ASUS K8S-MX User Manual

K8S-MX

User Guide

Motherboard

Checklist

E1884
Revised Edition V2

December 2004

Copyright © 2004 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.

No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be
reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any
language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for
backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.
(“ASUS”).

Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or
altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2)
the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.

ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES
OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE
LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
(INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE
OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE), EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN
ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY DEFECT OR
ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.

SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED
FOR INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME
WITHOUT NOTICE, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS.
ASUS ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR
INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS
AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.

Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered
trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identification or
explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.

ii

Contents

Notices ........................................................................................... vi

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

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

Conventions used in this guide ........................................... viii

Typography.......................................................................... viii

K8S-MX specifications summary.................................................... ix

Chapter 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 Unique ASUS features ........................................... 1-4

1.4 Before you proceed ............................................................ 1-5

1.5 Motherboard overview........................................................ 1-6

1.5.1 Motherboard layout ................................................ 1-6

1.5.2 Placement direction ............................................... 1-7

1.5.3 Screw holes ........................................................... 1-7

Features

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)........................................... 1-8

1.6.1 Overview ................................................................ 1-8

1.6.2 Installing the CPU .................................................. 1-9

1.7 System memory ............................................................... 1-10

1.7.1 DIMM sockets location......................................... 1-10

1.7.2 Memory configurations ........................................ 1-10

1.7.3 Installing a DIMM ................................................. 1-13

1.8 Expansion slots ................................................................ 1-13

1.8.1 Standard interrupt assignments ........................... 1-13

1.8.2 IRQ assignments for this motherboard ................ 1-14

1.8.3 PCI slots .............................................................. 1-14

1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slot ............................................. 1-14

1.8.5 AGP slot............................................................... 1-15

1.9 Jumpers............................................................................ 1-16

1.10 Connectors ....................................................................... 1-18

1.10.1 Rear panel connectors......................................... 1-18

1.10.2 Internal connectors .............................................. 1-19

iii

Safeguards

Contents

Chapter 2: BIOS Information

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

2.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy disk ............................. 2-2

2.1.2 Using AFUDOS to update the BIOS ...................... 2-3

2.1.3 Using AFUDOS to copy BIOS from PC ................. 2-4

2.1.4 Using ASUS EZ Flash to update the BIOS ............ 2-5

2.1.5 Recovering the BIOS with CrashFree BIOS 2 ....... 2-6

2.2 BIOS Setup program .......................................................... 2-8

2.2.1 BIOS menu screen ................................................ 2-9

2.2.2 Menu bar................................................................ 2-9

2.2.3 Navigation keys ..................................................... 2-9

2.2.4 Menu items .......................................................... 2-10

2.2.5 Sub-menu items................................................... 2-10

2.2.6 Configuration fields .............................................. 2-10

2.2.7 Pop-up window .................................................... 2-10

2.2.8 Scroll bar.............................................................. 2-10

2.2.9 General help ........................................................ 2-10

2.3 Main menu.........................................................................2-11

2.3.1 System Time .........................................................2-11

2.3.2 System Date .........................................................2-11

2.3.3 Legacy Diskette A .................................................2-1 1

2.3.4 Primary and Secondary IDE Master/Slave .......... 2-12

2.3.5 Onboard PCI S-ATA Controller ............................ 2-13

2.3.6 System Information .............................................. 2-13

2.4 Advanced menu ............................................................... 2-14

2.4.1 JumperFree Configuration ................................... 2-14

2.4.2 CPU Configuration ............................................... 2-15

2.4.3 Chipset................................................................. 2-16

2.4.4 Onboard Devices Configuration........................... 2-19

2.4.5 PCI PnP ............................................................... 2-22

2.5 Power menu ..................................................................... 2-23

2.5.1 ACPI Aware O/S .................................................. 2-23

2.5.2 Suspend Mode..................................................... 2-24

2.5.3 ACPI 2.0 Support ................................................. 2-24

2.5.4 ACPI APIC Support.............................................. 2-24

2.5.5 BIOS--> AML ACPI table...................................... 2-24

2.5.6 Headless mode .................................................... 2-24

2.5.7 APM Configuration............................................... 2-24

iv

Contents

2.5.8 Hardware Monitor ................................................ 2-26

2.6 Boot menu ........................................................................ 2-27

2.6.1 Boot Device Priority ............................................. 2-27

2.6.2 Hard Disk Drives .................................................. 2-27

2.6.3 Boot Settings Configuration ................................. 2-28

2.6.4 Security ................................................................ 2-29

2.7 Exit menu ......................................................................... 2-31

Chapter 3: Software support

3.1 Install 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 ......................................................... 3-3

3.2.4 Manuals ................................................................. 3-5

3.2.5 ASUS Contact Information..................................... 3-5

3.3 RAID configurations ........................................................... 3-6

3.3.1 Installing hard disks ............................................... 3-6

3.3.2 SIS RAID configurations ........................................ 3-7

3.4 Creating a RAID driver disk.............................................. 3-16

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.

The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is
required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications
to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance
could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise
emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference
Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.

This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

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. The ASUS websites are listed in the ASUS Contact
Information on the inside front cover.

2. Optional Documentation

Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty
flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not
part of the standard package.

vi

Safety information

Electrical safety

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

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

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

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

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

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

Operation safety

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

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

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

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

• Place the product on a stable surface.

• If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified service
technician or your retailer.

vii

About this guide

Conventions used in this guide

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

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

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

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

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

Typography

Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.

Italics Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.

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

indicates that you must press the enclosed key.
Example: <Enter> indicates that you must press the
Enter or Return key.

<Multiple key names> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously,

the key names are linked with a plus sign (+).
Example: <Ctrl+Alt+D>

Command Means that you must enter the command exactly as

shown then supply the appropriate values that
appear in brackets. Example:

At the DOS prompt, type the command line:

afudos /i[filename]

viii

In this example, you must supply a filename for

[filename].

afudos /iK8S-MX.ROM

K8S-MX specifications summary

CPU

Chipset

System Bus
Memory

Expansion slots

Storage

Audio

Socket 754 that supports:

- AMD Athlon™ 64 processor with built-in 1MB L2 cache

- AMD Sempron™ processor with built-in 256K L2 cache

AMD 64 architecture that enables simultaneous 32-bit and

64-bit computing

SiS 760GX
SiS 965L

800 MHz
2 x 184-pin DDR DIMM sockets for up to 2GB non-ECC

PC3200/PC2700/PC2100/PC1600 DDR DIMMs

1 x AGP 8X/4X slot
1 x PCI Express 1x slot
2 x PCI slots

South Bridge supports

- 2 x UltraATA 133 connectors

- 2 x SATA with RAID 0, RAID 1

ADI AD1888 SoundMAX

support for S/PDIF out interface

®

6-channel audio CODEC

LAN
USB
Overclocking

Features

Special features

Back panel I/O

SIS 191/190 MAC + Realtek® RTL8201CL 10/100 LAN PHY
Maximum of eight (8) USB 2.0 ports
Memory voltage adjustable

SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection) from 200 MHz up to

250 MHz at 1 MHz increment
Adjustable FSB/DDR ratio
ASUS JumperFree
ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

ASUS EZ Flash
ASUS CrashFree BIOS2
ASUS MyLogo™
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet! Technology

1 x Parallel port
1 x Serial port
1 x PS/2 keyboard port
1 x PS/2 mouse port
4 x USB 2.0 ports
1 x VGA port
1 x RJ-45 port
Line In/Line Out/Microphone ports

(continued on the next page)

ix

K8S-MX specifications summary

Internal I/O

BIOS features

Industry standard
Manageability
Power Requirement
Form Factor
Support CD contents

2 x USB 2.0 connector for 4 additional USB ports
CPU/Chassis fan connectors
20-pin/4-pin ATX 12V power connectors
CD/AUX connectors
S/PDIF out connector
GAME/MIDI connector
Front panel audio connector

4Mb Flash EEPROM
AMI BIOS with enhanced ACPI, PnP, DMI, ASUS MyLogo™,
SM BIOS 2.3

PCI 2.2, USB 2.0/1.1
Wake-On-LAN by PME, Wake-On-Ring by PME
ATX power supply (with 4-pin 12V plug)
micro-ATX form factor: 9.6 in x 7.6 in (24.4 cm x 19.3 cm)
Device drivers

ASUS PC Probe
Anti-virus software (OEM version)

* Specifications are subject to change without notice.

x

Chapter 1

This chapter describes the features of the
motherboard. It includes brief descriptions of the
motherboard components, and illustrations of the
layout, jumper settings, and connectors.

Product introduction

1.1Welcome!

Thank you for buying the ASUS® K8S-MX motherboard!

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

The motherboard combines the powers of the AMD Athlon™ 64 or AMD
Sempron™ processor and the SiS 760GX chipset to set a new benchmark for an
effective desktop platform solution.

Supporting up to 2GB of system memory with PC3200/PC2700/PC2100/PC1600
DDR DIMMs, high-resolution graphics via an AGP 8X slot, Serial ATA RAID, USB

2.0, and 6-channel audio features, the motherboard takes you ahead in the world
of power computing!

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

1.2Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

ASUS K8S-MX motherboard
ASUS motherboard support CD
1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cables
2 x Serial ATA cables
1 x Floppy disk cable
I/O shield
User guide

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

1-2

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product Highlights

Latest processor technology

The motherboard supports the AMD Athlon™ 64 and AMD Sempron™ desktop
processors. The AMD Athlon™ 64 is based on AMD’s 64-bit architecture, which
represents the landmark introduction of the industry’s first x86-64 technology. This
processor provides a dramatic leap forward in compatibility, performance,
investment protection, and reduced total cost of ownership and development.

The AMD Sempron™ is a 32-bit processor that provides the performance needs of
value-conscious buyers. This processor is designed to deliver best-in-class
performance for everyday computing.

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.

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.

Serial ATA solution

The motherboard supports two interfaces compliant to the Serial ATA (SATA)
specification, an evolutionary replacement of the Parallel ATA storage interface.
The Serial ATA specification allows for thinner, more flexible cables with lower pin
count, reduced voltage requirement, up to 150 MB/s data transfer rate.

Serial ATA RAID solution

The motherboard provides a high-performance Serial ATA RAID controller that
enhance hard disk performance and data backup protection without the cost of
additional RAID cards. The onboard SIS 965L RAID controller provides two Serial
ATA connectors for RAID 0 and RAID 1 functions.

AGP 8X support

AGP 8X (AGP 3.0) is the VGA interface specification that enables enhanced
graphics performance with maximum bandwidth speeds of up to 2.12 GB/s.

ASUS K8S-MX motherboard

1-3

S/PDIF out

The motherboard’s S/PDIF out function turns your computer into a high-end
entertainment system with digital connectivity to powerful speaker systems.

USB 2.0 technology

The motherboard implements the Universal Serial Bus 2.0 (USB 2.0) specification,
extending the connection speed from 12 Mbps on USB 1.1 to a fast 480Mbps on
USB 2.0.

6-Channel Audio solution

The motherboard uses an onboard audio CODEC that lets you enjoy high-quality
6-channel audio without having to buy advanced sound cards.

1.3.2 Unique ASUS features

CrashFree BIOS 2

This feature allows you to restore the original BIOS data from the ASUS 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 2-6.

C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

The C.P.R. feature of the motherboard BIOS allows automatic re-setting to the
BIOS default settings in case the system hangs due to overclocking. When the
system hangs due to overclocking, C.P.R. eliminates the need to open the system
chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut down and reboot the system, and
BIOS automatically restores the CPU previous setting for each parameter.

ASUS MyLogo™

This new feature present in the motherboard allows you to personalize and add
style to your system with customizable boot logos. See pages 2-31.

ASUS EZ Flash BIOS

With the ASUS EZ Flash, you can easily update the system BIOS even before
loading the operating system. No need to use a DOS-based utility or boot from a
floppy disk. See page 2-5.

1-4

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.4 Before you proceed

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

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

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

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

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

5. Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power
supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply.
Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard,
peripherals, and/or components.

Onboard LED

The motherboard comes with a stand-by power LED. When lit, this green LED
indicates that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode, 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.

®

ON

Standby

Power

SB_PWR

OFF

Powered

Off

K8S-MX

K8S-MX Onboard LED

ASUS K8S-MX motherboard

1-5

1.5 Motherboard overview

1.5.1 Motherboard layout

19.3cm (7.6in)

PS/2KBMS
T: Mouse
B: Keyboard

COM1

ATX12V

®

CPU_FAN

ATXPWR

VGA

USB12

Bottom:

USB34

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

AUX

AD1888

PARALLEL PORT

USBPW34
USBPW12

Top:

RJ-45

RTL8201CL

I/O

Super

CD

FP_AUDIO

PCIEX1_1

4M

BIOS

SPDIF_OUT

Socket 754

SIS

760GX

K8S-MX

Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP)

PCI1

SB_PWR

PCI2

GAME

FLOPPY

USB78

DDR DIMM2 (64 bit, 184-pin module)

DDR DIMM1 (64 bit, 184-pin module)

SEC_IDE

SIS

965L

CR2032 3V
Lithium Cell

CMOS Power

USBPW78
USBPW56

USB56

SATA2
SATA1

PANEL

CHA_FAN

CHASSIS

PRI_IDE

CLRTC

24.4cm (9.6in)

1-6

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.5.2 Placement direction

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

1.5.3 Screw 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 may damage the motherboard.

R

Place this side towards
the rear of the chassis

K8S-MX

ASUS K8S-MX motherboard

1-7

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

1.6.1 Overview

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

The 128-bit-wide data paths of these processors can run applications faster than
processors with only 32-bit or 64-bit wide data paths.

®

K8S-MX

Gold Arrow

K8S-MX CPU Socket 754

Incorrect installation of the CPU into the socket may bend the pins and severely
damage the CPU!

1-8

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.6.2 Installing the CPU

Follow these steps to install a CPU.

1. Locate the 754-pin ZIF socket on the motherboard.

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

Socket Lever

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

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.

The CPU fits only in one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the
socket to prevent bending the pins and damaging the CPU!

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.

Gold triangle

Small triangle

6. Install specifically designed heatsink
and fan assembly.

ASUS K8S-MX motherboard

1-9

1.7System memory

1.7.1 DIMM sockets location

The following figure illustrates the location of the DDR DIMM sockets.

®

K8S-MX

K8S-MX 184-pin DDR DIMM sockets

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

• When installing long AGP cards, it is recommended to install the memory
modules first. Long AGP cards, when installed, may interfere with the
memory sockets.

DIMM1

80 Pins 104 Pins

DIMM2

1.7.2 Memory configurations

You may install 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, and 1GB DDR DIMMs into the
DIMM sockets using the memory configurations in this section.

Important notes

• Installing DDR DIMMs other than the recommended configurations may
cause memory sizing error or system boot failure. Use any of the
recommended configurations in Table 1.

• For optimum compatibility, obtain memory modules from qualified vendors.
See Qualified Vendors List on page 1-12.

• Stacked RAM and DDR DIMM modules with more than 18 chips are not
supported.

• Always install DIMMs with the same CAS Latency. For optimum
compatibility, obtain memory modules from the same vendors. See
Qualified Vendors List on page 1-12.

1-10

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Table 1 Recommended memory configurations

Number of DIMM Slot
DIMMs DIMM1 DIMM2 Max Speed

1 Single Side - DDR 400
1-Single Side DDR 400
1 Double Side - DDR 400
1-Double Side DDR 400
2 Single Side Single Side DDR 400
2 Single Side Double Side DDR 400
2 Double Side Single Side DDR 400
2 Double Side Double Side DDR 400

Table 2 DDR400 Qualified Vendor List (QVL)

DIMM support

Size Vendor Model Brand Side(s) Component A B

256MB Kingston KVR333X64C25/256 Kingston SS D3208DH1T-6 • •
257MB Kingston KVR333X64C25/256 Hynix SS HY5DU56822BT-J • •
512MB Kingston KVR333X64C25/512 Hynix DS HY5DU56822BT-J • •
512MB Kingston KVR400X643A/512 Hynix DS HY5DU56822BT-D43 • •
512MB Kingston KVR400X64C3A/512 Kingston DS D3208DL3T-5 • •
256MB Kingston KVR400X64C3A/256 Hynix SS HY5DU56822BT-D43 •
256MB Infineon HYS64D64320GU-5-C Infineon SS HYB25D256800CE-5C • •
512MB Infineon HYS64D32300GU-5-C Infineon DS HYB25D256800CE-5C • •
256MB Infineon HYS64D64320GU-5-C Infineon SS HYB25D256800CE-5C • •
512MB Infineon HYS64D64320GU-6-C Infineon DS HYB25D256800CE-6C • •
256MB HY DDR400-256 Hynix SS HY5DU56822BT-D43 • •
512MB HY DDR400-512 Hynix DS HY5DU56822BT-D43 • •
256MB HY DDR266-256 Hynix SS HY5DU56822AT-H • •
256MB HY DDR333-256 Hynix SS HY5DU56822BT-J • •
512MB HY DDR333-512 Hynix DS HY5DU56822BT-J • •
256MB Corsair VS256MB400 Value select SS VS32M8-5 2B0409 • •
512MB Corsair VS512MB400 Value select DS VS32M8-5 2B0402 •
256MB Corsair VS256MB333 SAMSUNG SS K4H5608380-TCB3 • •
512MB Corsair VS512MB333 Value select DS VS32M8-6 2B0412 • •
512MB Micron MT16VDDT6464AG-335GB MICRON DS MT46V32M8-G • •
256MB Micron MT8VDDT3264AG-335GB MICRON SS MT46V32M8-G • •
256MB Micron MT8VDDT3264AG-40BGB MICRON SS MT46V32M8-G • •
512MB Micron MT16VDDT6464AG-40BGB MICRON DS MT46V32M8-G • •
256MB Samsung M368L3223FTN-CCC SAMSUNG SS K4H560838F-TCCC • •
512MB Samsung M368L6423FTN-CCC SAMSUNG DS K4H560838F-TCCC • •
256MB Samsung M368L3223FTN-CB3 SAMSUNG SS K4H560838F-TCB3 • •
512MB Samsung M368L6423FTN-CB3 SAMSUNG DS K4H5608838F-TCB3 • •
256MB Winbond U24256ADWBG6H20 Winbond SS W942508CH-5 • •
256MB Winbond U24256AAWBG6H20 Winbond SS W942508CH-6 • •
512MB Winbond DDR333-512 Winbond DS W942508BH-6 • •
512MB Winbond U24512ADWBG6H20 Winbond DS W942508CH-5 • •
256MB Elpida U24256AD1PG6H20 Elpida SS DD2508AKTA-5C •
512MB Elpida U24512AD1PG6H20 Elpida DS DD2508AMTA • •
256MB Transcend DDR400-256 SAMSUNG SS K4H560838F-TCCC • •
256MB Transcend DDR400-256 Mosel SS V58C2256804SAT5B • •

(Continued on the next page)

ASUS K8S-MX motherboard

1-11

Table 2 DDR400 Qualified Vendor List (QVL)

DIMM support

Size Vendor Model Brand Side(s) Component A B

512MB Transcend DDR400-512 Mosel DS V58C2256804SAT5B • •
512MB Transcend DDR400-512 SAMSUNG DS K4H560838F-TCCC • •
512MB Transcend DDR333-512 Hynix DS HY5DU56822CT-J • •
256MB Pmi 3208GATA07-04A7 Pmi SS PM4D328D50406EU • •
512MB Pmi 3208GATA01-04A4 Pmi DS PM4D328S50403DU • •
256MB Kingmax MPMB62D-38LT3R Mosel SS V58C2256804SAT6 • •

Kingmax MPMC22D-38HT3R Hynix DS HY5DU56822BT-J • •
256MB Kingmax MPMB62D-38KT3R KINGMAX SS KDL388P4LA-50 • •
512MB Kingmax MPXC22D-38KT3R KINGMAX DS KDL388P4EA-50 • •
256MB Mosel V826632K24SATG-D3 Mosel SS V58C2256804SAT5 • •
512MB Mosel V826664K24SATG-D3 Mosel DS V58C2256804SAT5 •
256MB Nanya NT256D64S88B1G-5T Nanya SS NT5DS32M8BT-5T • •
512MB Nanya NT512D64S8HB1G-5T Nanya DS NT5DS32M8BT-5T • •
256MB Apacer 77.10628.10A Apacer SS AM3A5608AIT-6B • •
512MB Apacer 77.90728.U1G Apacer DS AM3A568AJT-6B • •
512MB Apacer 77.10736.464 SAMSUNG DS K4H560838E-TCCC • •
512MB Apacer 77.90739.U1G Apacer DS AM3A568AJT-5A • •
256MB Apacer 77.10636.46G SAMSUNG SS K4H560838E-TCCC •
256MB Apacer 77.10636.56G Mosel SS V58C2256804SAT5B • •
512MB Apacer 77.10736.11G Infineon DS HYB25D256800BT-5B •
256MB Smart U24256ADSRG6H20 Smart SS D32M8XS50H3X4AMV •
512MB Smart U24512ADSRG6H20 Smart DS D32M8XS50H3X4AMV • •
512MB Smart U24512ADSKG6H20 Smart DS D32M8XS60HBX4AMV • •
1G Twinmos M2S5016AJAMC5G0811A-J TWINMOS DS 46V64M8 • •
512MB Twinmos M2S9J18BGAPS9F0811A-T PSC DS A2S56D30ATP • •
256MB A Data MDOSS1F3G3X10BZL0Z SAMSUNG SS K4H560838E-TCC5 • •
512MB A Data MDOSS1F3H4X10BZL0Z SAMSUNG DS K4H560838E-TCC5 • •
512MB Promos V826662K24SCTG-D0 Promos DS 0415PRV58C2256804SCT5B • •

Legend:

A - supports one module inserted into either slot, in a Single-channel memory configuration.
B - supports one pair of modules inserted into both slots.
SS - Single-sided
DS - Double-sided

Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for the latest DDR 400 Qualified
Vendor List for this motherboard.

1-12

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.7.3 Installing a DIMM

Follow these steps to install a DIMM.

1. Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the
retaining clips outward.

2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the
notch on the DIMM matches the break on
the socket.

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

A DDR DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it fits in only one direction. DO NOT
force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the DIMM.

1.8 Expansion slots

To install and configure an expansion card:

DDR DIMM

Unlocked

1. Install an expansion card following the instructions that came with the chassis.

2. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See
Chapter 2 for BIOS information.

3. Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables next page.

4. Install the drivers and/or software applications for the expansion card
according to the card documentation.

1.8.1 Standard interrupt assignments

IRQ Priority Standard Function

0 1 System Timer
1 2 Keyboard Controller
2 N/A Programmable Interrupt
3* 11 IRQ holder for PCI steering
4* 12 Communications Port (COM1)
5* 13 IRQ holder for PCI steering
6 14 Floppy Disk Controller
7* 15 Printer Port (LPT1)
8 3 System CMOS/Real Time Clock
9* 4 IRQ holder for PCI steering
10* 5 IRQ holder for PCI steering
11*6 IRQ holder for PCI steering
12* 7 PS/2 Compatible Mouse Port
13 8 Numeric Data Processor
14* 9 Primary IDE Channel
15* 10 Secondary IDE Channel

* These IRQs are usually available for ISA or PCI devices.

ASUS K8S-MX motherboard

1-13

1.8.2 IRQ assignments for this motherboard

INT A INT B INT C INT D

PCI slot 1 shared — — —
PCI slot 2 — shared — —
LAN — — — shared
AGP slot — — shared —
VGA slot — — shared —

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

1.8.3 PCI slots

The PCI slots support PCI cards such
as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card,
and other cards that comply with PCI
specifications.

1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slot

This motherboard supports PCI Express
x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other
cards that comply with the PCI Express
specifications. The figure shows a
network card installed on the PCI
Express x1 slot.

1-14

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.8.5 AGP slot

The Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) slot supports AGP 8X/4X (+1.5V) cards.
When you buy an AGP card, make sure that you ask for one with +1.5V
specification.

Note the notches on the card golden fingers to ensure that they fit the AGP slot on
the motherboard.

Install only +1.5V AGP cards.

®

K8S-MX

K8S-MX Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP)

If installing the ATi 9500 or 9700 Pro Series VGA cards, use only the card
version PN xxx-xxxxx-30 or later, for optimum performance and overclocking
stability.

Keyed for 1.5v

ASUS K8S-MX motherboard

1-15

1.9 Jumpers

1. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC)

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 RAM data in CMOS, that include
system setup information such as system • words, is powered by the onboard
button cell battery.

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
re-enter data.

Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on the jumper
default position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!

®

K8S-MX

K8S-MX Clear RTC RAM Setting

You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking.
For system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)
feature. Shut down and reboot the system so BIOS can automatically reset
parameter settings to its previous values.

CLRTC

2
1

Normal Clear CMOS

(Default)

3
2

1-16

Chapter 1: Product introduction