Motherboard
M2A-MX
ii
Copyright © 2007 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, modied or altered, unless
such repair, modication 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 identication or explanation and to the
owners’ benet, without intent to infringe.
E3416
First Edition
October 2007
iii
Contents
Notices ......................................................................................................... vi
Safety information ..................................................................................... vii
About this guide ....................................................................................... viii
M2A-MX specications summary ............................................................... x
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 Welcome! ..................................................................................... 1-2
1.2 Package contents .........................................................................
1-2
1.3 Special features ............................................................................
1-2
1.3.1 Product highlights ...........................................................
1-2
1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features ..............................................
1-4
1.4 Before you proceed .....................................................................
1-6
1.5 Motherboard overview .................................................................
1-7
1.5.1 Motherboard layout .........................................................
1-7
1.5.2 Placement direction ........................................................
1-8
1.5.3 Screw holes ....................................................................
1-8
1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ...................................................
1-9
1.6.1 Installing the CPU ...........................................................
1-9
1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan .......................................
1-11
1.7 System memory .........................................................................
1-13
1.7.1 Overview .......................................................................
1-13
1.7.2 Memory congurations ..................................................
1-13
1.7.3 Installing a DIMM ..........................................................
1-19
1.7.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................
1-19
1.8 Expansion slots ..........................................................................
1-20
1.8.1 Installing an expansion card .........................................
1-20
1.8.2 Conguring an expansion card .....................................
1-20
Interrupt assignments ................................................................... 1-21
1.8.3 PCI slots ........................................................................
1-23
1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slot .......................................................
1-23
1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot .....................................................
1-23
1.9 Jumpers ......................................................................................
1-24
1.10 Connectors .................................................................................
1-26
1.10.1 Rear panel connectors ..................................................
1-26
1.10.2 Internal connectors .......................................................
1-28
iv
Contents
Chapter 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 oppy disk .......................................
2-5
2.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash utility ......................................................
2-6
2.1.4 AFUDOS utility ................................................................
2-7
2.1.5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility ......................................
2-9
2.2 BIOS setup program ..................................................................
2-11
2.2.1 BIOS menu screen ........................................................
2-12
2.2.2 Menu bar .......................................................................
2-12
2.2.3 Navigation keys .............................................................
2-12
2.2.4 Menu items ...................................................................
2-13
2.2.5 Sub-
menu items ............................................................ 2-13
2.2.6 Conguration elds .......................................................
2-13
2.2.7 Pop-up window .............................................................
2-13
2.2.8 General help .................................................................
2-13
2.3 Main menu ..................................................................................
2-14
2.3.1 System Time .................................................................
2-14
2.3.2 System Date .................................................................
2-14
2.3.3 Legacy Diskette A .........................................................
2-14
2.3.4 Primary IDE Master/Slave .............................................
2-15
2.3.5 SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, and SATA4 ..............................
2-16
2.3.6 IDE Conguration ..........................................................
2-17
2.3.7 System Information .......................................................
2-18
2.4 Advanced menu .........................................................................
2-19
2.4.1 JumperFree Conguration ............................................
2-19
2.4.2 CPU Conguration ........................................................
2-21
2.4.3 Chipset ..........................................................................
2-22
2.4.4 Onboard Devices Conguration ....................................
2-25
2.4.5 PCI PnP ........................................................................
2-26
2.4.6 USB Conguration ........................................................
2-27
v
Contents
2.5 Power menu ................................................................................ 2-28
2.5.1 Suspend Mode .............................................................
2-28
2.5.2 ACPI 2.0 Support ..........................................................
2-28
2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support ......................................................
2-28
2.5.4 APM Conguration ........................................................
2-29
2.5.5 Hardware Monitor .........................................................
2-30
2.6 Boot menu ..................................................................................
2-31
2.6.1 Boot Device Priority ......................................................
2-31
2.6.2 Boot Settings Conguration ..........................................
2-32
2.6.3 Security .........................................................................
2-33
2.7 Exit menu ....................................................................................
2-35
Chapter 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 ..................................................................
3-5
3.2.6 ASUS Contact information ..............................................
3-6
3.2.7 Other information ............................................................
3-6
vi
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.
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.
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is
required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modications
to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance
could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.
vii
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 qualied
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 qualied
service technician or your retailer.
The symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical
and electronic equipment, Mercury-containing button cell battery) should not
be placed in municipal waste. Please check local regulations for disposal of
electronic products.
viii
About this guide
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring
the motherboard.
How this guide is organized
This manual contains the following parts:
• Chapter 1: Product introduction
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new
technology it supports. This chapter 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 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 support
This chapter describes the contents of the support CD/DVD that comes with
the motherboard package.
Where to nd 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 make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following
symbols used throughout this manual.
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself
when trying to complete a task.
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components
when trying to complete a task.
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a
task.
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete 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
means that you must press the enclosed key.
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the
Enter or Return key.
<Key1+Key2+Key3> 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 type the command exactly
as shown, then supply the required item or value
enclosed in brackets.
Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:
format A:/S
x
M2A-MX specications summary
(continued on the next page)
CPU Support AMD socket AM2 for AMD Athlon™ 64 FX /
Athlon™ 64 X2 / Athlon™ 64 / Sempron / AM2+
processors
AMD64 architecture enables simultaneous 32-bit and
64-bit computing
Supports AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology
AMD Live!™ Ready
Chipset Northbridge: AMD 690V
Southbridge: AMD SB600
System bus 2000 / 1600 MT/s
Memory Dual-channel memory architecture 2 x 240-pin DIMM
sockets support up to 4 GB of unbufferred non-ECC
800 / 667 / 533 MHz DDR2 memory modules
Expansion slots 1 x PCI Express™ x16 slot
1 x PCI Express™ x1 slot
2 x PCI slots
Graphics Integrated ATI Radeon X1200 VPU graphics
Note: Max. UMA memory is up to 256 MB.
Storage AMD SB600 chipset supports:
- 1 x Ultra DMA 133 / 100 / 66 interface for two
(2) hard disk drives
- 4 x Serial ATA 3 Gb/s hard disk drives supporting
RAID 0, RAID 1 and RAID 0+1 congurations
High Denition Audio Realtek® ALC662 High Denition Audio 6-channel
CODEC
Supports Jack-deteck and Anti Pop Function
Supports S/PDIF out interface
LAN PCIe Gigabit LAN
BIOS features 8 Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, Green, PnP, DMI v2.0,
WfM 2.0, ACPI v3.0, SM BIOS 2.5
Manageability WfM2.0, DMI2.0, WOL by PME, WOR, PXE
Special features ASUS Q-Fan
ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2
ASUS EZ Flash
ASUS MyLogo™
USB Supports up to 10 USB 2.0 / 1.1 ports (6 ports at mid-
board, and 4 ports at back panel)
xi
M2A-MX specications summary
Rear panel 1 x Parallel port
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port
4 x USB 2.0 ports
1 x VGA Out port
1 x COM port
1 x PS/2 keyboard port
1 x PS/2 mouse port
6-channel audio ports
Internal connectors 1 x Front panel audio connector
1 x CD audio in connector
1 x CPU fan connector
1 x Chassis fan connector
1 x Floppy disk drive connector
1 x Speaker connector
1 x IDE connector
1 x S/PDIF Out connector
1 x Chassis intrusion connector
4 x Serial ATA connectors
3 x USB 2.0 connectors for 6 additional USB 2.0 ports
24-pin ATX power connector
4-pin x ATX 12V power connector
1 x System panel connector
Power Requirement ATX power supply (with 24-pin and 4-pin 12 V plugs)
ATX 12 V 2.0 compliant
Accessories 1 x Serial ATA signal cable
1 x SATA power cable
1 x UltraDMA 133 / 100 / 66
1 x Floppy disk drive cable
1 x I/O Shield
User guide
Form Factor MicroATX: 9.6 in. x 7.6 in. (24.5 cm x 19.4 cm)
Support CD Device drivers
ASUS PC Probe II
ASUS Live Update utility
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Utility
Anti-virus software (OEM version)
*Specications are subject to change without notice.
xii
1
Product
introduction
This chapter describes the motherboard
features and the new technologies
it supports.
1-2 Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 Welcome!
Thank you for buying an ASUS® M2A-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!
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the
items in your package with the list below.
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
1.2 Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items.
1.3 Special features
1.3.1 Product highlights
Latest processor technology
The motherboard supports AMD socket AM2 / AM2+ single-core Athlon 64 /
Sempron and dual-core Athlon 64 X2/Athlon 64 FX processors with 2 MB / 1 MB /
512 KB L2 cache, which is based on 64-bit architecture. It features 2000 / 1600
MT/s HyperTransport Bus, dual-channel un-buffered DDR2 800 memory support
and AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Technology. See page 1-9 for details.
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Technology
The motherboard supports the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Technology, which monitors
system operation and automatically adjusts CPU voltage and frequency for a cool
and quiet operating environment. See page 2-21 for details.
Motherboard ASUS M2A-MX motherboard
Cables 1 x Serial ATA signal cable
1 x Serial ATA power cable
1 x Ultra DMA 133 / 100 / 66 cable
1 x Floppy disk drive cable
Accessories I/O shield
Application CD ASUS motherboard support CD
Documentation User guide
ASUS M2A-MX 1-3
AMD® 690V
and ATI SB600 chipsets
The AMD® 690V Chipset delivers a Windows Vista
TM
Premmium experience. This
Northbridge is the latest AMD chipset designed to support AMD SempronTM, AMD
Athlon
TM
64, Athlon
TM
64 FX, Athlon
TM
64 FX x2 CPU. It boosts your gaming and
multimedia experience with integrated ATI Radeon x1200 Graphics. It also features
800 / 1000MHz HyperTransport (HT) interface speeds, Microsoft DirectX 9.0, Pixel
Shader V2.0 and dual VGA outputs. The AMD SB600 chipset buid-in ATA 133
controller supports RAID 0, 1 and, 0+1. See page 1-30 and 2-17 for details.
DDR2 memory support
The motherboard supports DDR2 memory which features data transfer rates of
800 MHz / 667 MHz / 533 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of
the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel
DDR2 architecture doubles the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system
performance, eliminating bottlenecks with peak bandwidths of up to 12.8 GB/s.
See page 1-13 for details.
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
specications. See page 1-23 for details.
Serial ATA 3Gb/s technology
The motherboard supports next-generation SATA hard drives based on the new
SATA 3Gb/s storage specication. The onboard AMD® SB600 allows RAID 0, RAID
1 and RAID 0+1 congurations for four SATA connectors. See pages 1-30 and
2-17 for details.
Gigabit LAN solution
PCI Express Gb LAN controller delivers transfer speeds up to ten times faster than
conventional 10/100/1000 Ethernet connections. Gigabit LAN is the networking
standard for the early future and is ideal for handling large amounts of data such
as video, audio, and voice. See page 1-26 for details.
1-4 Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features
6-channel high denition audio
Onboard is the Realtek® ALC662 High Denition Audio 6-channel audio CODEC.
This CODEC is fully-compliant with Intel® High Denition Audio standard (192 KHz,
24-bit audio). With the CODEC, 6-channel audio ports, and S/PDIF interfaces,
you can connect your computer to home theater decoders to produce crystal-clear
digital audio.
USB 2.0 technology
The motherboard implements the Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 specication,
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 1-25, 1-27 and 1-32 for details.
ASUS Q-Fan technology
The ASUS Q-Fan technology smartly adjusts the CPU fan speeds according to the
system loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efcient operation.
See page 2-30 for details.
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 BIOS chip. See page 2-9 for details.
ASUS EZ Flash
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
oppy disk. See page 2-6 for details.
ASUS MyLogo™
This new feature present in the motherboard allows you to personalize and add
style to your system with customizable boot logos. See page 2-32 for details.
ASUS M2A-MX 1-5
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 the
BIOS automatically restores the CPU default setting for each parameter. See page
1-24 for details.
1-6 Chapter 1: Product introduction
Onboard LED
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate
that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder
that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before
removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below
shows the location of the onboard LED.
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, 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.
M2A-MX
R
M2A-MX Onboard LED
SB_PWR
ON
Standby
Power
OFF
Powered
Off
ASUS M2A-MX 1-7
1.5.1 Motherboard layout
1.5 Motherboard overview
19.4cm (7.6in)
24.5cm (9.6in
)
FLOPPY
Socket AM2
PS/2KBMS
T: Mouse
B: Keyboard
EATXPWR
SPEAKER
SB_PWR
DDR2 DIMM_A
1
(64 bit,240-pin module)
DDR2 DIMM_B1 (64 bit,240-pin module
)
PCI2
PCI1
PCIEX16
PCIEX1_1
AUDIO
F_USB34
LAN1_USB12
CLRTC
PRI_IDE
CR2032 3V
Lithium Cell
CMOS Power
CHASSIS
SPDIF_OUT
SATA4
SATA3
SATA1
SATA2
8Mb
BIOS
USB910
F_PANEL
USB78
USB56
AMD
690V
AAFP
CD
ALC662
Super I/O
Attansic
L1
ICS
951462AGLF
COM1
COM2
PARALLEL PORT
ATX12V
CPU_FAN
CHA_FAN
PS2_USBPW
AMD
SB600
M2A-MX
R
1-8 Chapter 1: Product introduction
M2A-MX
R
Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
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.
Place this side towards
the rear of the chassis
ASUS M2A-MX 1-9
1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with a 940-pin AM2 socket designed for the AMD
Athlon™ 64 FX / Athlon™ 64 x2 / Athlon™ 64 / Sempron™ / AM2+ processor.
The AM2 socket has a different pinout from the 940-pin socket designed for the
AMD Opteron™ processor. Make sure you use a CPU is designed for the AM2
socket. The CPU ts in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into
the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the
CPU!
1.6.1 Installing the CPU
To install a CPU.
1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.
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 t in completely.
Socket lever
M2A-MX
R
M2A-MX CPU Socket M2
1-10 Chapter 1: Product introduction
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 ts in place.
The CPU ts 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.
6. Install a CPU heatsink and fan
following the instructions that came
with the heatsink package.
Gold triangle
Small triangle
7. Connect the CPU fan cable to the CPU_FAN connector on the motherboard.
Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors
can occur if you fail to plug this connector.
M2A-MX
R
M2A-MX CPU Fan Connector
CPU_FAN
GND
CPU FAN PWR
CPU FAN IN
CPU FAN PWM
ASUS M2A-MX 1-11
1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan
The AMD Athlon™ 64 FX / Athlon™ 64 x2 / Athlon™ 64 / Sempron™ processor
require a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal
condition and performance.
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
ts properly on the retention module base.
Retention Module Base
CPU Heatsink
CPU Fan
Retention bracket lockRetention bracket
Make sure that you use only qualied heatsink and fan assembly.
• 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.
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.
1-12 Chapter 1: Product introduction
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.
4. Push down the retention bracket lock on the retention mechanism to secure
the heatsink and fan to the module base.
Make sure that the fan and
heatsink assembly perfectly ts
the retention mechanism module
base; otherwise, you cannot snap
the retention bracket in place.
ASUS M2A-MX 1-13
1.7.2 Memory congurations
You may install 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR2
DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.
1.7 System memory
1.7.1 Overview
The motherboard comes with two Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory
Modules (DIMM) sockets.
A DDR2 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR DIMM but has a
240-pin footprint compared to the 184-pin DDR DIMM. DDR2 DIMMs are notched
differently to prevent installation on a DDR DIMM socket.
The gure illustrates the location of the DDR2 DIMM sockets:
Channel Sockets
Channel A DIMM_A1
Channel B DIMM_B1
Recommended memory congurations
Sockets
Mode DIMM_A1 DIMM_B1
Single-Channel
– Populated
Populated –
Dual-channel Populated Populated
M2A-MX
R
M2A-MX
240-pin DDR2 DIMM Sockets
112 Pins
128 Pins
DIMM_A1
DIMM_B1
1-14 Chapter 1: Product introduction
• When using only one memory module, start installing the DDR2 DIMM from
slot DIMM_A1 or DIMM_B1 for better overclocking capability.
• Always use identical DDR2 DIMM pairs for dual channel mode. For
optimum compatibility, we recommend that you obtain memory modules
from the same vendor.
Important notice on installing Windows® Vista / XP 32-bit version
If you install Windows® Vista / XP 32-bit version Operating System (OS), the
limitation of this OS version is that it may reserve a certain amount of memory
space for system devices. We recommend that you install less than 3 GB
system memory if you would like to work under Windows® Vista / XP 32-bit
version OS. The excess memory installation will not cause any usage problem,
but it will not give users the benet of manipulating this excess memory space.
64-bit
Windows® XP Professional x64 Edition
Windows® Vista x64 Edition
The motherboard can support 4 GB physical memory on the operating system
listed below. You may install a maximum of 2 GB DIMMs on each slot.
ASUS M2A-MX 1-15
Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR2-533 MHz capability
DIMM support
Size Vendor Model Side(s) Component A B
256MB AENEON AET560UD00-370A98Z SS AET94F370AWVV34635G0520 • •
512MB AENEON AET660UD00-370A98Z SS AET93F370A G 0513 • •
512MB AENEON AET660UD00-370A98Z SS AET93F370A 3VV36328G 0522 • •
512MB AENEON AET660UD00-370A98X SS AET93F370A 0518 • •
512MB AENEON AET660UD00-370A88S DS AET82F370A 0550 • •
512MB AENEON AET660UD00-370B97X SS AET93R370B 0640 • •
1G AENEON AET760UD00-370A98Z DS AET93F370A 0551 • •
1G AENEON AET760UD00-370A98S DS AET92F370A 0606 • •
1G AENEON AET760UD00-370B97X DS AET93R370B 0640 • •
2G AENEON AET860UD00-370A08X DS AET03F370AFVV26176G 0542 • •
512MB Corsair VS512MB533D2 DS MIII0052532M8CEC •
512MB Elpida EBE51UD8ABFA-5C-E SS E5108AB-5C-E •
256MB HY HYMP532U64CP6-C4 AB SS HY5PS121621CFP-C4 •
1G HY HYMP512U64CP8-C4 AB DS HY5PS12821CFP-C4 •
256MB Kingmax KLBB68F-36EP4 SS E5116AB-5C-E •
512MB Kingmax KLBC28F-A8KB4 SS KKEA88B4IAK-37 •
512MB Kingmax KLBC28F-A8EB4 SS E5108AE-5C-E •
256MB Kingston KVR533D2N4/256 SS E5116AB-5C-E •
256MB Kingston KVR533D2N4/256 SS E5116AF-5C-E •
512MB Kingston KVR533D2N4/512 DS HY5PS56821F-C4 •
512MB Kingston KVR533D2N4/512 SS HYB18T512800AF3733336550 •
1G Kingston KVR533D2N4/1G DS D6408TE7BL-37 •
512MB Micron MT 16HTF6464AG-53EB2 DS D9BOM •
512MB Micron MT 16HTF6464AG-53EB2 DS Z9BQT •
1G Micron MT 16HTF12864AY-53EA1 DS D9CRZ •
512MB PQI MEAB-323LA SS D2-E04180W025 •
1G PQI MEAB-423LA DS D2-E04230W107 •
256MB Qimonda HYS64T32000HU-3.7-A SS HYB18T512160AF-3.7AFSS31270 •
512MB Qimonda HYS64T64000GU-3.7-A SS HYB18T512800AC37SSS11511 •
512MB Qimonda HYS64T64000HU-3.7-A SS HYB18T512800AF37SSS12079 •
512MB Qimonda HYS64T64000HU-3.7-A SS HYB18T512800AF37FSS29334 •
512MB REMAXEL RML1040EG38D6F-533 SS E5108AG-5C-E • •
256MB Samsung M378T3253FG0-CD5 SS K4T56083QF-GCD5 •
512MB Samsung M378T6553BG0-CD5 SS K4T51083QB-GCD5 •
512MB Transcend 512MB DDR2 533 ECC SS 6ND22D9GCT(ECC) •
512MB VERITECH GTP512HLTM46DG SS VTD264M8PC6G01A164129621 • •
1G VERITECH GTP01GHLTM56DG DS VTD264M8PC6G01A164129621 • •
1-16 Chapter 1: Product introduction
Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR2-667 MHz capability
512MB ADATA M20EL5G3H3160B1C0Z SS E5108AE-6E-E •
513MB ADATA M20AD5G3H3166I1C52 SS AD29608A8A-3EG20648 •
1G ADATA M2OAD5G3I4176I1C52 DS AD29608A8A-3EG20645 •
512MB AENEON AET660UD00-30DA98Z SS AET93F30DA 0552 • •
512MB AENEON AET660UD00-30DB97X SS AET93R300B 0634 • •
512MB AENEON AET660UD00-30DA98Z SS AET93F300A 0606 • •
1G AENEON AET760UD00-30DA98Z DS AET93F30DA8EE47414G 0540 • •
1G AENEON AET760UD00-30DA98Z DS AET93F30DA 0604 • •
1G AENEON AET760UD00-30DB97X DS AET93R300B 0639 • •
512MB Apacer 78.91092.420 SS E5108AE-6E-E •
512MB Apacer AU512E667C5KBGC SS AM4B5708MIJS7E0627B •
512MB Apacer AU512E667C5KBGC SS AM4B5708GQJS7E06332F •
1G Apacer AU01GE667C5KBGC DS AM4B5708GQJS7E0636B •
1G Apacer 78.01092.420 DS E5108AE-6E-E •
1G Apacer AU01GE667C5KBGC DS AM4B5708MIJS7E0627B •
512MB Century CENTURY 512MB SS NT5TU64M8AE-3C • •
512MB Century CENTURY 512MB SS HY5PS12821AFP-Y5 • •
1G Century CENTURY 1G DS HY5PS12821AFP-Y5 • •
1G Century CENTURY 1G DS NT5TU64M8AE-3C • •
512MB Corsair VS512MB667D2 DS MIII0052532M8CEC •
512MB Corsair CM2X512-5400C4 SS Heat-Sink Package •
1G Corsair VS1GB667D2 DS MID095D62864M8CEC •
512MB GEIL GX21GB5300DC SS Heat-Sink Package • •
256MB HY HYMP532U64CP6-Y5 AB SS HY5PS121621CFP-Y5 •
512MB HY HYMP564U64AP8-Y4 AA SS HY5PS12821AFP-Y4 •
512MB HY HYMP564U64AP8-Y5 AA SS HY5PS12821AFP-Y5 •
512MB HY HYMP564U72AP8-Y4 SS HY5PS12821AFP-Y4(ECC) •
512MB HY HYMP564U72AP8-Y5 SS HY5PS12821AFP-Y5(ECC) •
1G HY HYMP512U72AP8-Y5 DS HY5PS12821AFP-Y5(ECC) •
1G HY HYMP512U64AP8-Y5 AB DS HY5PS12821AFP-Y5 •
1G HY HYMP512U64CP8-Y5 AB DS HY5PS12521CFP-Y5 •
512MB KINGBOX 512MB 667MHz SS EPD264082200-4 • •
1G KINGBOX DDRII 1G 667MHz DS EPD264082200-4 • •
512MB Kingmax KLCC28F-A8EB5 SS E5108AE-6E-E •
512MB Kingmax KLCC28F-A8KB5 SS KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX •
1G Kingmax KLCD48F-A8KB5 DS KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX •
256MB Kingston KVR667D2N5/256 SS E2508AB-6E-E •
512MB Kingston KVR667D2N5/512 SS D6408TE8WL-27 •
512MB Kingston KVR667D2E5/512 SS E5108AE-6E-E(ECC) •
1G Kingston KVR667D2N5/1G DS D6408TE8WL-3 •
1G Kingston KVR667D2N5/1G DS D6408TEBGGL3U •
512MB MDT MDT 512MB SS 18D51280D-30648 • •
1G MDT MDT 1024MB DS 18D51200D-30646 • •
1G MDT MDT 1024MB DS 18D51280D-30646E • •
DIMM support
Size Vendor Model Side(s) Component A B
ASUS M2A-MX 1-17
Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR2-667 MHz capability
256MB Nanya NT256T64UH4A1FY-3C SS NT5TU32M16AG-3C • •
256MB Nanya NT256T64UH4A1FY-3C SS NT5TU32M16AG-3C •
512MB Nanya NT512T64U88A1BY-3C SS NT5TU64M8AE-3C • •
512MB Nanya NT512T64U88A1BY-3C SS NT5TU64M8AE-3C •
1G PQI DDR2-667U 1G DS HY5PS12821BFP-E3 A • •
512MB PSC AL6E8E63B-6E1K SS A3R12E3GEF637BLC5N • •
512MB PSC AL6E8E63B-6E1K SS A3R12E3GEF637BLC5N •
1G PSC AL7E8E63B-6E1K DS A3R12E3GEF637BLC5N • •
1G PSC AL7E8E63B-6E1K DS A3R12E3GEF637BLC5N •
256MB Qimonda HYS64T32000HU-3S-A SS HYB18T512160AF-3SSSS17310 •
512MB Qimonda HYS64T32000HU-3S-A SS HYB18T5128000AF-3SSSS27416 •
512MB Qimonda HYS64T64000HU-3S-A SS HYB18T512800AF3SFSS05346 •
1G Qimonda HYS64T128020HU-3S-A DS HYB18T512800AF3SSSS28104 •
512MB Samsung KR M378T6553CZ0-CE6 SS K4T51083QC •
512MB Samsung KR M378T6453FZ0-CE6 DS K4T56083QF-ZCE6 •
512MB Samsung M378T6553CZ3-CE6 SS K4T51083QC-ZCE6 •
1G Samsung M378T2953CZ3-CE6 DS K4T51083QC-ZCE6 •
1G Samsung KR M378T2953CZ0-CE6 DS K4T51083QC-ZCE6 •
512MB TEAM TVDD512M667C5 SS T2D648MT-6 • •
1G TEAM TVDD1.02M667C4 DS T2D648PT-6 • •
512MB VDATA M2GVD5G3H31A4I1C52 SS VD29608A8A-3EC20615 •
512MB VDATA M2YVD5G3H31P4I1C52 SS VD29608A8A-3EG20627 •
512MB VDATA M2GVD5G3H166I1C52 SS VD29608A8A-3EG20637 •
1G VDATA M2GVD5G3I41P6I1C52 DS VD29608A8A-3EG20627 •
1G VDATA M2GVD5G3I41C4I1C52 DS VD29608A8A-3EC20620 •
1G VDATA M2GVD5G3I4176I1C52 DS VD29608A8A-3EG20641 •
512MB VERITECH GTP512HLTM45EG SS VTD264M8PC6G01A164129621 • •
1G VERITECH GTP01GHLTM55EG DS VTD264M8PC6G01A164129621 • •
DIMM support
Size Vendor Model Side(s) Component A B
1-18 Chapter 1: Product introduction
Side(s): SS - Single-sided DS - Double-sided
DIMM support:
A - Supports one module inserted in any slot as Single-channel memory conguration
B - Supports one pair of modules inserted into either the yellow slots as one pair of Dual-
channel memory conguration
Visit the ASUS website for the latest DDR2 DIMM modules for this motherboard.
Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR2-800 MHz capability
DIMM support
Size Vendor Model Side(s) Component A B
512MB AENEON AET660UD00-25DB98X SS AET93F25DB 0621 • •
1G AENEON AET760UD00-25DB97X DS AET93R25DB 0640 • •
512MB Corsair CM2X512A-6400 SS Heat-Sink Package •
1G Corsair CM2X1024-6400 DS Heat-Sink Package •
512MB HY HYMP564U64AP8-S6 AA SS HY5PS12821AFP-S6 •
512MB HY HYMP564U64BP8-S5 AB SS HY5PS12821BFP-S5 •
512MB HY HYMP564U64CP8-S5 AB SS HY5PS12821CFP-S5 •
1G HY HYMP512U64AP8-S6 AA DS HY5PS12821AFP-S6 •
1G HY HYMP512U64BP8-S5 AB DS HY5PS12821BFP-S5 •
1G HY HYMP512U64CP8-S5 AB DS HY5PS12821CFPS5 •
512MB Kingston KVR800D2N5/512 SS K4T51083QC-ZCE7 •
512MB Kingston KVR800D2N5/512 SS V59C1512804QBF25S0054707PEBPA •
1G Kingston KVR800D2N5/1G DS K4T51083QC-ZCE7 •
1G Kingston KHX6400D2LL/1G DS Heat-Sink Package •
1G Kingston KVR800D2N5/1G DS NT5TU64M8BE-25C62321800CP •
512MB Micron MT9HTF6472AY-80ED4 SS 6ED22D9GKX(ECC) •
512MB PSC AL6E8E63B-8E1K SS A3R12E3HEF641B9A05 • •
512MB PSC AL6E8E63B-8E1K SS A3R12E3HEF641B9A05 •
1G PSC AL7E8E63B-8E1K DS A3R12E3HEF641B9A05 • •
1G PSC AL7E8E63B-8E1K DS A3R12E3HEF641B9A05 •
256MB Qimonda HYS64T32001HU-2.5-A SS HYB18T256800AF25 SSS49313 •
512MB Qimonda HYS64T64020HU-2.5-A DS HYB18T256800AF25 SSS25063 •
512MB Samsung KR M378T6553CZ3-CE7 SS K4T51083QC-ZCE7 •
512MB Samsung KR M391T6553CZ3-CE7 SS K4T51083QC-ZCE7(ECC) •
1G Samsung KR M378T2953CZ3-CE7 DS K4T51083QC-ZCE7 •
1G Samsung KR M391T2953CZ3-CE7 DS K4T51083QC-ZCE7(ECC) •
1G UMAX 1GB,DDR2,PC6400 DS U2S12D30TP-8E • •
512MB VDATA M2GVD6G3H3160I1E53 SS VD29608A8A-25EG30648 •
1G VDATA M2GVD6G3I4170I1E53 DS VD29608A8A-25EG30647 •
512MB VERITECH GTU512HLTXX4EG SS VTD264M8PC4G03A169045648 • •
1G VERITECH GTU01GHLTXX4EG DS VTD264M8PC4G03A169045648 • •
ASUS M2A-MX 1-19
1.7.3 Installing 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.
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.
1.7.4 Removing a DIMM
To remove a DIMM:
1. Simultaneously press the retaining
clips outward to unlock the DIMM.
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.
• A DDR2 DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it ts in only one
direction. DO NOT force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the
DIMM.
• The DDR2 DIMM sockets do not support DDR DIMMs. Do not install
DDR DIMMs to the DDR2 DIMM sockets.
Unlocked retaining clip
DDR2 DIMM notch
3
2
1
1
DDR2 DIMM notch
1
2
1
1
1-20 Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.8 Expansion slots
In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections
describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support.
1.8.1 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.
1.8.2 Conguring an expansion card
After installing the expansion card, congure it by adjusting the software settings.
1. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See
Chapter 2 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.
Make sure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion
cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard
components.
ASUS M2A-MX 1-21
* These IRQs are usually available for ISA or PCI devices.
Interrupt assignments
IRQ Standard Function
0 System timer
1 Keyboard controller
2 Programmable interrupt controller
3 Standard OpenHCI USB Host Controller
4 Communications Port (COM1)
5 HD Audio Controller
6 Standard oppy disk controller
7 (free)
8 System CMOS/real time clock
9 (free)
10 Standard PCI Graphics Adapter (VGA)
11 Sata controller
12 PS/2 Port Mouse controller
13 Numeric data processor
14 Primary IDE controller
15 Secondary IDE controller
1-22 Chapter 1: Product introduction
IRQ assignments for this motherboard
When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share
IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments; otherwise, conicts will
arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card
inoperable.
A B C D E F G H
PCIE X1 SLOT shared
PCIE X16 SLOT shared
Onboard USB1.1 Controller 1 shared
Onboard USB1.1 Controller 2 shared
Onboard USB1.1 Controller 3 shared
Onboard USB1.1 Controller 4 shared
Onboard USB1.1 Controller 5 shared
Onboard USB2.0 Controller shared
Onboard ATI RS690 AZALIA shared
Onboard IDE PORT shared
Onboard HD Audio shared
Onboard LAN shared
Onboard VGA shared
Onchip SATA shared
PCI Card1 shared
PCI Card2 shared
ASUS M2A-MX 1-23
1.8.3 PCI slots
The PCI slots support cards such as
a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card,
and other cards that comply with PCI
specications. The gure shows a LAN
card installed on a PCI slot.
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
specications. The following gure
shows a network card installed on the
PCI Express x1 slot.
1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot
This motherboard has supports PCI
Express x16 graphic cards that comply
with PCI Express specications. The
gure shows a graphics card installed on
the PCI Express x16 slot.
1-24 Chapter 1: Product introduction
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 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. Remove the onboard battery.
3. 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.
4. Reinstall the battery.
5. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.
6. 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 CLRTC jumper
default position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!
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 the BIOS can automatically reset
parameter settings to default values.
M2A-MX
R
M2A-MX Clear RTC RAM
CLRTC
Normal Clear RTC
(Default)
2 3
1 2
ASUS M2A-MX 1-25
2. USB device wake-up (3-pin PS2_USBPW)
Set these jumpers to +5V to wake up the computer from S1 sleep mode
(CPU stopped, DRAM refreshed, system running in low power mode) using
the connected USB devices. Set to +5VSB to wake up from S3 and S4 sleep
modes.
• The USB device wake-up feature requires a power supply that can
provide 500mA on the +5VSB lead for each USB port; otherwise,
the system will not power up.
• The total current consumed must NOT exceed the power supply
capability (+5VSB) whether under normal condition or in sleep mode.
M2A-MX
R
M2A-MX
USB Device Wake Up
3
2
2
1
PS2_USBPW
+5V
(Default)
+5VSB
1-26 Chapter 1: Product introduction
Refer to the audio conguration table for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4,
or 6,-channel conguration.
1.10 Connectors
1.10.1 Rear panel connectors
1. PS/2 mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse.
2. Parallel port.
This 25-pin port connects a parallel printer, a scanner, or other
devices.
3. LAN (RJ-45) port.
This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area
Network (LAN) through a network hub.
LAN port LED indications
LAN port
SPEED
LED
ACT/LINK
LED
4. Line In port (light blue). This port connects a tape, CD, DVD player, or other
audio sources.
5. Line Out port (lime).
This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In
4-channel/ 6-channel conguration, the function of this port becomes Front
Speaker Out.
6. Microphone port (pink).
This port connects a microphone.
Activity/Link LED Speed LED
Status Description Status Description
OFF No link OFF 10 Mbps connection
ORANGE Linked ORANGE 100 Mbps connection
BLINKING Data activity GREEN 1 Gbps connection
1
11
4
5
6
7
2 3
8
10
9
ASUS M2A-MX 1-27
7. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports
are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.
8. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4.
These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports
are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.
9. Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port.
This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor
or other VGA-compatible devices.
10. Serial (COM1) port.
This port is for pointing devices or other serial devices.
11. PS/2 keyboard port (purple).
This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.
Audio 2, 4, or 6-channel conguration
Port Headset
2-channel
4-channel 6-channel
Light Blue Line In Surround Surround
Lime Headphone/Front Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out
Pink Mic In Mic In Center/Subwoofer
1-28 Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.10.2 Internal connectors
1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY)
This connector is for the provided oppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert
one end of the cable to this connector, then connect the other end to the
signal connector at the back of the oppy disk drive.
2. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)
This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch.
Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this
connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to
this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal
is then generated as a chassis intrusion event.
By default, the pins labeled “Chassis Signal” and “Ground” are shorted with
a jumper cap. Remove the jumper caps only when you intend to use the
chassis intrusion detection feature.
M2A-MX
R
M2A-MX Floppy Disk Drive Connector
PIN1
NOTE:
Orient the red markings on
the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.
FLOPPY
M2A-MX
R
M2A-MX
Chassis Intrusion Connector
CHASSIS
+5VSB_MB
Chassis Signal
GND
(Default)
Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when
using an FDD cable with a covered Pin 5.
ASUS M2A-MX 1-29
3. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE)
The onboard IDE connector is for an Ultra DMA 133 / 100 / 66 signal cable.
There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133 / 100 / 66 signal cable:
blue, black, and gray. Connect the blue connector to the motherboard’s IDE
connector, then select one of the following modes to congure your device(s).
• Pin 20 on the IDE connector is removed to match the covered hole on the
Ultra DMA cable connector. This prevents incorrect insertion when you
connect the IDE cable.
• Use the 80-conductor IDE cable for Ultra DMA 133 / 100 / 66 IDE devices.
If any device jumper is set as “Cable-Select,” make sure all other device
jumpers have the same setting.
Drive jumper setting Mode of
device(s)
Cable connector
Single device Cable-Select or Master - Black
Two devices Cable-Select Master
Black
Slave Gray
Master Master Black or gray
Slave Slave
M2A-MX
R
1-30 Chapter 1: Product introduction
4. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, SATA4)
These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA 3.0
Gb/s hard disk and optical disk drives. The Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s is backward
compatible with Serial ATA 1.5Gb/s specication. The data transfer rate of
the Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s is faster than the standard parallel ATA with 133 MB/s
(Ultra DMA133).
If you install Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1,
and RAID 0+1 conguration through the onboard SB600 controller.
Install the Windows® XP Service Pack 1 before using Serial ATA.
• For detailed instructions on how to congure RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID
0+1, refer to the RAID manual in the support CD.
• If you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set
the OnChip SATA Type item in the BIOS to [RAID]. See the page 2-17 for
details.
M2A-MX
R
M2A-MX
SATA Connectors
GND
RSATA_TXP4
RSATA_TXN4
GND
RSATA_RXP4
RSATA_RXN4
GND
SATA3
GND
RSAT
A_TXP1
RSAT
A_TXN1
GND
RSAT
A_RXP1
RSAT
A_RXN1
GND
SATA1
GND
RSAT
A_TXP2
RSAT
A_TXN2
GND
RSAT
A_RXP2
RSAT
A_RXN2
GND
SATA2
GND
RSATA_TXP3
RSATA_TXN3
GND
RSATA_RXP3
RSATA_RXN3
GND
SATA4
ASUS M2A-MX 1-31
5. CPU and Chassis Fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN)
The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350mA~740mA (8.88W max.) or
a total of 1A~2.22A (26.64W max.) at +12V. Connect the fan cables to the fan
connectors on the motherboard, making sure that the black wire of each cable
matches the ground pin of the connector.
6. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)
This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF)
port(s). Connect the S/PDIF module cable to this connector, then install the
module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.
Only CPU Fan supports Q-Fan.
The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.
M2A-MX
R
M2A-MX Fan Connectors
CPU_FAN
GND
CPU FAN PWR
CPU FAN IN
CPU FAN PWM
CHA_FAN
GND
Rotation
+12V
M2A-MX
R
M2A-MX
Digital Audio Connector
Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufcient air
ow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are
not jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on the fan connectors.
1-32 Chapter 1: Product introduction
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the
motherboard!
7. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78, USB910)
These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable
to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the
back of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0
specication that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed.
8. Optical drive audio in connector (4-pin CD)
These connectors allow you to receive stereo audio input from sound sources
such as a CD-ROM, TV tuner, or MPEG card.
The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.
M2A-MX
R
USB56
USB+5V
USB_P6-
USB_P6+
GND
NC
USB+5V
USB_P5-
USB_P5+
GND
1
USB78
USB+5V
USB_P8-
USB_P8+
GND
NC
USB+5V
USB_P7-
USB_P7+
GND
1
USB910
USB+5V
USB_P10-
USB_P10+
GND
NC
USB+5V
USB_P9-
USB_P9+
GND
1
M2A-MX
R
ASUS M2A-MX 1-33
10. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that
supports either High Denition Audio or AC`97 audio standard. Connect one
end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector.
• We recommend that you connect a high-denition front panel audio module
to this connector to avail of the motherboard high-denition audio capability.
• If you want to connect a high-denition front panel audio module to this
connector, make sure that the Front Panel Select item in the BIOS is set
to [HD Audio]; if you want to connect an AC`97 front panel audio module to
this connector, set the item to [AC97]. See page 2-25 for details.
9. Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER)
This connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The
speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.
M2A-MX
R
SPEAKER
+5V
GND
GND
Speaker Out
1
M2A-MX
R
1-34 Chapter 1: Product introduction
11. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V)
These connectors are for an ATX power supply. The plugs from the power
supply are designed to t these connectors in only one orientation. Find the
proper orientation and push down rmly until the connectors completely t.
•
We recommend that you use an ATX 12 V Specication 2.0-compliant
power supply unit (PSU) with a minimum of 300 W power rating. This PSU
type has 24-pin and 4-pin power plugs.
•
If you intend to use a PSU with 20-pin and 4-pin power plugs, make sure
that the 20-pin power plug can provide at least 15 A on +12 V and that
the PSU has a minimum power rating of 300 W. The system may become
unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.
•
Do not forget to connect the 4-pin ATX +12 V power plug; otherwise, the
system will not boot up.
• We recommend that you use a PSU with higher power output when
conguring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system
may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.
•
You must install a PSU with a higher power rating if you intend to install
additional devices.
M2A-MX
R
ASUS M2A-MX 1-35
12. System panel connector (10-1 pin PANEL)
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.
M2A-MX
R
M2A-MX
System Panel Connector
F_PANEL
PLED-
PWR
PLED+
Ground
GNDReset
IDELED+
IDELED-
+HD LED
RESET
PLED PWRSW
• System power LED (2-pin PWRLED)
This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis
power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when
you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.
• Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin +HDLED)
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity
LED cable to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or ashes when data is
read from or written to the HDD.
• AXT
Power/S o f t - o f f b u t t o n ( 2-pin PWR B T N )
This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button
turns the system ON or puts the system in SLEEP or SOFT-OFF mode
depending on the BIOS settings. Pressing the power switch for more than
four seconds while the system is ON turns the system OFF.
• Reset button
(2-pin RESET)
This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system
reboot without turning off the system power.
1-36 Chapter 1: Product introduction
2
This chapter tells how to change
the system settings through the BIOS
Setup menus. Detailed descriptions
of the BIOS parameters are also
provided.
BIOS setup
2-2 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS
The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic
Input/Output System (BIOS) setup.
1. ASUS Update:
Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.
2.
ASUS EZ Flash: Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a oppy disk or the
motherboard support CD.
3.
ASUS AFUDOS: Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable oppy
disk.
4.
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2: Updates the BIOS using a bootable oppy disk, or
the motherboard support CD when the BIOS le fails or gets corrupted.
Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.
Installing ASUS Update
To install ASUS Update:
1. Place the support CD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears.
2. Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update VX.XX.XX. See page
3-4 for the Utilities screen menu.
3. The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system.
2.1.1 ASUS Update utility
The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the
motherboard BIOS in Windows® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you
to:
• Save the current BIOS le
• Download the latest BIOS le from the Internet
• Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS le
• Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and
• View the BIOS version information.
This utility is available in the support CD that comes with the motherboard
package.
ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an
Internet Service Provider (ISP).
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS le to a bootable oppy disk in
case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard
BIOS using the ASUS Update or AFUDOS utilities.
ASUS M2A-MX 2-3
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.
3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest
you to avoid network trafc, or
click Auto Select. Click Next.
Updating the BIOS through the Internet
To update the BIOS through the Internet:
1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows
®
desktop by clicking Start
> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main
window appears.
2. Select Update BIOS from the
Internet option from the drop-down
menu, then click Next.
2-4 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
Updating the BIOS through a BIOS le
To update the BIOS through a BIOS le:
1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows
®
desktop by clicking Start
> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main
window appears.
2. Select Update BIOS from a le
option from the drop-down menu,
then click Next.
3. Locate the BIOS le from the Open
window, then click Open.
4. Follow the screen instructions to
complete the update process.
4. From the FTP site, select the BIOS
version that you wish to download.
Click Next.
5. Follow the screen instructions to
complete the update process.
The ASUS Update utility is
capable of updating itself
through the Internet. Always
update the utility to avail all its
features.
ASUS M2A-MX 2-5
2. Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS le to the bootable oppy
disk.
2.1.2 Creating a bootable oppy disk
1. Do either one of the following to create a bootable oppy disk.
DOS environment
a. Insert a 1.44MB oppy disk into the drive.
b. At the DOS prompt, type
format A:/S then press <Enter>.
Windows® XP environment
a. Insert a 1.44 MB oppy disk to the oppy disk drive.
b. Click
Start from the Windows® desktop, then select My Computer.
c. Select the 3 1/2 Floppy Drive icon.
d. Click
File from the menu, then select Format. A Format 3 1/2 Floppy
Disk window appears.
e. Windows
®
XP users: Select Create an MS-DOS startup disk from the
format options eld, then click Start.
Windows® 2000 environment
To create a set of boot disks for Windows® 2000:
a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44 MB oppy disk into the drive.
b. Insert the Windows
®
2000 CD to the optical drive.
c. Click
Start, then select Run.
d. From the Open eld, type
D:\bootdisk\makeboot a:
assuming that D: is your optical drive.
e. Press <Enter>, then follow screen instructions to continue.
Windows® Vista environment
a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44 MB oppy disk to the oppy disk
drive.
b. Click
from the Windows® desktop, then select Computer.
c. Right-click
Floppy Disk Drive then click Format to display the
Format 3 1/2 Floppy dialog box.
d. Select the
Create an MS-DOS startup disk check box.
e. Click
Start.
2-6 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
2.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash utility
The ASUS EZ Flash feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go
through the long process of booting from a oppy disk and using a DOS-based
utility. The EZ Flash utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing
<Alt> + <F2> during the Power-On Self Tests (POST).
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash:
1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS le for
the motherboard and rename the same to M2A-MX.ROM.
2. Save the BIOS le to a oppy disk, then restart the system.
3. Press <Alt> + <F2> during POST to display the following.
EZFlash starting BIOS update
Checking for oppy...
4. Insert the oppy disk that contains the BIOS le to the oppy disk drive.
When the correct BIOS le is found, EZ Flash performs the BIOS update
process and automatically reboots the system when done.
EZFlash starting BIOS update
Checking for oppy...
Floppy found!
Reading le “M2A-MX.rom”. Completed.
Start erasing.......|
Start programming...|
Flashed successfully. Rebooting.
• Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent
system boot failure!
• A “Floppy not found!” error message appears if there is no oppy disk in the
drive. A “M2A-MX.ROM not found!” error message appears if the correct
BIOS le is not found in the oppy disk. Make sure that you rename the
BIOS le to M2A-MX.ROM.
ASUS M2A-MX 2-7
2.1.4 AFUDOS utility
The AFUDOS utility allows you to update the BIOS le in DOS environment using
a bootable oppy disk with the updated BIOS le. This utility also allows you to
copy the current BIOS le that you can use as backup when the BIOS fails or gets
corrupted during the updating process.
Copying the current BIOS
To copy the current BIOS le using the AFUDOS utility:
1. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support CD to
the bootable oppy disk you created earlier.
2. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type:
afudos /o[lename]
where the [lename] is any user-assigned lename not more than eight
alphanumeric characters for the main lename and three alphanumeric
characters for the extension name.
Main lename Extension name
A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom
• Make sure that the oppy disk is not write-protected and has at least
1024KB free space to save the le.
• The succeeding BIOS screens are for reference only. The actual BIOS
screen displays may not be same as shown.
The utility returns to the DOS prompt after copying the current BIOS le.
3. Press <Enter>. The utility copies the current BIOS le to the oppy disk.
A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom
AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))
Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.
Reading ash ..... done
Write to le...... ok
A:\>
2-8 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
Updating the BIOS le
To update the BIOS le using the AFUDOS utility:
1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) and download the latest BIOS le for
the motherboard. Save the BIOS le to a bootable oppy disk.
2. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support CD to
the bootable oppy disk you created earlier.
3. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type:
afudos /i[lename]
where [lename] is the latest or the original BIOS le on the bootable oppy disk.
A:\>afudos /iM2AMX.ROM
Write the BIOS lename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS
lename at the DOS prompt.
5. The utility returns to the DOS prompt after the BIOS update process is
completed. Reboot the system from the hard disk drive.
A:\>afudos /iM2AMX.ROM
AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))
Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.
WARNING!! Do not turn off power during ash BIOS
Reading le ....... done
Reading ash ...... done
Advance Check ......
Erasing ash ...... done
Writing ash ...... done
Verifying ash .... done
Please restart your computer
A:\>
A:\>afudos /iM2AMX.ROM
AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))
Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.
WARNING!! Do not turn off power during ash BIOS
Reading le ....... done
Reading ash ...... done
Advance Check ......
Erasing ash ...... done
4. The utility veries the le and starts updating the BIOS.
Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent
system boot failure!
ASUS M2A-MX 2-9
2.1.5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility
The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore
the BIOS le when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can
update a corrupted BIOS le using the motherboard support CD or the oppy disk
that contains the updated BIOS le.
• Prepare the motherboard support CD, or the oppy disk containing the
updated motherboard BIOS before using this utility.
• Make sure that you rename the original or updated BIOS le in the oppy
disk or the USB ash disk to M2A-MX.ROM.
Recovering the BIOS from a oppy disk
To recover the BIOS from a oppy disk:
1. Turn on the system.
2. Insert the oppy disk with the original or updated BIOS le to the oppy disk
drive.
3. The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the
oppy disk for the original or updated BIOS le.
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...
Checking for oppy...
When found, the utility reads the BIOS le and starts ashing the corrupted
BIOS le.
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...
Checking for oppy...
Floppy found!
Reading le “M2A-MX.ROM”. Completed.
Start ashing...
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can
cause system boot failure!
4. Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.
2-10 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
Recovering the BIOS from the support CD
To recover the BIOS from the support CD:
1. Remove any oppy disk from the oppy disk drive, then turn on the system.
2. Insert the support CD to the optical drive.
3. The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the
oppy disk for the original or updated BIOS le.
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...
Checking for oppy...
Floppy not found!
Checking for CD-ROM...
CD-ROM found!
Reading le “M2A-MX.ROM”. Completed.
Start ashing...
When no oppy disk is found, the utility automatically checks the optical drive
for the original or updated BIOS le. The utility then updates the corrupted
BIOS le.
Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...
Checking for oppy...
4. Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.
The recovered BIOS may not be the latest BIOS version for this motherboard.
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS le.
ASUS M2A-MX 2-11
• The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply for most conditions
to ensure optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after
changing any BIOS settings, load the default settings to ensure system
compatibility and stability. Select the Load Setup Defaults item under the
Exit Menu. See section “2.7 Exit Menu.”
• The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only,
and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.
• Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS le
for this motherboard.
2.2 BIOS setup program
This motherboard supports a programmable rmware chip that you can update
using the provided utility described in section “2.1 Managing and updating your
BIOS.”
Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconguring
your system, or prompted to“Run Setup.” This section explains how to congure
your system using this utility.
Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the
conguration of your computer in the future. For example, you can enable the
security password feature or change the power management settings. This
requires you to recongure your system using the BIOS Setup program so that the
computer can recognize these changes and record them in the CMOS RAM of the
SPI chip.
The rmware chip on the motherboard stores the Setup utility. When you start up
the computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program.
Press <Del> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility.
0therwise, POST continues with its test routines.
If you wish to enter Setup after POST, reboot the system by doing any of the
following procedures:
• Restart using the OS standard shut-down procedure.
• Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> simultaneously.
• Press the reset button on the system chassis.
• Press the power button to turn the system off then back on.
Using the power button, reset button, or the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> keys to
force reset from a running operating system can cause damage to your data
or system. We recommend to always shut-down the system properly from the
operating system.
The Setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Being a
menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various sub-menus and make
your selections from the available options using the navigation keys.
2-12 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
2.2.2 Menu bar
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:
Main For changing the basic system conguration
Advanced For changing the advanced system settings
Power For changing the Advanced Power Management (APM)
conguration
Boot For changing the system boot conguration
Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default
settings
2.2.1 BIOS menu screen
To select an item on the menu bar, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard
until the desired item is highlighted.
Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another.
Navigation keysSub-menu items
2.2.3 Navigation keys
At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that
particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change
the settings.
General help
Menu bar Conguration eldsMenu items
Use [ENTER], [TAB]
or [SHIFT-TAB] to
select a eld.
Use [+] or [-] to
congure system time.
System Time [05: 18 : 44]
System Date [Wed01/30/2002]
Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5in.]
Primary IDE Master : [Not Detected]
Primary IDE Slave : [Not Detected]
SATA1 : [Not Detected]
SATA2 : [Not Detected]
SATA3 : [Not Detected]
SATA4
SATA Conguration : [Not Detected]
System Information
Exit
ASUS M2A-MX 2-13
2.2.4 Menu items
The highlighted item on the menu bar
displays the specic items for that menu.
For example, selecting Main shows the Main
menu items.
The other items (Advanced, Power, Boot,
and Exit) on the menu bar have their
respective menu items.
2.2.5 Sub-menu items
A solid triangle before each item on any menu screen means that the iteam has a
sub-menu. To display the sub-menu, select the item and press <Enter>.
2.2.6 Conguration elds
These elds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user- congurable,
you can change the value of the eld opposite the item. You cannot select an item
that is not user-congurable.
A congurable eld is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. To
change the value of a eld, select it then press <Enter> to display a list of options.
Refer to “2.2.7 Pop-up window.”
2.2.7 Pop-up window
Select a menu item then press <Enter>
to display a pop-up window with the
conguration options for that item.
2.2.8 General help
At the top right corner of the menu screen
is a brief description of the selected item.
System Time [11:10:19]
System Date [Thu 03/27/2003]
Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in]
Legacy Diskette B [Disabled]
Primary IDE Master :[Not Detected]
Primary IDE Slave :[Not Detected]
Secondary IDE Master :[Not Detected]
Secondary IDE Slave :[Not Detected]
Third IDE Master :[Not Detected]
Fourth IDE Master :[Not Detected]
IDE Configuration
System Information
Use [ENTER], [TAB]
or [SHIFT-TAB] to
select a field.
Use [+] or [-] to
configure system time.
Select Screen
Select Item
+- Change Field
Tab Select Field
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
Main menu items
Select Screen
Select Item
+- Change Option
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
Advanced Chipset settings
WARNING: Setting wrong values in the sections below
may cause system to malfunction.
Configure DRAM Timing by SPD [Enabled]
Memory Acceleration Mode [Auto]
DRAM Idle Timer [Auto]
DRAm Refresh Rate [Auto]
Graphic Adapter Priority [AGP/PCI]
Graphics Aperture Size [ 64 MB]
Spread Spectrum [Enabled]
ICH Delayed Transaction [Enabled]
MPS Revision [1.4]
Pop-up window
2-14 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
2.3 Main menu
When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving
you an overview of the basic system information.
2.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx]
Allows you to set the system time.
2.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]
Allows you to set the system date.
2.3.3 Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]
Sets the type of oppy drive installed. Conguration options: [Disabled] [360K, 5.25
in.] [1.2M , 5.25 in.] [720K , 3.5 in.] [1.44M, 3.5 in.] [2.88M, 3.5 in.]
Refer to section “2.2.1 BIOS menu screen” for information on the menu screen
items and how to navigate through them.
System Time [05: 48 : 44]
System Date [Wed01/30/2002]
Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5in.]
Primary IDE Master : [Not Detected]
Primary IDE Slave : [Not Detected]
SATA1 : [Not Detected]
SATA2 : [Not Detected]
SATA3 : [Not Detected]
SATA4 : [Not Detected]
IDE Conguration
System Information
Use [ENTER], [TAB]
or [SHIFT-TAB] to
select a eld.
Use [+] or [-] to
congure system time.
Exit
ASUS M2A-MX 2-15
2.3.4 Primary IDE Master/Slave
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of IDE devices.
There is a separate sub-menu for each IDE device. Select a device item then
press <Enter> to display the IDE device information.
Primary IDE Master
Device : Hard Disk
Vendor : ST320413A
Size : 20.0GB
LBA Mode : Supported
Block Mode : 16 Sectors
PIO Mode : Supported
Async DMA : MultiWord DMA-2
Ultra DMA : Ultra DMA-5
SMART Monitoring: Supported
Type [Auto]
LBA/Large Mode [Auto]
Block Mode [Auto]
PIO Mode [Auto]
DMA Mode [Auto]
SMART Monitoring [Auto]
32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]
Exit
Select the type
of device connected
to the system.
The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device,
Vendor, Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and
SMART monitoring). These values are not user-congurable. These items show
N/A if no IDE device is installed in the system.
Type [Auto]
Selects the type of IDE drive. Setting to Auto allows automatic selection of the
appropriate IDE device type. Select CDROM if you are specically conguring a
CD-ROM drive. Select ARMD (ATAPI Removable Media Device) if your device
is either a ZIP, LS-120, or MO drive. Conguration options: [Not Installed] [Auto]
[CDROM] [ARMD]
LBA/Large Mode [Auto]
Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting to Auto enables the LBA mode if the
device supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA
mode disabled. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
Block Mode [Auto]
Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When set to Auto, the data
transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device
supports multi-sector transfer feature. When set to [Disabled], the data transfer
from and to the device occurs one sector at a time.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
2-16 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
2.3.5 SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, and SATA4
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA
devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SATA device. Select a device item
then press <Enter> to display the SATA device information.
SATA1
Device : Hard Disk
Vendor : ST320413A
Size : 20.0GB
LBA Mode : Supported
Block Mode : 16 Sectors
PIO Mode : Supported
Async DMA : MultiWord DMA-2
Ultra DMA : Ultra DMA-5
SMART Monitoring: Supported
LBA/Large Mode [Auto]
Block Mode [Auto]
PIO Mode [Auto]
DMA Mode [Auto]
SMART Monitoring [Auto]
32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]
Exit
Disabled: Disables LBA
Mode.
Auto: Enables LBA
Mode ifthe device
supports it and the
device is not already
formatted with LBA
Mode disabled.
PIO Mode [Auto]
Selects the PIO mode. Conguration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]
DMA Mode [Auto]
Selects the DMA mode. Conguration options: [Auto] [SWDMA0] [SWDMA1]
[SWDMA2] [MWDMA0] [MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2]
[UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5]
SMART Monitoring [Auto]
Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology.
Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]
Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device,
Vendor, Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and
SMART monitoring). These values are not user-congurable. These items show
N/A if no IDE device is installed in the system.
LBA/Large Mode [Auto]
Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting to Auto enables the LBA mode if the
device supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA
mode disabled. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
ASUS M2A-MX 2-17
Block Mode [Auto]
Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When set to Auto, the data
transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device
supports multi-sector transfer feature. When set to [Disabled], the data transfer
from and to the device occurs one sector at a time.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
PIO Mode [Auto]
Selects the PIO mode. Conguration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]
DMA Mode [Auto]
Selects the DMA mode. Conguration options: [Auto] [SWDMA0] [SWDMA1]
[SWDMA2] [MWDMA0] [MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2]
[UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5]
SMART Monitoring [Auto]
Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology.
Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]
Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
2.3.6 IDE Conguration
The items in this menu allow you to set or change the congurations for the SATA
devices installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you wish to
congure the item.
Storage Conguration
Onboard SATA Channel [Enabled]
OnChip SATA Type [SATA]
Onboard SATA Channel [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard SATA channel.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
OnChip SATA Type [SATA]
Allows you to select the onchip SATA type. Conguration options: [SATA] [RAID]
[AHCI]
Options
Enabled
Disabled
2-18 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
2.3.7 System Information
This menu gives you an overview of the general system specications. The BIOS
automatically detects the items in this menu.
AMIBIOS
Version : 0115
Build Date : 10/08/07
Processor
Type : AMD Sempron(tm) Processor 3200+
Speed : 1807MHz
Count : 1
System Memory
Installed Size: 512MB
Usable Size : 448MB
Onboard LAN MAC Address
Address : To Be Filled By O.E.M.
AMI BIOS
Displays the auto-detected BIOS information
Processor
Displays the auto-detected CPU specication
System Memory
Displays the auto-detected system memory
Onboard LAN MAC Address
Displays the onboard LAN MAC address
ASUS M2A-MX 2-19
2.4 Advanced menu
The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other
system devices.
Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect
eld values can cause the system to malfunction.
Jumperfree Conguration
CPU Conguration
Chipset
Onboard Devices Conguration
PCIPnP
USB Conguration
CPU Overclocking [Auto]
Allows selection of CPU frequency and auto adjustment of relevant parameters.
Frequencies higher than CPU manufacturer recommends are not guaranteed to be
stable. If the system becomes unstable, return to the default.
Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual] [Standard]
Exit
Adjust System
Frequency/Voltage etc.
2.4.1 JumperFree Conguration
Congure System Frequency/Voltage
CPU Overclocking [Auto]
AMD Overclocking Conguration
Select the target CPU
frequency, and the
relevant parameters
will be auto-adjusted.
Frequencies higher
than CPU manufacturer
recommends are not
guaranteed to be
stable. If the system
becomes unstable,
The following item appears only when the AI Overclocking item is set to
[MANUAL].
2-20 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
Selecting a very high CPU frequency may cause the system to become
unstable! If this happens, revert to the default setting.
Processor Frequency Multiplier [Auto]
Allows you to select the processor frequency. The conguration options vary
depending on the CPU installed. Conguration options: [Auto] [x4.0 800MHz]
[x4.5 900 MHz] [x5.0 1000MHz] [x5.5 1100 MHz] [Reserved] [x6.5 1300 MHz]
[Reserved] [x7.5 1500 MHz] [x8.0 1600 MHz] [x8.5 1700 MHz] [x9.0 1800
MHz]
Processor Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to select the processor voltage or set it to auto for safe mode.
Conguration options: [1.400V] [1.375V] [1.350V]...[0.800V][Auto]
CPU/HT Reference Clock (MHz) [200]
Displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and
PCI bus. The value of this item is auto-detected by the BIOS. Use the <+>
and <-> keys to adjust the CPU frequency. You can also type the desired
CPU frequency using the numeric keypad. The values range from 200 to 300.
AMD Overclocking Conguration
Processor Frequency Multiplier [Auto]
Processor Voltage [Auto]
AMD Overclocking Conguration
Options
Auto
x4.0 800 MHz
x4.5 900 MHz
x5.0 1000 MHz
x5.5 1100 MHz
Reserved
x6.5 1300 MHz
Reserved
x7.5 1500 MHz
ASUS M2A-MX 2-21
2.4.2 CPU Conguration
The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS
automatically detects.
GART Error Reporting [Disabled]
This option should remain disabled for the normal operation. The driver developer
may enable it for testing purpose. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Microcode Updation [Enabled]
Enables or disables the microcode updation. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Cool ’n’ Quiet [Enabled]
Enables or disables the AMD Cool ’n’ Quiet function.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
This option should
remain disabled for
the normal operation.
The driver developer
may enable it for
testing purpose
CPU Conguration
Module Version: 13.11
AGESA Version: 03.00.09
Physical Count: 1
Logical Count: 1
AMD Sempron(tm) Processor 3200+
Revision: F2
Cache L1: 128KB
Cache L2: 128KB
Speed : 1805MHz, NB CLK: N/A
Current FSB Multiplier: 9x
Maximum FSB Multiplier: 9x
Able to Change Freq. : Yes
uCode Patch Level : 0x62
GART Error Reporting [Disabled]
Microcode Updation [Enabled]
Cool’n’Quiet [Enabled]
Exit
This option should
remain disabled for
the normal operation.
The driver developer
may enable it for
testing purpose.
2-22 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
Mem o r y Con f i g urat i o n
Memory Conguration
Bank Interleaving [Disabled]
Channel Interleaving [Auto]
Enable Clock to ALL DIMMs [Disabled]
MemCLK Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled]
Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled]
Unganged Mode support [Enabled]
Power Down Enable [Enabled]
Power Down Mode [Channel]
Enable Bank Memory
Interleaving
No r thBr idge Con f igu r ati o n
2.4.3 Chipset
The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an
item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.
Advanced Chipset Settings
WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections
may cause system to malfunction.
NorthBridge Coguration
Internal Graphics
Memory Options &
Information
NorthBridge Chipset Conguration
Memory Conguration
DRAM Timing Conguration
Alternate VID [Auto]
Memory CLK :333 MHz
CAS Latency(Tcl) :5.0
RAS/CAS Delay(Trcd) :5 CLK
Row Precharge Time(Trp):5 CLK
Min Active RAS(Tras) :15 CLK
RAS/RAS Delay(Trrd) :3 CLK
Row Cycle (Trc) :21 CLK
Bank Interleaving [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Bank Memory Interleaving.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
ASUS M2A-MX 2-23
Channel Interleaving [Auto]
Allows you to enable or disable channel memory interleaving.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto] [Reserved] [Reserved] [Reserved]
Enable Clock to All DIMMs [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Unused Clocks to DIMMs Even Memory
Slots are not populated. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
MemCLK Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the MemCLK Tri-Stating during C3 and Alt VID.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Memory Remapping Around Memory
Hole.Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Unganged Mode support [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Force Unganged mode.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Power Down Enable [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the DDR power down mode.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Power Down Mode [Channel]
Allows you to set the DDR power down mode.
Conguration options: [Channel] [Chip Select]
DRA M T i ming C o nfigu r a tion
DRAM Timing Conguration
Memory Clock Mode [Auto]
DRAM Timing Mode [Auto]
Memory Voltage [1.890V]
Options
Auto
Limit
Manual
Memory Clock Mode [Auto]
Allows you to select the memory clock mode.
Conguration options: [Auto] [Limit] [Manual]
DRAM Timing Mode [Auto]
Allows you to select the DRAM timing mode.
Conguration options: [Auto] [DCT 0]
Memory Voltage [Auto]
Allows you to set the memory voltage. Conguration options: [1.890V]
[1.940V] [1.990V] [2.040V] [2.090V] [2.140V] [2.190V] [2.240V]
2-24 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
Alternate VID [Auto]
Allows you to specify the alternate VID while in low power states.
Conguration options: [1.000V] [0.975V] [0.950V] [0.925V] [0.900V] [0.875V]
[0.850V] [0.825V] [0.800V] [Auto]
Internal Graphics Mode [UMA]
Allows you to set the internal graphics mode. Conguration options: [UMA]
UMA Frame Buffer Size [Auto]
Allows you to select the UMA frame buffer size. Conguration options: [Auto]
[32MB] [64MB] [128MB] [256MB]
Primary Video Controller [PCIE/IGFX/PCI]
Allows you to set the primary video. Conguration options: [PCIE/IGFX/PCI]
[PCI/PCIE/IGFRX] [IGFX/PCIE/PCI]
In t erna l Gr a phi c s
Internal Grahpics
Internal Grahpics Mode [UMA]
UMA Frame Buffer Size [Auto]
Current UMA Size [64MB]
Primary Video Controller [PCIE/IGFX/PCI]
Surround View [Disabled]
Options
UMA
ASUS M2A-MX 2-25
2.4.4 Onboard Devices Conguration
Congure ITE8712 Super IO Chipset
Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]
Parallel Port [378]
Parallel Port Mode [Normal]
Parallel Port IRQ [IRQ7]
Congure Onboard Device
HDAudio Controller [Enabled]
Front Panel Select [HD Audio]
OnBoard LAN Controller [Enabled]
OnBoard LAN Boot Rom [Disabled]
Congure ITE8712 Super IO Chipset
Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]
Allows you to select the Serial Port1 base address.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [3F8/IRQ4][2F8/IRQ3] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3]
Parallel Port [378]
Allows you to select the Parallel Port base addresses.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [378] [278] [3BC]
Parallel Port Mode [Normal]
Allows you to select the Parallel Port mode.
Conguration options: [Normal] [EPP] [ECP] [EPP+ECP]
Parallel Port IRQ [IRQ7]
Allows you to select parallel port IRQ. Conguration options: [IRQ5] [IRQ7]
Congure Onboard Device
HDAudio Controller [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the HD audio. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Front Panel Select [HD Audio]
Allows you to select front panel . If High Denition Audio is used, set to HD Audio
mode. Conguration options: [AC97] [HD Audio]
OnBoard LAN Controller [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable onboard LAN. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]
Allows you to congure LAN boot ROM. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Allows BIOS to Select
Serial Port1 Base
Addresses.
2-26 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
2.4.5 PCI PnP
The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP
devices. The menu includes setting IRQ and DMA channel resources for either
PCI/PnP or legacy ISA devices, and setting the memory size block for legacy ISA
devices.
Take caution when changing the settings of the PCI PnP menu items. Incorrect
eld values can cause the system to malfunction.
Advanced PCI/PnP Settings
WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections
may cause system to malfunction.
Plug And Play O/S [No]
PCI Latency Timer [64]
Allocate IRQ to PCI VGA [Yes]
Palette Snooping [Disabled]
IRQ-3 assigned to [PCI Device]
IRQ-4 assigned to [PCI Device]
IRQ-5 assigned to [PCI Device]
IRQ-7 assigned to [PCI Device]
IRQ-9 assigned to [PCI Device]
IRQ-10 assigned to [PCI Device]
IRQ-11 assigned to [PCI Device]
IRQ-14 assigned to [PCI Device]
IRQ-15 assigned to [PCI Device]
Plug and Play O/S [No]
When set to [No], BIOS congures all the devices in the system. When set to
[Yes] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system
congures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot. Conguration options:
[No] [Yes]
PCI Latency Timer [64]
Allows you to select the value in units of PCI clocks for the PCI device latency
timer register. Conguration options: [32] [64] [96] [128] [160] [192] [224] [248]
Allocate IRQ to PCI VGA [Yes]
When set to [Yes], BIOS assigns an IRQ to PCI VGA card if the card requests for
an IRQ. When set to [No], BIOS does not assign an IRQ to the PCI VGA card even
if requested. Conguration options: [Yes] [No]
Palette Snooping [Disabled]
When set to [Enabled], the pallete snooping feature informs the PCI devices that
an ISA graphics device is installed in the system so that the latter can function
correctly. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
NO: lets the BIOS
congure all the
devices in the system.
YES: lets the
operating system
congure Plug and Play
(PnP) devices not
required for boot if
your system has a Plug
and Play operating
system.
ASUS M2A-MX 2-27
USB Controllers [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the USB Controllers.
Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Legacy USB Support [Auto]
Allows you to enable or disable support for USB devices on legacy operating
systems (OS). Setting to Auto allows the system to detect the presence of USB
devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no
USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto]
USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed]
Allows you to congure the USB 2.0 controller in HiSpeed (480 Mbps) or Full
Speed (12 Mbps). Conguration options: [FullSpeed] [HiSpeed]
BIOS EHCI Hand-Off [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable BIOS EHCI Hand-Off. This is a workaround for OS
without EHCI hand-off support. The EHCI ownership change should be claimed by
EHCI driver. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
The Module Version and USB Devices Enabled items show the
auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None.
2.4.6 USB Conguration
The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an
item then press <Enter> to display the conguration options.
IRQ-xx assigned to [PCI Device]
When set to [PCI Device], the specic IRQ is free for use of PCI/PnP devices.
When set to [Reserved], the IRQ is reserved for legacy ISA devices.
Conguration options: [PCI Device] [Reserved]
USB Conguration
Module Version - 2.24.1-11.4
USB Devices Enabled:
None
USB Controllers [Enabled]
Legacy USB Support [Auto]
USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed]
BIOS EHCI Hand-Off [Enabled]
USB Mass Storage Device Conguration
Options
Disabled
Enabled
2-28 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
2.5 Power menu
The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced
Power Management (APM). Select an item then press <Enter> to display the
conguration options.
2.5.1 Suspend Mode [Auto]
Allows you to select the Advanced Conguration and Power Interface (ACPI) state
to be used for system suspend. Conguration options: [S1 (POS) Only] [S3 only]
[Auto]
2.5.2 ACPI 2.0 Support [Disabled]
Allows you to add additional tables as per ACPI 2.0 specications.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Conguration and Power Interface
(ACPI) support in the Application-Specic Integrated Circuit (ASIC). When set to
Enabled, the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Suspend Mode [Auto]
ACPI 2.0 Support [Disabled]
ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]
APM Conguration
Hardware Monitor
Exit
Select the ACPI state
used for System
Suspend.
USB Mass Storage DeviceConguration
USB Mass Storage Reset Delay [20 Sec]
Device #1 Netac
Emulation Type [Auto]
Numer of seconds
POST waits for the
USB mass storage
device after start
unit command.
USB Mass Storage Device Configuration
USB Mass Storage Reset Delay [20 Sec]
Allows you to select the USB mass storage reset delay time. Conguration
options: [10 Sec] [20 Sec] [30 Sec] [40 Sec]
Emulation Type [Auto]
Allows you to select the emulation type. Conguration options: [Auto]
[Floppy] [Forced FDD] [Hard Disk] [CDROM]
ASUS M2A-MX 2-29
Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off]
When set to Power Off, the system goes into off state after an AC power loss.
When set to Power On, the system goes on after an AC power loss.
Conguration options: [Power Off] [Power On] [Last State]
Resume From S5 By PME# [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable PME wake from sleep states.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Resume From S5 By Ring [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable Ring to generate a wake event.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Resume From S5 By PS/2 KB/MS [Disabled]
Enable or disable PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse to generate a wake event.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Resume From S5 By RTC Alarm [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable RTC to generate a wake event. When this item is
set to Enabled, the items RTC Alarm Date, RTC Alarm Hour, RTC Alarm Minute,
and RTC Alarm Second appear with set values. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
2.5.4 APM Conguration
APM Conguration
Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off]
Resume From S5 By PME# [Disabled]
Resume From S5 By Ring [Disabled]
Resume From S5 By PS/2 KB/MS [Disabled]
Resume From S5 By RTC Alarm [Disabled]
Options
Always Off
Always On
Last State
2-30 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
2.5.5 Hardware Monitor
Hardware Monitor
CPU Temperature [38ºC/100ºF]
CPU Fan Speed [3260RPM]
Chassis Fan Speed [N/A]
VCORE Voltage [ 1.424V]
3.3V Voltage [ 3.296V]
5V Voltage [ 5.068V]
12V Voltage [12.416V]
Smart Q-FAN Function [Disabled]
CPU Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] [Ignored]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard
and CPU temperatures. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the detected
temperatures.
CPU Fan Speed (RPM) [xxxxRPM] or [N/A] or [Ignored]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU
fan speed in Rotations Per Minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the
motherboard, the eld shows N/A. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the
detected speed.
Chassis Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [N/A] or [Ignored]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the chassis fan speed
in Rotations Per Minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the chassis, the specic
eld shows N/A. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the detected speed.
VCORE Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage [xxxxV] or
[Ignored]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through
the onboard voltage regulators.
Smart Q-FAN Function [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Q-Fan function that monitors the CPU/System
temperature and smartly adjust the fan speed. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
CPU Temperature
ASUS M2A-MX 2-31
2.6 Boot menu
The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item
then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.
Boot Settings
Boot Device Priority
Boot Settings Conguration
Security
2.6.1 Boot Device Priority
Boot Device Priority
1st Boot Device [1st FLOPPY DRIVE]
2nd Boot Device [Hard Drive]
3rd Boot Device [ATAPI CD-ROM]
1st ~ xxth Boot Device [1st Floppy Drive]
These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices.
The number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of
devices installed in the system. Conguration options: [xxxxx Drive] [Disabled]
Exit
Species the Boot
Device Priority
sequence.
A virtual oppy disk
drive (Floppy Drive B:
) may appear when you
set the CD-ROM drive
as the rst boot
device.
Species the Boot
sequence from the
available devices.
A device enclosed
2-32 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
2.6.2 Boot Settings Conguration
Boot Settings Conguration
Quick Boot [Enabled]
Full Screen Logo [Enabled]
AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]
Bootup Num-Lock [On]
PS/2 Mouse Support [Auto]
Wait For ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]
Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled]
Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled]
Allows BIOS to skip
certain tests while
booting. This will
decrease the time
needed to boot the
system.
Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo™ feature.
Quick Boot [Enabled]
Enabling this item allows the BIOS to skip some Power On Self Tests (POST) while
booting to decrease the time needed to boot the system. When set to [Disabled],
BIOS performs all the POST items. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Full Screen Logo [Enabled]
This allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Add On ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]
Sets the display mode for option ROM. Conguration options: [Force BIOS]
[Keep Current]
Bootup Num-Lock [On]
Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock.
Conguration options: [Off] [On]
PS/2 Mouse Support [Auto]
Allows you to enable or disable support for PS/2 mouse.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto]
Wait for ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]
When set to Enabled, the system waits for the F1 key to be pressed when error
occurs. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASUS M2A-MX 2-33
If you forgot your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real
Time Clock (RTC) RAM. See section “1.9 Jumpers” for information on how to
erase the RTC RAM.
Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled]
When set to Enabled, the system displays the message “Press DEL to run Setup”
during POST. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled]
When set to [Enabled], this function allows the option ROMs to trap Interrupt 19.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
2.6.3 Security
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select
an item then press <Enter> to display the conguration options.
Security Settings
Supervisor Password : Not Installed
User Password : Not Installed
Change Supervisor Password
Change User Passward
<Enter> to change
password.
<Enter> again to
disabled password.
Change Supervisor Password
Select this item to set or change the supervisor password. The Supervisor
Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a
password, this item shows Installed.
To set a Supervisor Password:
1. Select the Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>.
2. From the password box, type a password composed of at least six letters or
numbers, then press <Enter>.
3. Conrm the password when prompted.
The message “Password Installed” appears after you successfully set your
password.
To change the supervisor password, follow the same steps as in setting a user
password.
To clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then
press <Enter>. The message “Password Uninstalled” appears.
2-34 Chapter 2: BIOS setup
After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to
change other security settings.
User Access Level [Full Access]
This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items.
Conguration options: [No Access] [View Only] [Limited] [Full Access]
No Access prevents user access to the Setup utility.
View Only allows access but does not allow change to any eld.
Limited allows changes only to selected elds, such as Date and Time.
Full Access allows viewing and changing all the elds in the Setup utility.
Change User Password
Select this item to set or change the user password. The User Password item on
top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this
item shows Installed.
To set a User Password:
1. Select the Change User Password item and press <Enter>.
2. On the password box that appears, type a password composed of at least six
letters or numbers, then press <Enter>.
3. Conrm the password when prompted.
The message “Password Installed” appears after you set your password
successfully.
To change the user password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password.
Clear User Password
Select this item to clear the user password.
Security Settings
Supervisor Password : Not Installed
User Password : Not Installed
Change Supervisor Password
User Access Level [Full Access]
Change User Password
Clear User Password
Password Check [Setup]
<Enter> to change
password.
<Enter> again to
disabled password.
ASUS M2A-MX 2-35
Password Check [Setup]
When set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup
utility. When set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both when accessing
Setup and booting the system. Conguration options: [Setup] [Always]
Exit & Save Changes
Once you are nished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit
menu to ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard
backup battery sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turned
off. When you select this option, a conrmation window appears. Select OK to save
changes and exit.
2.7 Exit menu
Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options
from this menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit.
The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the
BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items.
Exit Options
Exit & Save Changes
Exit & Discard Changes
Discard Changes
Load Setup Defaults
If you attempt to exit the Setup program without saving your changes, the
program prompts you with a message asking if you want to save your changes
before exiting. Press <Enter> to save the changes while exiting.
Exit
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Exit & Discard Changes
Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to
the Setup program. If you made changes to elds other than System Date, System
Time, and Password, the BIOS asks for a conrmation before exiting.
Discard Changes
This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the
previously saved values. After selecting this option, a conrmation appears. Select
OK to discard any changes and load the previously saved values.
Load Setup Defaults
This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the
Setup menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a conrmation
window appears. Select OK to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes
or make other changes before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM.
3
Software
support
This chapter describes the contents
of the support CD that comes with the
motherboard package.
3-2 Chapter 3: Software support
If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support
CD to locate the le ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the
ASSETUP.EXE to run the CD.
Click an item to install
3.1 Installing an operating system
This motherboard supports Windows® 32-bit 2000 / 32-bit 2000 Server / 32-bit
2003 Server / 64-bit 2003 Server / 32-bit XP / 32-bit Vista / 64-bit XP / 64-bit Vista
operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding
updates to maximize the features of your hardware.
3.2 Support CD information
The support CD that came with the motherboard package contains the drivers,
software applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard
features.
3.2.1 Running the support CD
Place the support CD to the optical drive. The CD automatically displays the
Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer.
• Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Use the setup
procedures presented in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OS
documentation for detailed information.
• Make sure that you install the Windows
®
XP Service Pack 1 or later
versions before installing the drivers for better compatibility and system
stability.
The contents of the support CD are subject to change at any time without
notice. Visit the ASUS website(www.asus.com) for updates.
Click an icon to
display support CD /
motherboard information
3-3ASUS M2A-MX
3.2.2 Drivers menu
The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed
devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices.
ASUS InstAll - Drivers Installation Wizard
Launches the ASUS InstAll driver installation wizard.
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Driver
Installs the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet driver.
AMD Chipset Program Driver
Installs the AMD chipset program driver.
Realtek Audio Driver
Installs the Realtek® ALC662 audio driver and application.
Atheros L1 Ethernet Driver
Installs the L1 Ethernet.
The screen display and drivers option may not be the same for different
operating system versions.
3-4 Chapter 3: Software support
3.2.3 Utilities menu
The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard
supports.
ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities
Launches the ASUS InstAll utilities installation wizard.
ASUS Update
The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in a
Windows® environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a
network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet Utility
Installs the ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet utility.
Atheros L1 utility
Installs the Atheros L1 utility.
ASUS PC Probe II
This smart utility monitors the fan speed, CPU temperature, and system voltages,
and alerts you of any detected problems. This utility helps you keep your computer
in healthy operating condition.
The screen display and utilities option may not be the same for different
operating system versions.
3-5ASUS M2A-MX
3.2.4 Make Disk menu
The Make Disk menu allows you to make a RAID driver disk.
Make ATI RAID/AHCI x86_x64_WinXP Driver
Allows you to create an ATI® Serial ATA (SATA) RAID/AHCI x86_x64_WinXP driver
disk.
Make ATI RAID/AHCI Vista32/64 Driver
Allows you to create an ATI® Serial ATA (SATA) RAID/AHCI driver disk for
Windows® 32/64-bit Vista Operating System (OS).
3.2.5 Manual menu
The Manual menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to
open the folder of the user manual.
Most user manual les are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the
Adobe® Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening a user manual
le.
3-6 Chapter 3: Software support
3.2.6 ASUS Contact information
Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. You can also nd
this information on the inside front cover of this user guide.
3.2.7 Other information
The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on the
motherboard and the contents of the support CD. Click an icon to display the
specied information.
Motherboard Info
Displays the general specications of the motherboard.
3-7ASUS M2A-MX
Technical support Form
Displays the ASUS Technical Support Request Form that you have to ll out when
requesting technical support.
Filelist
Displays the contents of the support CD and a brief description of each in text
format.
Browse this CD
Displays the support CD contents in graphical format.
3-8 Chapter 3: Software support
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