Asus M3N78-VM User Manual

Motherboard

M3N78-VM

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.

E4067

Third Edition V3

August 2008

iii

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

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

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

M3N78-VM specications summary ........................................................... x

Chapter 1: Product introduction

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

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

1-2

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

1-2

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

1-2

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

1-5

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

1-7

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

1-8

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

1-8

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

1-9

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

1-9

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

1-10

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

1-10

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

1-12

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

1-14

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

1-14

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

1-14

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

1-18

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

1-18

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

1-19

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

1-19

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

1-19

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

1-22

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

1-22

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

1-22

1.9 Jumper ........................................................................................

1-23

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

1-24

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

1-24

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

1-27

Contents

Chapter 2: BIOS setup

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

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

2-2

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

2-4

2.1.3 AFUDOS utility ................................................................

2-5

2.1.4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ......................................

2-7

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

2-9

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

2-12

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

2-13

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

2-13

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

2-14

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

2-14

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

2-14

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

2-14

2.2.7 Pop-up window .............................................................

2-14

2.2.8 Scroll bar .......................................................................

2-14

2.2.9 General help .................................................................

2-14

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

2-15

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

2-15

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

2-15

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

2-15

2.3.4 Primary IDE Master/Slave, SATA1~3, ESATA ...............

2-16

2.3.5 Storage Conguration ...................................................

2-18

2.3.6 System Information .......................................................

2-19

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

2-20

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

2-20

2.4.2 CPU Conguration ........................................................

2-25

2.4.3 Chipset ..........................................................................

2-26

2.4.4 Onboard Devices Conguration ....................................

2-30

2.4.5 PCI PnP ........................................................................

2-31

2.4.6 USB Conguration ........................................................

2-32

2.4.7 Trusted Computing ........................................................

2-33

2.5 Power menu ................................................................................

2-34

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

2-34

2.5.2 ACPI

2.0 Support ......................................................... 2-34

Contents

2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support ....................................................... 2-34

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

2-35

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

2-36

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

2-37

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

2-37

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

2-38

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

2-39

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

2-41

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

2-41

2.7.2 Express Gate ...............................................................

2-42

2.7.3 AI NET 2

........................................................................ 2-42

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

2-43

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 ..................................................................

3-8

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

3-8

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

3-9

3.3 Creating a RAID driver disk .......................................................

3-11

3.3.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS .....

3-11

3.3.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows

.......................3-11

3.4 Software information .................................................................

3-13

ASUS Express Gate ..................................................................... 3-13

Chapter 4: NVIDIA® technology support

4.1 NVIDIA® Hybrid SLI® Technology ............................................... 4-2

4.1.1 System requirements .....................................................

4-2

4.1.2

Enabling Hybrid SLI ........................................................ 4-3

Notices

Federal Communications Commission Statement

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

•

This device may not cause harmful interference, and

•

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

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

•

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

•

Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

•

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

•

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

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

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

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

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

required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modications

to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

vii

Safety information

Electrical safety

•

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

electrical outlet before relocating the system.

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

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

service technician or your retailer.

Operation safety

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

Place the product on a 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.

viii

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 CD / DVD that comes with

the motherboard package.

• Chapter 4: NVIDIA

technology support

This chapter tells how to use the Hybrid SLI® feature.

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.

Conventions used in this guide

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

DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself

when trying to complete a task.

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components

when trying to complete a task.

NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a

task.

IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a

task.

Typography

Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.

Italics

Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.

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

means that you must press the enclosed key.

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

<Key1+Key2+Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the

key names are linked with a plus sign (+).

Example: <Ctrl+Alt+D>

Command Means that you must type the command exactly

as shown, then supply the required item or value enclosed in brackets.

Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:

afudos /i[lename]

afudos /iM3N78-VM.ROM

M3N78-VM specications summary

(continued on the next page)

CPU AMD socket AM2+ / AM2 for AMD Phenom™FX /

Phenom™ / Athlon™ / Sempron

processors AMD64 architecture enables simultaneous 32-bit and 64-bit computing Supports up to 140W CPU

Supports AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology

Chipset NVIDIA® GeForce® 8200 (MCP78S)

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

AM2+ CPU

Memory Dual-channel memory architecture 4 x 240-pin DIMM

sockets support up to 8 GB of unbufferred ECC and non-ECC 1066 / 800 / 667 / 533 MHz DDR2 memory

modules

Notes:

• Due to AMD CPU limitation, DDR2 1066 is supported by AM2+ CPU for one DIMM per channel only.

• When installing total memory of 4GB capacity or more, Windows® 32-bit operation system may only recognize less than 3GB. Hence, a total installed memory of less than 3GB is recommended.

Expansion slots 1 x PCI Express™ x16 slot

1 x PCI Express TM x1 slot

2 x PCI slots

Graphics

Intergrated NVIDIA® GeForce Series DirectX10 graphics processor

Hybrid SLI support (supports Windows

Vista only)

Supports HDMI interface with HDCP compliant with max. resolution up to 1920 x 1200 Supports DVI interface with HDCP compliant with max

resolution up to 1600 x 1200 Supports D-Sub with max. resolution up to 1920 x 1440 (@75Hz)

Supports Microsoft® DirectX 10, OpenGL 2.0, and Pixel Shader 4.0

Supports PCIe 2.0 / 1.0 Architecture Maximum shared memory of 512 MB

Note:

The suggested system conguration when playing HD DVD and Blu-ray disc: DDR2 800 1GB x 2 / Althon 64 x 2 4400+ / Graphic shared memory 256 MB / Purevideo HD support.

Storage Chipset

- 1 x Ultra DMA 133 / 100 interface

- 5 x Serial ATA 3 Gb/s hard disk drives supporting

RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 0+1, and JBOD

conguration

High Denition Audio High Denition Audio 8-channel CODEC

Supports Optical S/PDIF out ports at back I/O Supports Jack-detect, and Multi-streaming

M3N78-VM specications summary

USB 12 USB 2.0 / 1.1 ports (6 ports at mid-board, 6 ports at

rear panel)

LAN NVIDIA® nForce built-in Gigabit MAC with external Realtek

8211CL-GR PHY

ASUS Unique Features ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:

- ASUS Q-Fan

ASUS EZ DIY:

- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3

- ASUS EZ Flash 2

ASUS Express Gate:

- Web browser, le downloading and uploading*

- Further free features upgradable

Other features:

- ASUS MyLogo 2™

- ASUS AI NET 2

* File downloading and uploading is supported through USB

devices only.

ASUS Overclocking Features

GPU Overclocking

Stepless Frequency Selection (SFS):

- HT tuning from 200 MHz to 400MHz at 1MHz

increment

- Memory tuning from 533 MHz to 1066 MHz

- PCIe frequency tuning from 100 MHz to 200 MHz at 1 MHz increment

Overclocking Protection:

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

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

SM BIOS 2.5, ACPI 2.0a

Internal I/O connectors 1 x High Denition front panel audio connector

1 x IDE connector 1 x Floppy disk drive connector 1 x CD audio-in connector 1 x CPU fan connector 1 x Chassis fan connector 1 x Power fan connector 1 x Chassis intrusion connector 1 x COM connector 1 x LPT connector 1 x TPM header 5 x SATA connectors

1 x S/PDIF Out connector 3 x USB 2.0 connectors for 6 additional USB 2.0 ports 1 x 24-pin EATX power connector 1 x 4-pin x ATX 12V power connector

1 x System panel connector

(continued on the next page)

xii

Rear panel I/O 1 x LAN (RJ-45) port

1 x HDMI port 1 x DVI port 1 x VGA port 6 x USB 2.0 / 1.1 ports 1 x External SATA port

1 x PS/2 keyboard / mouse combo port 8-channel audio ports

Support DVD contents Device drivers

Express Gate ASUS PC Probe II ASUS Update utility Anti-virus software (OEM version)

Accessories 2 x SATA cables

1 x 2-port SATA power cable 1 x UltraDMA 133 / 100 / 66 cable

1 x Floppy Disk Drive cable 1 x I/O Shield User’s manual

Form Factor MicroATX: 9.6 in. x 9.6 in. (24.4 cm x 24.4 cm)

*Specications are subject to change without notice.

M3N78-VM specications summary

Chapter 1: Product

introduction

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

1-2 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1 Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ASUS® M3N78-VM motherboard!

The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it

another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!

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

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

1.2 Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

AMD socket AM2+ Phenom FX / Phenom

The motherboard supports AMD socket AM2+ multi-core processors. It features dual-channel DDR2 1066 memory support and accelerates data transfer rate up to 5200 MT/s via HyperTransport 3.0 based system bus. See page 1-10 for details.

AMD socket AM2 Athlon 64 / Athlon 64 X2 / Athlon 64 FX / Sempron

The motherboard supports AMD socket AM2 Athlon 64 / Athlon 64 X2 / Athlon 64 FX / Sempron processors with 2MB / 1MB / 512KB L2 cache, which is based on 64-bit architecture. It features 2000 / 1600 MT/s HyperTransport System Bus, dualchannel un-buffered DDR2 memory support and AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Technology.

See page 1-10 for details.

Motherboard ASUS M3N78-VM motherboard

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

1 x Floppy disk drive cable

Accessories I/O shield

Application DVD ASUS motherboard support DVD

Documentation User guide

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-3

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 2-25 for details.

64-bit CPU support

64-bit computing, the technology to replace 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.

NVIDIA® GeForce 8200

The NVIDIA® GeForce 8200 offers the lastest support of Hybrid SLI technology,

DirectX10 graphics features, HD video playback with HDMI / DVI output. It also

supports HyperTransport

3.0 interface, PCI Express

2.0 bus architecture,

Serial ATA 3 GB/s devices, and is optimized with AMD’s latest AM2+ and multi-core

CPUs to provide excellent system performance.

HDMITM Interface

High-Deniton Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is the rst and only industry-supported,

uncompressed, all digital audio and video interface via a single cable and is HDCP compliant allowing playback of HD DVD, Blu-ray Disc and other protected content.

See page 1-25 for details.

Dual channel DDR2 1066

DDR2 1066 memory provides great performance for 3D graphics and other

memory demanding applications on next generation memory technology. See page 1-14 for details.

Due to AMD CPU limitation, DDR2 1066 is supported by AM2+ CPU for one

DIMM per channel only.

Serial ATA 3Gb/s technology

The motherboard supports SATA hard drives based on the new SATA 3Gb/s storage specication. It allows RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 0+1, and JBOD congurations for ve SATA connectors.

1-4 Chapter 1: Product introduction

Gigabit LAN solution

Gigabit LAN is the networking standard for the early future and is ideal for handling

large amounts of data such as video, audio, and voice. See page 1-24 for details.

PCI Express 2.0 support

The motherboard supports the latest PCI Express 2.0 devices for double speed and bandwidth which enhances system performance.See page 1-22 for details.

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, jack-detect feature. See page 1-24 and 1-25 for

details.

HyperTransport

3.0 support

HyperTransportTM 3.0 technology provides 2.6 times more bandwith than HyperTransportTM 1.0, radically improving system efciency to create a smoother, faster computing environment.

Hybrid SLITM

Hybrid SLITM technology is a unique hybrid multi-GPU technology built upon NVIDIA. Hybrid SLI technology today includes two primary feaures: GeForce Boost and HybridPowerTM. GeForce Boost turbo-charges performance of NVIDIA descrete graphics cards when combined with this series motherboard GPUs. HybridPowerTM unleashed graphics performance when needed and enabled discrete GeForce GPU(s) to the motherboard GPU for a quiet, low power PC experience.

Dual VGA output

This motherboard supports Dual-VGA output (RGB & HDMI / DVI). HDMI / DVI

interface is compliant with HDCP.

Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the lastest Hybrid SLI driver after NVIDIA get the Hybrid SLI function prepared.

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-5

ASUS Q-Fan technology

ASUS Q-Fan technology intelligently adjusts CPU fan speeds according to system

loading to ensure quiet, cool and efcient operation. See page 2-36 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. See page 2-7 for details.

ASUS EZ Flash 2

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 2-41 for details.

AI NET 2

AI NET 2 is a BIOS-based diagnostic tool that detects and reports Ethernet cable faults

and shorts. With this utility, you can easliy monitor the condition of the Ethernet cable(s)

connected to the LAN (RJ-45) port(s). During the bootup process, AI NET 2 immediately

diagnoses the LAN cable(s) and reports shorts and faults up to 100 meters at 1 meter

accuracy. See page 2-42 for details.

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.

C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

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

1-23 for details.

1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features

1-6 Chapter 1: Product introduction

Green ASUS

The 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 and

packaging to safeguard consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the

environment.

Express Gate

Taking only 5 seconds to go online from bootup, Express Gate is the one-stop

gateway to instant fun! It’s a unique motherboard built-in OS. You can utilize the

most popular Instant Messengers (IM) like MSN, Skype, Google talk, QQ, and

Yahoo! Messenger to keep in touch with friends, or quickly check on the weather

and e-mails just before leaving your house. What’s more, the user-friendly picture

manager lets you view your pictures without entering Windows at anytime! See pages 2-42 and 3-13 to 3-21 for details.

• The actual boot time depends on the system conguration.

• ASUS Express Gate supports le uploading from SATA HDDs, ODDs and

USB drive and downloading to USB drives only.

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-7

Onboard LED

The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED.

1.4 Before you proceed

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

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

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

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

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

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

peripherals, and/or components.

M3N78-VM

M3N78-VM Onboard LED

SB_PWR

Standby

Power

OFF

Powered

Off

1-8 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.5.1 Motherboard layout

1.5 Motherboard overview

24.4cm (9.6in

24.4cm (9.6in)

)

Super I/O

SATA5

SATA4

SATA3

SATA2

SATA1

Socket AM2+

CPU_FAN

TXPWR

PRI_IDE

COM1

PANEL

USB1112USB78

USB910

AAFP

SB_PWR

8Mb

BIOS

Nvidia

MCP78S

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)

CR2032 3V Lithium Cell

CMOS Power

PCI2

PCI1

PCIEX16

PCIEX1_1

VT1708B

Realtek

8211CL-GR

CLRTC

SPDIF_OUT

M3N78-VM

LPT

KB_USB56

VGA_DVI

USB34_ESATA

LAN1_USB12

AUDIO

HDMI

SPDIF_O2

CHA_FAN

PWR_FAN

FLOPP

TPM

CHASSIS

ATX12V

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-9

M3N78-VM

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

1.5.2 Placement direction

When installing the motherboard, ensure 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 eight (8) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the

motherboard to the chassis.

Place this side towards the rear of the chassis

1-10 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The motherboard comes with a 940-pin AM2+ / AM2 socket designed for the AMD Athlon™ 64 / Sempron™ / Athlon™ FX / Athlon™ 64 X2 / AM2+ / Phenom™ FX / Phenom™ processor.

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

Ensure that the socket lever is lifted up to 90°-100° angle, otherwise the CPU

does not t in completely.

Socket lever

M3N78-VM

M3N78-VM CPU Socket AM2+/AM2

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-11

3. Position the CPU above the socket such that the CPU corner with the gold triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle.

4. Carefully insert the CPU into the

socket until it ts in place.

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

5. When the CPU is in place, push down the socket lever to secure the CPU. The lever clicks on the side tab to indicate that it is locked.

6. Install a CPU heatsink and fan following the instructions that came with the heatsink package.

Gold triangle

Small triangle

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

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

can occur if you fail to plug this connector.

M3N78-VM

M3N78-VM CPU Fan Connector

CPU_FAN

GND

CPU FAN PWR

CPU FAN IN

CPU FAN PWM

1-12 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan

The AMD Athlon™ 64 / Sempron™ / Athlon™ FX / Athlon™ 64 X2 / AM2+ / Phenom™ FX / Phenom™ processor requires a specially designed heatsink and

fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.

Follow these steps to install the CPU heatsink and fan.

1. Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, ensuring that the heatsink ts

properly on the retention module base.

Retention Module Base

CPU Heatsink

CPU Fan

Retention bracket lockRetention bracket

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

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

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

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

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

Your boxed CPU heatsink and fan assembly should come with installation instructions for the CPU, heatsink, and the retention mechanism. If the instructions in this section do not match the CPU documentation, follow the latter.

ASUS M3N78-VM 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.

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

Ensure that the fan and heatsink

assembly perfectly ts the

retention mechanism module base. Otherwise, you cannot snap the retention bracket in place.

1-14 Chapter 1: Product introduction

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.

1.7 System memory

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

Recommended memory congurations

Mode

Sockets

DIMM_A1 DIMM_B1 DIMM_A2 DIMM_B2

Single-Channel

– Populated – –

Populated – – –

Dual-channel (1) Populated Populated – –

Dual-channel (2) Populated Populated Populated Populated

M3N78-VM

M3N78-VM 240-pin DDR2 DIMM Sockets

DIMM_B1

DIMM_A2

DIMM_B2

DIMM_A1

128 Pins

112 Pins

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-15

• 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)

• Due to the chipset’s limitation, the 1066 MHz memory modules run at 1066 MHz only when:

- two 1066 MHz memory modules installed in the same colored-slots (either in the yellow slots or black slots); and

- one 1066 MHz memory module installed in any of the slots.

In other cases, the 1066 MHz memory modules can only run at

800 MHz.

• 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, 32-bit Vista), the system will allocate a certain amount of memory

space for system devices.

•

When installing total memory of 4GB capacity or more, Windows® 32-bit operation system may only recognize less than 3GB. Hence, a total

installed memory of less than 3GB is recommended.

64-bit

Windows® XP Professional x64 Edition

Windows® Vista x64 Edition

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.

1-16 Chapter 1: Product introduction

Size Vendor Model CL Brand SS/

Component DIMM support

A* B* C*

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

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

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

1G Corsair VS1GB667D2 N/A Corsair DS MID095D62864M8CEC · ·

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 · ·

512MB Apacer AU512E667C5KBGC 5 Apacer SS AM4B5708MIJS7E0627B · ·

1G Apacer AU01GE667C5KBGC 5 Apacer DS AM4B5708MIJS7E0627B · ·

512MB ADATA M20AD5G3H3166I1C52 N/A ADATA SS AD29608A8A-3EG20648 · ·

512MB ADATA M20AD5G3H3166I1C52 N/A ADATA SS AD29608A8A-3EG20718 · ·

512MB VDATA M2GVD5G3H31A4I1C52 N/A VDATA SS VD29608A8A-3EC20615 · ·

1G VDATA M2GVD5G3I41C4I1C52 N/A VDATA DS VD29608A8A-3EC20620 · ·

1G PSC AL7E8E63B-6E1K 5 PSC DS A3R12E3GEF637BLC5N · ·

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

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

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

DDR2-667 MHz capability

Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)

DDR2-533 MHz capability

Size Vendor Model CL Brand SS/

Component DIMM support

A* B* C*

512MB Kingston KVR533D2N4/512 N/A Inneon SS HYB18T512800AF3733336550 · ·

512MB Samsung M378T6553BG0-CD5 4 Samsung SS K4T51083QB-GCD5 · ·

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

512MB Micron MT 16HTF6464AG-53EB2 4 Micron DS D9BOM · ·

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

512MB Elpida EBE51UD8ABFA-5C-E N/A Elpida SS E5108AB-5C-E · ·

512MB Transcend 512MB ECC N/A Micron SS 6ND22D9GCT(ECC) · ·

512MB ADATA M2OAD2G3H3166I1B52 N/A ADATA SS AD29608A8A-37DG20719 · ·

(continued on the next page)

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-17

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

• A*: Supports one module inserted into 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 DDR2-533/667/800/1066MHz QVL.

Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)

DDR2-800 MHz capability

DDR2-1066 MHz capability

Size Vendor Model CL Brand SS/

Component DIMM support

A* B* C*

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

512MB Kingston KHX8500D2K2/1GN N/A Kingston SS Heat-Sink Package · ·

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

1G Qimonda HYS64T128020EU-19F-C 6 Qimonda DS HYB18T512800CF19FFSS24313 · · ·

1G Corsair CM2X1024-8500C5 N/A Corsair DS Heat-Sink Package · ·

1G Corsair CM2X1024-8500C5D 5 Corsair DS Heat-Sink Package · · ·

512MB ADATA M2OMIDG3H3160INC5Z 5 ADATA SS Heat-Sink Package · · ·

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

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

1G GEIL M016E2864T2AGXAKT7G330520 5 Micron DS 7KD22D9GMH · · ·

Size Vendor Model CL Brand SS/

Component DIMM support

A* B* C*

1G Kingston KHX6400D2LL/1G N/A Kingston DS Heat-Sink Package · ·

1G Samsung KR M378T2953CZ3-CE7 N/A Samsung DS K4T51083QC-ZCE7 · ·

1G Samsung KR M391T2953CZ3-CE7 N/A Samsung DS K4T51083QC-ZCE7(ECC) · ·

512MB Qimonda HYS64T64000EU-2.5-B2 6 Qimonda SS HYB18T512800B2F25FSS28380 · ·

1G Micron MT18HTF12872AY-80ED4 5 Micron DS 6TD22D9GKX(ECC) · ·

1G Corsair XMS2-6400 5 Corsair DS Heat-Sink Package · ·

1G HY HYMP512U64AP8-S6 AA N/A Hynix DS HY5PS12821AFP-S6 · ·

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

512MB ADATA M20AD6G3H3160I1E58 N/A ADATA SS AD29608A8A-25EG80720 · ·

1G VDATA M2GVD6G3I4170I1E53 N/A VDATA DS VD29608A8A-25EG30647 · ·

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

1-18 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.7.3 Installing a DIMM

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

2. Align a DIMM on the socket such

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

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

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

1.7.4 Removing a DIMM

To remove a DIMM:

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

2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.

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

• A DDR2 DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it ts in only one

direction. DO NOT force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the DIMM.

• The DDR2 DIMM sockets do not support DDR DIMMs. Do not install DDR DIMMs to the DDR2 DIMM sockets.

Unlocked retaining clip

DDR2 DIMM notch

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-19

1.8 Expansion slots

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

1.8.1 Installing an expansion card

To install an expansion card:

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

2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a

chassis).

3. Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later use.

4. Align the card connector with the slot and press rmly until the card is

completely seated on the slot.

5. Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.

6. Replace the system cover.

1.8.2 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.

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.

1-20 Chapter 1: Product introduction

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

Interrupt assignments

IRQ Standard function

0 Standard timer

1 Keyboard

2 High precision event timer

3 IRQ holder for PCI steering

4 COM1

5 IRQ holder for PCI steering

6 Floppy controller

7 Printer port

8 High precision event timer

9 AMD ACPI-Compliant system

10 IRQ holder for PCI steering

11 IRQ holder for PCI steering

12 Microsoft PS/2 mouse

13 Numeric data processor

14 Primary IDE

15 Slave IDE

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-21

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.

LNKA LNKB LN0A LN2A LATA UB12 UB11 LUB2 LUB0 LPMU LSMB LMAC LSA0 LAZA SGRU

PCI slot1 shared - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

PCI slot2 - shared - - - - - - - - - - - - -

PCI EX1

Slot

- - - shared - - - - - - - - - - -

PCI EX16

slot

- - shared - - - - - - - - - - - -

Onboard

USB1.1 (OHCI)

- - - - - - - - shared - - - - - -

Onboard

USB 1.1

(OHCI)

- - - - - - shared - - - - - - - -

Onboard

USB2.0

(EHCI)

- - - - - shared - - - - - - - - -

Onboard

USB2.0

(EHCI)

- - - - - - - shared - - - - - - -

Onboard

IDE

controller

- - - - shared - - - - - - - - - -

Onboard

SATA

controller

- - - - - - - - - - - - shared - -

Onboard

SMBus

controller

- - - - - - - - - - shared - - - -

Onboard

Azalia

controller

- - - - - - - - - - - - - shared -

Onboard

LAN

8111B

- - - - - - - - - - - shared - - -

Onboard

PMU

device

- - - - - - - - - shared - - - - -

IXVE Bus

Bridge

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - shared

Onboard

VGA

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - shared

IRQ assignments for this motherboard

1-22 Chapter 1: Product introduction

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 has supports PCI Express x16 graphic cards that comply

with PCI Express specications. The gure shows a graphics card installed on

the PCI Express x16 slot.

• Currently, only NVIDIA® GeForce® 8500 GT and GeForce 8400 GS graphics cards support GeForce Boost function under Hybrid SLITM mode.

• Currently, only NVIDIA

GeForce® 9800 GX2 and GeForce 9800 GTX

graphics cards support Hybrid Power function under Hybrid SLITM mode.

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-23

1.9 Jumper

1. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC)

This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords.

To erase the RTC RAM:

1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.

2. Remove the onboard battery.

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

4. Reinstall the battery.

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

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

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

default position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!

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

M3N78-VM

Clear RTC RAM

CLRTC

Normal

Clear RTC

(Default)

1 2 2 3

1-24 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.10 Connectors

1.10.1 Rear panel connectors

5. Rear Speaker Out port (black).

This port connects the rear speakers in a

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

6. Center / Subwoofer port (orange).

This port connects the center /

subwoofer speakers.

7. Line In port (light blue)

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

other audio sources.

8. Line Out port (lime)

. This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In

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

becomes Front Speaker Out.

9. Microphone port (pink).

This port connects a microphone.

10. Side Speaker Out port (gray)

. This port connects the side speakers in an

8-channel audio conguration.

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

LAN port LED indications

SPEED

LED

ACT/LINK

LED

LAN port

1. PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo port (purple). This port is for a PS/2

keyboard or mouse.

2. Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port

. This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor

or other VGA-compatible devices.

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

are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.

4. LAN (RJ-45) port. Supported by Marvell Gigabit LAN controller, this port

allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.

11131415

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-25

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

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

are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.

12. External SATA port. These port connect to an external a Serial ATA hard

disk drive. To congure a RAID0, RAID1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, or JBOD set,

connect external Serial ATA hard disk drives to the External SATA port.

Port Headset

2-channel

4-channel 6-channel 8-channel

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 Out Rear Speaker Out

Gray – – – Side Speaker Out

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

• To use hot-plug, set the SATA Mode Select in the BIOS settings to [AHCI

Mode]. See section 2.3.5 Storage Conguration for details.

• When the AHCI mode is turned on, SATA 1/2/3/5/6 and ESATA are all in

AHCI mode, and DOS cannot detect HDD in drivers installation.

13. DVI port. This port is for any DVI-D compatible device. DVI-D can’t be

converted to output RGB Signal to CRT and isn’t compatible with DVI-I.

14. HDMI port. This port is for a High-Denition Multimedia Interface (HDMI)

connector, and is HDCP compliant allowing playback of HD DVD, Blu-Ray and other protected content.

• This motherboard comes with dual-VGA output. If you connect 2 monitors to both VGA and DVI-D / HDMI out ports, each controller can drive same or

different display contents to different resolutions and refresh rates.

• Due to the chipset limitation, simultaneous output for DVI and HDMI is not supported.

• To play HD DVD or BLU-Ray Disc, ensure to use an HDCP compliant monitor.

1-26 Chapter 1: Product introduction

Playback of HD DVD and Blu-Ray Discs

The speed and bandwidth of the CPU/Memory, DVD player, and drivers will affect the playback quality. Using the CPU/Memory of higher speed and

bandwidth with the higher-version DVD player and drivers will upgrade the playback quality.

15. Optical S/PDIF Out port.

This port connects an external audio output device

via an optical S/PDIF cable.

16. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports

are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-27

1.10.2 Internal connectors

1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY)

This connector is for the provided oppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert

one end of the cable to this connector, then connect the other end to the

signal connector at the back of the oppy disk drive.

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

2. TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)

This connector supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) system, which

can securely store keys, digital certicates, passwords, and data. A TPM

system also helps enhance network security, protects digital identities, and ensures platform integrity.

The TPM model is purchased separately!

M3N78-VM

Floppy Disk Drive Connector

NOTE:

Orient the red markings on

the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.

PIN1

FLOPPY

M3N78-VM

M3N78-VM TPM Connector

TPM

S_SMBCLIK_MAIN

S_SMBCLK_MAIN

GND

S_PLTRST#

F_FRAME#

C_PCICLK_TPM

GND

F_LAD1

F_LAD2

F_LAD0

+3V

F_LAD3

GND

F_SERIRQ#

GND

+3VSB

S_PWRDWN#

1-28 Chapter 1: Product introduction

3. IDE connectors (40-1 pin PRI_IDE)

The onboard IDE connector is for an Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable. There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable:

blue, black, and gray. Connect the blue connector to the motherboard’s IDE

connector, then select one of the following modes to congure your device(s).

• Pin 20 on the IDE connector is removed to match the covered hole on the

Ultra DMA cable connector. This prevents incorrect insertion when you connect the IDE cable.

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

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

Drive jumper setting Mode of

device(s)

Cable connector

Single device Cable-Select or Master - Black

Two devices Cable-Select Master

Black

Slave Gray

Master Master Black or gray

Slave Slave

M3N78-VM

IDE Connector

PRI_IDE

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-29

4. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1 [red], SATA2 [red], SATA3 [red], SATA4 [black], SATA5 [black])

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,

RAID 5, RAID 0+1, and JBOD conguration through the onboard controller.

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

• For detailed instructions on how to congure RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 0+1, and JBOD, refer to the RAID manual in the support DVD.

• If you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the SATA Mode select item in the BIOS to [RAID Mode]. See the page 2-18 for details.

• Due to the chipset limitation, SATA 4 and SATA 5 do not support IDE mode, only support AHCI and RAID mode.

M3N78-VM

SATA Connectors

GND

RSATA_TXP4

RSAT

A_TXN4

GND

RSATA_RXP4

RSAT

A_RXN4

GND

SATA4

GND

RSATA_TXP5

RSAT

A_TXN5

GND

RSATA_RXP5

RSAT

A_RXN5

GND

SATA5

GND

RSATA_TXP3

RSAT

A_TXN3

GND

RSATA_RXP3

RSAT

A_RXN3

GND

SATA3

GND

RSATA_TXP2

RSAT

A_TXN2

GND

RSATA_RXP2

RSAT

A_RXN2

GND

SATA2

GND

RSATA_TXP1

RSAT

A_TXN1

GND

RSATA_RXP1

RSAT

A_RXN1

GND

SATA1

1-30 Chapter 1: Product introduction

5. CPU, Chassis and Power Fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN, 3-pin PWR_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, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.

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

This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s). Connect the S/PDIF module cable to this connector, then install the

module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.

Only CPU Fan and Chassis Fan support Q-Fan.

The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.

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.

M3N78-VM

M3N78-VM Fan Connectors

CPU_FAN

GND

CPU FAN PWR

CPU FAN IN

CPU FAN PWM

CHA_FAN

GND

Rotation

+12V

PWR_FAN

GND

Rotation

+12V

M3N78-VM

Digital Audio Connector

+5V

SPDIFOUT

GND

SPDIF_OUT

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-31

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

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!

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

These connectors allow you to receive stereo audio input from sound sources such as a CD-ROM, TV tuner, or MPEG card.

The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.

M3N78-VM

M3N78-VM USB 2.0 Connectors

USB78

USB+5V

USB_P8-

USB_P8+

GND

USB+5V

USB_P7-

USB_P7+

GND

USB910

USB+5V

USB_P10-

USB_P10+

GND

USB+5V

USB_P9-

USB_P9+

GND

USB1112

USB+5V

USB_P12-

USB_P12+

GND

USB+5V

USB_P11-

USB_P11+

GND

M3N78-VM

Internal Audio Connector

(black)

Right Audio Channel

Left Audio Channel

Ground

1-32 Chapter 1: Product introduction

9. Serial port connectors (10-1 pin COM1)

The connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to the connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.

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

This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports either High 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 Type 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 2-29 for details.

The serial port bracket (COM1) is purchased separately.

M3N78-VM

COM Port Connector

PIN1

COM1

M3N78-VM

M3N78-VM 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

MIC2_L

Line out_R

Line out_L

MIC2_R

AGND

Azalia-compliant

pin definition

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-33

11. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)

This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch. Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal is then generated as a chassis intrusion event.

By default , the pin labeled “Chassis Signal” and “Ground” are shorted with a jumper cap. Remove the jumper caps only when you intend to use the chassis intrusion detection feature.

12. LPT connector

The LPT (Line Printing Terminal) connector supports devices such as a

printer. LPT standardizes as IEEE 1284, which is the parallel port interface on

IBM PC-compatible computers.

M3N78-VM

Parallel Port Connector

LPT

STB#

AFD

PD0ERR#

PD1

INIT#

PD2SLIN#

PD3GND

PD4

GND

PD7

PD6

PD5

GND

ACK#

GND

BUSYPESLCT

GND

M3N78-VM

Intrusion Connector

CHASSIS

+5VSB_MB

Chassis Signal

GND

(Default)

1-34 Chapter 1: Product introduction

13. ATX power connectors (24-pin ATX-PWRGD, 4-pin ATX12V)

These connectors are for an ATX power supply. The plugs from the power

supply are designed to t these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down rmly until the connectors completely t.

•

We recommend that you use an ATX 12 V 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, ensure 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.

M3N78-VM

M3N78-VM ATX Power Connector

EATXPWR

+3 Volts

Ground

+5 Volts

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

ASUS M3N78-VM 1-35

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

This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.

•

System power LED (2-pin PLED)

This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis

power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.

•

Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin +IDE_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 (4-pin SPEAKER) This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.

•

Power/Soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW)

This 2-pin connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power

button turns the system ON or puts the system in SLEEP or SOFT-OFF mode depending on the BIOS settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON turns the system OFF.

•

Reset button (2-pin Reset)

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

reboot without turning off the system power.

M3N78-VM

System Panel Connector

PANEL

PLED-

+5V

Speaker

SPEAKER

PLED

Ground

Reset

Ground

PLED+

IDE_LED-

IDE_LED+

+IDE_LED

PWR

Ground

PWRSW

1-36 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.

Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2-2 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS

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

Input/Output System (BIOS) setup.

ASUS EZ Flash 2: Updates the BIOS using a oppy disk, USB Flash, or the

motherboard support DVD during POST.

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, USB ash disk or the motherboard support DVD when the BIOS le fails or

gets corrupted.

ASUS Update: Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.

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 then press <Enter>.

Windows® XP environment

a. Insert a 1.44 MB oppy disk to the oppy disk drive.

b. Click

Start from the Windows® desktop, then select My Computer.

c. Select the 3 1/2 Floppy Drive icon.

d. Click

File from the menu, then select Format. A Format 3 1/2 Floppy

Disk window appears.

e. Windows

XP users: Select Create an MS-DOS startup disk from the

format options eld, then click Start.

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-3

Windows® Vista environment

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

drive.

b. Click

from the Windows® desktop, then select Computer.

c. Right-click

Floppy Disk Drive then click Format to display the Format 3

1/2 Floppy dialog box .

d. Select the

Create an MS-DOS startup disk check box.

e. Click

Start.

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

disk.

2-4 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

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.

2.1.2 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-Test (POST).

(2) Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the

Tools menu to select EZ Flash 2

and press <Enter> to enable it.

You can switch between drives by pressing <Tab> before the correct le

is found. Then press <Enter>.

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

process and automatically reboots the system when done.

(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.

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

with

FAT 32/16

format only.

• Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent

system boot failure!

ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.21

Current ROM

Update ROM

Note

FLASH TYPE: MXIC 25L8005

PATH: A:\

BOARD: M3N78-VM VER: 0509 (H:01 B:17) DATE: 07/07/2008

BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown

[Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info

[Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [Esc] Exit

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-5

2.1.3 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:

Main lename Extension name

1. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to

the bootable oppy disk you created earlier.

2. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type:

afudos /o[lename]

where the [lename] is any user-assigned lename not more than eight alphanumeric characters for the main lename and three alphanumeric

characters for the extension name.

A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom

• Ensure that the oppy disk is not write-protected and has at least 1024KB free space to save the le.

• The succeeding BIOS screens are for reference only. The actual BIOS screen displays may not be same as shown.

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

3. Press <Enter>. The utility copies the current BIOS le to the oppy disk.

A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom

AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.29(03.11.24BB))

Reading ash ..... done

Write to le...... ok

A:\>

2-6 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

Updating the BIOS le

To update the BIOS le using the AFUDOS utility:

1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) and download the latest BIOS le for the motherboard. Save the BIOS le to a bootable oppy disk.

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 /iM3N78-VM.ROM

AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.36(03.11.24BB))

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:\>

2. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to the bootable oppy disk you created earlier.

3. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type:

afudos /i[lename]

where [lename] is the latest or the original BIOS le on the bootable oppy disk.

A:\>afudos /iM3N78-VM.ROM

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

A:\>afudos /iM3N78-VM.ROM

AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.36(03.11.24BB))

WARNING!! Do not turn off power during ash BIOS

Reading le ....... done

Reading ash ...... done

Advance Check ......

Erasing ash ...... done

Writing ash ...... 0x0008CC00 (9%)

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

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

system boot failure!

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-7

2.1.4 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 DVD , the oppy disk or the USB ash disk that contains the updated BIOS le.

• Prepare the motherboard support DVD, 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 M3N78-VM.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 “M3N78-VM.ROM”. Completed. Start ashing...

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

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

2-8 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

Recovering the BIOS from the support DVD

To recover the BIOS from the support DVD:

1. Remove any oppy disk from the oppy disk drive, then turn on the system.

2. Insert the support DVD to the optical drive.

3. The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the

oppy disk for the original or updated BIOS le.

Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery... Checking for oppy... Floppy not found! Checking for DVD-ROM... DVD-ROM found! Reading le “M3N78-VM.ROM”. Completed. Start ashing...

When no oppy disk is found, the utility automatically checks the optical drive

for the original or updated BIOS le. The utility then updates the corrupted BIOS le.

Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery... Checking for oppy...

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

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

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

• 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!

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.

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-9

Installing ASUS Update

To install ASUS Update:

1. Place the support DVD in the optical drive. The

Drivers menu appears.

2. Click the Utilities tab, then click

Install ASUS Update. See page 3-4 for the

Utilities screen menu.

3. The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system.

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).

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

2-10 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest

you to avoid network trafc, or

click Auto Select. Click Next.

Updating the BIOS through the Internet

To update the BIOS through the Internet:

1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows

desktop by clicking Start

> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears.

2. Select Update BIOS from the Internet option from the drop-down menu, then click Next.

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-11

Updating the BIOS through a BIOS le

To update the BIOS through a BIOS le:

1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows

desktop by clicking Start

> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears.

2. Select

Update BIOS from a le

option from the drop-down menu, then click Next.

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

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

4. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download. Click Next.

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

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

M3N78-VM.rom

M3N78-VM

2-12 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

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.

• 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.

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.

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-13

2.2.1 BIOS menu screen

• 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.

Navigation keysSub-menu items

General help

Menu bar Conguration eldsMenu items

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 setting EZ Flash 2

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.

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

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

System Time [03: 29 : 55] System Date [Mon 01/28/2002] Legacy Diskette A [1.44M,3.5 in.]

Primary IDE Master : [Not Detected] Primary IDE Slave : [Not Detected] SATA1 : [ST380011AS] SATA2 : [Not Detected] SATA3 : [Not Detected] ESATA : [Not Detected]

Storage Conguration

System Information

2-14 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

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, 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 “2.2.7 Pop-up window.”

2.2.9 General help

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

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

2.2.7 Pop-up window

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

conguration options for that item.

2.2.8 Scroll bar

A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do

not t on the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> /<Page

Down> keys to display the other items on the screen.

Scroll bar

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

Advanced Chipset settings

WARNING: Setting wrong values in the sections below may cause system to malfunction.

Configure DRAM Timing by SPD [Enabled] Memory Acceleration Mode [Auto] DRAM Idle Timer [Auto] DRAm Refresh Rate [Auto]

Graphic Adapter Priority [AGP/PCI] Graphics Aperture Size [ 64 MB] Spread Spectrum [Enabled]

ICH Delayed Transaction [Enabled]

MPS Revision [1.4]

Pop-up window

2.2.3 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.

ASUS M3N78-VM 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.

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]

System Time [03:30:50]

System Date [Mon 01/28/2002] Legacy Diskette A [1.44M,3.5 in.]

Primary IDE Master :[Not Detected] Primary IDE Slave :[Not Detected] SATA1 :[ST380011AS] SATA2 :[Not Detected] SATA3 :[Not Detected] ESATA :[Not Detected]

Storage Conguration

System Information

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

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

2-16 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.3.4 Primary IDE Master/Slave, SATA1~3, ESATA

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 [Enabled]

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 N/A if no IDE device is installed in the system.

Type [Auto]

Selects the type of IDE drive. Setting to Auto allows automatic selection of the

appropriate IDE device type. Select CDROM if you are 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]

This item does not appear when you select SATA1/SATA2/SATA3/ESATA devices.

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-17

Block (Multi-Sector Transfer) M [Auto]

Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When set to Auto, the data transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device supports multi-sector transfer feature. When set to [Disabled], the data transfer from and to the device occurs one sector at a time.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]

PIO Mode [Auto]

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

DMA Mode [Auto]

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

SMART Monitoring [Auto]

Enables or disables the S.M.A.R.T. (Self Monitoring and Reporting Technology)

capability of your hard drive. This features allows your system to report read/write

errors of the hard drive and to issue warnings when a third party hardware monitor

utility is installed. Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]

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

[Enabled]

2-18 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.3.5 Storage Conguration

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

devices installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you wish to

congure the item.

IDE Conguration

Onboard PCI IDE Controller [Enabled]

OnChip S-ATA Controller [Enabled] SATA Mode select [SATA Mode]

Onboard PCI IDE Controller [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the onboard PCI IDE controller.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

OnChip S-ATA Controller [Enabled]

Allows you to disable or set the OnChip S-ATA devices.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

SATA Mode select [SATA Mode]

Allows you to select the SATA Mode. Conguration options: [SATA Mode] [RAID Mode] [AHCI Mode]

DISABLED: disables the integrated IDE Controller. ENABLED: enables the integrated IDE Controller.

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-19

2.3.6 System Information

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

automatically detects the items in this menu.

AMIBIOS

Version : 0509 Build Date : 07/07/08

Processor

Type : AMD Sempron(tm) Processor 3200+ Speed : 1800MHz Count : 1

System Memory

Installed Size : 1024MB Usable Size : 896MB

AMI BIOS

Displays the auto-detected BIOS information

Processor

Displays the auto-detected CPU specication

System Memory

Displays the auto-detected system memory

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.

JumperFree Conguration

CPU Conguration Chipset Onboard Devices Conguration

PCIPnP

USB Conguration

Trusted Computing

Adjust System Frequency/Voltage etc.

2.4.1 JumperFree Conguration

Congure System Frequency/Voltage

CPU Overclocking [Auto]

GPU Overclocking [Auto] PCIE Overclocking [Auto]

CPU Ratio and Voltage:

Processor Frequency Multiplier [Auto] Processor Voltage [Auto] Processor-NB Voltage [Auto]

Hyper Transport Conguration:

Hyper Transport Speed [Auto] Hyper Transport Width [16 16 ]

Memory Timing and Voltage:

Memory Clock Mode [Auto] DRAM Timing Mode [Auto] Memory Over voltage [Auto]

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

Chipset Voltage:

Chipset Voltage [Auto]

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-21

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.

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

when overclocking.

CPU Frequency, MHz [200]

Allows you to enter an integer value to over clock for CPU.

Conguration options: [Min.=200] [Max.=400]

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

The following item appears only when the CPU Overclocking item is set to

[Overclock Prole].

Overclock Options [Auto]

Allows you to select the overclock options. Conguration options: [Auto]

[Overclock 3%] [Overclock 5%] [Overclock 7%] [Test mode]

GPU OverClocking [Auto]

Allows selection of GPU overclocking options to achieve desired GPU 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.

The following two items appear only when the GPU Overclocking item is set to [Manual].

GPU Frequency [500]

Allows you to enter an integer value from 500MHz to 999MHz to over clock for GPU. Conguration options: [Min.=500] [Max.=999]

Shader Frequency [1200]

Allows you to enter an integer value from 1000MHz to 2000MHz to over clock for shader. Conguration options: [Min.=1000] [Max.=2000]

2-22 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

PCIE Overclocking [Auto]

Allows selection of PCIE overclocking options to achieve desired PCIE 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.

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

PCIE Frequency [100]

Allows you to enter an integer value from 100MHz to 150 MHz to over clock for PCIE. Conguration options: [Min.=100] [Max.=150]

CPU Ratio and Voltage:

Processor Frequency Multiplier [Auto]

Allows you to select the processor frequency multiplier.

Conguration options: [Auto] [x4.0 800MHz] [x5.0 1000MHz] [x6.0 1200MHz] [x7.0 1400MHz] [x8.0 1600MHz] [x9.0 1800MHz]

Processor Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to select the processor voltage. Conguration options: [Auto] [+ 50mv]

[+ 100mv] [+ 150mv]

Processor-NB Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to select the processor-NB voltage. Conguration options: [Auto] [+

50mv] [+ 100mv] [+ 150mv]

Hyper Transport Conguration:

Hyper Transport Speed [Auto]

Allows you to select the Hyper Transport speed. Conguration options: [200 MHz] [400 MHz] [600 MHz] [800 MHz] [1 GHz] [Auto]

Hyper Transport Width [16 16 ]

Allows you to select the Hyper Transport width. Conguration options: [8 8 ] [16

16 ]

Memory Timing and Voltage:

Memory Clock Mode [Auto]

Allows you to select the Memory Clock mode. Conguration options: [Auto]

[Manual]

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-23

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

Memclock Value [266 MHz]

Allows you to select the memclock value. Conguration options: [266 MHz] [333MHz] [400 MHz] [533 MHz]

DRAM Timing Mode [Auto]

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

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

CAS# Latency [ Auto]

Allows you to set CAS# latency. Conguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] [4 CLK]

[5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK DH_Only]

TRCD [ Auto]

Allows you to set TRCD. Conguration options: [3 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6

CLK] [Auto]

TRP [ Auto]

Allows you to set TRP. Conguration options: [3 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6

CLK] [Auto]

tRTP [ Auto]

Allows you to specify the read CAS# to percharge time.

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

TRAS [ Auto]

Allows you to set TRAS. Conguration options: [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [8 CLK] [9 CLK] [10 CLK] [11 CLK] [12 CLK] [13 CLK] [14 CLK] [15 CLK] [16 CLK] [17 CLK] [18 CLK] [Auto]

TRC [ Auto]

Allows you to set TRC. Conguration options: [11 CLK] [12 CLK] [13 CLK] [14 CLK] [15 CLK] [16 CLK] [17 CLK] [18 CLK] [19 CLK] [20 CLK] [21 CLK] [22CLK] [23 CLK] [24 CLK] [25 CLK] [26 CLK] [Auto]

tWR [ Auto]

Allows you to specify when the last write is registered by the DRAM.

Conguration options: [Auto] [3 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK]

TRRD [ Auto]

Allows you to set TRRD. Conguration options: [2 CLK] [3 CLK] [4 CLK] [5

CLK] [Auto]

2-24 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

tRWTTO [ Auto]

Allows you to set tRWTTO. Conguration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] [3 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] [6 CLK] [7 CLK] [8 CLK] [9 CLK]

tWRRD [ Auto]

Allows you to specify the write to read delay when accessing different

DRAMs. Conguration options: [Auto] [0 CLK] [1 CLK] [2 CLK] [3 CLK]

tWTR [ Auto]

Allows you to specify the write to read delay when accessing the same

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

tWRWR [ Auto]

Allows you to specify the Twrwr time. Conguration options: [Auto] [1 CLK] [2

CLK] [3 CLK]

tRDRD [ Auto]

Allows you to specify the Trdrd time. Conguration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] [3

CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK]

tRFC0/1/2/3 [ Auto]

Allows you to specify the Trfc0/1/2/3 time. Conguration options: [Auto] [75ns] [105ns] [127.5ns] [195ns] [327.5ns]

Memory Over Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to select the Memory Over Voltage. The increment is 6.25mV. Conguration options: [Auto] [6.25mV] [12.5mV] [18.75mV] [25mV] ~ [393.75mV]

Chipset Voltage:

Chipset Voltage [Auto]

Allows you to set the Chipset Voltage.

Conguration options: [Auto] [+ 50mv] [+ 100mv] [+ 150mv]

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-25

2.4.2 CPU Conguration

GART Error Reporting [Disabled]

This option should remain disabled for the normal operation. The driver developer

may enable it for testing purpose. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Microcode Updation [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the microcode updation.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Secure Virtual Machine Mode [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the AMD Secure Virtual Machine mode.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Cool ‘n’ Quiet [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the generation of ACPI_PPC, _PSS, and _PCT

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

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

CPU Conguration

Module Version: 13.20 AGESA Version: 3.1.8.0 Physical Count: 1 Logical Count: 1

AMD Athlon(tm) Processor 3200+ Revision: F2 Cache L1: 128KB Cache L2: 128KB Cache L3: N/A Speed : 1800MHz, NB Clk: N/A HT Frequency : 800MHz 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]

2-26 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

NorthBridge Chipset Conguration

Memory Conguration

ECC Conguration

NorthBridge Conguration

2.4.3 Chipset

The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.

Advanced Chipset Setting

WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction.

NorthBridge Conguration

Southbridge Conguration

Options for NB

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-27

Memory Conguration

Enable Bank Memory Interleaving

Memory Conguration

Bank Interleaving [Auto]

Channel Interleaving [Disabled] Enable Clock to All DIMMs [Disabled] MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled] Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled] DCT Unganged Mode [Auto] 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] ]

Enable Clock to All DIMMs [Disabled]

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

[Enabled]

MemClk Tristate C3/ALTVID [Disabled]

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

Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled]

Enables or disables the memory remapping around memory hole.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

DCT Unganged Mode [Auto]

Allow you to enable or disable Unganed mode.

Conguration options: [Auto] [Always]

Power Down Enable [Enabled]

Enables or disables the DDR power down mode.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2-28 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

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 feature that allows the hardware to report and correct memory errors automatically to maintain system integrity.

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] [1.31ms] [2.62ms] [5.24ms] [10.49ms] [20.97ms] [42.00ms] [84.00ms]

Data/L2/L3 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled]

Disables or sets the Data/L2/L3 Cache BG Scrub. This item allows the cache 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] [1.31ms] [2.62ms] [5.24ms] [10.49ms] [20.97ms] [42.00ms] [84.00ms]

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 Conguration

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 M3N78-VM 2-29

Primary Graphics Adapter [PCIE VGA Card First]

Display Device Priority, from high to low. Conguration options: [PCIE VGA Card

First] [Internal VGA First] [PCIE VGA Card First]

Hybrid SLI Mode [mGPU Auto]

Allows you to set the Hybrid SLI mode.

Conguration options: [mGPU Auto] [mGPU always enable]

Hybrid SLI Frame buffer Size [128 MB]

Allows you to set the iGPU Frame Buffer Size. Conguration options: [32 MB] [64 MB] [128 MB] [256 MB]

PCIE 2.0 Support [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable the PCIE 2.0 support. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]

AZALIA Audio [Internal codec+External codec]

Allows you to set HD Audio mode. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Internal

codec+External codec] [Internal codec] [External codec]

Front Panel Select [HD Audio]

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

Onboard LAN [Enabled]

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

[Disabled]

SouthBridge Conguration

SouthBridge chipset Conguration

Primary Graphics Adapter [PCIE VGA Card Firs]

Hybrid SLI Mode [mGPU Auto] Hybrid SLI Frame buffer Size [128MB]

PCIE 2.0 Support [Auto]

AZALIA Audio [Internal codec+E} Front Panel Select [HD Audio]

Onboard LAN [Enabled] OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] SouthBridge ACPI HPET TABLE [Enabled]

Options

PCI VGA Card First Internal VGA First PCIE VGA Card First

2-30 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.4.4 Onboard Devices Conguration

Onboard Devices Conguration

Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]

Serial Port1 Mode [Normal] Parallel Port Address [378] Parallel Port Mode [Normal]

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]

Serial Port1 Mode [Normal]

Allows you to select mode for Serial Port1. Conguration options: [Normal]

[IrDA] [ASK IR]

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]

Allows BIOS to select Serial Port1 Base Address.

OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the OnBoard LAN Boot ROM.

Conguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

SouthBridge ACPI HPET TABLE [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable SouthBridge ACPI HPET TABLE.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-31

2.4.5 PCI PnP

The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP

devices. The menu includes setting IRQ and DMA channel resources for either

PCI/PnP or legacy ISA devices, and setting the memory size block for legacy ISA

devices.

Take caution when changing the settings of the PCI PnP menu items. Incorrect

eld values can cause the system to malfunction.

Advanced PCI/PnP Settings

WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections

may cause system to malfunction.

Plug And Play O/S [No]

PCI Latency Timer [64] Allocate IRQ to PCI VGA [Yes] Palette Snooping [Disabled]

IRQ-3 assigned to [PCI Device] IRQ-4 assigned to [PCI Device] IRQ-5 assigned to [PCI Device] IRQ-7 assigned to [PCI Device] IRQ-9 assigned to [PCI Device] IRQ-10 assigned to [PCI Device] IRQ-11 assigned to [PCI Device] IRQ-14 assigned to [PCI Device] IRQ-15 assigned to [PCI Device]

Plug and Play O/S [No]

When set to [No], BIOS congures all the devices in the system. When set to

[Yes] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system

congures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot. Conguration options: [No] [Yes]

PCI Latency Timer [64]

Allows you to select the value in units of PCI clocks for the PCI device latency

timer register. Conguration options: [32] [64] [96] [128] [160] [192] [224] [248]

Allocate IRQ to PCI VGA [Yes]

When set to [Yes], BIOS assigns an IRQ to PCI VGA card if the card requests for an IRQ. When set to [No], BIOS does not assign an IRQ to the PCI VGA card even

if requested. Conguration options: [Yes] [No]

Palette Snooping [Disabled]

When set to [Enabled], the palette 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]

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.

2-32 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]

USB Functions [Enabled]

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

USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled]

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

[Disabled]

Legacy USB Support [Auto]

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

USB ash drives and USB hard drives. Setting to Auto allows the system to

detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is

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

USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed]

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

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

2.4.6 USB 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.

USB Conguration

Module Version - 2.24.3-13.4

USB Devices Enabled:

None

USB Functions [Enabled]

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

Options

Enable Disable

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-33

2.4.7 Trusted Computing

The items in this menu allows you to congure Trusted Computing related settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conguration options.

Trusted Computing

TCG/TPM SUPPORT [No]

Enable/Disable TPM TCG (TPM 1.1/1.2) supp in BIOS

TCG/TPM SUPPORT [No]

Allows you to enable or disable the TPM/TCG (TPM 1.1/1.2) support in BIOS. Conguration options: [No] [Yes]

2-34 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

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.

2.5.1 Suspend Mode [Auto]

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

[Auto]

[S1(POS) Only] - Enables the system to enter the ACPI S1 (Power on Suspend) sleep state. In S1 sleep state, the system appears suspended and stays in a low power mode. The system can be resumed at any time. [S3 Only] - Enables the system to enter the ACPI S3 (Suspend to RAM) sleep state (default). In S3 sleep state, the system appears to be off and consumes less power than in the S1 state. When signaled by a wake-up device or event, the system resumes to its working state exactly where it was left off.

[Auto] - Detected by OS.

2.5.2 ACPI 2.0 Support [Disabled]

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

2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]

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

to Enabled, the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Suspend Mode [Auto]

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

APM Conguration Hardware Monitor

Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend.

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-35

2.5.4 APM Conguration

APM Conguration

Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off]

Power On By PCI Device [Disabled] Power On By Ring [Disabled] Power On By PS/2 KB/MS [Disabled] Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled]

Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off]

When set to Power Off, the system goes into off state after an AC power loss. When set to Power On, the system goes on after an AC power loss.

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

Power On By PCI Device [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable PCI/PCIE/Onboard LAN devices to generate a wake event. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Power On By Ring [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable RI to generate a wake event.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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

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

Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable RTC to generate a wake event. When this item is set to Enabled, the items RTC Alarm Date, RTC Alarm Hour, RTC Alarm Minute,

and RTC Alarm Second appear with set values. Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled]

Options

Power On Power Off

2-36 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.5.5 Hardware Monitor

Hardware Monitor

CPU Temperature [46ºC/114.5ºF]

MB Temperature [34ºC/93ºF]

CPU Fan Speed [3276RPM] Chassis Fan Speed [N/A] Power Fsn Speed [N/A]

VCORE Voltage [ 1.232V]

3.3V Voltage [ 3.328V] 5V Voltage [ 4.915V] 12V Voltage [11.916V]

Smart Q-FAN Function [Disabled]

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

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard and CPU temperatures. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures.

CPU Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the

motherboard, the eld shows N/A. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the

detected speed.

Chassis/Power Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [N/A] or [Ignored]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the chassis/power

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

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

Smart Q-Fan Function [Disabled]

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

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

[Enabled]

CPU Temperature

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-37

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.

Species the Boot Device Priority sequence.

A virtual oopy disk drive (Floppy Drive B:) may appear when you set the CD-ROM drive as the rst boot device.

Boot settings

Boot Device Priority

Boot Settings Conguration Security

2.6.1 Boot Device Priority

Boot Device Priority

1st Boot Device [1st FLOPPY DRIVE]

2nd Boot Device [SATA:3M-ST380011AS] 3rd Boot Device [CDROM:PS-PIONEER D]

1st ~ xxth Boot Device [1st Floppy Drive]

These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number

of devices installed in the system. Conguration options: [xxth Drive] [Hard Drive]

[ATAPI CD-ROM ] [Disabled]

Species the boot sequence from the available devices.

2-38 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.6.2 Boot Settings Conguration

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]

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

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

Quick Boot [Enabled]

Enabling this item allows the BIOS to skip some power on self tests (POST) while booting to decrease the time needed to boot the system. When set to [Disabled],

BIOS performs all the POST items. 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]

Add On ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]

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

Current]

Bootup Num-Lock [On]

Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock.

Conguration options: [Off] [On]

PS/2 Mouse Support [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable support for PS/2 mouse. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto]

Wait for ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]

When set to Enabled, the system waits for the F1 key to be pressed when error

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

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]

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-39

Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled]

When set to [Enabled], this function allows the option ROMs to trap Interrupt 19.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear clear it by erasing the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM. See section “1.9 Jumper” for information on how to erase the RTC RAM.

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.

Security Settings

Supervisor Password : Not Installed User Password : Not Installed

Change Supervisor Password

Change User Passward

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

Change Supervisor Password

Select this item to set or change the supervisor password. The Supervisor Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed.

To set a Supervisor Password:

1. Select the Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>.

2. From the password box, type a password composed of at least six letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>.

3. Conrm the password when prompted.

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

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

To clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then press <Enter>. The message “Password Uninstalled” appears.

After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change other security settings.

2-40 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

User Access Level [Full Access]

This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items.

Conguration options: [No Access] [View Only] [Limited] [Full Access]

No Access prevents user access to the Setup utility.

View Only allows access but does not allow change to any eld.

Limited allows changes only to selected elds, such as Date and Time.

Full Access allows viewing and changing all the elds in the Setup utility.

Change User Password

Select this item to set or change the user password. The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed.

To set a User Password:

1. Select the Change User Password item and press <Enter>.

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.

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

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

Clear User Password

Select this item to clear the user password.

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]

Security Settings

Supervisor Password : Installed User Password : Installed

Change Supervisor Password

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

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

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-41

2.7 Tools menu

ASUS EZ Flash 2

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

AI NET 2

2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2

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

ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.21

Current ROM

Update ROM

Note

[Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info

[Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [Esc] Exit

FLASH TYPE: MXIC 25L8005

PATH: A:\

BOARD: M3N78-VM VER: 0509 (H:01 B:17) DATE: 07/07/2008

BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown

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

1. NTFS format

2-42 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.7.2 Express Gate [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Express Gate feature. The ASUS Express Gate feature is a unique instant-on environment that provides quick

access to the Internet browser and Skype. Conguration options: [Disabled]

[Enabled]

Enter OS Timer [10 Seconds]

Allows you to set the countdown duration that the system waits at the Express

Gate’s rst screen before starting Windows or other installed OS. Choose [Prompt User] to stay at the rst screen of Express Gate for user action. Conguration options: [Prompt User] [1 Second] [3 Seconds] [5 Seconds] [10 Seconds] [15 Seconds] [20 Seconds] [30 Seconds]

Reset User Data [No]

Allows you to clear Express Gate’s user data. Conguration options: [No] [Reset]

When setting this item to [Reset], the user data is cleared the next time you enter the Express Gate. User data includes the Express Gate’s settings as well as any personal information stored by the web browser such as bookmarks, cookies, or browsing history. This is useful in the rare case where corrupt settings prevent the Express Gate environment from launching properly.

2.7.3 AI NET 2

AI NET 2 Pair Status Length

Check Realtek Phy LAN cable [Disabled]

Check Realtek Phy LAN cable during POST.

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Tools

Check Realtek Phy LAN cable [Disabled]

Allows you enable or disable checking Realtek Phy LAN cable during POST.

Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

• The rst time wizard runs again when you enter the Express Gate

environment after clearing its settings.

• When changing any of the Express Gate settings, ensure to save the settings to the BIOS.

ASUS M3N78-VM 2-43

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.

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.

2.8 Exit menu

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

The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items.

Exit Options

Exit & Save Changes

Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes

Load Setup Defaults

If you attempt to exit the Setup program without saving your changes, the program prompts you with a message asking if you want to save your changes before exiting. Press <Enter> to save the changes while exiting.

Exit system setup after saving the changes.

F10 key can be used for this operation.

2-44 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

Chapter 3: Software

support

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

3-2 Chapter 3: Software support

3.1 Installing an operating system

This motherboard supports Windows® 32-bit XP / 32-bit Vista / 64-bit XP / 64-bit Vista operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and

corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware.

• 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.

• Ensure that you install the Windows

XP Service Pack 2 or later versions

before installing the drivers for better compatibility and system stability.

3.2 Support DVD information

The support DVD that comes 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 (http://www.asus.com) for updates.

Click an item to install

3.2.1 Running the support DVD

Place the support DVD in 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

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.

3-3ASUS M3N78-VM

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 - Installation Wizard for Drivers

Launches the ASUS InstallAll installation wizard for drivers.

AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Driver

Installs the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet driver.

NVIDIA nForce Chipset Driver

Installs the NVIDIA nForce chipset driver.

VIA Audio Driver

Installs the VIA audio driver and application.

Nvidia HDMI Driver Program

Installs the Nvidia HDMI driver program.

The screen display and driver options may vary depending on the operating system version.

3-4 Chapter 3: Software support

3.2.3 Utilities menu

The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports.

ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities

Launches the ASUS InstallAll installation wizard for utilities.

ASUS Update

The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in a Windows® environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).

ASUS 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.

ADOBE Acrobat Reader V8

Installs the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader that allows you to open, view, and print documents in Portable Document Format (PDF).

Microsoft DirectX 9.0c

Installs the Microsoft® DirectX 9.0c driver. The Microsoft DirectX® 9.0c is a multimedia technology that enhances computer graphics and sound. DirectX® improves the multimedia features of you computer so you can enjoy watching TV and movies, capturing videos, or playing games in your computer. Visit the

Microsoft website (http://www.microsoft.com) for updates.

3-5ASUS M3N78-VM

Anti-Virus Utility

The anti-virus utility detects and protects your computer from viruses that destroys data.

Anti-Virus Utility Download

Downloads the anti-virus utility.

ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet Utility

This item installs the ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet utility.

Corel MediaOne Starter

Installs theCorel MediaOne Starter application to easily manage, edit, share and protect your multimedia data.

CyberLink PowerBackup

Installs the CyberLink PowerBackup to back up and restore your data easily.

WinZip 11

Installs the WinZip 11.

Ulead Burn. Now

Installs the Ulead Burn.Now application for Audio DVD, CD and data disc creation.

Ulead PhotoImpact 12 SE

Installs the PhotoImpact image editing software.

Click to show the succeeding Utilities menu below.

3-6 Chapter 3: Software support

3.2.4 Make Disk menu

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

NVIDIA 32/64bit XP SATA RAID Driver (Disk1/2)

Allows you to create the NVIDIA 32/64-bit XP SATA RAID Driver disks for

Windows® XP Operating System (OS).

NVIDIA 32/64bit Vista SATA RAID Driver

Allows you to create the NVIDIA 32/64-bit Vista SATA RAID Driver disk for

Windows® Vista Operating System (OS).

NVIDIA 32/64bit XP AHCI Driver (Disk1/2)

Allows you to create the NVIDIA 32/64-bit XP AHCI Driver disk for Windows® XP

Operating System (OS).

Click to show the succeeding Make Disk menu on the next page.

3-7ASUS M3N78-VM

Due to oppy disk capacity limitation, when creating a RAID conguration under

Windows® Vista, install the AHCI / RAID driver through the motherboard support DVD or a USB device.

Find RAID driver in the support DVD through the path below: Drivers\Chipset\Disk\RAID Find AHCI driver in the support DVD through the path below:

Drivers\Chipset\Disk\AHCI

NVIDIA 32/64bit Vista AHCI Driver

Allows you to create the NVIDIA 32/64-bit Vista AHCI Driver disk for Windows®

Vista Operating System (OS).

3-8 Chapter 3: Software support

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.

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.

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.

Asus M3N78-VM User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

Notices

Safety information

About this guide

1.1 Welcome!

1.2 Package contents

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features

Onboard LED

1.4 Before you proceed

1.5.1 Motherboard layout

1.5 Motherboard overview

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

1.7.3 Installing a DIMM

1.7.4 Removing a DIMM

1.8 Expansion slots

1.8.1 Installing an expansion card

1.8.3 PCI slots

1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slot

1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot

1.9 Jumper

1.10 Connectors

1.10.1 Rear panel connectors

1.10.2 Internal connectors

Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS

2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility

2.1.3 AFUDOS utility

2.1.4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility

2.1.5 ASUS Update utility

2.2 BIOS setup program

2.2.1 BIOS menu screen

2.2.2 Menu bar

2.2.4 Menu items

2.2.5 Sub-menu items

2.2.9 General help

2.2.7 Pop-up window

2.2.8 Scroll bar

2.2.3 Navigation keys

2.3 Main menu

2.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx]

2.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]

2.3.3 Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]

2.3.4 Primary IDE Master/Slave, SATA1~3, ESATA

2.3.6 System Information

2.4 Advanced menu

2.4.3 Chipset

2.4.5 PCI PnP

2.4.7 Trusted Computing

2.5 Power menu

2.5.1 Suspend Mode [Auto]

2.5.2 ACPI 2.0 Support [Disabled]

2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]

2.5.5 Hardware Monitor

2.6 Boot menu

2.6.1 Boot Device Priority

2.6.3 Security

2.7 Tools menu

2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2

2.7.2 Express Gate [Enabled]

2.7.3 AI NET 2

2.8 Exit menu

3.1 Installing an operating system

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