Asus M3A78-EH User Manual

M3A78-EH

Motherboard

E3681

First Edition

February 2008

Copyright © 2008 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.

ii

Contents

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

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

M3A78-EH specications summary ........................................................... x

Chapter 1: Product introduction

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

1.2 Package contents .........................................................................

1.3 Special features ............................................................................

1.3.1 Product highlights ...........................................................

1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features ..............................................

1.4 Before you proceed .....................................................................

1.5 Motherboard overview .................................................................

1.5.1 Motherboard layout .........................................................

1.5.2 Placement direction ........................................................

1.5.3 Screw holes ....................................................................

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU) .................................................

1.6.1 Installing the CPU .........................................................

1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan ......................................

1.7 System memory .........................................................................

1.7.1 Overview .......................................................................

1.7.2 Memory congurations ..................................................

1.7.3 Installing a DIMM ..........................................................

1.7.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................

1.8 Expansion slots ..........................................................................

1.8.1 Installing an expansion card .........................................

1.8.2 Conguring an expansion card .....................................

1.8.3 PCI slots ........................................................................

1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slot .......................................................

1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot .....................................................

1.9 Jumpers ......................................................................................

1.10 Connectors .................................................................................

1.10.1 Rear panel connectors ..................................................

1.10.2 Internal connectors .......................................................

1-2

1-2

1-2

1-6

1-7

1-8

1-8

1-9

1-9

1-10

1-10

1-12

1-14

1-14

1-14

1-20

1-20

1-21

1-21

1-21

1-24

1-24

1-24

1-25

1-27

1-27

1-29

iii

Contents

Chapter 2: BIOS setup

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

2.1.1 Creating a bootable oppy disk .......................................

2.1.2 AFUDOS utility ................................................................

2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ......................................

2.1.4 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ...................................................

2.1.5 ASUS Update utility ........................................................

2.2 BIOS setup program ..................................................................

2.2.1 BIOS menu screen ........................................................

2.2.2 Menu bar .......................................................................

2.2.3 Navigation keys .............................................................

2.2.4 Menu items ...................................................................

2.2.5 Sub-menu items ............................................................

2.2.6 Conguration elds .......................................................

2.2.7 General help .................................................................

2.2.8 Pop-up window .............................................................

2.3 Main menu ..................................................................................

2.3.1 System Time .................................................................

2.3.2 System Date .................................................................

2.3.3 Legacy Diskette A .........................................................

2.3.4 Primary IDE Master/Slave .............................................

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

2.3.6 SATA Conguration .......................................................

2.3.7 System Information .......................................................

2.4 Advanced menu .........................................................................

2.4.1 JumperFree Conguration ............................................

2.4.2 Hyper Transport Conguration ......................................

2.4.3 CPU Conguration ........................................................

2.4.4 Chipset ..........................................................................

2.4.5 Onboard Device Conguration ......................................

2.4.6 PCIPnP .........................................................................

2.4.7 USB Conguration ........................................................

2-2

2-3

2-6

2-8

2-9

2-12

2-13

2-13

2-14

2-14

2-14

2-14

2-14

2-15

2-16

2-16

2-16

2-16

2-17

2-18

2-19

2-20

2-21

2-21

2-22

2-22

2-23

2-27

2-28

2-29

iv

Contents

2.5 Power menu ................................................................................ 2-30

2.5.1 Suspend Mode ..............................................................

2.5.2 ACPI Support ................................................................

2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support .......................................................

2.5.4 APM Conguration ........................................................

2.5.5 Hardware Monitor .........................................................

2.6 Boot menu ..................................................................................

2.6.1 Boot Device Priority ......................................................

2.6.2 Boot Settings Conguration ..........................................

2.6.3 Security .........................................................................

2.7 Tools menu .................................................................................

2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ..........................................................

2.8 Exit menu ....................................................................................

Chapter 3: Software support

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

3.2 Support DVD information ............................................................

3.2.1 Running the support DVD ...............................................

3.2.2 Drivers menu ...................................................................

3.2.3 Utilities menu ..................................................................

3.2.4 Make Disk menu .............................................................

3.2.5 Manual menu ..................................................................

3.2.6 ASUS Contact information ..............................................

3.2.7 Other information ............................................................

2-30

2-30

2-30

2-31

2-32

2-33

2-33

2-34

2-35

2-38

2-38

2-39

3-2

3-2

3-3

3-4

3-5

3-6

3-7

3-7

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.

vi

Safety information

Electrical safety

•

To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the

electrical outlet before relocating the system.

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

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

service technician or your retailer.

Operation safety

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

Place the product on a stable surface.

•

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

service technician or your retailer.

The symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical
and electronic equipment) should not be placed in municipal waste. Please
check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.

vii

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. 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.

viii

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.

IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a

task.

NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a

task.

Typography

Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.

Italics

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:
afudos /i[lename]

afudos /iM3A78EH.ROM

ix

M3A78-EH specications summary

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

Chipset AMD 780G / SB700

Front side bus Up to 5200 MT/s HyperTransport™ 3.0 interface

Memory Dual-channel memory architecture

Expansion slots 1 x PCI Express™ x16 slot

Hybrid CrossFireX

support

Storage / RAID 1 x UltraDMA 133/100 connector

Audio ALC883 High Denition Audio 8-channel CODEC

USB Supports up to 12 USB 2.0/1.1 ports (8 ports

LAN PCIe Gigabit LAN

ASUS overclocking

features

Athlon™ 64 / Sempron™ processor
AMD Socket AM2 Athlon 64 x2 / Athlon 64 FX /
Athlon 64 / Sempron processor
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology
AMD64 architecture enables simultaneous 32-bit

and 64-bit computing

AMD Live!™ Ready

for AM2+ CPU
2000 / 1600 MT/s for AM2 CPU

4 x 240-pin DIMM slots support unbuffered
ECC and non-ECC DDR2 1066*/800/667/533MHz

memory modules
Supports up to 8GB system memory

* DDR2 1066 is supported by some of the AM2+ CPUs

only

* Refer to www.asus.com or user manual for
Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors List)

2 x PCI Express™ x1 slots
3 x PCI 2.2 slots
Support PCI Express™ 2.0 / 1.0 Architecture

Hybrid CrossFireX Support

* Refer to www.asus.com for the discrete graphics

GPU QVL list which supports the Hybrid CrossFireX
technology.

6 x Serial ATA 3Gb/s connectors support RAID 0, RAID 1
and RAID 10 conguration

Supports Jack-Detect and Multistreaming Technologies

Supports S/PDIF out interface

at mid-board, 4 ports at back panel)

SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection) from 200MHz to
300MHz at 1MHz increment
Ajustable CPU Voltage at 0.025V increment

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

(continued on the next page)

x

M3A78-EH specications summary

ASUS special features ASUS Q-Fan

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

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

Internal I/O connectors 4 x USB 2.0 connectors support additional 8 USB 2.0/1.1

Accessories User manual

Form Factor ATX Form factor: 12’’ x 8.8’’ (30.5cm x 22.4cm)

Support DVD Drivers

ASUS CrashFree BIOS3

ASUS EZ Flash2
ASUS MyLogo2

1 x PS/2 Keyboard port

1 x Serial port
1 x Parallel port
1 x RJ45 port

4 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
8-channel Audio I/O ports

ACPI2.0, SMBIOS 2.4

ports
1 x Floppy disk drive connector
1 x IDE connector
6 x SATA connectors
High denition front panel audio connector
1 x system panel connector
CD audio-in connector

1 x S/PDIF output connector
CPU/Chassis Fan connectors
24-pin EATX power connector
4-pin ATX 12V power connector

2 x Serial ATA cables
1 x 2-port Serial ATA power cable
1 x UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable

1 x FDD cable

1 x I/O shield

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

*Specications are subject to change without notice.

xi

xii

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

Product

1

introduction

1.1 Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ASUS® M3A78-EH motherboard!

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

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

1.2 Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

Motherboard ASUS M3A78-EH motherboard

Cables 2 x Serial ATA signal cables
1 x 2-port Serial ATA power cable
1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable

1 x FDD cable

Accessories 1 x I/O shield

Application DVD ASUS motherboard support DVD

Documentation User guide

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

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

AMD® Socket AM2+ Phenom™ FX /
Phenom / Athlon™ / Sempron™ CPU support

This motherboard supports AMD® Socket AM2+ multi-core processors with
unique L3 cache and delivers better overclocking capabilities with less power

consumption. It features dual-channel DDR2 1066 memory support and
accelerates data transfer rate up to 5200MT/s via HyperTransport™ 3.0 based
system bus. See page 1-10 for details.

1-2 Chapter 1: Product introduction

HyperTransport 3.0 support

HyperTransport 3.0 technology provides 2.6 times more bandwidth than HT1.0 that
radically improves system efciency for a smoother, faster computing environment.

DDR2 memory support

This motherboard is an AMD® platform with DDR2 1066 support. It provides faster
data transfer rate and more bandwidth to increase memory data transfer rate and

computing efciency, enhancing system performance in 3D graphics and other

memory demanding applications.

DDR2 1066 is supported by some of the AM2+ CPUs only. Refer to
www.asus.com for the supported CPU models.

AMD Socket AM2 Athlon 64 X2 /
Athlon 64 FX / Athlon 64 / Sempron CPU support

The motherboard supports AMD socket AM2 single-core Athlon 64/ Sempron and
dual-core Athlon 64 X2/ Athlon 64 FX processors with 2MB / 1MB / 512KB
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 1-10 for details.

64-bit CPU support

64-bit computing, the next generation technology to replace the current 32-bit

architecture, delivers advanced system performance, faster memory access and
increased productivity. This motherboard provides excellent compatibility and

exibility by supporting either 64-bit or 32-bit architecture.

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-3

AMD® 780G and ATI SB700 chipsets

AMD 780G Northbridge is the latest AMD chipset designed for both HT1.0 and
5200MT/s HyperTransport™ 3.0 (HT 3.0) interface speed and external graphics
in PCI Express™ 2.0/1.1 standard. It features the future mainstream Hybrid
CrossFireX technology that signicantly optimizes your 3D performance. See page
2-23 for details.

Hybrid CrossFireX

AMD new technology Hybrid CrossFireX greatly boosts graphics performance with
an onboard GPU and a discrete graphics card.

Refer to www.asus.com for the discrete graphics GPU QVL list which supports
the Hybrid CrossFireX technology.

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 2-23 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

specications. See page 1-24 for details.

PCI Express 2.0 support

This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 devices for double speed and

bandwidth which enhances system performance.

1-4 Chapter 1: Product introduction

Serial ATA 3Gb/s technology

The motherboard supports next-generation SATA hard drives based on the new

SATA 3Gb/s storage specication. The onboard ATI® SB700 allows RAID 0, RAID
1 and RAID 10 congurations for six SATA connectors. See pages 1-31 and 2-19

for details

Gigabit LAN solution

The on-board LAN controller is a highly integrated Gigabit LAN controller. It

is enhanced with an ACPI management function to provide efcient power

management for advanced operating systems.

USB 2.0 technology

USB 2.0 is the latest connectivity standard for next generation components and
peripherals. Backwards compatible with current USB 1.1 peripherals, USB 2.0
delivers transfer speeds up to 40 times faster at 480Mb/s, for easy connectivity and

ultra-fast data transfers.

8-channel high denition audio

Enjoy high-quality sound system on your PC! The onboard 8-channel HD audio

(High Denition Audio, previously codenamed Azalia) CODEC enables high-quality
192KHz/24-bit audio output, jack-detect feature, which automatically detects and
identies what types of peripherals are plugged into the audio I/O jacks and noties

users of inappropriate connection, meaning there will be no more confusion of

Line-in, Line-out and Mic jacks. See pages 1-27, 1-35 and 2-27 for details.

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-5

1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features

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 efcient operation. See page 2-32 for

details.

ASUS MyLogo2™

Turn your favorite photos into 256-color boot logos to personalize your system.
See page 2-35 for details.

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 allows users to restore corrupted BIOS data from a

USB ash disk containing the BIOS le. This utility saves users the cost and hassle
of buying a replacement BIOS chip. See page 2-6 for details.

ASUS EZ Flash 2

EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility. Simply launch this tool and update
BIOS from a USB ash disk before entering the OS. You can update your BIOS
only in a few clicks without preparing an additional oppy diskette or using an OS­based ash utility. See pages 2-8 and 2-38 for details.

C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

When the system hangs due to overclocking failure, there is no need to open the
case to clear CMOS data. Just simply restart the system, the BIOS would show the

previous setting and then users can amend the CPU setting again. See page 1-25

for details.

Green ASUS

This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s Restriction
on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision
of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packaging to safeguard
consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment.

1-6 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.4 Before you proceed

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH Onboard LED

SB_PWR

ON

Standby

Power

OFF

Powered

Off

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.

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.

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-7

22.4cm (8.8in)

Super I/O

SATA4

SATA5

SATA6

SATA1

SATA2

SATA3

SocketAM2+/AM2

CPU_FAN

E

A

TXPWR

USB1112 USB910 USB78 USB56

AAFP

SB_PWR

8Mb

BIOS

AMD 780G

SB700

DDR2 DIMM_A1 (64 bit,240-pin module)

DDR2 DIMM_B1 (64 bit,240-pin module)

DDR2 DIMM_A2 (64 bit,240-pin module)

DDR2 DIMM_B2 (64 bit,240-pin module)

PCI2

PCI3

PCI1

PCIEX16

PCIEX1_2

PCIEX1_1

Attansic

F1

ICS

9LPRS485CGLF

CLRTC

ATX12V

R

SPDIF_OUT

M3A78-EH

PS/2KBMS
T: Mouse
B: Keyboard

USB34

LAN1_USB12

AUDIO

CHA_FAN

CD

PS2_USBPW1-4

30.5cm (12in)

ALC883

PARALLEL

POR

T

COM1

PRI_IDE

CR2032 3V
Lithium Cell

CMOS Power

USBPW5-8

USBPW9-12

1.5 Motherboard overview

1.5.1 Motherboard layout

1-8 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.5.2 Placement direction

R

M3A78-EH

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

1.5.3 Screw holes

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

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

Place this side towards
the rear of the chassis

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-9

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH CPU Socket AM2

The motherboard comes with an AM2+/AM2 socket designed for AMD® Socket
AM2+ Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™ 64 / Sempron™ processor or for Socket
AM2 Athlon 64 X2 / Athlon 64 FX / Athlon 64 / Sempron processor.

The AM2+/AM2 socket has a different pinout from the 940-pin socket designed

for the AMD Opteron processor. Ensure you use a CPU designed for the

AM2+/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.

Socket lever

1-10 Chapter 1: Product introduction

Ensure that the socket lever is lifted up to 90°-100° angle, otherwise the CPU
does not t in completely.

3. Position the CPU above the socket

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH CPU Fan Connector

CPU_FAN

GND

CPU FAN PWR

CPU FAN IN

CPU FAN PWM

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.

Small triangle

Gold triangle

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

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-11

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

1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan

The AMD Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™ 64 / Sempron™ / Athlon 64X2 /

Athlon 64 FX processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly
to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.

Ensure that you use only qualied heatsink and fan assembly.

Follow these steps to install the CPU heatsink and fan.

1. Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, making sure that the heatsink

ts properly on the retention module base.

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

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

• If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, make

sure that a Thermal Interface Material is properly applied to the CPU
heatsink or CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly.

CPU Fan

CPU Heatsink

Retention Module Base

Retention bracket

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

Retention bracket lock

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

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

Make sure that the fan and

heatsink assembly perfectly ts

the retention mechanism module

base; otherwise, you cannot snap

the retention bracket in place.

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

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-13

1.7 System memory

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH 240-pin DDR2 DIMM Sockets

DIMM_B1

DIMM_A2

DIMM_B2

DIMM_A1

128 Pins

112 Pins

1.7.1 Overview

The motherboard comes with four 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 1 DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2

Channel 2 DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2

1.7.2 Memory congurations

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

Recommended memory congurations

Sockets

Mode DIMM_A1 DIMM_B1 DIMM_A2 DIMM_B2

Single-Channel

Dual-channel (1) Populated Populated – –

Dual-channel (2) Populated Populated Populated Populated

1-14 Chapter 1: Product introduction

– Populated – –

Populated – – –

• When using only one memory module, start installing the DDR2 DIMM from

slot DIMM_A1 or DIMM_B1 for better overclocking capability.

• For dual-channel conguration (2), you may:

- install identical DIMMs in all four sockets OR

- install identical DIMM pair in DIMM_A1 and DIMM_B1 (yellow sockets)

and another identical DIMM pair in DIMM_A2 and DIMM_B2 (black

sockets)

• Always use identical DDR2 DIMM pairs for dual channel mode. For

optimum compatibility, we recommend that you obtain memory modules
from the same vendor.

• If you are using a Windows 32-bit version operating system (e.g. 32-bit
Windows XP, 32-bit Vista) without the Physical Address Extension (PAE)

support, the system will allocate a certain amount of memory space for
system devices.

• We recommend that you install only a maximum of 3GB system memory

when using a Windows 32-bit version operating system without the PAE.
The excess over 3GB of installed memory will not cause any problem;

however, the system can not use this excess memory space and the

system will display less than the total size of physical memory installed.

The motherboard can support 8 GB physical memory on the operating system

listed below. You may install a maximum of 2 GB DIMMs on each slot.

64-bit

Windows® XP Professional x64 Edition

Windows® Vista x64 Edition

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-15

M3A78-EH Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-

1066 MHz capability

Size Vendor Model CL Brand

512MB Kingston KHX8500D2/512 N/A Kingston SS Heat-Sink Package . . .

1G Kingston KHX8500D2K2/2GN N/A Kingston DS Heat-Sink Package . . .

1G ADATA M2OMIDG314720INC5Z 5 ADATA DS Heat-Sink Package . . .

1G OCZ OCZ2N1066SR2DK N/A OCZ DS Heat-Sink Package . . .

1G OCZ OCZ2N10662GK N/A OCZ DS Heat-Sink Package . . .

512MB Kingbox EP512D21066PS N/A Micron SS 6QD22D9GCT . . .

SS/

DS

Component

DIMM support

A* B* C*

DDR2-800 MHz capability

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

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 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 . . .

2G Apacer 78.A1GA0.9K4 5 Apacer DS AM4B5808CQJS8E0740E . . .

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 . . .

1G PSC AL7E8F73C-8E1 5 PSC SS A3R1GE3CFF734MAA0E . . .

2G PSC AL8E8F73C-8E1 5 PSC DS A3R1GE3CFF734MAA0E . . .

SS/

Component

DS

V59C1512804QCF25SY032406

PECPA

DIMM Support

A* B* C*

. . .

1-16 Chapter 1: Product introduction

DDR2-667MHz capability

Size Vendor Model CL Brand

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 . . .

2G Kingston KVR667D2N5/2G N/A Micron DS 7RE22 D9HNL . . .

512MB Samsung KR M378T6553CZ0-CE6 N/A Samsung SS K4T51083QC . . .

512MB Samsung M378T6553CZ3-CE6 N/A Samsung SS K4T51083QC-ZCE6 . . .

1G Samsung M378T2953CZ3-CE6 N/A Samsung DS K4T51083QC-ZCE6 . . .

512MB Qimonda HYS64T64000EU-3S-B2 5 Qimonda SS HYB18T512B00B2F3SFSS28171 . . .

2G Qimonda HYS64T256020EU-3S-B 5 Qimonda DS HTB18T1G800BF-3S3VV10907 . . .

512MB Corsair VS512MB667D2 N/A Corsair SS 64M8CFEGPS0900647 . . .

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 HYMP512U64CP8-Y5 AB 5 Hynix DS HY5PS12521CFP-Y5 . . .

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 . . .

SS/

DS

Component

DIMM support

A* B* C*

(continued on the next page)

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-17

Size Vendor Model CL Brand

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 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 . . .

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 . . .

1G PSC AL7E8F73C-6E1 5 PSC SS A3R1GE3CFF734MAA0J . . .

2G PSC AL8E8F73C-6E1 5 PSC DS A3R1GE3CFF733MAA00 . . .

256MB Nanya NT256T64UH4A1FY-3C N/A Nanya SS NT5TU32M16AG-3C . . .

512MB Nanya NT512T64U88A1BY-3C N/A Nanya SS NT5TU64M8AE-3C . . .

1G Kingtiger E0736001024667 N/A Kingtiger DS KTG667PS6408NST-C6 GDBTX . . .

1G ELIXIR M2Y1G64TU8HA2B-3C 5 ELIXIR DS M2TU51280AE-3C717095R28F . . .

1G Leadmaax LRMP512U64A8-Y5 N/A Hynix DS HY5PS12821CFP-Y5 C 702AA . . .

SS/

DS

Component

DIMM support

A* B* C*

1-18 Chapter 1: Product introduction

DDR-533MHz capability

Size Vendor Model CL Brand

Kingston KVR533D2N4/256 N/A Elpida SS E5116AF-5C-E . . .

256MB

Kingston KVR533D2N4/512 N/A Inneon SS HYB18T512800AF3733336550 . . .

512MB

1G Kingston KVR533D2N4/1G N/A Kingston DS D6408TLRAGL37U . . .

Samsung M378T3253FG0-CD5 N/A Samsung SS K4T56083QF-GCD5 . . .

256MB

Samsung M378T6553BG0-CD5 4 Samsung SS K4T51083QB-GCD5 . . .

512MB

HY HYMP532U64CP6-C4 AB 4 Hynix SS HY5PS121621CFP-C4 . . .

256MB

1G HY HYMP512U64CP8-C4 AB 4 Hynix DS HY5PS12821CFP-C4 . . .

Micron MT 16HTF6464AG-53EB2 4 Micron DS D9BOM . . .

512MB

1G Micron MT 16HTF12864AY-53EA1 4 Micron DS D9CRZ . . .

1G Corsair VS1GB533D2 N/A Corsair DS 64M8CFEGQIB0900718 . . .

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 . . .

512MB

Kingmax KLBB68F-36EP4 N/A Elpida SS E5116AB-5C-E . . .

256MB

Kingmax KLBC28F-A8EB4 N/A Elpida SS E5108AE-5C-E . . .

512MB

ADATA M2OAD2G3H3166I1B52 N/A ADATA SS AD29608A8A-37DG20719 . . .

512MB

SS/

DS

Component

DIMM support

A* B* C*

SS - Single-sided / DS - Double-sided

DIMM support:

• A*: Supports one module inserted in any slot as Single-channel memory

conguration

• B*: Supports one pair of modules inserted into either the yellow slots or the

black slots as one pair of Dual-channel memory conguration

• C*: Supports four modules inserted into both the yellow slots and the black

slots as two pairs of Dual-channel memory conguration

Visit the ASUS website for the latest DDR2 DIMM modules for this motherboard.

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-19

1.7.3 Installing a DIMM

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

2. Align a DIMM on the socket such

that the notch on the DIMM matches
the break on the socket.

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

• A 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.

1.7.4 Removing a DIMM

To remove a DIMM:

1. Simultaneously press the retaining
clips outward to unlock the DIMM.

2

3

1

1

DDR2 DIMM notch

Unlocked retaining clip

2

DDR2 DIMM notch

1

1

1

Support the DIMM lightly with your ngers when pressing the retaining clips.
The DIMM might get damaged when it ips out with extra force.

2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.

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.

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

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 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. Refer to the tables on the next page.

3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-21

Interrupt assignments

IRQ Standard function

0 System timer

1 Standard 101/102-Key or Microsoft Natural Keyboard

2 Programmable interrupt controller

3 Standard OpenHCI USB Host Controller

4 Communications Port (COM 1)

5 ACPI IRQ Holder for PCI IRQ Steering

6 (free)

7 (free)

8 System CMOS / Real Time Clock

9 SCI IRQ used by ACPI bus

10 Standard PCI Graphics Adapter (VGA)

11 (free)

12 Microsoft PS/2 Port Mouse

13 Numeric data processor

14 Primary IDE controller (single fo)

15 Secondary IDE controller (single fo)

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

1-22 Chapter 1: Product introduction

IRQ assignments for this motherboard

A B C D E F G H

PCIEX1 Slot1 shared – – – – – – –
PCIEX1 Slot2 – shared – – – – –
PCIEx16 Slot – – shared – – – – –
Onboard USB1.1 Controller 1 shared – – – – – – –
Onboard USB1.1 Controller 2 – – – – – – – –
Onboard USB1.1 Controller 3 – – shared – – – – –
Onboard USB1.1 Controller 4 – – – – – – – –
Onboard USB1.1 Controller 5 – – shared – – – – –

Onboard USB2.0 Controller 1 – – – – – – – –
Onboard USB2.0 Controller 2 – – – – – – – –
Onboard ATI RS780G AZALIA – – shared – – – – –

Onboard IDE PORT shared – – – – – – –
Onboard HD Audio shared – – – – – – –
Onboard LAN – – shared – – – – –
Onboard VGA – – – – – – – –
Onchip SATA – – – – – – shared –
PCI Card1 – – – – shared – – –
PCI Card2 – – – – – shared – –
PCI Card3 – – – – – – shared –

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

IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments; otherwise, conicts will

arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card
inoperable.

ASUS M3A78-EH 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

specications. 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

specications. The following gure

shows a network card installed on the
PCI Express x1 slot.

1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot

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

Express specications. The gure shows

a graphics card installed on the PCI
Express x16 slot.

1-24 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.9 Jumpers

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH

Clear RTC RAM

CLRTC

Normal

Clear RTC

(Default)

1 2 2 3

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

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.

<Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-25

2. USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW1-4, USBPW5-8, USBPW9-12)

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH

USB Device Wake Up

3
2

2

1

PS2_USBPW1-4

(D

e

fa

u

lt

)

+5

V

+5VSB

3

2

2

1

USBPW5-8

USBPW9-12

(D

e

fault)

+5

V

+5VSB

3

2

2

1

(D

e

fault)

+5

V

+5VSB

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 USBPW1-4 jumpers are for the rear USB ports. The USBPW5-8 and

USBPW9-12 jumpers are for the internal USB connectors that you can

connect to additional USB ports.

• 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.

1-26 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.10 Connectors

4

6

1 2

13

3 5

7

8

910

1112

1.10.1 Rear panel connectors

1. PS/2 mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse.

Parallel port. This 25-pin port connects a parallel printer, a scanner, or other

2.

devices.

3. LAN (RJ-45) port.

Network (LAN) through a network hub.

LAN port LED indications

This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area

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

4. Rear Speaker Out port (black). This port connects the rear speakers in a

4-channel, 6-channel, or 8-channel audio conguration.

5. Center/Subwoofer port (orange).

speakers.

6. Line In port (light blue).

other audio sources.

7. Line Out port (lime).

4-channel, 6-channel, and 8-channel conguration, the function of this port

becomes Front Speaker Out.

8. Microphone port (pink).

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-27

ACT/LINK

LED

LAN port

This port connects the center/subwoofer

This port connects the tape, CD, CD player, or

This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In

This port connects a microphone.

SPEED

LED

9. Side Speaker Out port (gray). This port connects the side speakers in an

8-channel audio conguration.

Refer to the audio conguration table for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4,
6, or 8-channel conguration.

Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conguration

Port

Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Line In

Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out

Pink Mic In Mic In Mic In Mic In

Orange – – Center/Subwoofer Center/Subwoofer

Black – Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Ou Rear Speaker Out

Gray – – – Side Speaker Out

Headset

2-channel

Ensure the audio device of Sound playback is Realtek High Denition
Audio (the name may be different based on the OS). Go to Start >
Control Panel > Sounds and Audio Devices > Sound Playback to

congure the setting.

4-channel 6-channel 8-channel

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

are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.

11. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4.

These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports

are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.

COM port. This port is for pointing devices or other serial devices.

12.

13. PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.

1-28 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.10.2 Internal connectors

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH

Floppy Disk Drive Connector

NOTE:

Orient the red markings on

the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.

PIN1

FLOPPY

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH

Internal Audio Connector

CD

(black)

Right Audio Channel

Left Audio Channel

Ground

Ground

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.

Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when
using an FDD cable with a covered Pin 5.

2. 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.

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-29

3. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE)

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH IDE Connector

NOTE: Orient the red markings

(usually zigzag) on the ID
ribbon cable to PIN 1.

PRI_IDE

PIN1

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 device(s).

Drive jumper setting

Mode of

device(s)

Cable connector

Single device Cable-Select or Master - Black

Master Black

Slave Gray

Black or gray

Two devices

Cable-Select

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.

• 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.

1-30 Chapter 1: Product introduction

4. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, SATA4, SATA5,

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH

SATA Connectors

GND

RSATA_TXP1

RSATA_TXN1

GND

RSAT

A_RXP1

RSATA_RXN1

GND

SATA1

GND

RSATA_TXP2

RSATA_TXN2

GND

RSAT

A_RXP2

RSATA_RXN2

GND

SATA3

GND

RSATA_TXP3

RSATA_TXN3

GND

RSAT

A_RXP3

RSATA_RXN3

GND

SATA2

GND

RSAT

A_TXP4

RSAT

A_TXN4

GND

RSATA_RXP4

RSAT

A_RXN4

GND

SATA4

GND

RSAT

A_TXP5

RSAT

A_TXN5

GND

RSATA_RXP5

RSAT

A_RXN5

GND

SATA5

GND

RSAT

A_TXP6

RSAT

A_TXN6

GND

RSATA_RXP6

RSAT

A_RXN6

GND

SATA6

SATA6)

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 133 MB/s (Ultra

DMA133).

If you install Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1,
and RAID 10 conguration through the onboard SB700 controller.

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

• For detailed instructions on how to congure RAID 0, RAID 1, and
RAID 10, refer to the RAID manual in the support DVD.

• If you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set

OnChip SATA Type item in the BIOS to [RAID]. See

the

page 2-20 for details.

• If you change the

OnChip SATA Type item in the BIOS to [RAID] or

[AHCI], set the SATA IDE Combined Mode to [Disabled] to make
sure SATA5 and SATA6 (the black ports) work normally.

• If you want to do the task as GHOST, we suggest you connect the original
disk to the SATA5 or SATA6.

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-31

5. CPU and Chassis Fan connectors

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH Fan Connectors

CPU_FAN

GND

CPU FAN PWR

CPU FAN IN

CPU FAN PWM

CHA_FAN

GND

Rotation

+12V

(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.

Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufcient air
ow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are

not jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on the fan connectors.

Only CPU Fan supports Q-Fan.

1-32 Chapter 1: Product introduction

6. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78, USB910, USB1112)

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH USB 2.0 Connectors

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

USB1112

USB+5V

USB_P12-

USB_P12+

GND

NC

USB+5V

USB_P11-

USB_P11+

GND

1

USB56

USB+5V

USB_P6-

USB_P6+

GND

NC

USB+5V

USB_P5-

USB_P5+

GND

1

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
specication that supports up to 480 Mbps 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.

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-33

7. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH

Digital Audio Connector

+5V

SPDIFOUT

GND

SPDIF_OUT

This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF)

port(s). Connect an HDMI module cable to this connector, then install the
module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.

Ensure the audio device of Sound playback is Realtek High Denition Audio

(the name may be different based on the OS). Go to Start > Control Panel >
Sounds and Audio Devices > Sound Playback to congure the setting.

1-34 Chapter 1: Product introduction

8. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH Azalia Analog Front Panel Connector

HP_HD

MIC2_L

HP_R

HP_L

MIC2_JD

Jack_Sense

MIC2_R

PRESENSE#

AGND

AAFP

Legacy AC’97-compliant

pin definition

NC

MIC2_L

Line out_R

Line out_L

NC

NC

MIC2_R

NC

AGND

Azalia-compliant

pin definition

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.

• We recommend that you connect a high-denition front panel audio module
to this connector to avail of the motherboard high-denition audio capability.

• 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 AC`97 front panel audio module to

this connector, set the item to [AC97]. See page 2-27 for details.

• Make sure the audio device of Sound playback is

Audio (the name may be different based on the OS). Go to Start >
Control Panel > Sounds and Audio Devices > Sound Playback to

congure the setting.

Realtek High Denition

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-35

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

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH ATX Power Connector

EATXPWR

+3 Volts

+3 Volts

Ground

+5 Volts

+5 Volts

Ground

Ground

Power OK

+5V Standby

+12 Volts

-5 Volts

+5 Volts

+3 Volts

-12 Volts

Ground

Ground
Ground
PSON#

Ground

+5 Volts

+12 Volts

+3 Volts

+5 Volts

Ground

GND

+12V DC

GND

+12V DC

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 Specication 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

conguring a system with more power-consuming 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.

•

You must install a PSU with a higher power rating if you intend to install
additional devices.

1-36 Chapter 1: Product introduction

10. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)

R

M3A78-EH

M3A78-EH

System Panel Connector

PANEL

PLED-

+5V

Speaker

SPEAKER

PLED

Ground

Reset

Reset

Ground

Ground

PLED+

IDE_LED-

IDE_LED+

+IDE_LED

PWR

Ground

PWRSW

This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.

•

System power LED

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

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.

•

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

•

Power/Soft-off button

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

This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system

reboot without turning off the system power.

ASUS M3A78-EH 1-37

1-38 Chapter 1: Product introduction

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

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS

The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic

Input/Output System (BIOS) setup.

1.

ASUS AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable oppy

disk.)

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 (Updates the BIOS using a bootable oppy disk,

2.
a USB ash disk or the motherboard support CD when the BIOS le fails or

gets corrupted.)

ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a oppy disk or a USB ash disk

3.
during POST.)

ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.)

4.

Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.

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.

2.1.1 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

Windows® XP environment

then press <Enter>.

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.

2-2 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

Windows® Vista environment

a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44 MB oppy disk to the oppy disk

drive.

b. Click

c. Right-click

from the Windows® desktop, then select Computer.

Floppy Disk Drive then click Format to display the Format 3

1/2 Floppy dialog box.

d. Select the

e. Click

Create an MS-DOS startup disk check box.

Start.

2. Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS le to the bootable oppy

disk.

2.1.2 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:

• Ensure that the oppy disk is not write-protected and has at least 1.2 MB
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.

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-3

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 no more than eight
alphanumeric characters for the main lename and three alphanumeric

characters for the extension name.

A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom

Main lename

Extension name

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:\>

The utility returns to the DOS prompt after copying the current BIOS le.

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.

Write the BIOS lename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS
lename at the DOS prompt.

2. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support CD to
the bootable oppy disk you created earlier or a USB ash disk.

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 /iM3A78EH.rom

2-4 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

4. The utility veries the le and starts updating the BIOS.

A:\>afudos /iM3A78EH.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 ...... 0x0008CC00 (9%)

Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent
system boot failure!

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 /iM3A78EH.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:\>

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-5

2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility

The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 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 , the oppy disk or
the USB ash disk that contains the updated BIOS le.

• Prepare the motherboard support CD, the oppy disk or the USB ash disk

containing the updated motherboard BIOS before using this utility.

• Ensure that you rename the original or updated BIOS le in the oppy disk

or the USB ash disk to M3A78EH.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 “M3A78EH.ROM”. Completed.

Start ashing...

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

2-6 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...

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...

Floppy not found!

Checking for CD-ROM...

CD-ROM found!

Reading le “M3A78EH.ROM”. Completed.

Start ashing...

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.

Recovering the BIOS from the USB ash disk

To recover the BIOS from the USB ash disk:

1. Insert the USB ash disk that contains BIOS le to the USB port.

2. Turn on the system.

3. The utility will automatically checks the devices for the BIOS le When found,
the utility reads the BIOS le and starts ashing the corrupted BIOS le.

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

• Only the USB ash disk with FAT 32/16 format and single partition can
support 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!

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-7

2.1.4 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility

The ASUS EZ Flash 2 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 2 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 2:

1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS le for

the motherboard.

2. Save the BIOS le to a oppy disk or a USB ash disk, then restart the

system.

3. You can launch the EZ Flash 2 by two methods.

(1) Insert the oppy disk / USB ash disk that contains the BIOS le to the

oppy disk drive or the USB port.

Press

<Alt> + <F2> during POST to display the following.

ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.21

FLASH TYPE: MXIC 25L8005

Current ROM

BOARD: M3A78-EH

VER: 0304 (H:00 B:03)
DATE: 01/23/2008

PATH: A:\

A:

Note

[E nte r] Se le ct or L oa d [ Tab ] Sw itc h [V] Dri ve I nfo
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [ESC] Exit

Update ROM

BOARD: Unknown

VER: Unknown
DATE: Unknown

(2) Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the Tools menu then select EZ Flash2

and press <Enter>.

You can switch between drives by pressing

<Tab> before the correct le

is found. Then press <Enter>.

2-8 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

4. When the correct BIOS le is found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update

process and automatically reboots the system when done.

• This function can support devices such as USB ash disk, or oppy disk

with

FAT 32/16

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

format and single partition only.

2.1.5 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 DVD that comes with the motherboard
package.

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

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.

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

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-9

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

> 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.

3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest

you to avoid network trafc, or

click Auto Select. Click Next.

Start

2-10 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

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.

Updating the BIOS through a BIOS le

To update the BIOS through a BIOS le:

1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows
> 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.

®

desktop by clicking Start

3. Locate the BIOS le from the Open

window, then click Open.

4. Follow the screen instructions to
complete the update process.

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-11

2.2 BIOS setup program

This motherboard supports a programmable Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) 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, reconguring
your system, or prompted to“Run Setup”. This section explains how to congure

your system using this utility.

Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the

conguration 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 recongure 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 SPI 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; otherwise,

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.

• 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 Default Settings item under the

Exit Menu. See section “2.8 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.

2-12 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.2.1 BIOS menu screen

Menu items

Menu bar

Conguration elds

General help

Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

Main Settings

System Time [19:34:30]

System Date [Mon 11/19/2007]
Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in]

Primary IDE Master :[Not Detected]
Primary IDE Slave :[Not Detected]
SATA1 :[Not Detected]
SATA2 :[Not Detected]
SATA3 :[Not Detected]
SATA4 :[Not Detected]
SATA5 :[Not Detected]
SATA6 :[Not Detected]
SATA Conguration

System Information

v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.

Sub-menu items

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
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

Navigation keys

2.2.2 Menu bar

The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:

Main For changing the basic system conguration

Advanced For changing the advanced system settings

Power For changing the advanced power management (APM)

conguration

Boot For changing the system boot conguration

Tools For changing the system tools conguration

Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default

settings

To select an item on the menu bar, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard
until the desired item is highlighted.

• The BIOS setup screens shown in this chapter 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
information.

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-13

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.

Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another.

2.2.4 Menu items

The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specic items for that menu.

For example, selecting Main shows the Main menu items.

The other items (Advanced, Power, Boot, Tools, 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 Conguration elds

These elds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user-congurable,
you can change the value of the eld opposite the item. You cannot select an item
that is not user-congurable.

A congurable 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 “2.2.8 Pop-up window.”

2.2.7 General help

At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected
item.

2-14 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.2.8 Pop-up window

Select a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the

conguration options for that item.

Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

Main Settings

System Time [19:34:30]

System Date [Mon 11/19/2007]
Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in]

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

SATA2 :[Not Detected]

SATA3 :[Not Detected]

SATA4 :[Not Detected]

SATA5 :[Not Detected]

SATA6 :[Not Detected]

SATA Conguration

System Information

v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

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.

Pop-up window

<ENTER> to select
oppy type

Select Screen

Select Item

Change Field

+-

Tab Select Field
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-15

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.

Refer to section “2.2.1 BIOS menu screen” for information on the menu screen

items and how to navigate through them.

Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

Main Settings

System Time [19:34:30]

System Date [Mon 11/19/2007]
Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in]

Primary IDE Master :[Not Detected]
Primary IDE Slave :[Not Detected]
SATA1 :[Not Detected]
SATA2 :[Not Detected]
SATA3 :[Not Detected]
SATA4 :[Not Detected]
SATA5 :[Not Detected]
SATA6 :[Not Detected]
SATA Conguration

System Information

v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.

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
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

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. Conguration 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.]

2-16 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.3.4 Primary IDE Master/Slave

Select Screen
Select Item
+- Change Option
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

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 : Not Detected

Type [Auto]

LBA/Large Mode [Auto]
Block(Multi-Sector Transfer) M [Auto]
PIO Mode [Auto]
DMA Mode [Auto]
SMART Monitoring [Auto]
32Bit Data Transfer [Disabled]

v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.

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-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]

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-17

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 [Disabled]

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

2.3.5 SATA 1-6

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

Main

SATA1

Device : Hard Disk
Vendor : ST380817AS
Size : 80.0GB
LBA Mode : Supported
Block Mode : 16Sectors
PIO Mode : 4
Async DMA : MultiWord DMA-2
Ultra DMA : Ultra DMA-6
SMART Monitoring: Supported

LBA/Large Mode [Auto]

Block(Multi-sector Transfer) M [Auto]
PIO Mode [Auto]
DMA Mode [Auto]
SMART Monitoring [Auto]
32Bit Data Transfer [Disabled]

v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Select the type of
device connected to
the system.

Select Screen

Select Item
+- Change Option
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

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
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.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]

2-18 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

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] [SWDMAO] [SWDMA1] [SWDMA2] [MWDMA0]
[MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2] [UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5]
[UDMA6]

SMART Monitoring [Auto]

Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology.

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

32Bit Data Transfer [Disabled]

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

2.3.6 SATA Conguration

The Storage Conguration menu allows you to congure your storage device(s).

Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.

Main

SATA Conguration

OnChip SATA channel [Enabled]

OnChip SATA Type [SATA]
SATA IDE Combined Mode [Enabled]

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Options

Disabled
Enabled

OnChip SATA Channel [Enabled]

Enables or disables OnChip SATA Channel.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-19

OnChip SATA Type [SATA]

This item appears only when you set the OnChip SATA Channel item to [Enabled].

Allows you to set the OnChip SATA Type.

Conguration options: [SATA] [RAID] [AHCI]

SATA IDE Combined Mode [Enabled]

Enables or disables SATA IDE Combined Mode

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

If you set the SATA IDE Combined Mode as Disabled, PORT 1-4 works well in
all the three modes, while PORT 5-6 only works at [RAID] or [AHCI].

2.3.7 System Information

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

automatically detects the items in this menu.

Main

AMIBIOS

Version :0304
Build Date :01/23/08

Processor

Type :AMD Sempron(tm) Processor 3200+
Speed :1800MHz

Count :1

System Memory

Installed Size: 512MB

Usable Size : 512MB

v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

AMI BIOS

Displays the auto-detected BIOS information.

Processor

Displays the auto-detected CPU specication.

System Memory

Displays the auto-detected system memory.

Select Screen

Select Item
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

2-20 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

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

Advanced Settings

JumperFree Conguration

Hyper Transport Conguration
CPU Conguration
Chipset
Onboard Devices Conguration

PCIPnP

USB Conguration

v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

2.4.1 JumperFree Conguration

Advanced

Congure System Frequency/Voltage

CPU Overclocking [Auto]

Adjust System
Frequency/Voltage
etc.

Select Screen

Select Item
+- Change Field
Tab Select Field
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

Select the target CPU
frequency, and the
relevant parameters
will be auto-adjusted.
Frequencies higher
than CPU manufacturer
recomends are not
guaranteed to be
stable. If the system
becomes unstable,
return to the default.

CPU Overclocking [Auto]

Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal

frequency. Select either one of the preset overclocking conguration options:

[Auto] - allows you to set overclocking parameters automatically.

[Manual] - allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.

[Standard] - loads the standard settings for the system.

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

when overclocking.

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-21

2.4.2 Hyper Transport Conguration

Hyper Transport Conguration

NODEO:PCI-X2 HT Link

Link Speed [Auto]

Link Width [Auto]

The HyperTransport
link will run at this
speed if it is slower
than or equal to the
system clock and the
board is capable.

Link Speed [Auto]

Allows you to set the HyperTransport link speed.

Conguration options:[200MHz] [400MHz] [600MHz] [800 MHZ] [1 GHz] [Auto]

Link Width [Auto]

Allows you to set the HyperTransport link width.

Conguration options: [Auto] [4 Bit] [8 Bit] [16 Bit]

2.4.3 CPU Conguration

The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS
automatically detects.

Advanced

CPU Conguration

Module Version: 13.20
AGESA Version: 3.1.4.0
Physical Count: 1
Logical Count: 1

AMD Sempron(tm) Processor 3200+
Revision: F2
Cache L1: 128 KB
Cache L2: 128 KB
Cache L3: N/A
Speed : 1800MHz
Current FSB Multiplier: 9x
Maximum FSB Multiplier: 9x
Able to change Freq. : Yes
uCode Patch Level : 0x62

GART Error Reporting [Disabled]

Microcode Updation [Enabled]
Secure Virtual Machine Mode [Enabled]
Cool ‘n’ Quiet [Enabled]

v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

This option should
remain disabled for
the normal operation.
The driver developer
may enable it for
testing purpose.

Select Screen

Select Item
+- Change Option
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

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]

2-22 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

Microcode Updation [Enabled]

Enables or disables Microcode Updation.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Secure Virtual Machine Mode [Enabled]

Enables or disables Secure Virtual Machine Mode (SVM)

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Cool ‘n’ Quiet [Enabled]

Enables or disables the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet technology.
Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

2.4.4 Chipset

Chipset Conguration

NorthBridge Conguration

NorthBridge Conguration

NorthBridge Chipset Conguration

Memory Conguration

ECC Conguration

DRAM Timing Conguration

Alternate VID [Auto]

Memory CLK :333MHz
CAS Latency(Tc1) :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

Memory Options &

Information

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-23

Memory Conguration

Advanced

Memory Conguration

Bank Interleaving [Auto]

Channel Interleaving [Disabled]
MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled]
Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled]
DCT Unganged Mode [Always]
Power Down Enable [Enabled]

Bank Interleaving [Auto]

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]]

MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable MemClk Tri-Stating during C3 and Alt VID.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable memory remapping around memory hole.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

DCT Unganged Mode [Always]

Allows you to select unganged DRAM mode (64-bit width).

Conguration options: [Auto] [Always]

Power Down Enable [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable DDR power down mode.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Enable Bank Memory
Interleaving

2-24 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

ECC Conguration

Advanced

ECC Conguration

ECC Mode [Disabled]

DRAM ECC Enable [Disabled]

DRAM SCRUB REDIRECT [Disabled]
4-Bit ECC Mode [Disabled]
DRAM BG Scrub [Disabled]
Data Cache BG Scrub [Disabled]
L2 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled]
L3 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled]

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]

DRAM ECC Enable [Disabled]

Enables or disables the DRAM ECC. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]

DRAM SCRUB REDIRECT [Disabled]

Enables or disables the DRAM SCRUB REDIRECT feature that allows the
system to correct the DRAM ECC errors immediately when they occur.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

4-Bit ECC Mode [Disabled]

Enables or disables the ECC chip kill feature.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

DRAM BG Scrub [Disabled]

Disables or sets the DRAM BG Scrub. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[40ns] [80ns] [160ns] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us]
[20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us]

Data Cache BG Scrub [Disabled]

Disables or sets the Data Cache BG Scrub. This item allows the data

cache BG Scrub RAM to be corrected when idle. Conguration options:
[Disabled] [40ns] [80ns] [160na] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us]
[10.2us] [20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us]

Set the level of ECC
protection. Note:
The ‘Super‘ ECC mode
dynamically sets the
DRAM scrub rate so all
of memory is scrubbed
in 8 hours.

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-25

L2 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled]

Disables or sets the L2 Cache BG Scrub. This item allows the L2 data
cache RAM to be corrected while idle. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[40ns] [80ns] [160na] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us]
[20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us]

L3 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled]

Disables or sets the L2 Cache BG Scrub. This item allows the L3 data
cache RAM to be corrected while idle. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[40ns] [80ns] [160na] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us]
[20.5us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us]

DRAM Timing Conguration

DRAM Timing Conguration

Memory Clock Mode [Auto]

DRAM Timing Mode [Auto]

Options

Auto
Limit
Manual

Memory Clock Mode [Auto]

Allows you to set the memoery clock mode.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Limit] [Manual]

DRAM Timing Mode [Auto]

Allows you to set the DRAM timing mode.

Conguration options: [Auto] [DCT 0]

Alternate VID [Auto]

This option allows you to specify the alternate VID while in low power states.

Conguration options: [1.150 V] [1.125 V] [1.100 V] [1.075 V] [1.050 V] [1.025
V] [1.000 V] [0.975 V] [0.950 V] [0.925 V] [0.900 V] [0.875 V] [0.850 V] [0.825 V]
[0.800 V] [Auto]

2-26 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.4.5 Onboard Devices Conguration

Advanced

Congure ITE8712 Super IO Chipset

Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]

Parallel Port Address [378]
Parallel Port Mode [Normal]
Parallel Port IRQ [IRQ7]

Onboard Devices Conguration

HDAudio Controller [Enabled]
Front Panel Select [HD Audio]
OnBoard LAN Controller [Enabled]
Onboard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]

v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Allows BIOS to Select
Serial Port1 Base
Addresses.

Select Screen

Select Item
+- Change Option
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

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]

Parallel Port Address [378]

Allows you to select the Parallel Port base addresses.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [378] [278] [3BC]

Parallel Port Mode [Normal]

Allows you to select the Parallel Port mode.

Conguration options: [Normal] [EPP] [ECP] [EPP+ECP]

Parallel Port IRQ [IRQ7]

Conguration options: [IRQ5] [IRQ7]

HDAudio Controller [Enabled]

Enables or disables the high denition audio controller.
Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Front Panel Select [HD Audio]

Conguration options: [HD Audio] [AC97]

OnBoard LAN Controller [Enabled]

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-27

2.4.6 PCIPnP

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

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]

v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

No: lets the BIOS
congure all the
devices in the
system.
Yes: lets the
operating system
congure Plug and
Play (PnP) devices
not required for
boot if your system
has a Plug and Play
operating system.

Select Screen

Select Item
+- Change Option
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

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: [No] [Yes]

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]

2-28 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

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]

2.4.7 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.

Advanced

USB Conguration

Module Version - 2.24.3-13.4

USB Devices Enabled:

None

USB Function [Enabled]

USB 2.0 Controllers [Enabled]

Legacy USB Support [Auto]
USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed]

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BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Enanbles USB host
controllers.

Select Screen

Select Item

+- Change Option

F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

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

USB Function [Enabled]

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

USB 2.0 Controllers [Enabled]

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

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]

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-29

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.

Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

Power Settings

Suspend Mode [Auto]

ACPI Support [Disabled]
ACPI APIC support [Enabled]

APM Conguration
HW Monitor Conguration

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BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Select the ACPI state
used for System
Suspend.

Select Screen

Select Item
+- Change Option
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

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]

2.5.2 ACPI Support [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Conguration and Power Interface
(ACPI) 2.0 support. 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 Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). When
set to Enabled, the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2-30 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.5.4 APM Conguration

Power

APM Conguration

Restore on AC Power Loss [Always Off]

Power on From S5 By PME# [Disabled]
Power on From S5 By Ring [Disabled]
Power on From S5 By PS/2 KB/MS [Disabled]
Power on From S5 By RTC Alarm [Disabled]

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BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Options

Always Off
Always On
Last State

Select Screen

Select Item
+- Change Option
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

Restore on AC Power Loss [Always 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: [Always Off] [Always On] [Last State]

Power on From S5 By PME# [Disabled]

Enables or disables PME wake from sleep states.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Power on From S5 By Ring [Disabled]

Enables or disables ring to generate a wake event.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Power on From S5 By PS/2 KB/MS [Disabled]

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

Power on From S5 By RTC Alarm [Disabled]

Enables or disables RTC to generate a wake event.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-31

2.5.5 Hardware Monitor

Power

Hardware Monitor

CPU Temperature [23ºC/73ºF]

MB Temperature [30ºC/86ºF]

CPU Fan Speed [4891RPM]
Chassis Fan Speed [N/A]

VCORE Voltage [ 1.344V]

3.3V Voltage [ 3.152V]
5V Voltage [ 4.838V]
12V Voltage [11.712V]

Smart Q-FAN Function [Disabled]

Fan Auto Mode Start Voltage [5.0V]

Fan Auto Mode Start Speed Temp [25ºC]
Fan Auto Mode Full speed Temp [55ºC]

v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2006, American Megatrends, Inc.

v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

CPU Temperature

Select Screen

Select Item
+- Change Field
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

CPU Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] or [Ignored]
MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] or [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 [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 wish to display the

detected speed.

Chassis Fan Speed [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

specic 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 [xx.xxxV] or
[Ignored]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through
the onboard voltage regulators.

Smart Q-Fan Function [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Q-Fan feature that smartly adjusts the

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

2-32 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

Fan Auto Mode Start Voltage [5.0V]

Allows you to set the fan auto mode start voltage. Conguration options: [4.0V]
[4.5V] [5.0V] [5.5V] [6.0V]

Fan Auto Mode Start Speed Temp [25ºC]

Allows you to set the smart Q-Fan start working temperature. Conguration
options: [25ºC] [26ºC] [27ºC] [28ºC] [29ºC] [30ºC] [31ºC] [32ºC] [33ºC] [34ºC]
[35ºC] [36ºC] [37ºC] [38ºC] [39ºC] [40ºC]

Fan Auto Mode Full Speed Temp [55ºC]

Allows you to set the smart Q-Fan full speed temperature. Conguration options:
[51ºC] [52ºC] [53ºC] [54ºC] [55ºC] [56ºC] [57ºC] [58ºC] [59ºC] [60ºC] [61ºC] [62ºC]
[63ºC] [64ºC] [65ºC] [66ºC]

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

v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.

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.

Select Screen

Select Item
Enter Go to Sub Screen
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-33

2.6.1 Boot Device Priority

Boot

Boot Device Priority

1st Boot Device [1st FLOPPY DRIVE]

2nd Boot Device [Hard Drive]
3rd Boot Device [ATAPI CD-ROM]

v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.

1st ~ xxth Boot Device [xxx 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.

Conguration options: [1st FLOPPY DRIVE] [Hard Drive] [ATAPI CD-ROM]
[Disabled]

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Species the boot
sequence from the
available devices.

A device enclosed
in parenthesis has
been disabled in
the corresponding
type menu.

Select Screen

Select Item

Change Option

+-

F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

2.6.2 Boot Settings Conguration

Boot

Boot Settings Conguration

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]

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BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Allows BIOS to skip
certain tests while
booting. This will
decrease the time
needed to boot the
system.

Select Screen

Select Item
+- Change Option
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

2-34 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

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 MyLogo2™ 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]

When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to use the PS/2 mouse to turn on

the system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on

the +5VSB lead. 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]

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]

Allows you to enable or disable the Chassis Intrusion function.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-35

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.

Boot

Security Settings

Supervisor Password :Not Installed
User Password :Not Installed

Change Supervisor Password

Change User Password

v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

<Enter> to change
password.
<Enter> again to
disabled password.

Select Screen

Select Item
Enter Change
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

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

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.

Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>.

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.

If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real

Time Clock (RTC) RAM. See section 2.6 Jumper 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.

2-36 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

Boot

Security Settings

Supervisor Password :Installed
User Password :Installed

Change Supervisor Password

User Access Level [Full Access]
Change User Password
Password Check [Setup]

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BIOS SETUP UTILITY

<Enter> to change
password.
<Enter> again to
disabled password.

Select Screen

Select Item
Enter Change
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

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

2. On the password box that appears, type a password composed of at least six

letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>.

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

Change User Password item and press <Enter>.

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.

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]

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-37

2.7 Tools menu

The Tools menu items allow you to congure options for special functions. Select

an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.

Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

ASUS EZ Flash 2

v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

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

1.NTFS format

Select Screen

Select Item
+- Change Field
Enter Go to Sub
Screen
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2

Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a conrmation
message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No],
then press <Enter> to conrm your choice. Please see section 2.1.4 for details.

ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.21

FLASH TYPE: MXIC 25L8005

Current ROM

BOARD: M3A78-EH

VER: 0304 (H:00 B:03)
DATE: 01/23/2008

PATH: A:\

A:

Update ROM

BOARD: Unknown

VER: Unknown
DATE: Unknown

Note

[E nte r] Se le ct or L oa d [ Tab ] Sw itc h [V] Dri ve I nfo
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [ESC] Exit

2-38 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

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.

Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit

Exit Options

Exit & Save Changes

Exit & Discard Changes
Discard Changes

Load Setup Defaults

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BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Exit system setup
after saving the
changes.

F10 key can be used
for this operation.

Select Screen

Select Item
Enter Go to Sub Screen
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit

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 & 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 conrmation window appears. Select OK to

save changes and exit.

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 & 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 conrmation 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 conrmation 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 conrmation
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.

ASUS M3A78-EH 2-39

2-40 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

This chapter describes the contents of
the support DVD that comes with the
motherboard package.

Software

3

support

3.1 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. 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
versions before installing the drivers for better compatibility and system
stability.

XP Service Pack 1 or later

3.2 Support DVD information

The support DVD that came with the motherboard package contains the drivers,
software applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard
features.

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

3.2.1 Running the support DVD

Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the
Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer.

Click an icon to

display support
DVD motherboard

information

Click an item to install

If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support

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

ASSETUP.EXE to run the DVD.

3-2 Chapter 3: Software support

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 InstallAll - drivers installation wizard.

Realtek Audio Driver

Installs the Realtek audio driver.

AMD Cool‘n’Quiet Driver

Installs the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet driver.

AMD Chipset Driver

Installs the AMD chipset driver.

Realtek RTL8111B/C 10/100/1000M LAN Driver

Installs the Realtek® RTL8111B/C 10/100/1000M LAN driver

The screen display and drivers option may not be the same for different
operating system versions.

3-3ASUS M3A78-EH

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 - installation wizard for utilities.

ASUS Cool‘n’Quiet Utility

This item guides you in installing the ASUS Cool‘n’Quiet 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.

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).

AMD RAID/AHCI RaidXpert

Installs the AMD RAID/AHCI RaidXpert.

Realtek RTL8111B/C Diagnostics Utility

Launches the Realtek RTL8111B/C diagnostics utility.

3-4 Chapter 3: Software support

3.2.4 Make Disk menu

The Make Disk menu allows you to make a RAID driver disk.

Make ATI RAID/AHCI Vista32 Driver

Allows you to create an ATI® Serial ATA (SATA) RAID/AHCI Vista32 driver disk.

Make ATI RAID/AHCI Vista64 Driver

Allows you to create an ATI® Serial ATA (SATA) RAID/AHCI Vista64 driver disk.

Make ATI RAID/AHCI Driver for XP/XP 64bit

Allows you to create an ATI® Serial ATA (SATA) RAID/AHCI driver for XP/XP 64bit.

3-5ASUS M3A78-EH

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 DVD. Click an icon to display the

specied information.

Motherboard Info

Displays the general specications of the motherboard.

3-7ASUS M3A78-EH

Browse this DVD

Displays the support DVD contents in graphical format.

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 DVD and a brief description of each in text
format.

3-8 Chapter 3: Software support