ................................................................ 1-18

1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot ............................................. 1-19

1.8.6 PCI Express x1 slot ...............................................1-19

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Contents

1.9 Jumpers .............................................................................. 1-20

1.10 Connectors ......................................................................... 1-23

1.10.1 Rear panel connectors .......................................... 1-23

1.10.2 Internal connectors............................................... 1-24

Chapter 2: BIOS setupChapter 2: BIOS setup

Chapter 2: BIOS setup

Chapter 2: BIOS setupChapter 2: BIOS setup

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ........................................ 2-2

2.1.1 ASUS Update utility ................................................ 2-2

2.1.2 Creating a bootable floppy disk .............................. 2-5

2.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash utility .............................................. 2-6

2.1.4 Updating the BIOS .................................................. 2-7

2.1.5 Saving the current BIOS file .................................... 2-9

2.1.6 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility .............................. 2-10

2.2 BIOS setup program ........................................................... 2-12

2.2.1 BIOS menu screen ................................................. 2-13

2.2.2 Menu bar ............................................................... 2-13

2.2.3 Legend bar ........................................................... 2-14

2.2.4 Menu items ........................................................... 2-14

2.2.5 Sub-menu items ................................................... 2-14

2.2.6 Configuration fields .............................................. 2-14

2.2.7 Pop-up window ..................................................... 2-15

2.2.8 General help .......................................................... 2-15

2.3 Main menu .......................................................................... 2-16

2.3.1 System Time ......................................................... 2-16

2.3.2 System Date ......................................................... 2-16

2.3.3 Legacy Diskette A ................................................ 2-16

2.3.4 Primary and Secondary IDE Master/Slave ............. 2-17

2.3.5 First, Second, Third, Fourth SATA Master ............ 2-19

2.3.6 HDD SMART Monitoring ........................................ 2-20

2.3.7 Installed Memory .................................................. 2-20

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2.3.8 Usable Memory ..................................................... 2-20

Contents

2.4 Advanced menu .................................................................. 2-21

2.4.1 JumperFree Configuration .................................... 2-21

2.4.2 CPU Configuration ................................................. 2-23

2.4.3 PCIPnP ................................................................... 2-25

2.4.4 Onboard Devices Configuration ............................ 2-26

2.5 Power menu ........................................................................ 2-29

2.5.1 ACPI Suspend Type............................................... 2-30

2.5.2 ACPI APIC Support ................................................ 2-30

2.5.3 APM Configuration ................................................ 2-30

2.5.4 Hardware Monitor ................................................. 2-33

2.6 Boot menu .......................................................................... 2-34

2.6.1 Boot Device Priority .............................................. 2-34

2.6.2 Removable Drives ................................................. 2-35

2.6.3 Hard Disk Drives ................................................... 2-35

2.6.4 CDROM Drives ....................................................... 2-35

2.6.5 Boot Settings Configuration ................................. 2-36

2.6.6 Security ................................................................ 2-37

2.7 Exit menu ........................................................................... 2-39

Chapter 3: Software supportChapter 3: Software support

Chapter 3: Software support

Chapter 3: Software supportChapter 3: Software support

3.1 Installing an operating system ............................................. 3-2

3.2 Support CD information ........................................................ 3-2

3.2.1 Running the support CD ......................................... 3-2

3.2.2 Drivers menu .......................................................... 3-3

3.2.3 Utilities menu .......................................................... 3-4

3.2.4 Make Disk menu ...................................................... 3-5

3.2.5 Manual menu ........................................................... 3-6

3.2.6 ASUS Contact information ...................................... 3-6

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

••

Chapter 2: BIOS setupChapter 2: BIOS setup

•

Chapter 2: BIOS setup

••

Chapter 2: BIOS setupChapter 2: BIOS setup This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS

Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.

••

Chapter 3: Software supportChapter 3: Software support

•

Chapter 3: Software support

••

Chapter 3: Software supportChapter 3: Software support This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes

with the motherboard package.

Where to find more informationWhere to find more information

Where to find more information

Where to find more informationWhere to find more information

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

1.1.

ASUS websitesASUS websites

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

Optional documentation

2.2.

Optional documentationOptional documentation Your product package may include optional documentation, such as

warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.

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Conventions used in this guideConventions used in this guide

Conventions used in this guide

Conventions used in this guideConventions used in this guide

To make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual.

DANGER/WARNING: DANGER/WARNING:

DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself

DANGER/WARNING: DANGER/WARNING: when trying to complete a task.

CAUTION:CAUTION:

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components

CAUTION:CAUTION: when trying to complete a task.

IMPORTANT: IMPORTANT:

IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a

IMPORTANT: IMPORTANT: task.

NOTE: NOTE:

NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a

NOTE: NOTE: task.

Typography

Bold textBold text

Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select

Bold textBold text

Italics

<Key> Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign

<Key1+Key2+Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously,

Command Means that you must type the command exactly as

Used to emphasize a word or a phrase

means that you must press the enclosed key

Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or Return key

the key names are linked with a plus sign (+)

Example: <Ctrl+Alt+D>

shown, then supply the required item or value enclosed in brackets Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:

awdflash K8N4-ESE.BIN

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K8N4-E SE specifications summary

CPUCPU

CPU

CPUCPU

ChipsetChipset

Chipset

ChipsetChipset

System busSystem bus

System bus

System busSystem bus

MemoryMemory

Memory

MemoryMemory

Expansion slotsExpansion slots

Expansion slots

Expansion slotsExpansion slots

StorageStorage

Storage

StorageStorage

Socket 754 for AMD Athlon™ 64/AMD Sempron™

processors

AMD64 architecture enables simultaneous 32- and

64-bit computing

Supports AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology

NVIDIA® nForce™4-4X

1600 MT per second

3 x 184-pin DIMM sockets support unbufferred non-ECC

400/333/266 MHz DDR memory modules

Supports up to 3 GB system memory

1 x PCI Express™ x16 slot for discrete graphics card 3 x PCI Express™ x1 slots 3 x PCI slots

NVIDIA

nForce™4-4X chipset supports:

- 4 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66/33 hard disks

- 4 x Serial ATA hard disks with RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, and JBOD configurations

AI AudioAI Audio

AI Audio

AI AudioAI Audio

USBUSB

USB

USBUSB

LANLAN

LAN

LANLAN

BIOS featuresBIOS features

BIOS features

BIOS featuresBIOS features

Special featuresSpecial features

Special features

Special featuresSpecial features

Realtek

ALC850 6-channel CODEC Audio Sensing and Enumeration Technology support 3 x Universal Audio Jacks (UAJ®) 1 x Coaxial S/PDIF out port

Supports up to 10 USB 2.0 ports

NVIDIA Gb MAC with external PHY

4 Mb Flash ROM, Phoenix-AWARD BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0,

SM BIOS 2.3, WfM2.0

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 ASUS EZ Flash ASUS Q-Fan ASUS MyLogo2 NVIDIA

Firewall™

(continued on the next page)

K8N4-E SE specifications summary

Overclocking Overclocking

Overclocking

Overclocking Overclocking features features

features

features features

Internal Internal

Internal

Internal Internal connectors connectors

connectors

connectors connectors

ASUS AI Overclocking (intelligent CPU frequency tuner) ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) Stepless Frequency Selection (SFS) allows FSB

tuning from 200 MHz up to 300 MHz at 1 MHz increment

1 x Floppy disk drive connector 1 x Primary IDE connector 1 x Secondary IDE connector 4 x Serial ATA connectors 1 x CPU fan connector 1 x Chipset fan connector 1 x Chassis fan connector 3 x USB 2.0 connectors for six additional USB 2.0 ports 1 x 24-pin EATX power connector 1 x 4-pin ATX 12 V power connector 1 x CD audio connector 1 x AUX connector 1 x Game/MIDI port connector 1 x Chassis intrusion connector 1 x Front panel audio connector 1 x System panel connector

Rear panel Rear panel

Rear panel

Rear panel Rear panel

Support CD Support CD

Support CD

Support CD Support CD contents contents

contents

contents contents

Form factor Form factor

Form factor

Form factor Form factor

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

1 x PS/2 mouse port 1 x Parallel port 1 x LAN (RJ-45) port 4 x USB 2.0 ports 1 x Serial (COM1) port 1 x Coaxial S/PDIF Out port 1 x PS/2 keyboard port 6-Channel audio ports

Drivers ASUS PC Probe II ASUS Live Update ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ utility Anti-virus software (OEM version)

ATX form factor: 12 in x 8.6 in (30.5 cm x 21.9 cm)

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This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.

introduction

Product

ASUS K8N4-E SEASUS K8N4-E SE

ASUS K8N4-E SE

ASUS K8N4-E SEASUS K8N4-E SE

1-11-1

1-1

1-11-1

1.1 Welcome!

®®

Thank you for buying an ASUSThank you for buying an ASUS

Thank you for buying an ASUS

Thank you for buying an ASUSThank you for buying an ASUS

®®

K8N4-E SE motherboard! K8N4-E SE motherboard!

K8N4-E SE motherboard!

K8N4-E SE motherboard! K8N4-E SE motherboard!

The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!

Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in your package with the list below.

1.2 Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

MotherboardMotherboard

Motherboard ASUS K8N4-E SE motherboard

MotherboardMotherboard

CablesCables

Cables 1 x Serial ATA signal cable

CablesCables

1 x Serial ATA power cable 1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable 1 x Floppy disk drive cable

AccessoryAccessory

Accessory I/O shield

AccessoryAccessory

Application CDApplication CD

Application CD ASUS motherboard support CD

Application CDApplication CD

DocumentationDocumentation

Documentation User guide

DocumentationDocumentation

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

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1-2

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Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

1.3 Special features

1.3.11.3.1

1.3.1

1.3.11.3.1

Latest processor technology Latest processor technology

Latest processor technology

Latest processor technology Latest processor technology

The motherboard comes with a 754-pin surface mount, Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) socket that supports AMD processors. With an integrated low-latency high-bandwidth memory controller and a highly-scalable HyperTransport™ technology-based system bus, the motherboard provides a powerful platform for your diverse computing needs, increased office productivity, and enhanced digital media experience. See page 1-10.

NVIDIANVIDIA

NVIDIA

NVIDIANVIDIA

The NVIDIA® nForce™4-4X chipset supports the vital interfaces of the motherboard in a single chip architecture for 64-bit platforms. The NVIDIA nForce™4-4X chipset features PCI Express™ support for the latest graphics and expansion cards, increased security with NVIDIA advanced storage solutions with NVIDIA® RAID technology for faster and more reliable computing.

Product highlightsProduct highlights

Product highlights

Product highlightsProduct highlights

Athlon™ 64/AMD Sempron™

®®

nForce™4-4X chipset nForce™4-4X chipset

nForce™4-4X chipset

nForce™4-4X chipset nForce™4-4X chipset

Firewall™, and

Built-in NVFirewall™ Built-in NVFirewall™

Built-in NVFirewall™

Built-in NVFirewall™ Built-in NVFirewall™

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®-4X 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.

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

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 page 2-24 for details.

ASUS K8N4-E SEASUS K8N4-E SE

ASUS K8N4-E SE

ASUS K8N4-E SEASUS K8N4-E SE

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1-3

1-31-3

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 1-19 for details.

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 and at midboard. The S/PDIF technology turns your computer into a high-end entertainment system with digital connectivity to powerful audio and speaker systems. See page 1-24 for details.

Serial ATA technology Serial ATA technology

Serial ATA technology

Serial ATA technology Serial ATA technology

The motherboard supports the Serial ATA technology through the Serial ATA interfaces and the NVIDIA® nForce™4-4X chipset. The Serial ATA specification allows for thinner, more flexible cables with lower pin count, reduced voltage requirement, and up to 150 MB/s data transfer rate. See page 1-26 for details.

Gigabit LAN Gigabit LAN

Gigabit LAN

Gigabit LAN Gigabit LAN

The motherboard comes with a Gigabit LAN controller built into the NVIDIA® nForce™4-4X chipset to meet your growing networking needs. The controller uses the PCI Express segment to provide faster data bandwidth for your Internet, LAN, and file sharing requirements. See page 1-23 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 pages 1-24 and 1-28 for details.

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1-4

1-41-4

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 Audio technology AI Audio technology

AI Audio technology

AI Audio technology AI Audio technology

The motherboard supports 6-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 1-23 and 1-24 for details.

The Realtek ALC850 audio CODEC comes with a software application that features jack detection to monitor the plugging status of each jack, impedance sensing to determine audio device classes, and pre-defined equalization for various audio devices. See page 1-24 for details.

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 ASUS 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 page 2-10 for details.

Innovative ASUS featuresInnovative ASUS features

Innovative ASUS features

Innovative ASUS featuresInnovative ASUS features

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 CPU fan speed according to the system loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efficient operation. See page 2-33 for details.

ASUS EZ Flash BIOSASUS EZ Flash BIOS

ASUS EZ Flash BIOS

ASUS EZ Flash BIOSASUS EZ Flash BIOS

With the ASUS EZ Flash, you can easily update the system BIOS even before loading the operating system. No need to use a DOS-based utility or boot from a floppy disk. See page 2-6 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 2-37 for details.

ASUS K8N4-E SEASUS K8N4-E SE

ASUS K8N4-E SE

ASUS K8N4-E SEASUS K8N4-E SE

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1-5

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1-6

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Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

1.4 Before you proceed

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

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

• Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity

• Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.

• Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component.

Before you install or remove any component, ensureBefore you install or remove any component, ensure

•

Before you install or remove any component, ensure

Before you install or remove any component, ensureBefore you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is switched off or thethat the ATX power supply is switched off or the

that the ATX power supply is switched off or the

that the ATX power supply is switched off or thethat the ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. power cord is detached from the power supply.

power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure

power cord is detached from the power supply. power cord is detached from the power supply. to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, and/or components.

Onboard LEDOnboard LED

Onboard LED

Onboard LEDOnboard LED

The motherboard comes with a 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.

SB_PWR

K8N4-E SE

K8N4-E SE Onboard LED

Standby

Power

OFF

Powered

Off

ASUS K8N4-E SEASUS K8N4-E SE

ASUS K8N4-E SE

ASUS K8N4-E SEASUS K8N4-E SE

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1.5 Motherboard overview

Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits into it.

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

1.5.11.5.1

1.5.1

1.5.11.5.1

Placement directionPlacement direction

Placement direction

Placement directionPlacement direction

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

1.5.21.5.2

1.5.2

1.5.21.5.2

Screw holesScrew holes

Screw holes

Screw holesScrew holes

Place six (6) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.

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

Place this side towardsPlace this side towards

Place this side towards

Place this side towardsPlace this side towards the rear of the chassisthe rear of the chassis

the rear of the chassis

the rear of the chassisthe rear of the chassis

K8N4-E SE

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Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

1.5.31.5.3

1.5.3

1.5.31.5.3

Motherboard layoutMotherboard layout

Motherboard layout

Motherboard layoutMotherboard layout

21.9cm (8.6in)

PS/2KBMS

T: Mouse B: Keyboard

SPDIF_O1

COM1

USB1 USB2

USB2.0

T: USB3 B: USB4

Top:Line In

Center:Line Out

Below:Mic In

CD AUX

USBPW34

PARALLEL PORT

Top:

RJ-45

Attansic

Gbit LAN

F001

ALC850

FP_AUDIO

KBPWR

USBPW12

CHA_FAN1

USBPW910

Super

I/O

ATX12V

PCIEX1_1

PCIEX1_2

PCIEX1_3

USB910_WFG

GAME

DDR DIMM3 (64 bit,184-pin module)

DDR DIMM2 (64 bit,184-pin module)

DDR DIMM1 (64 bit,184-pin module)

K8N4-E SE

PCIEX16

PCI1

PCI2

PCI3

SB_PWR

FLOPPY

USBPW56 USBPW78

Socket 754

NVIDIA

nForce™ 4-4X

USB56

CR2032 3V Lithium Cell

CMOS Power

USB78

4Mbit BIOS

CLRTC

CHIP_FAN

PRI_IDE

SEC_IDE

CHASSIS

CPU_FAN

EATXPWR

30.5cm (12.0in)

SATA 2

SATA 1

SATA 4

SATA 3

PANEL

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1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

1.6.11.6.1

1.6.1

1.6.11.6.1

OverviewOverview

Overview

OverviewOverview

The motherboard comes with a surface mount 754-pin Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) socket designed for the AMD Athlon™ 64/ AMD Sempron™ processor.

Take note of the marked corner (with gold triangle) on the CPU. This mark should match a specific corner on the socket to ensure correct installation.

1.6.21.6.2

1.6.2

1.6.21.6.2

Installing the CPUInstalling the CPU

Installing the CPU

Installing the CPUInstalling the CPU

To install a CPU:

1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.

Gold triangleGold triangle

Gold triangle

Gold triangleGold triangle

K8N4-E SE

K8N4-E SE CPU Socket 754

Gold Arrow

2. Unlock the socket by pressing the lever sideways, then lift it up to a 90°-100° angle.

Make sure that the socket lever is lifted up to 90°-100° angle; otherwise the CPU does not fit in completely.

SocketSocket

Socket

SocketSocket leverlever

lever

leverlever

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3. Position the CPU above the socket such that the CPU corner with the gold triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle.

4. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place.

5. When the CPU is in place, push down the socket lever to secure the CPU. The lever clicks on the side tab to indicate that it is locked.

GoldGold

Gold

GoldGold triangletriangle

triangle

triangletriangle

6. Refer to the succeeding section for details.

7. Connect the CPU fan cable to the CPU_FAN connector on the motherboard.

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1.6.31.6.3

1.6.3

1.6.31.6.3

Installing the heatsink and fanInstalling the heatsink and fan

Installing the heatsink and fan

Installing the heatsink and fanInstalling the heatsink and fan

The AMD Athlon™ 64/Sempron™ processor require a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.

Make sure that you use only qualified heatsink and fan assembly.

Follow these steps to install the CPU heatsink and fan.

1. Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, making sure that the heatsink fits properly on the retention module base.

• The retention module base is already installed on the motherboard upon purchase.

• You do not have to remove the retention module base when installing the CPU or installing other motherboard components.

• If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, make sure that a Thermal Interface Material is properly applied to the CPU heatsink or CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly.

CPU FanCPU Fan

CPU Fan

CPU FanCPU Fan

CPU HeatsinkCPU Heatsink

CPU Heatsink

CPU HeatsinkCPU Heatsink

Retention Module BaseRetention Module Base

Retention Module Base

Retention Module BaseRetention Module Base

Your boxed CPU heatsink and fan assembly should come with installation instructions for the CPU, heatsink, and the retention mechanism. If the instructions in this section do not match the CPU documentation, follow the latter.

Retention bracketRetention bracket

Retention bracket

Retention bracketRetention bracket

Retention bracket lockRetention bracket lock

Retention bracket lock

Retention bracket lockRetention bracket lock

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2. Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base.

3. Align the other end of the retention bracket (near the retention bracket lock) to the retention module base. A clicking sound denotes that the retention bracket is in place.

Make sure that the fan and heatsink assembly perfectly fits the retention mechanism module base; otherwise, you cannot snap the retention bracket in place.

4. Push down the retention bracket lock on the retention mechanism to secure the heatsink and fan to the module base.

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5. When the fan and heatsink assembly is in place, connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN.

CPU_FAN

GND

+12V

Rotation

K8N4-E SE

K8N4-E SE CPU fan connector

Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector.

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Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

1.7 System memory

1.7.11.7.1

1.7.1

1.7.11.7.1

OverviewOverview

Overview

OverviewOverview

The motherboard comes with three 184-pin Double Data Rate (DDR) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets.

The following figure illustrates the location of the sockets:

104 Pins

K8N4-E SE

K8N4-E SE 184-pin DDR DIMM sockets

1.7.21.7.2

1.7.2

1.7.21.7.2

Memory ConfigurationsMemory Configurations

Memory Configurations

Memory ConfigurationsMemory Configurations

80 Pins

DIMM3

DIMM2

DIMM1

You may install 256 MB, 512 MB, and 1 GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR DIMMs into the DIMM sockets using the memory configurations in this section.

•

Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, we recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.

• Due to chipset resource allocation, the system may detect less than 3 GB system memory when you installed three 1 GB DDR memory modules.

• This motherboard does not support memory modules made up of 128 Mb chips or double sided x16 memory modules.

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