Asus M3A-H User Manual

M3A-H/ HDMI

Motherboard

E3643

First Edition

February 2008

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.

Contents ...................................................................................................... iii

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

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

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

M3A-H/HDMI specications summary ....................................................... x

Chapter 1: Product introduction

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

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

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

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

1.3.2 ASUS AI Lifestyle unique features .................................. 1-5

1.3.3 ASUS intelligent performance and

overclocking features ...................................................... 1-7

1.4 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 1-8

1.5 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 1-9

1.5.1 Motherboard layout ......................................................... 1-9

1.5.2 Placement direction ...................................................... 1-10

1.5.3 Screw holes .................................................................. 1-10

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................. 1-11

1.6.1 Installing the CPU ..........................................................1-11

1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan ...................................... 1-13

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

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

1.7.2 Memory congurations .................................................. 1-15

1.7.3 Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 1-20

1.7.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 1-20

1.8 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 1-21

1.8.1 Installing an expansion card ......................................... 1-21

1.8.2 Conguring an expansion card ..................................... 1-21

1.8.3 PCI slots ........................................................................ 1-23

1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slots ..................................................... 1-23

1.8.5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot ............................................... 1-23

1.9 Jumpers ...................................................................................... 1-24

1.10 Connectors ................................................................................. 1-26

1.10.1 Rear panel connectors .................................................. 1-26

iii

Contents

1.10.2 Internal connectors ....................................................... 1-28

Chapter 2 BIOS setup

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

2.1.1 Creating a bootable oppy disk ....................................... 2-3

2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ................................................... 2-4

2.1.3 AFUDOS utility ................................................................ 2-5

2.1.4 ASUS Update utility ........................................................ 2-7

2.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................. 2-10

2.2.1 BIOS menu screen .........................................................2-11

2.2.2 Menu bar ........................................................................2-11

2.2.3 Navigation keys ..............................................................2-11

2.2.4 Menu items ................................................................... 2-12

2.2.5 Sub-menu items ............................................................ 2-12

2.2.6 Conguration elds ....................................................... 2-12

2.2.7 Pop-up window ............................................................. 2-12

2.2.8 Scroll bar ....................................................................... 2-12

2.2.9 General help ................................................................. 2-12

2.3 Main menu .................................................................................. 2-13

2.3.1 System Time ................................................................. 2-13

2.3.2 System Date ................................................................. 2-13

2.3.3 Legacy Diskette A ......................................................... 2-13

2.3.4 Primary IDE Master/Slave ............................................. 2-14

2.3.5 SATA1/2/3/4/5/6 ............................................................ 2-15

2.3.6 Storage Conguration ................................................... 2-16

2.3.7 System Information ....................................................... 2-17

2.4 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 2-18

2.4.1 Jumperfree Conguration ............................................. 2-18

2.4.2 AI NET 2........................................................................ 2-23

2.4.3 CPU Conguration ........................................................ 2-24

2.4.4 Chipset .......................................................................... 2-24

2.4.5 ECC Conguration ........................................................ 2-26

2.4.6 Onboard Devices Conguration .................................... 2-28

2.4.7 PCI PnP ........................................................................ 2-29

2.4.8 USB Conguration ........................................................ 2-30

Contents

2.5 Power menu ................................................................................ 2-31

2.5.1 Suspend Mode .............................................................. 2-31

2.5.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume ........................................ 2-31

2.5.3 ACPI 2.0 Support .......................................................... 2-31

2.5.4 ACPI APIC Support ....................................................... 2-31

2.5.5 APM Conguration ........................................................ 2-32

2.5.6 Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 2-34

2.6 Boot menu .................................................................................. 2-35

2.6.1 Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 2-35

2.6.2 Boot Settings Conguration .......................................... 2-36

2.6.3 Security ......................................................................... 2-37

2.7 Tools menu ................................................................................. 2-39

2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 .......................................................... 2-39

2.7.2 Express Gate Lite ......................................................... 2-40

2.7.3 ASUS O.C. Prole ......................................................... 2-41

2.8 Exit menu .................................................................................... 2-42

Chapter 3 Software support

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

3.2 Support DVD information ............................................................ 3-2

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

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

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

3.2.4 Make Disk menu ............................................................. 3-6

3.2.5 Manual menu .................................................................. 3-7

3.2.6 ASUS Contact information .............................................. 3-7

3.2.7 Other information ............................................................ 3-8

3.3 ASUS Express Gate Lite ............................................................ 3-10

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.

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, Mercury-containing button cell battery) 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 manual contains the following parts:

• Chapter 1: Product introduction

This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. This chapter also lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It includes description of the jumpers and connectors on the motherboard.

• Chapter 2: BIOS setup

This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.

• Chapter 3: Software support

This chapter describes the contents of the support 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:

format A:/S

M3A-H/HDMI specications summary

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

Chipset AMD 780G + SB700

System bus Up to 5200 MT/s; HyperTransport™ 3.0 interface for

Memory Dual-channel memory architecture

VGA AMD® integrated graphics

Expansion slots 1 x PCIe x16 slot

Storage 1 x Ultra DMA 133/100 interface

LAN Atheros® L1 Gigabit LAN controller

High Denition Audio Realtek® ALC1200 8-channel High Denition audio

USB 12 x USB 2.0 ports (8 at mid-board; 4 on the rear panel)

Athlon™/ Sempron™ processors AMD® Socket AM2 Athlon Series / Sempron procesors AMD® Cool’n’Quiet™ Technology

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

- 4 x 240-pin DIMM sockets support unbufferred ECC/non-ECC DDR2 1066�/800/667 MHzECC/non-ECC DDR2 1066�/800/667 MHz

memory modulesmemory modules

- Supports up to 8 GB system memory �DDR2 1066 is supported by some of the AM2+ CPUs

only. Refer to www.asus.com for the supported CPURefer to www.asus.com for the supported CPU

models and the Memory QVL (Qualied Vendors Lists).

- Hybrid CrossFire™ support (For Windows Vista

only)

- Supports HDMI™ Technology (HDCP compliant) with max. resolution up to 1920 x 1200 (1080P)

- Supports DVI with max. resolution up to 1600 x 1200 @ 60Hz

- Supports D-Sub with max. resolution up to 2560 x 1440 @ 75 Hz

- Supports Microsoft® DirectX 10, OpenGL 2.0, Pixel

Shader 4.0

- Maximum shared memory of 256MB

2 x PCIe x1 slots 3 x PCI 2.2 slots Supports PCIe 2.0/1.0 architecture

6 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors supporting RAID 0, 1, and 10 conguration

CODEC

- Supports Jack-Detection, Enumeration, Multi-Supports Jack-Detection, Enumeration, Multi-Enumeration, Multi Streaming, and Jack-RetaskingJack-Retasking

- Coaxial S/PDIF Out port at back I/O S/PDIF Out port at back I/O

(continued on the next page)

M3A-H/HDMI specications summary

ASUS AI Lifestyle unique features

Other features ASUS Express Gate Lite

ASUS exclusive overclocking features

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:

- ASUS 4+1 Phase Power Design

- ASUS AI Gear 2

- ASUS AI Nap

- ASUS Q-Fan 2

ASUS Crystal Sound

- ASUS Noise Filter

ASUS EZ DIY

- ASUS Q-Shield

- ASUS Q-Connector

- ASUS O.C. Prole

- ASUS EZ Flash 2

ASUS MyLogo 2™

Intelligent overclocking tools:

- AI Overclocking (intelligent CPU frequency tuner)

- ASUS AI Booster utility

Precision Tweaker:

- vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.0125V increment

- vDIMM: 8-step DRAM voltage control

- vChipset: 4-step Chipset voltage control

SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection):

- FSB tuning from 200MHz up to 600MHz at 1MHz increment

- Memory tuning from 533MHz up to 1066MHz

- PCI Express frequency tuning from 100MHz to 200 MHz at 1MHz increment

Overclocking protection:

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

(continued on the next page)

M3A-H/HDMI specications summary

Rear panel I/O ports 1 x PS/2 keyboard port (purple)

Internal I/O connectors 4 x USB connectors support additional 8 USB ports

BIOS features 8 Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM2.0, SM

Support DVD contents Drivers

Form factor ATX form factor: 12 in x 8.6 in (30.5 cm x 21.8 cm)

*Specications are subject to change without notice.

1 x PS/2 mouse port (green) 1 x S/PDIF Out (Coaxial)

1 x HDMI Out 1 x D-Sub 1 x LAN (RJ-45)

4 x USB 2.0/1.1 8-channel audio I/O

1 x Floppy disk drive connector 1 x COM connector 1 x IDE connector 6 x SATA connectors 1 x CPU Fan connector 1 x Chassis Fan connector 1 x Power Fan connector 1 x Front panel audio connector 1 x S/PDIF Out Header 1 x Chassis Intrusion connector 1 x DVD audio in

1 x 24-pin ATX Power connector 1 x 4-pin ATX 12V Power connector

1 x System Panel (Q-Connector)

BIOS 2.3, ACPI 2.0a, ASUS EZ Flash 2

Express Gate Lite ASUS PC Probe II ASUS Update AMD AOD Anti-virus Utility (OEM version)

xii

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

Chapter 1: Product

introduction

1.1 Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ASUS® M3A-H/HDMI 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 M3A-H/HDMI motherboard

Cables Serial ATA signal and power cable Ultra DMA 133/100 cable Floppy disk drive cable

Accessories 1 x Q-shield 1 x HDMI to DVI Convertor

2 in 1 Q-connector

Application DVD ASUS motherboard support DVD

Documentation User guide

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

1-2 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

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.

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 1-11 for details.

HyperTransport™ 3.0 support

HyperTransport™ 3.0 technology provides 2.6 times more bandwidth than HyperTransport™ 1.0, radically improving system efciency to create a smoother,

faster computing environment.

AMD® Socket AM2 Athlon™ Series / Sempron™ CPU support

This motherboard supports AMD® Socket AM2 Athlon™ Series / Sempron™

processors. It features 2000 / 1600 MT/s HyperTransport™-based system bus, dual-channel un-buffered DDR2 800 memory support, and AMD® Cool ‘n’ Quiet™

Technology. See page 1-11 for details.

AMD® 780G Chipset

AMD® 780G Chipset is designed to support up to 5200MT/s HyperTransport™ 3.0

(HT 3.0) interface speed and PCI Express™ 2.0 x16 graphics. It is optimized with

AMD®’s latest AM2+ and multi-core CPUs to provide excellent system performance and overclocking capabilities.

ASUS M3A-H/HDMI 1-3

Native DDR2 1066 support

This motherboard provides native DDR2 1066 support. It provides faster data transfer rate and more bandwidth to increase memory computing efciency,

enhancing system performance in 3D graphics and other memory demanding applications. See page 1-15 for details.

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

com for the supported CPU models.

AMD® Hybrid CrossFire Technology

Hybrid CrossFire Technology is a unique multi-GPU technology combining the

onboard GPU and the discrete graphics card together to enhance 3D graphics

performance. See page 1-23 for details.

Visit www.amd.com for the Hybrid Crossre selected GPUs.

HDMI Interface

HDMI (High-Denition Multimedia Interface) is the rst and only industry-

supported, uncompressed, all digital audio and video interface via a single cable and is HDCP compliant aloowing playback of HD DVD, Blu-Ray Disc and other

protected content. See page 1-27 for details.

PCIe 2.0 support

This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 devices for double speed and bandwidth which enhances system performance. See page 1-23 for details.

Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s technology

This motherboard supports the next-generation hard disk drives based on the

Serial ATA (SATA) 3Gb/s storage specications, delivering enhanced scalability

and doubling the bus bandwidth for high-speed data retrieval and save. It allows

RAID 0, 1, and 10 congurations for two SATA connectors. See page 1-30 for

details.

S/PDIF digital sound ready

This motherboard provides convenient connectivity to external home theater audio

systems via coaxial S/PDIF (SONY-PHILIPS Digital Interface) Out jack. It allows

digital audio transferring without converting it to analog format, and therefore well

preserves signal quality. See page 1-27 for details.

1-4 Chapter 1: Product introduction

High Denition Audio

Enjoy high-end sound quality 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 that simultaneously sends different audio streams to

different destinations. You can now talk to your partners on the headphones while

playing multi-channel network games. See pages 1-26 and 1-27 for details.

1.3.2 ASUS AI Lifestyle unique features

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution

ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the overclocking capability.

AI Gear 2

AI Gear 2 allows you to choose from proles to adjust CPU frequency and vCore voltage, minimizing system noise and saving CPU power consumption

at most. You can real-time chnage the mode under operating system to suit your needs.

AI Nap

With AI Nap, the system can continue running at minimum power and noise when you are temporarily away. To wake the system and return to the OS environment, simply click the mouse or press a key.

Q-Fan 2

ASUS Q-Fan 2 technology intelligently adjusts both CPU fan and chassis fan speeds according to system loading to ensure quiet, cool and efcient operation. See page 2-34 for details.

ASUS Crystal Sound

This feature can enhance speech-centric applications like Skype, online game, video conference and recording.

Noise Filter

This feature detects repetitive and stationary noises (non-voice signals) like computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates it in the incoming audio stream while recording.

ASUS M3A-H/HDMI 1-5

ASUS EZ DIY

ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer

components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings.

ASUS Express Gate Lite

Just 5 seconds to boot up, the ASUS Express Gate Lite allows you to instantly surf the Internet without entering Windows. You can now enjoy

Skype, IM, YouTube, webmail and Internet le downloads and sharing whenever and wherever you want! See pages 2-40 and 3-10 for details .

• The bootup speed depends on system congurations.

• Due to chipset limitation, ASUS Express Gate Lite supports USB devicesDue to chipset limitation, ASUS Express Gate Lite supports USB devicesASUS Express Gate Lite supports USB devices

or SATA HDDs (IDE mode) connected to SATA port 1-4 only. Set the SATA Operation Mode item in the BIOS to [IDE] before installing and using ASUS Express Gate Lite.

• Currently, ASUS Express Gate Lite DOES NOT support PATA IDE HDDs. Visit www.asus.com for future BIOS and Express Gate Lite software updates.

ASUS Q-Shield

The specially designed ASUS Q-Shield does without the usual “ngers”—

making it convenient and easy to install. With better electric conductivity, it ideally protects your motherboard against static electricity and shields it against Electronic Magnetic Interference (EMI).

ASUS Q-Connector

ASUS Q-Connector allows you to easily connect or disconnect the chassis

front panel cables to the motherboard. This unique module eliminates the

trouble of connecting the system panel cables one at a time and avoiding wrong cable connections. See page 1-36 for details.

ASUS O.C. Prole

The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Prole that allows users to

conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be

stored in the CMOS or a separate le, giving users freedom to share and distribute their favorite settings. See page 2-41 for details.

1-6 Chapter 1: Product introduction

ASUS EZ Flash 2

ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility. Simply press the predened hotkey to launch the utility and update the BIOS without entering

the OS. Update your BIOS easily without preparing a bootable diskette or

using an OS-based ash utility. See pages 2-4 and 2-39 for details.

Smart Support DVD

This feature provides a checklist that allows the user to know which drivers are already installed, as well as those that are not. When using ASUS PC Probe II, you can easily monitor the critical components of the computer.

ASUS MyLogo 2™

This feature allows you to convert your favorite photo into a 256-color boot logo for a more colorful and vivid image on your screen. See page 2-36 for

details.

1.3.3 ASUS intelligent performance and overclocking features

Precision Tweaker

Precision Tweaker allows the user to adjust the northbridge voltage, southbridge

voltage, and DRAM voltage in 0.02V steps to achieve the most precise settings for the ultimate customized overclocking conguration.

AI Booster

The ASUS AI Booster allows you to overclock the CPU speed in Windows environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS.

C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

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

ASUS M3A-H/HDMI 1-7

1.4 Before you proceed

M3A-H/HDMI

SB_PWR

Standy Power Powered Off

OFF

M3A-H/HDMI Onboard LED

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.

1-8 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.5 Motherboard overview

M3A-H/HDMI

21.8cm (8.6in)

30.5cm (12.0in)

DDR DIMM_A1 (64bit, 240-pin module)

DDR DIMM_B1 (64bit, 240-pin module)

DDR DIMM_A2 (64bit, 240-pin module)

DDR DIMM_B2 (64bit, 240-pin module)

PCIEX16_

FLOPPY

ALC1200

ICS

Attansic

Super

I/O

AAFP

SPDIF_OUT

CHA_FAN1

PWR_FAN

COM1

USB1112 USB910 USB78 USB56

CLRTC

USBPW9-12 USBPW5-8

KBPWR USBPW1-4

PRI_IDE

SATA1 SATA4

SATA2 SATA5

SATA3 SATA6

CHASSIS

BIOS

PANEL

SB_PWR

PCI1

PCI2

PCI3

PCIEX1_1

PCIEX1_2

ATX12V

EATXPWR

CPU_FAN

KBMS

USB34

SPDIF_O1

LAN1_USB12

AUDIO

AMD 780G

AMD

SB700

SOCKET AM2

Lithium Cell

CMOS Power

VGA_HDMI

1.5.1 Motherboard layout

Refer to 1.10 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.

ASUS M3A-H/HDMI 1-9

M3A-H/HDMI

1.5.2 Placement direction

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

1.5.3 Screw holes

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

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

Place this side towards the rear of the chassis

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1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

M3A-H/HDMI

M3A-H/HDMI CPU socket AM2

The motherboard comes with an AM2+/AM2 socket designed for the AMD® Socket AM2+ Phenom™ FX / Phenom™ / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processors or for Socket AM2 Athlon Series / Sempron processors.

The AM2 socket has a different pinout from the 940-pin socket designed for the AMD Opteron™ processor. Make sure you use a CPU is designed for the AM2 socket. The CPU ts in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into

the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the

CPU!

1.6.1 Installing the CPU

To install a CPU.

1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.

2. Unlock the socket by pressing the

lever sideways, then lift it up to a

90°-100° angle.

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

ASUS M3A-H/HDMI 1-11

Socket lever

3. Position the CPU above the socket

M3A-H/HDMI

CPU_FAN

CPU FAN PWM

CPU FAN IN

CPU FAN PWR

GND

M3A-H/HDMI CPU fan connector

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.

Small triangle

Gold triangle

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.

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

Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors

can occur if you fail to plug this connector.

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1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan

The AMD® Phenom™ FX / Phenom™ / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processors require a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.

Make sure 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 lockRetention 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.

ASUS M3A-H/HDMI 1-13

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.

1-14 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.7 System memory

M3A-H/HDMI

M3A-H/HDMI 240-pin DDR2 DIMM sockets

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 A DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2

Channel B DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2

1.7.2 Memory congurations

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

into the DIMM sockets.

Recommended memory congurations

Mode

Single-Channel

Dual-channel (1) Populated — Populated —

Dual-channel (2) Populated Populated Populated Populated

ASUS M3A-H/HDMI 1-15

DIMM_A1 DIMM_A2 DIMM_B1 DIMM_B2

Populated — — —

— — Populated —

Sockets

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

compatibility, it is recommended that you obtain memory modules from the

same vendor. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for the latest Qualied

Vendors list.

Important notice on installing Windows® XP 32-bit version

If you install Windows® XP 32-bit version Operating System (OS), the limitation of this OS version is that it may reserve a certain amount of memory space for system devices. We recommend that you install less than 3 GB system memory if you would like to work under Windows® XP 32-bit version OS. The excess memory installation will not cause any usage problem, but it will not give users

the benet of manipulating this excess memory space.

Visit the ASUS FAQ site for further explanation:

http://support.asus.com/faq/faq.

aspx?SLanguage=en-us Under General Search, make the selections as shown, then click Search. Click the article titled “4GB memory installed but less memory size detected.”

You also may check the URLs below for third party comments on this issue: http://dlsvr01.asus.com/pub/ASUS/mb/4GB_Rev1.pdf http://www.intel.com/support/motherboards/server/sb/cs-016594.htm

This motherboard can support 4 GB physical memory on the operating systems 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

M3A-H/HDMI Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-1066 MHz capability

DIMM socket

Size Vendor Chip No. CL

512MB KINGSTON E5108AJBG-1J-E N/A ELPIDA SS KVR1066D2N7/512 •

1GB KINGSTON E5108AJBG-1J-E N/A ELPIDA SS KVR1066D2N7/1G •

Chip Brand

SS/ DS

Part No.

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support (Optional)

A* B* C*

M3A-H/HDMI Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-800 MHz capability

DIMM socket

Size Vendor Chip No. CL

512MB KINGSTON K4T51083QC 5 SEC SS KVR800D2N5/512 • • •

1GB KINGSTON Heat-Sink Package 4-4-4-12 N/A SS KHX6400D2LLK2/1GN • •

1GB KINGSTON V59C1512804QBF25 N/A N/A DS KVR800D2N5/1G • •

1GB KINGSTON Heat-Sink Package N/A N/A SS KHX6400D2ULK2/1G • •

2GB Qimonda HYB18T1G800C2F-25F 5 QIMONDA DS HYS64T256020EU-25F-C2 •

512MB Hynix HY5PS12821CFP-S5 5-5-5 Hynix SS HYMP564U64CP8-S5 • • •

1GB Hynix HY5PS12821CFP-S5 5-5-5 Hynix DS HYMP512U64CP8-S5 • •

512MB MICRON D9GKX N/A N/A SS MT8HTF6464AY-80ED4 • • •

1GB MICRON D9GKX N/A N/A DS MT16HTF12864AY-80ED4 • •

1GB CORSAIR Heat-Sink Package 4 N/A DS CM2X1024-6400C4 • •

1GB ELPIDA E1108AB-8E-E(ECC) 5 ELPIDA SS EBE10EE8ABFA-8E-E • •

2GB ELPIDA E1108AB-8E-E(ECC) 5 ELPIDA DS EBE21EE8ABFA-8E-E •

1GB Crucial Heat-Sink Package 4 N/A DS BL12864AA804.16FD • •

1GB Crucial Heat-Sink Package 4 N/A DS BL12864AL804.16FD3 • •

1GB Crucial Heat-Sink Package 4 N/A DS BL12864AA804.16FD3 • •

512MB Apacer AM4B5708JQJS8E N/A APACER SS 78.91G9I.9K5 • • •

1GB Apacer AM4B5808CQJS8E N/A APACER SS 78.01GA0.9K5 • •

2GB Apacer AM4B5808CQJS8E 5 APACER DS 78.A1GA0.9K4 •

512MB A-DATA AD29608A8A-25EG N/A N/A SS M2OAD6G3H3160G1E53 • • •

1GB A-DATA AD26908A8A-25EG N/A N/A DS M2OAD6G3I4170I1E58 • •

512MB KINGMAX KKA8FEIBF-HJK-25A N/A KINGMAX SS KLDC28F-A8KI5 • •

1GB KINGMAX KKA8FEIBF-HJK-25A N/A KINGMAX DS KLDD48F-ABKI5 • •

512MB Super Talent Heat-Sink Package N/A N/A SS T800UA12C4 • •

512MB NANYA NT5TU64M8BE-25C 5 NANYA SS NT512T64U880BY-25C • •

1GB NANYA NT5TU64M8BE-25C 5 NANYA DS NT1GT64U8HB0BY-25C • •

1GB NANYA NT5TU64M8CE-25D N/A NANYA DS NT1GT64U8HCOBY-25D • •

2GB NANYA NT5TU128M8CE-AC 5 NANYA DS NT2GT64U8HC0BY-AC • •

512MB PSC A3R12E3HEF641B9A05 5 PSC SS AL6E8E63B8E1K • • •

1GB PSC A3R12E3HEF641B9A05 5 PSC DS AL7E8E63B-8E1K • •

256MB TwinMOS E2508AB-GE-E 5 ELPIDA SS 8G-24IK2-EBT • •

Chip Brand

SS/ DS

Part No.

support (Optional)

A* B* C*

ASUS M3A-H/HDMI 1-17

M3A-H/HDMI Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-667 MHz capability

DIMM socket support

Size Vendor Chip No. CL

256MB KINGSTON HYB18T256800AF3S 5 N/A SS KVR667D2N5/256 •

256MB KINGSTON 6SBI2D9DCG 5 MICRON SS KVR667D2N5/256 •

1GB KINGSTON E5108AGBG-6E-E N/A KINGSTON DS KVR667D2N5/1G • •

2GB KINGSTON E1108AB-6E-E N/A ELPIDA DS KVR667D2N5/2G •

2GB Qimonda HYB18T1GB00C2F-3S 5 QIMONDA DS HYS64T256020EU-3S-C2 •

512MB SAMSUNG K4T51163QE-ZCE6 5 SAMSUNG DS M378T3354EZ3-CE6 •

256MB SAMSUNG K4T51083QE 5 SAMSUNG SS M378T6553EZS-CE6 • • •

1GB SAMSUNG K4T51083QE 5 SAMSUNG DS M378T2953EZ3-CE6 • •

256MB Hynix HY5PS121621CFP-Y5 5 Hynix SS HYMP532U64CP6-Y5 • •

1GB Hynix HY5PS12821CFP-Y5 5 Hynix DS HYMP512U64CP8-Y5 •

256MB CORSAIR MIII00605 N/A N/A SS VS256MB667D2 •

512MB CORSAIR 64M8CFEG N/A N/A SS VS512MB667D2 • •

1GB CORSAIR 64M8CFEG N/A N/A DS VS1GB667D2 • •

512MB A-DATA AD29608A8A-3EG 5 A-DATA SS M2OAD5G3H3166I1C52 •

1GB A-DATA AD29608A8A-3EG 5 A-DATA DS M2OAD5G3I4176I1C52 • •

2GB A-DATA NT5TU128M8BJ-3C N/A N/A DS M2ONY5H3J4170I1C5Z • •

512MB crucial Heat-Sink Package 3 N/A SS BL6464AA663.8FD • •

1GB crucial Heat-Sink Package 3 N/A DS BL12864AA663.16FD • •

1GB crucial Heat-Sink Package 3 N/A DS BL12864AL664.16FD • •

1GB Apacer AM4B5808CQJS7E N/A APACER SS 78.01G9O.9K5 • •

2GB Apacer AM4B5808CQJS7E N/A APACER DS 78.A1G9O.9K4 • • •

256MB Kingmax N2TU51216AG-3C 5 NANYA SS KLCB68F-36KH5 •

512MB Kingmax KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX 5 KINGMAX SS KLCC28F-A8KB5 • • •

1GB Kingmax KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX 5 KINGMAX DS KLCD48F-A8KB5 • •

Chip Brand

SS/ DS

Part No.

(Optional)

A* B* C*

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