Asus M2N68-AM SE User Manual

M2N68-AM SE

Motherboard

ii

E4482

Third Edition V3

January 2009

Copyright © 2009 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, modied or altered, unless
such repair, modication of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the

product is defaced or missing.

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

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

Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or

copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identication or explanation and to the
owners’ benet, without intent to infringe.

iii

Contents

Notices .......................................................................................................... v

Safety information ...................................................................................... vi

About this guide ......................................................................................... vi

M2N68-AM SE specications summary .................................................. viii

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 1-1

1.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 1-2

1.2.1 Motherboard layout ......................................................... 1-2

1.2.2 Layout contents ............................................................... 1-2

1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 1-3

1.4 System memory ........................................................................... 1-3

1.4.1 Overview ......................................................................... 1-3

1.4.2 Memory congurations .................................................... 1-4

1.5 Expansion slots ............................................................................ 1-7

1.5.1 Installing an expansion card ........................................... 1-7

1.5.2 Conguring an expansion card ....................................... 1-7

1.5.3 PCI slot ........................................................................... 1-7

1.5.4 PCI Express x1 slot ......................................................... 1-7

1.5.5 PCI Express x16 slot ....................................................... 1-7

1.6 Jumpers ........................................................................................ 1-8

1.7 Connectors ................................................................................... 1-9

1.7.1 Rear panel ports ............................................................. 1-9

1.7.2 Internal connectors ....................................................... 1-10

1.8 Software support ........................................................................ 1-15

1.8.1 Installing an operating system ...................................... 1-15

1.8.2 Support DVD information .............................................. 1-15

1.8.3 ASUS Express Gate ..................................................... 1-16

Chapter 2: BIOS information

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 2-1

2.1.1 ASUS Update utility ........................................................ 2-1

2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ................................................... 2-2

2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ...................................... 2-3

iv

Contents

2.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 2-4

2.3 Main menu .................................................................................... 2-4

2.3.1 System Time ................................................................... 2-4

2.3.2 System Date ................................................................... 2-4

2.3.3 IDE Conguration ............................................................ 2-5

2.3.4 Primary IDE Master/Slave ............................................... 2-5

2.3.5 SATA 1-2 ......................................................................... 2-6

2.3.6 System Information ......................................................... 2-6

2.4 Advanced menu ........................................................................... 2-7

2.4.1 JumperFree Conguration .............................................. 2-7

2.4.2 CPU Conguration .......................................................... 2-9

2.4.3 Chipset .......................................................................... 2-10

2.4.4 Onboard Devices Conguration .....................................2-11

2.4.5 PCI PnP .........................................................................2-11

2.4.6 USB Conguration ........................................................ 2-12

2.5 Power menu ................................................................................ 2-12

2.5.1 Suspend Mode .............................................................. 2-12

2.5.2 ACPI Version Features ................................................. 2-13

2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support ....................................................... 2-13

2.5.4 APM Conguration ........................................................ 2-13

2.5.5 Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 2-13

2.6 Boot menu .................................................................................. 2-14

2.6.1 Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 2-14

2.6.2 Boot Settings Conguration .......................................... 2-14

2.6.3 Security ......................................................................... 2-15

2.7 Tools menu ................................................................................. 2-16

2.8 Exit menu .................................................................................... 2-16

v

Notices

Federal Communications Commission Statement

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference, and

• This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause
undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed

and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference

to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required

to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modications to this unit not
expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority

to operate this equipment.

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

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

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

DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to
enable proper reuse of parts and recycling. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin
indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in
municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.

DO NOT throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste. This symbol
of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal
waste.

vi

Safety information

Electrical safety

• To prevent electric shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electric 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.

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

• If the power supply is broken, do not try to x it by yourself. Contact a qualied service

technician or your retailer.

Operation safety

•

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

•

Before using the product, ensure that 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 at and stable surface.

• If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualied service

technician or your retailer.

About this guide

This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring the

motherboard.

How this guide is organized

This guide contains the following parts:

• Chapter 1: Product introduction

This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it

supports.

• Chapter 2: BIOS information

This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS setup menus.

Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.

vii

Conventions used in this guide

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

DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying toInformation to prevent injury to yourself when trying to

complete a task.

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying toInformation to prevent damage to the components when trying to

complete a task.

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

NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.

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.

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.

Typography

Bol d te xt 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,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:
afudos /i[lename]

afudos /iM2NAMSE.ROM

viii

M2N68-AM SE specications summary

CPU AMD® Socket AM2+ / AM2 for AMD Phenom™FX / Phenom /

Chipset NVIDIA® GeForce 7050PV/nForce 630a (MCP68PVNT)

System bus 2000 / 1600 MT/s

Memory Dual-channel memory architecture

Graphics Integrated NVIDIA® GeForce 7 Series Shader model 3.0

Expansion slots 1 x PCIe x16 slot

Storage 1 x UltraDMA 133/100 connector

Audio ALC662 High Denition Audio 6-channel CODEC

USB Supports up to 10 USB 2.0/1.1 ports (6 ports at mid-board,

LAN Realtek PHY 10/100 LAN

Athlon™ / Sempron™ processors
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology
Supports CPU up to 95W
AMD64 architecture enables simultaneous 32-bit and 64-bit

computing

2 x 240-pin DIMM slots support unbuffered non-ECC
DDR2 1066/800/667/533MHz memory modules

Supports up to 4GB system memory
* Due to AM2+ CPU limitation, only one DDR2 1066 is
supported per channel. Refer to www.asus.com for the
AM2+ CPU models.
** Refer to www.asus.com for the latest Memory QVL
(Qualied Vendors List).
*** When you install a total memory of 4GB or more,
Windows® 32-bit operating system may only recognize
less than 3GB. Hence, a total installed memory of less
than 3GB is recommended if you are using a Windows

32-bit operating system.

DirectX 9 graphics processor
Maximum shared memory of 256MB
Supports RGB with max. resolution 1920 x 1440 @
70MHz*32bpp/75MHz*16bpp
* Due to the chipset limitation, only MPEG 2 and WMV
ofoad support HD format 1920 x 1080p.
** The recommended system conguration when playing
HD DVD and Blu-ray disc: DDR2 800 1GB x 2 /
Athlon 64 x 2 4400+ / Graphic shared memory 256MB /

Purevideo HD support

1 x PCIe x1 slot
1 x PCI slot

2 x Serial ATA 3Gb/s connectors

Supports Jack-detection and Multi-streaming

4 ports at back panel)

(continued on the next page)

ix

M2N68-AM SE specications summary

ASUS special features ASUS Express Gate

ASUS overclocking
features

Back panel I/O ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard port

Internal I/O connectors 3 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional

BIOS 8Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI2.0, WfM2.0,

Accessories 1 x Serial ATA cable

Form Factor MicroATX form factor: 9.6 in x 8.0 in

Support DVD Drivers

ASUS Q-Fan
ASUS CrashFree BIOS3

ASUS EZ Flash2
ASUS MyLogo2

SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection):

- HT tuning from 200MHz to 300MHz at 1MHz
increment

- Memory tuning from 533MHz to 1066MHz

- PCIe frequency tuning from 100MHz to 150MHz
at 1MHz increment
Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.05V increment

Overclocking protection:

- ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

1 x PS/2 Mouse port
1 x RJ45 port
1 x VGA port

4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
6-channel audio I/O ports

1 x COM port

6 USB 2.0/1.1 ports
1 x IDE connector
2 x SATA connectors
1 x system panel connector
1 x CD audio-in connector
1 x Internal speaker connector
1 x Front panel audio connector
1 x CPU can connector

1 x 24-pin EATX power connector
1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector

ACPI2.0, SM BIOS 2.5, ASUS EZ Flash2

1 x UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable

1 x IO Shield
User Manual

ASUS Update
ASUS PC Probe II
Anti-Virus software (OEM version)

*Specications are subject to change without notice.

Chapter 1

M2N68-AM SE

SB_PWR

ON

Standby Power Powered Off

OFF

M2N68-AM SE Onboard LED

Product introduction

Thank you for buying an ASUS® M2N68-AM SE motherboard!
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in

your motherboard package. Refer to page ix for the list of accessories.

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

1.1 Before you proceed

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

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

• Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded
object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, 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, or components.

Onboard LED

This 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 must 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.

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-1

1.2 Motherboard overview

M2N68-AM SE

PCIEX16

PCIEX1_1

PCI1

PRI_IDE

USB56 USB78 USB910

F_PANEL

AAFP

CD

ATX12V

EATXPWR

CPU_FAN

Lithium Cell

CMOS Power

Super

I/O

ALC
662

RTL

8201CP

KBMS

8Mb
BIOS

SB_PWR

CLRTC

USBPW5-10

USBPW1-4

SPEAKER

20.3cm(8.0in)

24.4cm(9.6in)

NVIDIA

®

MCP68PVNT

DDR2 DIMM_A1 (64bit, 240-pin module)

SOCKET AM2

DDR2 DIMM_B1 (64bit, 240-pin module)

SATA1 SATA2

VGA

AUDIO

COM

LAN1_USB12

USB34

1

2

3

4

5

7910111213 8

14

15

16

6

1-2ASUS M2N68-AM SE

1.2.1 Motherboard layout

Ensure that you install the motherboard into the chassis in the correct orientation. The edge
with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis.

Place this side towards
the rear of the chassis.

Place six screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the

chassis. DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.

1.2.2 Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page

1. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V) 1-13 9. Internal speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER) 1-13

2. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE) 1-11 10. Standby power LED (SB_PWR) 1-1

3. CPU fan connector (4-pin CPU_FAN) 1-12 11. System panel connector (10-1 pin F_PANEL) 1-14

4. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1, SATA2) 1-10 12. Optical drive audio connector (4-pin CD) 1-11

5. USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW 5-10) 1-8 13. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-14

6. Keyboard/mouse power (3-pin PS2_USBPW 1-4) 1-9 14. AM2 CPU Socket 1-3

7. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB 78, USB910) 1-12 15. DDR2 DIMM slots 1-3

8. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) 1-8 16. PCIe x16/PCIe x1/PCI slot 1-7

1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

M2N68-AM SE

M2N68-AM SE 240-pin DDR2 DIMM sockets

DIMM_A1

DIMM_B1

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-3

This motherboard comes with a 940-pin AM2+ / AM2 socket designed for AMD® Phenom™FX
/ Phenom™ / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processors.

The AM2+ / AM2 socket has a different pinout from the 940-pin socket designed for the
AMD Opteron™ processor. Use a CPU that is designed for the AM2+ / AM2 socket.

1.4 System memory

1.4.1 Overview

This motherboard comes with two Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory Modules
(DIMM) sockets. A DDR2 DIMM 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

1.4.2 Memory congurations

1-4ASUS M2N68-AM SE

You may install 256MB, 512MB, 1GB, and 2GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR2 DIMMs into the

DIMM sockets.

• You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps
the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel conguration. Any excess
memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for the single-channel operation.

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

• Due to the memory address limitation on the 32-bit Windows® OS, when you install

4GB or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be
about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do either of the
following:

- Install a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows

OS.

- Use a 64-bit Windows® OS if you want to install 4GB or more memory on the
motherboard.

• This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 256 megabits (Mb) chips or less.

This motherboard supports up to 4GB memory modules on Windows XP Professional x64

and Vista x64 editions. You may install a maximum of 2GB DIMMs on each slot.

M2N68-AM SE Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)

DDR2-533MHz capability

Size Vendor Model CL Brand SS/DS Component

256MB Kingston KVR533D2N4/256 N/A Elpida SS E5116AF-5C-E • •
512MB Kingston KVR533D2N4/512 N/A Inneon SS HYB18T512800AF3733336550 • •
1G Kingston KVR533D2N4/1G N/A Kingston DS D6408TLRAGL37U • •
256MB Samsung M378T3253FG0-CD5 N/A Samsung SS K4T56083QF-GCD5 • •
512MB Samsung M378T6553BG0-CD5 4 Samsung SS K4T51083QB-GCD5 • •
256MB HY HYMP532U64CP6-C4 AB 4 Hynix SS HY5PS121621CFP-C4 • •
1G HY HYMP512U64CP8-C4 AB 4 Hynix DS HY5PS12821CFP-C4 • •
512MB Micron MT 16HTF6464AG-53EB2 4 Micron DS D9BOM • •
512MB Micron MT 16HTF6464AG-53EB2 4 Micron DS Z9BQT • •
1G Micron MT 16HTF12864AY-53EA1 4 Micron DS D9CRZ • •
512MB Corsair VS512MB533D2 N/A Corsair DS MIII0052532M8CEC • •
512MB Corsair VS512MB533D2 N/A Corsair DS MI110052532M8CEC • •
1G Corsair VS1GB533D2 N/A Corsair DS 64M8CFEGQIB0900718 • •
512MB Elpida EBE51UD8ABFA-5C-E N/A Elpida SS E5108AB-5C-E • •
512MB Transcend 512MB DDR2 533 ECC N/A Micron SS 6ND22D9GCT(ECC) • •
512MB Kingmax KLBC28F-A8KB4 N/A Kingmax SS KKEA88B4IAK-37 • •
256MB Kingmax KLBB68F-36EP4 N/A Elpida SS E5116AB-5C-E • •
512MB Kingmax KLBC28F-A8EB4 N/A Elpida SS E5108AE-5C-E • •
512MB ADATA M2OAD2G3H3166I1B52 N/A ADATA SS AD29608A8A-37DG20719 • •
2G ADATA M20AD2H3J4170I1B53 N/A ADATA DS AD20908A8A-37DG30721 • •

®

DIMM support

A* B*

DDR2-667MHz capability

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-5

Size Vendor Model CL Brand SS/DS Component

512MB Kingmax KLCC28F-A8KB5 N/A Kingmax SS KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX • •
1G Kingmax KLCD48F-A8KB5 N/A Kingmax DS KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX • •

512MB Apacer 78.91092.420 N/A Elpida SS E5108AE-6E-E • •
512MB Apacer AU512E667C5KBGC 5 Apacer SS AM4B5708MIJS7E0627B • •
512MB Apacer AU512E667C5KBGC 5 Apacer SS AM4B5708GQJS7E06332F • •
512MB Apacer 78.91G92.9KC 5 Apacer SS AM4B5708GQJS7E0706F • •

1G Apacer AU01GE667C5KBGC N/A Apacer DS AM4B5708GQJS7E0636B • •
1G Apacer 78.01092.420 5 Elpida DS E5108AE-6E-E • •
1G Apacer AU01GE667C5KBGC 5 Apacer DS AM4B5708MIJS7E0627B • •

512MB ADATA M20EL5G3H3160B1C0Z N/A Elpida SS E5108AE-6E-E • •
512MB ADATA M20AD5G3H3166I1C52 N/A ADATA SS AD29608A8A-3EG20648 • •
512MB ADATA M20AD5G3H3166I1C52 N/A ADATA SS AD29608A8A-3EG20718 • •
1G ADATA M2OAD5G3I4176I1C52 N/A ADATA DS AD29608A8A-3EG20645 • •
2G ADATA M2OAD5H3J4170I1C53 N/A ADATA DS AD20908A8A-3EG 30724 • •
512MB VDATA M2GVD5G3H31A4I1C52 N/A VDATA SS VD29608A8A-3EC20615 • •
512MB VDATA M2YVD5G3H31P4I1C52 N/A VDATA SS VD29608A8A-3EG20627 • •
512MB VDATA M2GVD5G3H166I1C52 N/A VDATA SS VD29608A8A-3EG20637 • •

1G VDATA M2GVD5G3I41P6I1C52 N/A VDATA DS VD29608A8A-3EG20627 • •
1G VDATA M2GVD5G3I41C4I1C52 N/A VDATA DS VD29608A8A-3EC20620 • •
1G VDATA M2GVD5G3I4176I1C52 N/A VDATA DS VD29608A8A-3EG20641 • •

512MB PSC AL6E8E63B-6E1K 5 PSC SS A3R12E3GEF637BLC5N • •
512MB PSC AL6E8E63J-6E1 5 PSC SS A3R12E3JFF717B9A00 • •

1G PSC AL7E8E63B-6E1K 5 PSC DS A3R12E3GEF637BLC5N • •
1G PSC AL7E8E63J-6E1 5 PSC DS A3R12E3JFF717B9A01 • •

256MB Nanya NT256T64UH4A1FY-3C N/A Nanya SS NT5TU32M16AG-3C • •
512MB Nanya NT512T64U88A1BY-3C N/A Nanya SS NT5TU64M8AE-3C • •
256MB Kingston KVR667D2N5/256 N/A Kingston SS D3216TLSAKL3U • •
256MB Kingston KVR667D2N5/256 N/A Inneon SS HYB18T256800AF3SW65 33154 • •
512MB Kingston KVR667D2N5/512 N/A Elpida SS E5108AGBG-6E-E • •

1G Kingston KVR667D2N5/1G N/A Kingston DS D6408TEBGGL3U • •
1G Kingston KVR667D2N5/1G N/A Elpida DS E5108AGBG-6E-E • •

512MB Samsung KR M378T6553CZ0-CE6 N/A Samsung SS K4T51083QC • •
512MB Samsung KR M378T6453FZ0-CE6 N/A Samsung DS K4T56083QF-ZCE6 • •
512MB Samsung M378T6553CZ3-CE6 N/A Samsung SS K4T51083QC-ZCE6 • •

1G Samsung M378T2953CZ3-CE6 N/A Samsung DS K4T51083QC-ZCE6 • •
1G Samsung KR M378T2953CZ0-CE6 N/A Samsung DS K4T51083QC-ZCE6 • •
512MB Qimonda HYS64T64000EU-3S-B2 5 Qimonda SS HYB18T512B00B2F3SFSS28171 • •
1G Qimonda HYS64T128020EU-3S-B2 5 Qimonda DS HYB18T512B00B2F3SFSS28171 • •

2G Qimonda HYS64T256020EU-3S-B 5 Qimonda DS HTB18T1G800BF-3S3VV10907 • •
512MB Corsair VS512MB667D2 N/A Corsair SS 64M8CFEGPS0900647 • •
512MB Corsair VS512MB667D2 N/A Corsair DS MIII0052532M8CEC • •

1G Corsair VS1GB667D2 N/A Corsair DS MID095D62864M8CEC • •
1G Corsair XMS2-5400 4 Corsair DS Heat-Sink Package • •

256MB HY HYMP532U64CP6-Y5 AB 5 Hynix SS HY5PS121621CFP-Y5 • •
512MB HY HYMP564U64AP8-Y4 AA N/A Hynix SS HY5PS12821AFP-Y4 • •
512MB HY HYMP564U64AP8-Y5 AA N/A Hynix SS HY5PS12821AFP-Y5 • •
512MB HY HYMP564U72AP8-Y4 N/A Hynix SS HY5PS12821AFP-Y4(ECC) • •
512MB HY HYMP564U72AP8-Y5 N/A Hynix SS HY5PS12821AFP-Y5(ECC) • •

1G HY HYMP512U72AP8-Y5 N/A Hynix DS HY5PS12821AFP-Y5(ECC) • •
1G HY HYMP512U64AP8-Y5 AB N/A Hynix DS HY5PS12821AFP-Y5 • •
1G HY HYMP512U64CP8-Y5 AB 5 Hynix DS HY5PS12521CFP-Y5 • •
512MB Kingmax KLCC28F-A8EB5 N/A Elpida SS E5108AE-6E-E • •

DIMM support

A* B*

DDR2-800MHz capability

1-6ASUS M2N68-AM SE

Size Vendor Model CL Brand

1G Kingston KVR800D2N5/1G N/A Samsung DS K4T51083QC-ZCE7 • •
1G Kingston KHX6400D2LL/1G N/A Kingston DS Heat-Sink Package • •

512MB Kingston KHX6400D2LLK2/1GN N/A Kingston SS Heat-Sink Package • •
512MB Kingston KVR800D2N5/512 N/A Promos SS V59C1512804QCF25SY032406PECPA • •

1G Kingston KHX6400D2K2/2G N/A Kingston DS Heat-Sink Package • •
1G Kingston KVR800D2N5/1G N/A Promos DS V59C1512804QCF25S0061904PECJA • •
512MB Samsung KR M378T6553CZ3-CE7 N/A Samsung SS K4T51083QC-ZCE7 • •
1G Samsung KR M378T2953CZ3-CE7 N/A Samsung DS K4T51083QC-ZCE7 • •
512MB Samsung KR M391T6553CZ3-CE7 N/A Samsung SS K4T51083QC-ZCE7(ECC) • •
1G Samsung KR M391T2953CZ3-CE7 N/A Samsung DS K4T51083QC-ZCE7(ECC) • •
512MB Qimonda HYS64T64000EU-2.5-B2 6 Qimonda SS HYB18T512800B2F25FSS28380 • •
1G Qimonda HYS64T128020EU-2.5-B2 6 Qimonda DS HYB18T512800B2F25FSS28380 • •
512MB Micron MT9HTF6472AY-80ED4 5 Micron SS 6ED22D9GKX(ECC) • •
1G Micron MT18HTF12872AY-80ED4 5 Micron DS 6TD22D9GKX(ECC) • •
1G Corsair CM2X1024-6400 5 Corsair DS Heat-Sink Package • •
1G Corsair XMS2-6400 4 Corsair DS Heat-Sink Package • •
1G Corsair XMS2-6400 5 Corsair DS Heat-Sink Package • •

512MB HY HYMP564U64AP8-S6 AA N/A Hynix SS HY5PS12821AFP-S6 • •
512MB HY HYMP564U64BP8-S5 AB N/A Hynix SS HY5PS12821BFP-S5 • •
512MB HY HYMP564U64CP8-S5 AB 5 Hynix SS HY5PS12821CFP-S5 • •

1G HY HYMP512U64AP8-S6 AA N/A Hynix DS HY5PS12821AFP-S6 • •
1G HY HYMP512U64BP8-S5 AB 5 Hynix DS HY5PS12821BFP-S5 • •
1G HY HYMP512U64CP8-S5 AB 5 Hynix DS HY5PS12821CFPS5 • •

512MB ADATA M20AD6G3H3160I1E58 N/A ADATA SS AD29608A8A-25EG80720 • •
512MB VDATA M2GVD6G3H3160I1E53 N/A VDATA SS VD29608A8A-25EG30648 • •
1G VDATA M2GVD6G3I4170I1E53 N/A VDATA DS VD29608A8A-25EG30647 • •
512MB PSC AL6E8E63B-8E1K 5 PSC SS A3R12E3HEF641B9A05 • •
1G PSC AL7E8E63B-8E1K 5 PSC DS A3R12E3HEF641B9A05 • •

SS/
DS

Component

DIMM support

A* B*

DDR2-1066MHz capability

Size Vendor Model CL Brand SS/DS Component

1G Kingston KHX8500D2K2/2GN N/A Kingston SS Heat-Sink Package • •
1G Corsair CM2X1024-8500C5 N/A Corsair DS Heat-Sink Package • •
1G Corsair CM2X1024-8500C5D 5 Corsair DS Heat-Sink Package • •
512MB ADATA M2OMIDG3H3160INC5Z 5 ADATA SS Heat-Sink Package • •
1G ADATA M2OMIDG314720INC5Z 5 ADATA DS Heat-Sink Package • •

DIMM support

A* B*

• DDR2 1066 is supported by AM2+ CPU only.

• The default DIMM frequency depends on its Serial Presence Detect (SPD), which is the

standard way of accessing information from a memory module. Under the default state,
some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a lower frequency than the
vendor-marked value.

SS: Single-sided / DS: Double-sided
DIMM support:

• A*: Supports one module inserted into either slot as the single-channel memory

conguration.

• B*: Supports one pair of modules inserted into both the yellow slots as one pair of

dual-channel memory conguration.

Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for the latest QVL.

1.5 Expansion slots

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-7

In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections describe
the slots and the expansion cards that they support.

Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may
cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

1.5.1 Installing an expansion card

To install an expansion card:

1. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that comes with it and
make the necessary hardware settings for the card.

2. Remove the chassis cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a chassis).

3. Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to 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.

6. Replace the chassis cover.

1.5.2 Conguring an expansion card

After installing the expansion card, congure it by adjusting the software settings.

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

information on BIOS setup.

2. Assign an IRQ to the card.

3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.

When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that

the cards do not need IRQ assignments; otherwise, conicts will arise between the two PCI

groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable.

1.5.3 PCI slot

The PCI slots support cards such as LAN cards, SCSI cards, USB cards, and other cards

that comply with the PCI specications.

1.5.4 PCI Express x1 slot

This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards, and other cards that

comply with the PCI Express specications.

1.5.5 PCI Express x16 slot

This motherboard supports PCI Express x16 graphics cards that comply with the PCI

Express specications.

1.6 Jumpers

M2N68-AM SE

M2N68-AM SE Clear RTC RAM

1 2 2 3

Normal

(Default)

Clear RTC

CLRTC

M2N68-AM SE

M2N68-AM SE USB Device Wake Up

21

2 3

+5V

(Default)

+5VSB

USBPW5-10

1-8ASUS M2N68-AM SE

1. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin 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. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3
for about 5-10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.

3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.

4. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter
data.

Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default

position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!

• If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the jumper again
to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After clearing the CMOS, reinstall the battery.

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

2. USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW5-10)

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 (no power to CPU,

DRAM in slow refresh, power supply in reduced power mode). The USBPW5-10

jumper is for the internal USB connectors that you can connect to additional USB ports.

3. Keyboard/mouse power (3-pin PS2_USBPW1-4)

M2N68-AM SE

M2N68-AM SE Keyboard/mouse power

21

2 3

+5V

(Default)

+5VSB

PS2_USBPW1-4

3 42

57 69 8

1

10

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-9

This jumper allows you to enable or disable the keyboard/mouse and USB port 1-4
wake-up feature. When you set this jumper to pins 2-3 (+5VSB), you can wake up the

computer by pressing a key on the keyboard (the default is the Space Bar), clicking
the mouse, or using a USB device. This feature requires an ATX power supply that can
supply at least 1A on the +5VSB lead, and a corresponding setting in the BIOS. The

PS2_USBPW1-4 jumper is for the rear USB ports.

1.7 Connectors

1.7.1 Rear panel ports

1. PS/2 Mouse port. This port is for a PS/2 mouse.

2. LAN (RJ-45) port. This port allows 10/100 PHY connection to a Local Area Network

(LAN) through a network hub.

LAN port LED indications

LED (Orange) LED (green)

Status Description Status Description

OFF No link OFF No link

ORANGE 100Mbps connection GREEN 10Mbps connection

LED

(Orange)

LAN port

LED

(Green)

3. Line In port (light blue). This port connects to the tape, CD, DVD player, or other

SATA2

SATA1

GND
RSATA_TXN1
RSATA_TXP1

GND
RSATA_RXN1
RSATA_RXP1

GND

GND
RSATA_TXN2
RSATA_TXP2

GND
RSATA_RXN2
RSATA_RXP2

GND

M2N68-AM SE

M2N68-AM SE SATA connectors

1-10ASUS M2N68-AM SE

audio sources.

4. Line Out port (lime). This port connects to a headphone or a speaker. In 4-channel

and 6-channel conguration, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out.

5. Microphone port (pink). This port connects to a microphone.

Refer to the audio conguration table below for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4, or
6-channel conguration.

Audio 2, 4, 6-channel conguration

Port Headset 2-channel 4-channel 6-channel

Light Blue Line In Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out

Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out

Pink Mic In Mic In Bass / Center

6. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports connect to

USB 2.0 devices.

7. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports connect to

USB 2.0 devices.

8. Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port. This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor or other

VGA-compatible devices.

9. COM port. This 9-pin COM1 port is for pointing devices or other serial devices.

10. PS/2 Keyboard port. This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.

1.7.2 Internal connectors

1. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1, SATA2)

These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA 3Gb/s hard disk
and optical disk drives. The Serial ATA 3Gb/s is backward compatible with Serial ATA

1.5Gb/s specication. The data transfer rate of the Serial ATA 3Gb/s is faster than the
standard parallel ATA with 133MB/s (Ultra DMA133).

Install the Windows® XP Service Pack 1 before using Serial ATA.

2. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE)

M2N68-AM SE

PRI_IDE

NOTE:Orient the red markings
on the IDE ribbon cable to PIN 1.

PIN1

M2N68-AM SE IDE connector

CD

Left Audio Channel

GND

GND

Right Audio Channel

M2N68-AM SE

M2N68-AM SE Internal audio connecto

r

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-11

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 congure your devices.

Drive jumper setting Mode of device(s) Cable connector

Single device Cable-Select or Master - Black

Cable-Select

Two devices

Master Master

Slave Slave

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.

• If any device jumper is set as “Cable-Select”, ensure that all other device jumpers have
the same setting.

• Use the 80-conductor IDE cable for Ultra DMA 133/100/66 IDE devices.

Master Black

Slave Gray

Black or gray

3. Optical drive audio in connector (4-pin CD)

This connector allows you to receive stereo audio input from sound sources such as a
CD-ROM, TV tuner, or MPEG card.

4. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78, USB910)

M2N68-AM SE

M2N68-AM SE USB2.0 connectors

PIN 1

USB+5V

USB_P10-

USB_P10+

GND

NC

USB+5V

USB_P9-

USB_P9+

GND

USB910

PIN 1

USB+5V

USB_P8-

USB_P8+

GND

NC

USB+5V

USB_P7-

USB_P7+

GND

USB78

PIN 1

USB+5V

USB_P6-

USB_P6+

GND

NC

USB+5V

USB_P5-

USB_P5+

GND

USB56

CPU_FAN

CPU FAN PWM

CPU FAN IN

CPU FAN PWR

GND

M2N68-AM SE

M2N68-AM SE CPU fan connector

1-12ASUS M2N68-AM SE

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 the USB 2.0 specication that supports up
to 480Mbps connection speed.

Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the
motherboard!

The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.

5. CPU fan connector (4-pin CPU_FAN)

The CPU fan connector supports cooling fans of 350mA~740mA (8.88W max.) or a
total of 1A~2.22A (26.64W max.) at +12V. Connect the CPU fan cable to the CPU fan

connector on the motherboard, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the
ground pin of the connector.

DO NOT forget to connect the CPU fan cable to the CPU fan connector. Insufcient air ow
inside the system may damage the motherboard components. It is not a jumper! DO NOT

place a jumper cap on the CPU fan connector.

Only the CPU fan supports the ASUS Q-Fan feature.

6. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V)

M2N68-AM SE

M2N68-AM SE ATX power connectors

EATXPWR

PIN 1

GND
+5 Volts
+5 Volts
+5 Volts

-5 Volts
GND
GND
GND
PSON#
GND

-12 Volts
+3 Volts

+3 Volts
+12 Volts
+12 Volts

+5V Standby

Power OK

GND

+5 Volts

GND

+5 Volts

GND
+3 Volts
+3 Volts

ATX12V

PIN 1

+12V DC

+12V DC

GND

GND

M2N68-AM SE

M2N68-AM SE Speaker Out Connector

+5V

GND

GND

Speaker Out

SPEAKER

PIN 1

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-13

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 12V Specication 2.0-compliant power supply unit
(PSU) with a minimum of 300W 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, ensure that the 20-pin
power plug can provide at least 15A on +12V and that the PSU has a minimum power
rating of 300W. 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 conguring a

system with more power-consuming devices or when you intend to install additional
devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is
inadequate.

• If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system,
refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.
com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.

7. Speaker connector (4- pin SPEAKER)

This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker
allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.

8. System panel connector (10-1 pin F_PANEL)

M2N68-AM SE

M2N68-AM SE System panel connector

PIN 1

PWR BTN

PLED+

PLED-

PWR

GND

IDE_LED+

IDE_LED-

Ground

Reset

F_PANEL

PWR LED

HD_LED RESET

M2N68-AM SE

M2N68-AM SE Analog front panel connector

AAFP

PIN 1

GND

PRESENCE#

SENSE1_RETUR

SENSE2_RETUR

PORT1 L

PORT1 R

PORT2 R

SENSE_SEND

PORT1 L

HD-audio-compliant

pin definition

PIN 1

AGNDNCNC

NC

MIC2

MICPWR

Line out_R

NC

Line out_L

Legacy AC’97

compliant definition

1-14ASUS M2N68-AM SE

This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.

• 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.

• Power/Soft-off button (2-pin PWRBTN)

This 2-pin 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.

9. 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 Denition Audio or AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front
panel audio I/O module cable to this connector.

If you want to connect a high-denition front panel audio module to this connector, ensure

that the Front Panel Select item in the BIOS is set to [HD Audio]. If you want to connect

an AC97 front panel audio module to this connector, set the item to [AC97]. See page 2-10

for details.

1.8 Software support

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-15

1.8.1 Installing an operating system

This motherboard supports Windows® XP/Vista Operating Systems (OS). Always install the

latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware.

• Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Refer to your OS documentation for

detailed information.

• Ensure that you install Windows® XP Service Pack 3 or later versions / Windows® Vista

Service Pack 1 or later versions before installing the drivers for better compatibility and
system stability.

1.8.2 Support DVD information

The Support DVD that comes with the motherboard package contains drivers, software
applications, and utilities that you can install to get all motherboard features.

To run the Support DVD

Place the Support DVD into the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the Drivers
menu if the Autorun function is enabled on your computer.

The contents of the Support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the
ASUS website at www.asus.com for updates.

Click an icon to
display Support DVD/
motherboard information

Click an item to install

If the Autorun function is NOT enabled on your computer, browse the contents of the

Support DVD to locate the le ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click
ASSETUP.EXE to run the DVD.

1.8.3 ASUS Express Gate

1-16ASUS M2N68-AM SE

ASUS Express Gate is an instant-on environment that gives you quick access to the Internet.
Five seconds after bootup, you can instantly surf the Internet, use Skype or other Express
Gate applications.

Installing ASUS Express Gate

• ASUS Express Gate supports SATA HDDs in IDE mode only.

• ASUS Express Gate supports HDDs connected to motherboard chipset-controlled
onboard SATA ports only. All onboard extended SATA ports and external SATA ports
are NOT supported. See section 1.2.1 Motherboard layout for the exact location of the
onboard SATA ports.

To install Express Gate on your computer:

1. Place the Support DVD into the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears if Autorun is

enabled on your computer.

2. Click the Utilities tab, then click ASUS Express Gate.

3. Select your preferred language, then click

OK.

4. The InstallShield Wizard for Express

Gate appears. Click Next to continue.

5. Select the target drive where you want to
install Express Gate. If you have multiple
partitions installed on your computer, it is
recommended to install Express Gate in
Drive C. Click Next to continue.

6. Follow the onscreen instructions to
complete the installation.

The Splash Screen

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-17

Express Gate’s splash screen appears within

a few seconds after bootup. From here,

immediately start surng the Internet, chat on

Skype, enter the OS or BIOS, or power off your
computer.

If you do not make any selection, Express
Gate automatically closes and boots to your
OS after some time. The timer countdown
is shown inside the Enter OS button. As
you move the mouse or press a key, the
countdown stops and the timer disappears, so
you can take your time to make a selection.

Splash screen hot keys

Key Function

<PAUSE/BREAK> Power-off

<ESC> Continue to boot OS

<DEL> Enter BIOS setup

<F8> Enter Boot selection pop-up

The Express Gate Environment

The very rst time you enter the Express

Gate environment, either through launching
the web or Skype from the splash screen,

a rst time wizard appears. The rst time
wizard guides you in conguring the basic

Express Gate settings such as the language,
date and time, and screen resolution.

Express Gate hot keys

Key Function

<Alt> + <Tab> Switch between applications

<Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Del> Bring the Power-Off dialog box

<Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Print Screen> Save screen snapshots

TO DO THIS

1-18ASUS M2N68-AM SE

Launch or switch between applications Click the icons on the LaunchBar located at the bottom

Bring a window to the foreground Click within the window or click its icons.

Resize a window Drag any of the window’s four corners.

Move a window Drag the window’s title bar.

Bring a menu of applications Right-click anywhere on your desktop.

The red triangle on a LaunchBar icon indicates that the application is running, which means
that you can switch to this application without delay. If the application stops responding,
right-click its icon to force it to close.

of the screen.

On your computer’s keyboard, press <Alt> + <Tab>.

Using the Conguration Panel

Use the conguration panel to change the Express Gate settings.

Click an icon to open a particular conguration tool. The following tools are available:

• Date and Time: This allows you to set the date, time, and time zone.

• Input Method: This allows you to choose your favorite input method.

• Language and Keyboard: This allows you to choose your language and keyboard

preferences.

• LaunchBar Settings: This allows you to customize your LaunchBar settings.

• Network: This allows you to specify how your computer connects to the Internet.

Enable all the network ports that you may use.

Also specify whether each port uses DHCP (most common) or static IP. For PPPoE

and wireless, set the login credentials such as the username, password, and SSID.

• The number of the LAN ports may differ from motherboards.

• You can connect the LAN cable to any RJ-45 port, and Express Gate automatically uses
the available port.

• Environment Settings: This function allows you to clear the Express Gate settings

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-19

and any information saved by the web browser such as bookmarks, cookies, and

history. The user data is restored to the original default congurations.

After you click Restore System, a conrmation dialog box appears. If you click Yes in

the conrmation dialog box, your system immediately restarts. Re-launch the Express
Gate environment to nish clearing the settings. This is useful in the rare case when

settings might become corrupted.

The rst-time Wizard will run again when you enter the Express Gate environment after

clearing its settings.

• Screen Settings: This allows you to choose the screen resolution.

• Volume Control: This allows you to control the volume for your speaker and

microphone.

Using the LaunchBar

Click an icon on the LaunchBar to launch the corresponding application.

Launches the Web Browser for quick access to the Internet.

Launches the Photo Manager album / organizer tool.

Launches the Chat instant messaging tool.

Launches the Skype application which allows you to chat with or call other people
on Skype.

Launches the Conguration Panel which allows you to specify network settings.

If an application stops responding, right-click its icon then select Close to force it to close.

The smaller icons on the right side of the LaunchBar are:

1-20ASUS M2N68-AM SE

Launches File Manager which allows you to access les on a USB drive. If a
USB device is detected, the icon contains a green arrow.

ASUS Express Gate supports le uploading from SATA HDDs, ODDs, and USB drives. It
supports le downloading to USB drives only.

Congures the network.

Adjusts the volume.

Sets the input language and keyboard shortcuts (Ctrl-Space by default).

Congures the LaunchBar settings such as auto-hide mode and docking position.

Displays the ASUS Utility panel.

Displays your Express Gate version.

Launches the help le.

Launches the Power Off window where you may choose to enter OS, restart the
computer, or power off the computer. This window also appears when you press
Ctrl-Alt-Del on the keyboard.

Power off

Enter OS

Check to save

user prole

Cancel and return to

Express Gate

Restart

Accessing the Internet

If you cannot access the Internet in the Express Gate environment, check the following:

1. Open the Conguration Panel.

Conguration Panel

2. Open Network.

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-21

Network

3. Make the proper network congurations.

Each network interface is enabled immediately after you tick the Enable checkbox.

• If you use a network cable connected to a home router that is connected to your DSL/

cable modem, enable all the LAN ports. Express Gate automatically uses the available
port.

• The number of the LAN ports vary with the motherboard.

• If you plug the network cable into a different port while Express Gate is running (e.g.

move the cable from LAN1 to LAN2), press the Refresh button to activate the new
setting.

• If your computer does not automatically get network settings from a DHCP server, click

Setup to congure the static IP settings manually. If your computer automatically gets

network settings from a DHCP server, skip this step.

• If you want to connect to a wireless network, click Setup to congure the WiFi options.

1-22ASUS M2N68-AM SE

In the WiFi tab of the Advanced Network Settings box, key in the network name of
your wireless access point in the SSID eld. If Security is enabled on your wireless
access point, select the corresponding security algorithm from the dropdown list such
as WEPAUTO in the Encryption Type eld, and key in the password.

Click OK to enable WiFi and establish the wireless connection.

• If you use a network cable connected directly to your DSL/cable modem, click Setup

for xDSL/cable dial-up which is referred to as PPPoE. Choose whether the DSL/cable
modem is connected to your computer’s LAN port. Key in the username and password

for your account.

Click OK to enable xDSL/cable dial-up and establish the PPPoE connection. When

PPPoE is enabled, the port it uses will automatically be unchecked.

Using the Photo Manager

Photo Manager allows you to view pictures saved on your hard drive or external storage

devices. You can view pictures in thumbnail view, in an enlarged view individually, in a

lename/data list view, or play them in a slideshow with background music and fancy

transition effects. JPEG, GIF, BMP, and PNG formats are supported. Refer to the online Help
for details.

HelpPhoto slideshow

View mode

Shows the
image folders
found on your
hard drive
or external
devices

selection

Shows user­created image
albums

ASUS Express Gate supports HDDs connected to motherboard chipset-controlled
onboard SATA ports only. All onboard extended SATA ports and external SATA ports are

NOT supported.

Image
control bar

Conguring Express Gate in BIOS Setup

Chapter 1: Product introduction1-23

To enter the BIOS Setup program, press <DEL> during POST or click the BIOS Setup button

on the Express Gate’s splash screen. Go to the Tools menu to congure Express Gate.

Main Ai Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

ASUS EZ Flash 2

Express Gate [Enabled]
Enter OS Timer [10 Seconds]
Reset User Data [No]

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Press ENTER to run
the utility to select
and update BIOS.
This utility doesn't
support :

1.NTFS format

Updating Express Gate

To update Express Gate:

1. Double-click the Express Gate setup le

to start the software update.

2. A software update conrmation dialog

box appears. Click Yes to continue.

3. The InstallShield Wizard for Express Gate appears. Click Next to continue.

4. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the updating process.

Download the latest Express Gate version from the ASUS website at www.asus.com.

Repairing Express Gate

In case Express Gate does not start normally,
reinstall the software or use the repair utility to
repair Express Gate.

To repair Express Gate:

• Click Start > All Programs > Express

Gate > Express Gate Installer > Repair
this software.

• You may also double-click the Express

Gate setup le, choose Repair, and click
Next to continue.

Chapter 2

BIOS information

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS

Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS le to a USB ash disk in case you need to

restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update
utility.

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.

• ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet
Service Provider (ISP).

• This utility is available in the Support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.

Installing ASUS Update:

1. Place the Support DVD into the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears.

2. Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update.

3. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.

Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.

Updating the BIOS:

To update the BIOS:

1. From the Windows® desktop, Click Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUS Update >

ASUS Update to launch the ASUS Update utility.

2. From the dropdown list, select either of the following methods:

Updating from the Internet

a. Select Update BIOS from the Internet, then click Next.

b. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network trafc, or click Auto Select

then click Next.

c. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version you want to download then click Next.

The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update
the utility to get all its features.

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-1

2-2 ASUS M2N68-AM SE

Updating from a BIOS file

a. Select Update BIOS from a le, then click Next.

b. Locate the BIOS le from the Open window, then click Open.

3. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the updating process.

2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility

The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without using an OS-based

utility.

Download the latest BIOS le from the ASUS website at www.asus.com.

To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:

1. Insert the USB ash disk that contains the latest BIOS le to a USB port, then launch
EZ Flash 2 in either of these two ways.

• Press <Alt> + <F2> during POST to display the following:

ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.06

FLASH TYPE: MXIC 25L8005

Current ROM

BOARD: M2N68-AM SE
VER: 0203
DATE: 10/20/2008

PATH: A:\

A:

Update ROM

BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
DATE: Unknown

Note

[ En te r ] S el ec t o r L o ad [ B] Ba c ku p [ ES C] E xi t
[Tab] Switch [Up/Down/Home/End] Move

• Enter the BIOS setup program. Go to the Tools menu to select EZ Flash 2 then
press <Enter> to enable it.

2. Press <Tab> to locate the correct le. Press <Enter>.

When the correct BIOS le is found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS updating process and

automatically reboots the system when done.

• Only a USB ash disk with FAT 32/16 format and single partition supports the ASUS EZ

Flash 2 utility.

• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot

failure!

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-3

2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility

The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility 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 DVD or a USB ash disk that contains the
updated BIOS le.

• Prepare the motherboard Support DVD or a USB ash disk containing the updated

motherboard BIOS before using this utility.

• Always connect the SATA cable to the SATA1/2 connector; otherwise, the utility will not

function.

Recovering the BIOS

To recover the BIOS:

1. Turn on the system.

2. Insert the Support DVD or USB ash disk containing the BIOS le to the optical disk

drive or a USB port.
The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the Support DVD

or the USB ash disk for the BIOS le.

Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...
Checking for CD-ROM...

When the BIOS le is found, the utility reads it and starts erasing the corrupted BIOS

le.

Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...
Checking for CD-ROM...
CD-ROM found!
Reading le “M2NAMSE.ROM”. Completed.
Start Erasing...
Start Programming...

3. Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.

• Only a USB ash disk with FAT 32/16 format and single partition supports ASUS
CrashFree BIOS 3. The device size should be smaller than 8GB.

• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause
system boot failure!

The recovered BIOS may not be the latest BIOS version for this motherboard. Download

the latest BIOS le from the ASUS website at www.asus.com.

2-4 ASUS M2N68-AM SE

2.2 BIOS setup program

Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconguring your
system, or prompted to “Run Setup.” This section explains how to congure your system

using this utility.
If you want 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 that you always shut down the system properly from the operating system.

• The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply to 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 2.8 Exit menu.

• The BIOS setup screens in this section are for reference only. They may not exactly
match what you see on your screen.

• Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS le for this
motherboard.

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.

Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

System Time [19:34:30]

System Date [Wed 08/27/2008]

IDE Conguration

Primary IDE Master :[Not Detected]
Primary IDE Slave :[Not Detected]
SATA1 :[Not Detected]
SATA2 :[Not Detected]

System Information

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Use [ENTER], [TAB]
or [SHIFT-TAB] to
select a eld.

Use [+] or [-] to
congure system Time.

Select Screen

Select Item

Change Field

+-

Tab Select Field

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.

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-5

2.3.3 IDE Conguration

The items in this menu allow you to set or change the congurations for the IDE devices

installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you want to congure the item.

Onboard IDE Controller [Enabled]

Enables or disables the onboard IDE controller. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Serial ATA Devices [Enabled]

Enables or disables the Serial ATA devices. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

SATA Mode Select [SATA Mode]

Selects the SATA mode. Conguration options: [SATA Mode]

2.3.4 Primary IDE Master/Slave

While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of IDE devices. There is
a separate submenu for each IDE device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to display
the IDE device information.

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-congurable. These items show Not Detected 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 specically conguring a CD-ROM drive. Select

[ARMD] (ATAPI Removable Media Device) if your device is either a ZIP, LS-120, or MO drive.
Conguration 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.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]

Block (Multi-Sector Transfer) M [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. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]

PIO Mode [Auto]

Selects the PIO mode. Conguration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]

DMA Mode [Auto]

Selects the DMA mode. Conguration options: [Auto]

SMART Monitoring [Auto]

Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]

Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2-6 ASUS M2N68-AM SE

2.3.5 SATA 1-2

While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. There
is a separate submenu for each SATA device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to
display the SATA device information.

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-congurable. These items show Not Detected if no SATA 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.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]

Block (Multi-Sector Transfer) M [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. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]

PIO Mode [Auto]

Selects the PIO mode. Conguration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]

DMA Mode [Auto]

Selects the DMA mode. Conguration options: [Auto]

SMART Monitoring [Auto]

Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]

Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.3.6 System Information

This menu gives you an overview of the general system specications. The BIOS

automatically detects the items in this menu.

AMI BIOS

Displays the auto-detected BIOS information

Processor

Displays the auto-detected CPU specication

System Memory

Displays the auto-detected system memory

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-7

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.

Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

JumperFree Conguration

CPU Conguration
Chipset
Onboard Devices Conguration

PCIPnP

USB Conguration

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Adjust System
Frequency etc.

2.4.1 JumperFree Conguration

CPU Overclocking [Auto]

Selects the CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal frequency.

[Manual] - Allows you to manually set overclocking parameters.
[Auto] - Loads the optimal settings for the system.

[Overclock Prole] - Loads overclocking proles with optimal parameters for stability when

overclocking.
[Standard] - Load the standard settings for the system.

The following item appears only when the CPU Overclocking item is set to [Manual].

CPU Frequency [200.0]

Allows you to set the CPU frequency. Conguration options: [200.0] [201.0] - [299.0]
[300.0]

The following item appears only when the CPU Overclocking item is set to
[Overclock Prole].

Overcloking Options [Auto]

Allows you to select the overclocking prole. Conguration options: [Auto]
[Overclock 3%] [Overclock 5%] [Overclock 7%]

PCIE Overclocking [Auto]

Congures the PCIE overclocking options. Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual]

The following item appears only when the PCIE Overclocking item is set to [Manual].

PCIE Frequency [100]

Allows you to set the PCIE frequency. Conguration options: [100] [101] - [149] [150]

2-8 ASUS M2N68-AM SE

Processor Frequency Multiplier [Auto]

Allows you to select the processor frequency. Conguration options: [Auto] [x4.0 800MHz]
[x5.0 1000MHz] [x6.0 1200MHz] [x7.0 1400MHz] [x8.0 1600MHz] [x9.0 1800MHz]

Processor Voltage [Standard]

Allows you to set the processor voltage. Conguration options: [Power Saving Mode]
[Standard] [+50mv] [+100mv]

Memory Clock Mode [Auto]

Allows you to select the memory clock mode. Conguration options: [Auto] [Manual]

The following item appears only when the Memory Clock Mode item is set to [Manual].

Memclock Value [200MHz]

Allows you to set the memory clock value.

Conguration options: [200MHz] [266MHz] [333MHz] [400MHz] [533MHz]

DRAM Timing Mode [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM timing mode. Conguration options: [Auto] [DCT 0]

The following sub-items appear only when you set the DRAM Timing Mode item to
[DCT 0].

CAS Latency (CL) [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] ~ [6 CLK] [7 CLK DH_Only]

TRCD [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] ~ [6 CLK]

TRP [Auto]

Conguration options: [3 CLK] ~ [6 CLK] [Auto]~ [6 CLK] [Auto]

tRTP [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [2-4 CLK] [3-5 CLK]

TRAS [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [5 CLK] ~ [18 CLK]

TRC [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto]

tWR [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] ~ [6 CLK]

TRRD [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] ~ [5 CLK]

tRWTTO [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] ~ [9 CLK]

tWRRD [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [0 CLK] ~ [3 CLK]

tWTR [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1 CLK] [2 CLK] [3 CLK][Auto] [1 CLK] [2 CLK] [3 CLK]

tWRWR [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [1 CLK] [2 CLK] [3 CLK]

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-9

tRDRD [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] ~ [5 CLK]

tRFCO [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [75ns] [105ns] [127.5ns] [195ns] [327.5ns]

tRFC1 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [75ns] [105ns] [127.5ns] [195ns] [327.5ns]

tRFC2 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [75ns] [105ns] [127.5ns] [195ns] [327.5ns]

tRFC3 [Auto]

Conguration options: [Auto] [75ns] [105ns] [127.5ns] [195ns] [327.5ns]

Memory Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the memory voltage. Conguration options: [Auto] [2.050V] [2.150V]
[2.250V]

Chipset Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the chipset voltage. Conguration options: [Auto] [1.35V]

2.4.2 CPU Conguration

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. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Microcode Updation [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the microcode updation. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]

Secure Virtual Machine Mode [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the AMD Secure Virtual Machine mode. Conguration
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Cool ‘n’ Quiet [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the generation of ACPI_PPC, _PSS, and _PCT objects.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

CPU Prefetching [Enabled]

Enables or disables the CPU prefetching. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

C1E Conguration [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable the CPU Enhanced Halt (C1E) function, a CPU power-saving
function in system halt state. When enabled, the CPU core frequency and voltage will be

reduced during the system halt state to decrease power consumption. Conguration options:
[Disabled] [Auto]

2-10 ASUS M2N68-AM SE

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.

NorthBridge Conguration

Memory Conguration

Bank Interleaving [Disabled]

Allows you to enable the bank memory interleaving.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]

Channel Interleaving [Disabled]

Allows you to enable the channel memory interleaving.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Address bits 6] [Address bits 12]
[XOR of Address bits [20:16, 6]] [XOR of Address bits [20:16, 9]]

Enable Clock to All DIMMs [Disabled]

Enables or disables clock to all DIMMs. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled]

Enables or disables the MemClk Tristate C3/ALTVID.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled]

Enables or disables the memory remapping around memory hole. Conguration
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

DCT Unganged Mode [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable Unganed mode.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Always]

Power Down Enable [Enabled]

Enables or disables the DDR power down mode.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ECC Conguration

ECC Mode [Disabled]

Enables or disables the DRAM ECC that allows the hardware to report and correct

memory errors automatically. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Basic] [Good] [Super]
[Max] [User]

SouthBridge Conguration

Primary Graphics Adapter [PCIE -> PCI -> IGP]

Allows you to select the primary graphics adapter.

Conguration options: [PCIE -> PCI -> IGP] [IGP -> PCI-> PCIE]

iGPU Frame Buffer Detect [Auto]

Sets the iGPU frame buffer detect. Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled]

AZALIA AUDIO [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the HD audio mode. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]

Front Panel Select [HD Audio]

Allows you to set the HD audio mode. Conguration options: [AC97] [HD Audio]

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-11

Onboard LAN [Auto]

Allows you to set or disable the Onboard LAN. Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled]

Onboard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Onboard LAN boot ROM.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

SouthBridge ACPI HPET TABLE [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable SouthBridge ACPI HPET TABLE.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.4.4 Onboard Devices Conguration

Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]

Allows you to select the Serial Port1 base address.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [3F8/IRQ4][2F8/IRQ3] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3]

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.

Plug and Play O/S [No]

When set to [No], BIOS congures all the devices in the system. When set to [Yes] and if
you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system congures the Plug and
Play devices not required for boot. Conguration 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.

Conguration 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.

Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Palette Snooping [Disabled]

When set to [Enabled], the palete snooping feature informs the PCI devices that an
ISA graphics device is installed in the system so that the latter can function correctly.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

IRQ-xx assigned to [PCI Device]

When set to [PCI Device], the specic IRQ is free for use of PCI/PnP devices. When set to
[Reserved], the IRQ is reserved for legacy ISA devices.

Conguration options: [PCI Device] [Reserved]

2-12 ASUS M2N68-AM SE

2.4.6 USB Conguration

The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an item then
press <Enter> to display the conguration options.

The Module Version and USB Devices Enabled items show the auto-detected values. If
no USB device is detected, the item shows None.

USB Functions [Enabled]

Enables or disables the USB functions. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled]

Enables or disables the USB 2.0 Controller. Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Legacy USB Support [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable support for Legacy USB storage devices, including USB ash

drives and USB hard drives. 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. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
[Auto]

USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed]

Allows you to congure the USB 2.0 controller in HiSpeed (480 Mbps) or Full Speed
(12 Mbps). Conguration options: [FullSpeed] [HiSpeed]

2.5 Power menu

The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Conguration and
Power Interface (ACPI) and the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then
press <Enter> to display the conguration options.

Suspend Mode [Auto]

ACPI 2.0 Support [Disabled]
ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]

APM Conguration
Hardware Monitor

Select the ACPI state
used for System
Suspend.

2.5.1 Suspend Mode [Auto]

Allows you to select the Advanced Conguration and Power Interface (ACPI) state to be
used for system suspend. Conguration options: [S1 (POS) Only] [S3 Only] [Auto]

[S1(POS) Only] - Enables the system to enter the ACPI S1 (Power on Suspend) sleep

[S3 Only] - Enables the system to enter the ACPI S3 (Suspend to RAM) sleep state

[Auto] - Detected by OS.

state. In S1 sleep state, the system appears suspended and stays in a
low power mode. The system can be resumed at any time.

(default). In S3 sleep state, the system appears to be off and consumes less
power than in the S1 state. When signaled by a wake-up device or event, the
system resumes to its working state exactly where it was left off.

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-13

2.5.2 ACPI Version Features [Disabled]

Allows you to add additional tables as per Advanced Conguration and Power Interface
(ACPI) 2.0 specications. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Conguration and Power Interface (ACPI)
support in the Application-Specic Integrated Circuit (ASIC). When set to Enabled, the ACPI

APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]

2.5.4 APM Conguration

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.

Conguration options: [Power On] [Power Off]

Power On By PCI/PCIE Device [Disabled]

When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to turn on the system through a PCI/PCIE
card. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Power On By Ring [Disabled]

Enable or disable RI to generate a wake event. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Power On By PS/2 KB/MS [Disabled]

Enable or disable PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse to generate a wake event.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Power On 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. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.5.5 Hardware Monitor

CPU Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]
MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]

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 [xxxxRPM] 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 want the detected speed to be displayed.

VCORE Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage

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 ASUS Q-Fan feature that smartly adjusts the CPU fan

speeds for more efcient system operation. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2-14 ASUS M2N68-AM SE

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.

Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

Boot Settings

Boot Device Priority

Boot Settings Conguration
Security

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Species 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.

2.6.1 Boot Device Priority

1st ~ xxth Boot Device

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. Conguration options: [Removable Device] [Hard Drive]
[ATAPI CD-ROM ] [Disabled]

2.6.2 Boot Settings Conguration

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. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Full Screen Logo [Enabled]

This allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature. Conguration
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo 2™ feature.

AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]

Sets the display mode for option ROM. Conguration options: [Force BIOS] [Keep Current]

Bootup Num-Lock [On]

Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock. Conguration options: [Off] [On]

PS/2 Mouse Support [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable support for PS/2 mouse. Conguration 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.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Chapter 2: BIOS information 2-15

Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled]

When set to Enabled, the system displays the message Press DEL to run Setup during

POST. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled]

When set to [Enabled], this function allows the option ROMs to trap Interrupt 19.
Conguration 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 conguration options.

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 then press <Enter>.

2. From the password box, type a password composed of at least six letters and/or

numbers, then press <Enter>.

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

The message Password Installed appears after you successfully set your password.

To change the supervisor password, follow the same steps in setting a supervisor password.

To clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then press
<Enter> twice. The message Password uninstalled appears.

If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real Time Clock
(RTC) RAM. See section 1.6 Jumpers for information on how to erase the RTC RAM.

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.

Conguration 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.

2. From the password box, type a password composed of at least six letters and/or

numbers, then press <Enter>.

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

The message Password Installed appears after you set your password successfully.
To change the user password, follow the same steps in setting a user password.

Clear User Password

Select this item to clear the user password.

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. Conguration options: [Setup] [Always]

2.7 Tools menu

Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

ASUS EZ Flash 2

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Press ENTER to run
the utility to select
and update BIOS.
This utility doesn't
support :

1.NTFS format

ASUS EZ Flash 2

Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <OK>, a conrmation message
appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <OK> to
conrm your choice.

2.8 Exit menu

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

Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options from this
menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit.

Exit system setup
after saving the
changes.

F10 key can be
used for this
operation.

2-16 ASUS M2N68-AM SE