Page 1
M4A78LT PLUS
Motherboard
Page 2
E6445
First Edition (V1)
February 2011
Copyright © 2011 ASUSTeK Computer Inc. All Rights Reserved.
No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any
means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written
permission of ASUSTeK Computer Inc. (“ASUS”).
Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modied or altered, unless
such repair, modication of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the
product is defaced or missing.
ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS
DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE),
EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY
DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.
SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR
INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE,
AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO
RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS
MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.
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owners’ benet, without intent to infringe.
Offer to Provide Source Code of Certain Software
This product may contain copyrighted software that is licensed under the General Public License (“GPL”)
and under the Lesser General Public License Version (“LGPL”). The GPL and LGPL licensed code in this
product is distributed without any warranty. Copies of these licenses are included in this product.
You may obtain the complete corresponding source code (as dened in the GPL) for the GPL Software,
and/or the complete corresponding source code of the LGPL Software (with the complete machinereadable “work that uses the Library”) for a period of three years after our last shipment of the product
including the GPL Software and/or LGPL Software, which will be no earlier than December 1, 2011, either
(1) for free by downloading it from http://support.asus.com/download;
or
(2) for the cost of reproduction and shipment, which is dependent on the preferred carrier and the location
where you want to have it shipped to, by sending a request to:
ASUSTeK Computer Inc.
Legal Compliance Dept.
15 Li Te Rd.,
Beitou, Taipei 112
Taiwan
In your request please provide the name, model number and version, as stated in the About Box of the
product for which you wish to obtain the corresponding source code and your contact details so that we
can coordinate the terms and cost of shipment with you.
The source code will be distributed WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY and licensed under the same license as
the corresponding binary/object code.
This offer is valid to anyone in receipt of this information.
ASUSTeK is eager to duly provide complete source code as required under various Free Open Source
Software licenses. If however you encounter any problems in obtaining the full corresponding source code
we would be much obliged if you give us a notication to the email address gpl@asus.com, stating the
product and describing the problem (please do NOT send large attachments such as source code archives
etc to this email address).
ii
Page 3
Contents
Notices ......................................................................................................... vi
Safety information ..................................................................................... vii
About this guide ....................................................................................... viii
M4A78LT PLUS specications summary ................................................. ix
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Motherboard overview .................................................................
1.2.1 Placement direction ........................................................
1.2.2 Screw holes ....................................................................
1.2.3 Motherboard layout .........................................................
1.2.4 Layout contents ...............................................................
1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ...................................................
1.3.1 Installing the CPU ...........................................................
1.3.2 Installing the heatsink and fan ........................................
1.4 System memory ...........................................................................
1.4.1 Overview .........................................................................
1.4.2 Memory congurations ....................................................
1.4.3 Installing a DIMM ...........................................................
1.4.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................
1.5 Expansion slots ..........................................................................
1.5.1 Installing an expansion card .........................................
1.5.2 Conguring an expansion card .....................................
1.5.3 PCI slot .........................................................................
1.5.4 PCI Express x1 slot .......................................................
1.5.5 PCI Express x16 slot .....................................................
1.6 Jumpers ......................................................................................
1.7 Connectors .................................................................................
1.7.1 Rear panel ports ...........................................................
1.7.2 Internal connectors .......................................................
1.8 Software support ........................................................................
1.8.1 Installing an operating system ......................................
1.8.2 Support DVD information ..............................................
1-2
1-2
1-2
1-3
1-4
1-4
1-4
1-6
1-7
1-7
1-8
1-11
1-12
1-13
1-13
1-13
1-13
1-13
1-13
1-14
1-16
1-16
1-17
1-22
1-22
1-22
iii
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Contents
Chapter 2: BIOS information
2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 2-1
2.1.1 ASUS Update utility ........................................................
2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ............................................................
2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 ................................................
2.1.4 ASUS BIOS Updater .......................................................
2.2 BIOS setup program ....................................................................
2.2.1 BIOS menu screen ..........................................................
2.2.2 Menu bar .........................................................................
2.2.3 Navigation keys ...............................................................
2.2.4 Menu items .....................................................................
2.2.5 Submenu items ...............................................................
2.2.6 Conguration elds .........................................................
2.2.7 Pop-up window ...............................................................
2.2.8 Scroll bar .........................................................................
2.2.9 General help ...................................................................
2.3 Main menu ..................................................................................
2.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx] .................................................
2.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx] .......................................
2.3.3 SATA 1~4 ......................................................................
2.3.4 SATA Conguration ........................................................
2.3.5 System Information .......................................................
2.4 Advanced menu .........................................................................
2.4.1 CPU Conguration ........................................................
2.4.2 Chipset ..........................................................................
2.4.3 Onboard Devices Conguration ....................................
2.4.4 PCIPnP .........................................................................
2.4.5 USB Conguration ........................................................
2.5 Power menu ................................................................................
2.5.1 Suspend Mode [Auto] ...................................................
2.5.2 ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled] ..........................................
2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled] .......................................
2.5.4 APM Conguration ........................................................
2.5.5 HW Monitor Conguration .............................................
2.5.6 EuP Ready [Disabled] ...................................................
2-1
2-2
2-3
2-4
2-7
2-8
2-8
2-8
2-9
2-9
2-9
2-9
2-9
2-9
2-10
2-10
2-10
2-10
2-11
2-12
2-13
2-13
2-14
2-14
2-15
2-15
2-16
2-16
2-16
2-17
2-17
2-17
2-18
iv
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Contents
2.6 Boot menu .................................................................................. 2-18
2.6.1 Boot Device Priority ......................................................
2.6.2 Boot Settings Conguration ..........................................
2.6.3 Security .........................................................................
2.7 Tools menu .................................................................................
2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ..........................................................
2.7.2 ASUS O.C. Prole .........................................................
2.8 Exit menu ....................................................................................
2-19
2-19
2-19
2-21
2-21
2-21
2-22
v
Page 6
Notices
Federal Communications Commission Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
• This device may not cause harmful interference, and
• This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required
to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modications to this unit not
expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority
to operate this equipment.
Canadian Department of Communications Statement
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department
of Communications.
This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services
ASUS recycling and takeback programs come from our commitment to the highest standards
for protecting our environment. We believe in providing solutions for you to be able to
responsibly recycle our products, batteries, other components as well as the packaging
materials. Please go to http://csr.asus.com/english/Takeback.htm for the detailed recycling
information in different regions.
vi
Page 7
REACH
Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of
Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at
ASUS REACH website at http://csr.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.
DO NOT throw the motherboard in municipal waste. This product has been designed to
enable proper reuse of parts and recycling. This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin
indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in
municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.
DO NOT throw the mercury-containing button cell battery in municipal waste. This symbol
of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery should not be placed in municipal
waste.
Safety information
Electrical safety
• To prevent electric shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electric outlet
before relocating the system.
• When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables
for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible,
disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
• Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all
power cables are unplugged.
• Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices
could interrupt the grounding circuit.
• Ensure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not
sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power
company.
• If the power supply is broken, do not try to x it by yourself. Contact a qualied service
technician or your retailer.
Operation safety
•
Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals
that came with the package.
•
Before using the product, 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 qualied service
technician or your retailer.
vii
Page 8
About this guide
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conguring the
motherboard.
How this guide is organized
This guide contains the following parts:
•
Chapter 1: Product introduction
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it
supports.
• Chapter 2: BIOS information
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus.
Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
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.
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
Where to nd more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software
updates.
1. ASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software
products. 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.
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>
viii
Page 9
M4A78LT PLUS specications summary
CPU AMD® socket AM3 for AMD® Phenom™ II / Athlon™ II / Sempron™
Chipset AMD® 760G / SB710
System Bus Up to 4400MT/s HyperTransport™ 3.0 interface for AM3 CPU
Memory 2 x DIMMs, max. 8GB, DDR3 1333/1066MHz, ECC and non-ECC,
Expansion slots 1 x PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot
Storage / RAID AMD® SB710 southbridge:
LAN Realtek® 8111E Gigabit LAN controller
Audio Realtek® ALC887-VD2 6-channel High Denition Audio CODEC
USB AMD® SB710 southbridge:
ASUS unique
features
100 series processors
Supports 45nm CPU
Supports AMD® 95W CPU
AMD® Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology
* Refer to www.asus.com for the AMD® CPU support list
unbuffered memory*
Dual-channel memory architecture
* Due to the CPU limitation, AMD® 100 and 200 series CPUs
support up to DDR3 1066MHz. With ASUS design, this
motherboard can support up to DDR3 1333MHz.
** Refer to www.asus.com for the latest Memory QVL (Qualied
Vendors List).
*** When you install a total memory of 4GB or more, Windows®
32-bit operating system may only recognize less than 3GB. We
recommend a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are
using a Windows® 32-bit operating system.
1 x PCI Express 2.0 x1 slot
4 x PCI slots
- 4 x Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s connectors support RAID 0, RAID 1,
and RAID 10 (0+1) congurations
- Supports Jack-detection, Multi-streaming, and Front Panel
Retasking (HD only)
- 10 USB 2.0/1.1 ports (4 ports at the mid-board, 6 ports at the
back panel)
ASUS Q-Fan
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS MyLogo 2™
100% All High-quality Conductive Polymer Capacitors
iCafe Memory Anti-theft
(continued on the next page)
ix
Page 10
M4A78LT PLUS specications summary
Back panel I/O
ports
Internal connectors 2 x USB 2.0/1.1 connectors support additional 4 USB 2.0/1.1 ports
BIOS 8Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0, ACPI 2.0a,
Manageability WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOR by PME, PXE
Accessories 2 x Serial ATA cables
Support DVD Drivers
Form factor ATX form factor: 12.0 in x 8.0 in (30.5 cm x 20.3 cm)
1 x PS/2 Mouse port (green)
1 x PS/2 Keyboard port (purple)
1 x COM port
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port
6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
3 x Audio jacks
1 x CPU fan connector
1 x Chassis fan connector
1 x Chassis intrusion connector
4 x Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s connectors
1 x System panel connector
1 x Front panel audio connector
1 x Speaker connector
1 x 24-pin EATX power connector
1 x 4-pin ATX 12V power connector
SM BIOS 2.6, ASUS EZ Flash 2, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
1 x I/O shield
1 x User Manual
1 x Support DVD
2 x iCafe Memory Anti-theft locks
ASUS LiveUpdate utility
Anti-Virus software (OEM version)
* Specications are subject to change without notice.
x
Page 11
Chapter 1
Product introduction
Thank you for buying an ASUS® M4A78LT PLUS motherboard!
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in
your motherboard package. Refer to page x for the list of accessories.
If any of the items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
1.1 Before you proceed
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change
any motherboard settings.
• Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.
• Before handling components, use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded
object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, to avoid damaging them due to
static electricity.
• Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
• Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the
bag that came with the component.
• Before you install or remove any component, switch off the ATX power supply and
detach its power cord. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard,
peripherals, or components.
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 1-1
Page 12
M4A78LT PLUS
1.2 Motherboard overview
1.2.1 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.
1.2.2 Screw holes
Place six screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.
DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
Place this side towards
the rear of the chassis.
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-2
Page 13
1.2.3 Motherboard layout
M4A78LT PLUS
PCIEX16
PCIEX1
PCI2
PCI3
PCI4
PCI1
USB78 USB910
SPEAKER
AAFP
ATX12V
EPU
EATXPWR
CPU_FAN
CHA_FAN
Lithium Cell
CMOS Power
Super
I/O
ALC887
Realtek
RTL8111E
ICS
9LPRS483
KBMS
8Mb
BIOS
CLRTC
CHASSIS
F_PANEL
USBPW7-10
USBPW1-6
KBPWR
SOCKET AM3
DDR3 DIMM_A1 (64bit, 240-pin module)
DDR3 DIMM_B1 (64bit, 240-pin module)
SATA3G_3
SATA3G_1
SATA3G_4
SATA3G_2
AUDIO
COM1
LAN1_USB12
USB34
USB56
30.5cm(12.0in)
AMD
®
SB710
AMD
®
760G
20.3cm(8.0in)
2 3 4 351
4
6
10 8111213
7
91
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 1-3
Page 14
1.2.4 Layout contents
M4A78LT PLUS
M4A78LT PLUS CPU socket AM3
Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page Connectors/Jumpers/Slots/LED Page
1. USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW1-6, USBPW7-10) 1-15 8. System panel connector (10-1 pin PANEL) 1-20
2. Keyboard power (3-pin KBPWR)
3. CPU and chassis fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN,
3-pin CHA_FAN)
4. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin
ATX12V)
5. AM3 CPU socket
6. DDR3 DIMM slots
7. SATA 3.0Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1~4)
1-15 9. Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER) 1-19
1-17 10. USB 2.0 connectors (10-1 pin USB78,
USB910)
1-18 11. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin
CHASSIS)
1-4 12. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) 1-14
1-7 13. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP) 1-17
1-19
1-21
1-21
1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
This motherboard comes with an AM3 socket designed for Phenom™ II / Athlon™ II /
Sempron™ 100 series processors.
The AM3 socket has a different pinout from the AM2+/AM2 socket. Ensure that you use a
CPU designed for the AM3 socket. The CPU ts in only one correct orientation. DO NOT
force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the pins and damaging the CPU!
1.3.1 Installing the CPU
To install a CPU:
1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.
2. Press the lever sideways to unlock the
socket, then lift it up to a 90°-100° angle.
Ensure that the socket lever is lifted up to a 90°-100°
angle; otherwise, the CPU will not t in completely.
Socket lever
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-4
Page 15
M4A78LT PLUS
M4A78LT PLUS CPU fan connector
CPU_FAN
CPU FAN PWM
CPU FAN IN
CPU FAN PWR
GND
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!
Small triangle
Gold triangle
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 comes with the heatsink package.
You can also refer to section 1.6.2 Installing
heatsink and fan for instructions.
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.
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 1-5
Page 16
1.3.2 Installing the heatsink and fan
1
3
4
5
2
Ensure that you use only AMD-certied heatsink and fan assembly.
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.
• 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, ensure that a Thermal
Interface Material is properly applied to the CPU heatsink or CPU before you install the
heatsink and fan assembly.
CPU Fan
CPU Heatsink
Retention bracket
Retention Module Base
Retention bracket lock
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.
2. Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base.
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-6
Page 17
3. Align the other end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. A clicking
M4A78LT PLUS
M4A78LT PLUS 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets
DIMM_A1
DIMM_B1
sound denotes that the retention bracket is in place.
Ensure that the fan and heatsink assembly perfectly ts the retention mechanism module
base, otherwise you cannot snap the retention bracket in place.
4. Push down the retention bracket lock on the retention mechanism to secure the
heatsink and fan to the module base.
5. When the fan and heatsink assembly is in place, connect the CPU fan cable to the
connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN.
DO NOT forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if
you fail to plug this connector.
1.4 System memory
1.4.1 Overview
This motherboard comes with two Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules
(DIMM) sockets. A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR2 DIMM but
is notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR2 DIMM socket. DDR3 modules are
developed for better performance with less power consumption. The gure illustrates the
location of the DDR3 DIMM sockets:
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 1-7
Channel Sockets
Channel A DIMM_A1
Channel B DIMM_B1
Page 18
1.4.2 Memory congurations
You may install 512MB, 1GB, 2GB, and 4GB unbuffered ECC and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs
into the DIMM sockets.
• You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps
the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel conguration. Any excess
memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation.
• Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, we
recommend that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor.
• Due to CPU specication, AMD
1066MHz. With ASUS design, this motherboard can support up to DDR3 1333MHz.
• Due to the memory address limitation on 32-bit Windows
or more memory on the motherboard, the actual usable memory for the OS can be
about 3GB or less. For effective use of memory, we recommend that you do any of the
following:
- Install a maximum of 3GB system memory if you are using a 32-bit Windows
OS.
- Use a 64-bit Windows® OS if you want to install 4GB or more memory on the
motherboard.
• This motherboard does not support DIMMs made up of 256 megabits (Mb) chips or less.
• The default memory operation frequency is dependent on its Serial Presence Detect
(SPD), which is the standard way of accessing information from a memory module.
Under the default state, some memory modules for overclocking may operate at a lower
frequency than the vendor-marked value.
• For system stability, use a more efcient memory cooling system to support a full
memory load (2 DIMMs) or overclocking condition.
®
100 and 200 series CPUs support up to DDR3
®
OS, when you install 4GB
®
M4A78LT PLUS Motherboard Qualied Vendors Lists (QVL)
DDR3-1066MHz capability
1.35V(low
voltage)
1.35V(low
voltage)
DIMM socket
support (Optional)
1 DIMM 2 DIMMs
• •
• •
Vendors Part No. Size
Crucial CT12864BA1067.8FF 1GB SS Micron 9GF22D9KPT 7 - • •
Crucial CT12872BA1067.9FF 1GB SS Micron 9HF22D9KPT(ECC) 7 - • •
Crucial CT25664BA1067.16FF 2GB DS Micron 9HF22D9KPT 7 - • •
Crucial CT25672BA1067.18FF 2GB DS Micron 9GF22D9KPT(ECC) 7 - • •
ELPIDA EBJ10UE8EDF0-AE-F 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F -
ELPIDA EBJ21UE8EDF0-AE-F 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F -
KINGSTON KVR1066D3E7/1G 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108BDBG-DJ-F(ECC) 7 1.5V • •
KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/1G 1GB SS KTC D1288JPNDPLD9U 7 1.5V • •
KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/2G 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BDSE-DJ-F 7 1.5V • •
KINGSTON KVR1066D3N7/4G 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83AFR 7 1.5V • •
Micron MT8JTF12864AZ-1G1F1 1GB SS Micron 9GF22D9KPT 7 - • •
Micron MT9JSF12872AZ-1G1F1 1GB SS Micron 9HF22D9KPT(ECC) 7 - • •
Micron MT16JTF25664AZ-1G1F1 2GB DS Micron 9HF22D9KPT 7 - • •
Micron MT18JSF25672AZ-1G1F1 2GB DS Micron 9GF22D9KPT(ECC) 7 - • •
OCZ OCZ3G1066LV4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS Micron 9BF27D9KPV 7-7-7-20 1.65V • •
Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HC5N-BE 2GB DS Elixir N2CB1G80CN-BE - - • •
Elixir M2Y2G64CBHA9N-BE 2GB DS - - 7-7-7-20 - • •
Elixir M2Y2G64CBHC9N-BE 2GB DS Elixir - - - • •
Kingtiger 2GB DIMM PC3-8500 2GB DS Hynix H5TQ1G83AFP G7C - - • •
SS/DSChip
Brand
Chip NO. Timing Voltage
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-8
Page 19
DDR3-1333MHz capability
DIMM socket
1.35V(low
voltage)
1.35V(low
voltage)
1.35V(low
voltage)
1.35V(low
voltage)
support
(Optional)
1 DIMM 2 DIMMs
• •
• •
• •
• •
Vendors Part No. Size
A-Data AD31333001GOU 1GB SS A-Data AD30908C8D-151C E0906 - - • •
A-Data AD31333G001GOU 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85V • •
A-Data AD31333002GOU 2GB DS A-Data AD30908C8D-151C E0903 - - • •
A-Data AD31333G002GMU 2GB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.65-1.85V • •
Apacer 78.A1GC6.9L1 2GB DS APACER AM5D5808DEWSBG - - • •
Apacer 78.A1GC6.9L1 2GB DS Apacer AM5D5808FEQSBG 9 - • •
CORSAIR CM3X1024-1333C9 1GB SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.60V • •
CORSAIR TR3X3G1333C9 G 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V • •
CORSAIR CMX8GX3M4A1333C9 8GB(4 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.50V • •
Crucial CT12864BA1339.8FF 1GB SS Micron 9FF22D9KPT 9 - • •
Crucial CT12872BA1339.9FF 1GB SS Micron 91F22D9KPT(ECC) 9 - • •
Crucial CT25664BA1339.16FF 2GB DS Micron 9KF27D9KPT 9 - • •
Crucial CT25672BA1339.18FF 2GB DS Micron 91F22D9KPT(ECC) 9 - • •
Crucial BL25664BN1337.16FF (XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-24 1.65V • •
ELPIDA EBJ10UE8EDF0-DJ-F 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F -
ELPIDA EBJ21UE8EDF0-DJ-F 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108EDSE-DJ-F -
G.SKILL F3-10600CL8D-2GBHK(XMP) 1GB SS G.SKILL - - - • •
G.SKILL F3-10666CL7T-3GBPK(XMP) 3GB(3 x 1GB) SS - - 7-7-7-18 1.5~1.6V • •
G.SKILL F3-10666CL8D-4GBECO(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-24 XMP 1.35V • •
G.SKILL F3-10666CL7T-6GBPK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-18 1.5~1.6V • •
G.SKILL F3-10666CL7D-8GBRH(XMP) 8GB(2 x 4GB) DS - - 7-7-7-21 1.5V • •
GEIL GV32GB1333C9DC 2GB(2 x 1GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V • •
GEIL GV34GB1333C9DC 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V • •
Hynix HMT112U6TFR8A-H9 1GB SS HYNIX H5TC1G83TFRH9A -
HYNIX HMT325U6BFR8C-H9 2GB SS HYNIX H5TQ2G83BFRH9C - - • •
Hynix HMT125U6TFR8A-H9 2GB DS HYNIX H5TC1G83TFRH9A -
HYNIX HMT351U6BFR8C-H9 4GB DS HYNIX H5TQ2G83BFRH9C - - • •
KINGMAX FLFD45F-B8KL9 NAES 1GB SS KINGMAX KKB8FNWBFGNX-27A - - • •
KINGMAX FLFE85F-C8KF9 CAES 2GB SS KINGMAX KFC8FMFXF-DXX-15A - - • •
KINGMAX FLFE85F-C8KM9 NAES 2GB SS KINGMAX KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A - - • •
KINGMAX FLFE85F-B8KL9 NEES 2GB DS KINGMAX KKB8FNWBFGNX-26A - - • •
KINGMAX FLFF65F-C8KM9 NEES 4GB DS KINGMAX KFC8FNMXF-BXX-15A - - • •
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/1G 1GB SS ELPIDA J1108BDBG-DJ-F 9 1.5V • •
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/2G(low prole) 2GB SS HYNIX H5TQ2G83AFRH9C 9 - • •
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/2G(low prole) 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BDBG-DJ-F 9 1.5V • •
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/2G 2GB DS KTC D1288JPNDPLD9U 9 1.5V • •
Kingston KVR1333D3N9/2G 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BDSE-DJ-F 9 1.5V • •
Kingston KHX1333C7D3K2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7 1.65V • •
Kingston KHX1333C9D3UK2/4GX(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9 XMP 1.25V • •
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/4G(low prole) 4GB DS HYNIX H5TQ2G83AFRH9C 9 1.5V • •
KINGSTON KVR1333D3N9/4G 4GB DS Hynix H5TQ2G83AFR - - • •
MICRON MT4JTF12864AZ-1G4D1 1GB SS MICRON OJD12D9LGQ - - • •
Micron MT8JTF12864AZ-1G4F1 1GB SS Micron 9FF22D9KPT 9 - • •
Micron MT9JSF12872AZ-1G4F1 1GB SS Micron 91F22D9KPT(ECC) 9 - • •
MICRON MT8JTF25664AZ-1G4D1 2GB SS MICRON OJD12D9LGK - - • •
Micron MT16JTF25664AZ-1G4F1 2GB DS Micron 9KF27D9KPT 9 - • •
Micron MT18JSF25672AZ-1G4F1 2GB DS Micron 91F22D9KPT(ECC) 9 - • •
MICRON MT16JTF51264AZ-1G4D1 4GB DS MICRON OLD22D9LGK - - • •
OCZ OCZ3G1333LV3GK 3GB(3 x 1GB) DS - - 9-9-9-20 1.65V • •
OCZ OCZ3F13334GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-20 1.7V • •
OCZ OCZ3G13334GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-20 1.7V • •
OCZ OCZ3G1333LV4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-20 1.65V • •
OCZ OCZ3P1333LV4GK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65V • •
OCZ OCZ3X13334GK(XMP) 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.75V • •
OCZ OCZ3G1333LV6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-20 1.65V • •
OCZ OCZ3P1333LV6GK 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.65V • •
OCZ OCZ3X1333LV6GK(XMP) 6GB(3 x 2GB) DS - - 8-8-8-20 1.60V • •
OCZ OCZ3G1333LV8GK
OCZ OCZ3RPR1333C9LV8GK
PSC AL7F8G73D-DG1 1GB SS PSC A3P1GF3DGF 8-8-8-24 1.5V • •
8GB ( 2x
4GB )
8GB ( 2x
4GB )
SS/DSChip
DS - - 9-9-9-20 1.65V •
DS - - 9-9-9-20 1.65V • •
Chip NO. Timing Voltage
Brand
(continued on the next page)
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 1-9
Page 20
DDR3-1333MHz capability
DIMM socket
Vendors Part No. Size
PSC AL7F8G73F-DJ2 1GB SS PSC A3P1GF3FGF - - • •
PSC AL8F8G73D-DG1 2GB DS PSC A3P1GF3DGF 8-8-8-24 1.5V • •
PSC AL8F8G73F-DJ2 2GB DS PSC A3P1GF3FGF - - • •
SAMSUNG M378B2873FHS-CH9 1GB SS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F - - • •
SAMSUNG M391B2873DZ1-CH9 1GB SS Samsung K4B1G0846D-HCH9(ECC) - - • •
SAMSUNG M378B5673FH0-CH9 2GB DS SAMSUNG K4B1G0846F - - • •
SAMSUNG M391B5673DZ1-CH9 2GB DS Samsung K4B1G0846D-HCH9(ECC) - - • •
SAMSUNG M378B5273CH0-CH9 4GB DS SAMSUNG K4B2G0846C - - • •
Super Talent W1333UA1GH 1GB SS HYNIX H5TQ1G83TFR 9 - • •
Super Talent W1333X2G8(XMP) 1GB SS - - 8 - • •
Super Talent W1333UB2GS 2GB DS Samsung K4B1G0846F 9 - • •
Super Talent W1333UB4GS 4GB DS Samsung K4B2G0846C - - • •
Super Talent W1333UX6GM 6GB(3x 2GB) DS Micron 0BF27D9KPT 9-9-9-24 1.5V • •
Transcend TS256MLK64V3U 2GB DS Micron 9GF27D9KPT - - • •
Century PC3-10600 DDR3-1333 9-9-9 1GB SS Micron 8FD22D9JNM - - • •
Elixir M2F2G64CB88B7N-CG 2GB SS Elixir N2CB2G80BN-CG - - • •
Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HA9N-CG 2GB DS - - 7-7-7-20 - • •
Elixir M2Y2G64CB8HC9N-CG 2GB DS Elixir - - - • •
Elixir M2F4G64CB8HB5N-CG 4GB DS Elixir N2CB2G80BN-CG - - • •
Kingshare KSRPCD313332G 2GB DS PATRIOT PM128M8D385-15 - - • •
Kingtiger 2GB DIMM PC3-10666 2GB DS Samsung
Kingtiger KTG2G1333PG3 2GB DS - - - - • •
PATRIOT PSD31G13332H 1GB DS - - 9 - • •
PATRIOT PSD31G13332 1GB DS Patriot PM64M8D38U-15 - - • •
PATRIOT PSD32G13332H 2GB DS - - - - • •
PATRIOT PDC34G1333ELK 4GB(2 x 2GB) DS - - 9-9-9-24 1.5V • •
RAMAXEL RMR1870ED48E8F-1333 2GB DS ELPIDA J1108BDBG-DJ-F - - • •
SILICON
SP001GBLTU133S01 1GB SS NANYA NT5CB128M8AN-CG 9 - • •
POWER
SILICON
SP001GBLTU133S02 1GB SS elixir N2CB1680AN-C6 9 - • •
POWER
SILICON
SP002GBLTU133S02 2GB DS elixir N2CB1680AN-C6 9 - • •
POWER
TAKEMS TMS1GB364D081-107EY 1GB SS - - 7-7-7-20 1.5V • •
TAKEMS TMS1GB364D081-138EY 1GB SS - - 8-8-8-24 1.5V • •
TAKEMS TMS2GB364D081-107EY 2GB DS - - 7-7-7-20 1.5V • •
TAKEMS TMS2GB364D081-138EY 2GB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.5V • •
TAKEMS TMS2GB364D082-138EW 2GB DS - - 8-8-8-24 1.5V • •
UMAX E41302GP0-73BDB 2GB DS UMAX U2S24D30TP-13 - - • •
V-Color TD2G16C9-Z8 2GB DS HYNIX H5TQ1G83AFP - - • •
WINTEC 3WVS31333-2G-CNR 2GB DS AMPO AM3420803-13H - - • •
SS/DSChip
Brand
Chip NO. Timing Voltage
SEC 904 HCH9
K4B1G0846D
- - • •
support
(Optional)
1 DIMM 2 DIMMs
SS: Single-sided / DS: Double-sided
DIMM support:
• 1 DIMM*: Supports one module inserted into either slot as single-channel memory
conguration.
• 2 DIMMs*: Supports one pair of modules inserted into both the slots as one pair of dual-
channel memory conguration.
Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com for the latest QVL.
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-10
Page 21
1.4.3 Installing a DIMM
Unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components.
Failure to do so can cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components.
1. Press the retaining clips outward to
unlock a DIMM socket.
2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that
the notch on the DIMM matches the
DIMM slot key on the socket.
Unlocked retaining clip
A DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it ts in only one direction. DO NOT force a DIMM into
a socket in the wrong direction to avoid damaging the DIMM.
3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the socket
until the retaining clips snap back in place
and the DIMM is properly seated.
Locked Retaining Clip
4. Install the two bundled iCafe Memory
Anti-theft locks to both ends of the
DIMM slots, then secure them with
screws.
2
DIMM notch
1
1
DIMM slot key
3
4
iCafe Memory Anti-theft
The two plastic locks at both ends of the
DIMM slots keep your DIMMs securely
in place. This special design prevents
easy pilfering of your memory modules.
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 1-11
Page 22
1.4.4 Removing a DIMM
To remove a DIMM:
1. Remove the screws on the iCafe
Memory Anti-theft locks. Put them aside
for later use.
2. Remove the iCafe Memory Anti-theft
locks.
3. Simultaneously press the retaining
clips outward to unlock the DIMM.
Support the DIMM lightly with your
ngers when pressing the retaining
clips. The DIMM might get damaged
when it ips out with extra force.
4. Remove the DIMM from the socket.
5. Replace the two iCafe Memory Anti-theft
locks, then secure them with the screws
that you removed earlier.
1
1
2
2
4
3
3
DIMM notch
5
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-12
Page 23
1.5 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.
Unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may
cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.
1.5.1 Installing an expansion card
To install an expansion card:
1. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that 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.
1.5.2 Conguring an expansion card
After installing the expansion card, congure it by adjusting the software settings.
1. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See Chapter 2 for
information on BIOS setup.
2. Assign an IRQ to the card.
3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.
When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that
the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conicts will arise between the two PCI
groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable.
1.5.3 PCI slot
The PCIs slot support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that
comply with PCI specications.
1.5.4 PCI Express x1 slot
This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards, and other cards that
comply with the PCI Express specications.
1.5.5 PCI Express x16 slot
This motherboard supports a PCI Express x16 graphics slot that complys with the PCI
Express specications.
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 1-13
Page 24
1.6 Jumpers
M4A78LT PLUS
M4A78LT PLUS Clear RTC RAM
1 2 2 3
Normal
(Default)
Clear RTC
CLRTC
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. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins 2-3
for about 5~10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.
3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.
4. Hold down the
data.
<Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to reenter
Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default
position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!
• If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the jumper again
to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After clearing the CMOS, reinstall the battery.
• You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For
system failure due to overclocking, use the CPU Parameter Recall (C.P.R) feature. Shut
down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset parameter settings to
default values.
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-14
Page 25
2. USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW1-6, USBPW7-10)
M4A78LT PLUS
21
2 3
+5V
(Default)
+5VSB
USBPW7-10
21
2 3
+5V
(Default)
+5VSB
USBPW1-6
M4A78LT PLUS USB device wake-up
M4A78LT PLUS
21
2 3
+5V
(Default)
+5VSB
KBPWR
M4A78LT PLUS Keyboard power setting
Set these jumpers to +5V to wake up the computer from S1 sleep mode (CPU stopped,
DRAM refreshed, system running in low power mode) using the connected USB
devices. Set these jumpers to +5VSB to wake up the compurer from S3 and S4 sleep
modes (no power to CPU, DRAM in slow refresh, power supply in reduced power
mode).
3. Keyboard power (3-pin KBPWR)
This jumper allows you to enable or disable the keyboard wake-up feature. When you
set this jumper to pins 2-3 (+5VSB), you can wake up the computer by pressing a key
on the keyboard. This feature requires an ATX power supply that can supply at least 1A
on the +5VSB lead, and a corresponding setting in the BIOS.
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 1-15
Page 26
1.7 Connectors
7
3 42
56
1
8
1.7.1 Rear panel ports
1. PS/2 Mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse.
2. LAN (RJ-45) port.
through a network hub.
LAN port LED indications
Activity/Link LED Speed LED
Status Description Status Description
OFF No link OFF 10Mbps connection
ORANGE Linked ORANGE 100Mbps connection
BLINKING Data activity GREEN 1Gbps connection
3. Line In port (light blue). This port connects to the tape, CD, DVD player, or other
audio sources.
4. Line Out port (lime).
and 6-channel congurations, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out.
5. Microphone port (pink).
This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN)
LED
LAN port
SPEED
LED
ACT/LINK
This port connects to a headphone or a speaker. In 4-channel
This port connects to a microphone.
Refer to the audio conguration table below for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4, or
6-channel conguration.
Audio 2, 4, or 6-channel conguration
Port Headset 2-channel 4-channel 6-channel
Light Blue Line In Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Out
Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out
Pink Mic In Mic In Bass/Center
6. USB 2.0 ports 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. These six 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports
are for USB 2.0 devices.
7. Serial port.
This 9-pin COM1 port is for pointing devices or other serial devices.
8. PS/2 Keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-16
Page 27
1.7.2 Internal connectors
M4A78LT PLUS
M4A78LT PLUS fan connectors
GND
+12V
Rotation
CHA_FAN
CPU_FAN
CPU FAN PWM
CPU FAN IN
CPU FAN PWR
GND
M4A78LT PLUS
M4A78LT PLUS Front panel audio connector
AAFP
PIN 1
SENSE2_RETUR
SENSE1_RETUR
PRESENCE#
GND
PORT2 L
SENSE_SEND
PORT2 R
PORT1 R
PORT1 L
HD-audio-compliant
pin definition
PIN 1
NC
NC
NC
AGND
Line out_L
NC
Line out_R
MICPWR
MIC2
Legacy AC’97
compliant definition
1. CPU and chassis connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN; 3-pin CHA_FAN)
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.
DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufcient air ow inside
the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! DO NOT
place jumper caps on the fan connectors.
Only the 4-pin CPU fan supports the ASUS Q-Fan feature.
2. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)
This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that supports
either High Denition Audio or AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end of the front
panel audio I/O module cable to this connector.
• We recommend that you connect a high-denition front panel audio module to this
connector to avail of the motherboard high-denition audio capability.
• If you want to connect a high denition front panel audio module to this connector, set
• The front panel audio I/O module is purchased separately.
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 1-17
the Front Panel Select item in the BIOS to [HD Audio]. See section 2.4.3 Onboard
Devices Conguration for details.
Page 28
3. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V)
M4A78LT PLUS
M4A78LT PLUS ATX power connectors
EATXPWR
PIN 1
GND
+5 Volts
+5 Volts
+5 Volts
-5 Volts
GND
GND
GND
PSON#
GND
-12 Volts
+3 Volts
+3 Volts
+12 Volts
+12 Volts
+5V Standby
Power OK
GND
+5 Volts
GND
+5 Volts
GND
+3 Volts
+3 Volts
ATX12V
PIN 1
+12V DC
+12V DC
GND
GND
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.
• For a fully congured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU)
that complies with ATX 12 V Specication 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum
power of 300 W.
• Do not forget to connect the 4-pin ATX12 V power plug; otherwise, the system will not
boot.
• We recommend that you use a PSU with higher power output when conguring a
system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may
not boot up if the power is inadequate.
• 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.
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-18
Page 29
4. AMD® SB710 Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors (7-pin SATA6G_1~4)
SATA3G_3
SATA3G_1
SATA3G_4
SATA3G_2
GND
RSATA_RXN1
RSATA_RXP1
GND
RSATA_TXN1
RSATA_TXP1
GND
GND
RSATA_TXP3
RSATA_TXN3
GND
RSATA_RXP3
RSATA_RXN3
GND
GND
RSATA_RXN2
RSATA_RXP2
GND
RSATA_TXN2
RSATA_TXP2
GND
GND
RSATA_TXP4
RSATA_TXN4
GND
RSATA_RXP4
RSATA_RXN4
GND
M4A78LT PLUS
M4A78LT PLUS SATA connectors
M4A78LT PLUS
M4A78LT PLUS Speaker out connector
+5V
GND
GND
Speaker Out
SPEAKER
PIN 1
These connectors are for the Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk
drives. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, or
RAID 10 conguration through the onboard AMD® SB710 controller.
• These connectors are set to IDE mode by default. In IDE mode, you can connect Serial
ATA boot/data hard disk drives to these connectors. If you intend to create a Serial ATA
RAID set using these connectors, set the type of the SATA connectors in the BIOS to
[RAID]. See section 2.3.4 SATA Conguration for details.
• You must install Windows
ATA hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature is available only if you are using
Windows® XP SP3 or later version.
• When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the type of the SATA connectors in the BIOS to
[AHCI]. See section 2.3.4 SATA Conguration for details.
®
XP Service Pack 3 or later version before using Serial
5. Speaker connector (4-pin SPEAKER)
This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker
allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 1-19
Page 30
6. System panel connector (10-1 pin F_PANEL)
M4A78LT PLUS
M4A78LT PLUS System panel connector
PIN 1
PWRBTN
PLED+
PLED-
PWR
GND
IDE_LED+
IDE_LED-
Ground
Reset
F_PANEL
PLED
+HDLED RESET
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 +HDLED)
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable
to this connector. The HDD Activity LED lights up or ashes when data is read from or
written to the HDD.
• Power/Soft-off button (2-pin PWRBTN)
This connector is for the system power button.
• 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.
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-20
Page 31
7. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910)
M4A78LT PLUS
PIN 1
USB+5V
USB_P8-
USB_P8+
GND
NC
USB+5V
USB_P7-
USB_P7+
GND
USB78
PIN 1
USB+5V
USB_P10-
USB_P10+
GND
NC
USB+5V
USB_P9-
USB_P9+
GND
USB910
M4A78LT PLUS USB2.0 connectors
M4A78LT PLUS
M4A78LT PLUS Chassis intrusion connector
+5VSB_MB
Chassis Signal
GND
CHASSIS
These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of
these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system
chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specication that supports up to
480Mbps connection speed.
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard!
The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.
8. 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.
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1.8 Software support
1.8.1 Installing an operating system
This motherboard supports Windows® XP / Vista / 7 Operating Systems (OS). Always install
the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware.
• Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Refer to your OS documentation for
detailed information.
• Ensure that you install Windows
Service Pack 1 or later versions before installing the drivers for better compatibility and
system stability.
1.8.2 Support DVD information
The Support DVD that comes with the motherboard package contains 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 at www.asus.com for updates.
To run the Support DVD
Place the Support DVD into the optical drive. If Autorun is enabled in your computer, the DVD
automatically displays the Specials screen. Click Drivers, Utilities, Make Disk, Manual, and
Contact tabs to display their respective menus.
The following screen is for reference only.
®
XP Service Pack 3 or later versions / Windows® Vista
Click an item to install
If Autorun is NOT enabled on your computer, browse the contents of the Support DVD to
locate the le ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click the ASSETUP.EXE to run
the DVD.
Click an icon to display
Support DVD/motherboard
information
Chapter 1: Product introduction1-22
Page 33
Chapter 2
BIOS information
2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS le to a USB ash disk in case you need to
restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update
utility.
2.1.1 ASUS Update utility
The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard
BIOS in Windows® environment.
• ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet
Service Provider (ISP).
• This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package.
Installing ASUS Update
To install ASUS Update:
1. Place the support DVD into the optical drive.
2. Click the
3. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.
Utilities tab, then click ASUS Update.
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.
Updating the BIOS
To update the BIOS:
1. From the Windows
ASUS Update to launch the ASUS Update utility.
2. From the dropdown list, select either of the following methods:
Updating from the Internet
a. Select Update BIOS from the Internet, then click Next.
b. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network trafc, or click Auto
Select
c. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you want to download then click
Next.
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 2-1
®
desktop, click Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUS Update >
then click Next.
Page 34
The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update
the utility to avail all its features.
Updating from a BIOS file
a. Select Update BIOS from a le, then click Next.
b. Locate the BIOS le from the
Open window, then click Open.
3. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the updating process.
2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2
The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without using an OS-based
utility.
Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS le from the ASUS website at
www.asus.com.
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:
1. Insert the USB ash disk that contains the latest BIOS le to the USB port, then launch
EZ Flash 2 in either of these two ways:
• Press
• Enter the BIOS setup program. Go to the
press <Enter> to enable it.
Press
<Alt> + <F2> during POST.
Tools menu to select EZ Flash 2 and
<Tab> to switch between drives until the correct BIOS le is found.
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V4.14
Current ROM
M4A78LT PLUS
BOARD:
VER: 0202 (H:00 B:00)
DATE: 02/21/2011
PATH: C:\
C:
Note
[ Ent er] Se lec t o r L oad [T ab] Sw itc h [ V] D riv e I nfo
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [ESC] Exit
Update ROM
BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
DATE: Unknown
2. When the correct BIOS le is found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update process
and automatically reboots the system when done.
2-2 Chapter 2: BIOS information
Page 35
• This function supports USB ash disks with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only.
• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot
failure!
2.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
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 restore a corrupted BIOS
le using the motherboard support DVD or a USB ash drive that contains the updated BIOS
le.
• Before using this utility, rename the BIOS le in the removable device into
M4A78TPL.ROM.
• The BIOS le in the support DVD may not be the latest version. Download the latest
BIOS le from the ASUS website at www.asus.com.
Recovering the BIOS
To recover the BIOS:
1. Turn on the system.
2. Insert the support DVD to the optical drive or the removable device that contains the
BIOS le to the USB port.
3. The utility automatically checks the devices for the BIOS le. When found, the utility
reads the BIOS le and starts ashing the corrupted BIOS le.
4. Turn off the system after the utility completes the updating process and turn on again.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause
system boot failure!
Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select
the Load Setup Defaults item under the Exit menu. Refer to section 2.8 Exit menu for
details.
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Page 36
2.1.4 ASUS BIOS Updater
The ASUS BIOS Updater allows you to update BIOS in DOS environment. This utility also
allows you to copy the current BIOS le that you can use as a backup when the BIOS fails or
gets corrupted during the updating process.
The succeeding utility screens are for reference only. The actual utility screen displays may
not be same as shown.
Before updating BIOS
1. Prepare the motherboard support DVD and a USB ash drive in FAT32/16 format and
single partition.
2. Download the latest BIOS le and BIOS Updater from the ASUS website at http://
support.asus.com and save them on the USB ash drive.
NTFS is not supported under DOS environment. Do not save the BIOS le and BIOS
Updater to a hard disk drive or USB ash drive in NTFS format.
3. Turn off the computer and disconnect all SATA hard disk drives (optional).
Booting the system in DOS environment
1. Insert the USB ash drive with the latest BIOS le and BIOS Updater to the USB port.
2. Boot your computer. When the ASUS Logo appears, press <F8> to show the
Boot Device Select Menu. Insert the support DVD into the optical drive and select the
optical drive as the boot device.
Please select boot device:
SATA:XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
CDROM:XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
USB:XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Network:XXXXXXXXXXXXX
BIOS
↑ and ↓ to move selection
ENTER to select boot device
ESC to boot using defaults
3. When the Make Disk menu appears, select the FreeDOS command prompt item by
pressing the item number.
4. At the FreeDOS prompt, type
d: and press <Enter> to switch the disk from
Drive C (optical drive) to Drive D (USB ash drive).
Welcome to FreeDOS (http://www.freedos.org)!
C:\>d:
D:\>
2-4 Chapter 2: BIOS information
Page 37
Backing up the current BIOS
To backup the current BIOS le using the BIOS Updater
Ensure that the USB ash drive is not write-protected and has enough free space to save
the le.
1. At the FreeDOS prompt, type bupdater /o[lename] and press <Enter>.
D:\>bupdater /oOLDBIOS1.rom
Filename Extension
The [lename] is any user-assigned lename with no more than eight alphanumeric
characters for the lename and three alphanumeric characters for the extension.
2. The BIOS Updater backup screen appears indicating the BIOS backup process. When
BIOS backup is done, press any key to return to the DOS prompt.
ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18
Current ROM
BOARD: M4A78LT PLUS
VER: 0202 (H:00 B:00)
DATE: 02/21/2011
PATH: A:\
BIOS backup is done! Press any key to continue.
Note
Saving BIOS:
Update ROM
BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
DATE: Unknown
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 2-5
Page 38
Updating the BIOS le
To update the BIOS le using BIOS Updater
1. At the FreeDOS prompt, type
D:\>bupdater /pc /g
2. The BIOS Updater screen appears as below.
ASUSTek BIOS Updater for DOS V1.18
bupdater /pc /g and press <Enter>.
Current ROM
BOARD: M4A78LT PLUS
VER: 0202 (H:00 B:00)
DATE: 02/21/2011
PATH: A:\
A:
Note
[Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [Esc] Exit
M4A78TPL.ROM 1048576 2011-02-21 17:30:48
Update ROM
BOARD: Unknown
VER: Unknown
DATE: Unknown
3. Press <Tab> to switch between screen elds and use the <Up/Down/Home/End> keys
to select the BIOS le and press <Enter>. BIOS Updater checks the selected BIOS le
and prompts you to conrm BIOS update.
Are you sure to update BIOS?
Yes No
4. Select Yes and press <Enter>. When BIOS update is done, press <ESC> to exit BIOS
Updater. Restart your computer.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot
failure!
• For BIOS Updater version 1.04 or later, the utility automatically exits to the DOS prompt
after updating BIOS.
• Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability.
Select the Load Setup Defaults item under the Exit BIOS menu. See section 2.8 Exit
Menu.
• Ensure to connect all SATA hard disk drives after updating the BIOS le if you have
disconnected them.
2-6 Chapter 2: BIOS information
Page 39
2.2 BIOS setup program
Use the BIOS Setup program to update the BIOS or congure its parameters. The BIOS
screens include navigation keys and brief online help to guide you in using the BIOS Setup
program.
Entering BIOS Setup at startup
To enter BIOS Setup at startup:
• Press <Delete> during the Power-On Self Test (POST). If you do not press <Delete>,
POST continues with its routines.
Entering BIOS Setup after POST
To enter BIOS Setup after POST:
• Press
• Press the reset button on the system chassis.
• Press the power button to turn the system off then back on. Do this option only if you
<Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> simultaneously.
failed to enter BIOS Setup using the rst two options.
Using the power button, reset button, or the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del> keys to force
reset from a running operating system can cause damage to your data or system. We
recommend that you always shut down the system properly from the operating system.
• The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply to most conditions to ensure
optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS
settings, load the default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the
Load Setup Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 2.8 Exit Menu.
• The BIOS setup screens in this chapter are for reference only. They may not exactly
match what you see on your screen.
• Visit the ASUS website at
motherboard.
www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS le for this
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 2-7
Page 40
2.2.1 BIOS menu screen
Menu items
Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
Main Settings
System Time [19:34:30]
System Date [Tue 01/08/2002]
SATA1 :[Not Detected]
SATA2 :[Not Detected]
SATA3 :[Not Detected]
SATA4 :[Not Detected]
SATA Conguration
System Information
Submenu items
Menu bar
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2011, American Megatrends, Inc.
Conguration elds
M4A78LT PLUS BIOS Setup
General help
Use [ENTER], [TAB]
or [SHIFT-TAB] to
select a eld.
Use [+] or [-] to
congure system Time.
Select Screen
Select Item
Change Field
+-
Tab Select Field
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
Navigation keys
Version 0202
2.2.2 Menu bar
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:
Main For changing the basic system conguration
Advanced For changing the advanced system settings
Power For changing the advanced power management (APM) conguration
Boot For changing the system boot conguration
Tools For conguring options for special functions
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.
2.2.3 Navigation keys
At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that particular menu.
Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings.
Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another.
2-8 Chapter 2: BIOS information
Page 41
2.2.4 Menu items
The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specic items for that menu. For example,
selecting Main shows the Main menu items.
The other items (Advanced, Power, Boot, Tools, and Exit) on the menu bar have their
respective menu items.
2.2.5 Submenu items
A solid triangle before each item on a menu screen means that the item has a submenu. To
display the submenu, select the item and press <Enter>.
2.2.6 Conguration elds
These elds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user- congurable, you can
change the value of the eld opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not
user-congurable.
A congurable eld is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. To change the
value of a eld, select it then press <Enter> to display a list of options. Refer to 2.2.7 Pop-up
window.
2.2.7 Pop-up window
Select a menu item then press <Enter>
to display a pop-up window with the
conguration options for that item.
2.2.8 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.
CPU Conguration
Module Version: 13.55
AGESA Version: 3.5.2.0
AMD Phenom(tm) II X4 945 Processor
Revision: C2
Cache L1: 512KB
Cache L2: 2048KB
Cache L3: 6MB
Speed : 3000MHz, NB Cl
Able to Change Freq.: Yes
uCode Patch Level: 0x1
GART Error Reporting [Disabled]
Microcode Updation [Enabled]
Secure Virtual Machine Mode [Disabled]
Cool ‘n‘ Quiet [Enalbed]
ACPI SRAT Table [Enabled]
C1E Support [Disabled]
M4A78LT PLUS BIOS Setup Version 0202
Advanced
Options
Disabled
Enabled
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2011, American Megatrends, Inc.
Pop-up window
This option should
remain disabled for
the normal operation.
The driver developer
may enable it for
testing purpose.
Select Screen
Select Item
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
Scroll bar
2.2.9 General help
At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item.
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 2-9
Page 42
2.3 Main menu
When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an
overview of the basic system information.
Refer to section 2.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and
how to navigate through them.
Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
Main Settings
System Time [19:34:30]
System Date [Tue 01/08/2002]
SATA1 :[Not Detected]
SATA2 :[Not Detected]
SATA3 :[Not Detected]
SATA4 :[Not Detected]
SATA Conguration
System Information
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2011, American Megatrends, Inc.
M4A78LT PLUS BIOS Setup
Use [ENTER], [TAB]
or [SHIFT-TAB] to
select a eld.
Use [+] or [-] to
congure system Time.
Select Screen
Select Item
Change Field
+-
Tab Select Field
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
Version 0202
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 SATA 1~4
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATA devices. There
is a separate submenu for each SATA device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to
display the SATA device information.
The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device, Vendor,
Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and SMART monitoring).
These values are not user-congurable. These items show Not Detected if no SATA device is
installed in the system.
LBA/Large Mode [Auto]
Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting this item to [Auto] enables the LBA mode if the
device supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA mode
disabled. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
2-10 Chapter 2: BIOS information
Page 43
Block (Multi-Sector Transfer) M [Auto]
Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When this item is set to [Auto], the data
transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device supports multisector transfer feature. When this item is set to [Disabled], the data transfer from and to the
device occurs one sector at a time. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
PIO Mode [Auto]
Selects the PIO mode. Conguration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]
DMA Mode [Auto]
Selects the DMA mode. Conguration options: [Auto]
SMART Monitoring [Auto]
Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology.
Conguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]
Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
2.3.4 SATA Conguration
The SATA Conguration menu allows you to congure your storage devices. Select an item
then press <Enter> to display the submenu.
OnChip SATA Channel [Enabled]
Enables or disables onboard channel SATA port. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
The following item only appears when you set OnChip SATA Channel to [Enabled].
SATA Port1 - Port4 [IDE]
Allows you to set the SATA conguration.
[IDE] Set to [IDE] when you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as
Parallel ATA physical storage devices.
[RAID] Set to [RAID] when you want to create a RAID conguration from the
SATA hard disk drives.
[AHCI] Set to [AHCI] when you want the SATA hard disk drives to use the AHCI
(Advanced Host Controller Interface). The AHCI allows the onboard
storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that increases
storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to
internally optimize the order of commands.
• When this item is set to [AHCI], the information of the SATA connectors 1~4 can be seen
only under the OS environment or during POST.
• For Windows
SATA connectors 1~4 in AHCI mode under the OS environment.
®
XP OS, you have to install the AHCI driver, so that you could use the
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 2-11
Page 44
2.3.5 System Information
This menu gives you an overview of the general system specications. The BIOS
automatically detects the items in this menu.
BIOS Information
Displays the auto-detected BIOS information.
Processor
Displays the auto-detected CPU specication.
System Memory
Displays the auto-detected system memory.
2-12 Chapter 2: BIOS information
Page 45
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.
M4A78LT PLUS BIOS Setup
Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
Advanced Settings
CPU Conguration
Chipset
Onboard Devices Conguration
PCIPnP
USB Conguration
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2011, American Megatrends, Inc.
Congure CPU.
Select Item
+- Change Field
Tab Select Field
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
Version 0202
Select Screen
2.4.1 CPU Conguration
The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically
detects.
GART Error Reporting [Disabled]
This option should remain disabled for the normal operation. The driver developer may
enable it for testing purpose. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Microcode Updation [Enabled]
Enables or disables Microcode Updation. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Secure Virtual Machine Mode [Disabled]
Enables or disables Secure Virtual Machine Mode (SVM) Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Cool ‘n’ Quiet [Enabled]
Enables or disables the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet technology. Conguration options: [Enabled]
[Disabled]
ACPI SRAT Table [Enabled]
Enables or disables the building of ACPI SRAT table. Conguration options: [Enabled]
[Disabled]
C1E Support [Disabled]
Enables or disables the CPU Enhanced Halt (C1E) function, a CPU power-saving function
in system halt state. When this item is enabled, the CPU core frequency and voltage will be
reduced during the system halt state to decrease power consumption.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 2-13
Page 46
2.4.2 Chipset
NorthBridge Conguration
DRAM Controller Conguration
Bank Interleaving [Auto]
Allows you to enable the bank memory interleaving. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Auto]
Channel Interleaving [Auto]
Allows you to enable the channel memory interleaving.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Address bits 6] [Address bits 12] [Auto]
[XOR of Address bits [20:16, 6]] [XOR of Address bits [20:16, 9]]
Enable Clock to All DIMMs [Disabled]
Enables unused Clocks to DIMMs even though memory slots are not populated.
Conguraiton options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
MemClk Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable MemClk Tri-Stating during C3 and Alt VID.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable memory remapping around memory hole.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
DCT Unganged Mode [Always]
Allows you to select the unganged DRAM mode (64-bit width).
Conguration options: [Auto] [Always]
Power Down Enable [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable DDR power down mode.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ECC Conguration
ECC Mode [Disabled]
Enables or disables the DRAM ECC that allows the hardware to report and correct
memory errors automatically. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Basic] [Good] [Super]
[Max] [User]
Primary Video Controller [GFX0-GPP-PCI]
Allows you to set the primary display controller. Conguration options: [GFX0-GPP-PCI]
[GPP-GFX0-PCI] [PCI-GFX0-GPP]
2.4.3 Onboard Devices Conguration
Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]
Selects the Serial Port1 base address. Conguration options: [Disabled] [3F8/IRQ4]
[2F8/IRQ3] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3]
HDAudio Controller [Enabled]
Enables or disables the high denition audio controller. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
2-14 Chapter 2: BIOS information
Page 47
Front Panel Select [HD Audio]
Selects the front panel type. Conguration options: [AC97] [HD Audio]
OnBoard LAN Controller [Enabled]
Enables or disables the onboard LAN controller. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]
Enables or disables the Onboard LAN Boot ROM. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
2.4.4 PCIPnP
The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices.
The menu includes setting IRQ and DMA channel resources for either PCI/PnP or legacy ISA
devices and setting the memory size block for legacy ISA devices.
Take caution when changing the settings of the PCI PnP menu items. Incorrect eld values
can cause the system to malfunction.
Plug And Play O/S [No]
When this item is set to [No], BIOS congures all the devices in the system. When this item
is set to [Yes] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system
congures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot. Conguration options: [No] [Yes]
2.4.5 USB Conguration
The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an item then
press <Enter> to display the conguration options.
The Module Version and USB Devices Enabled items show the auto-detected values. If no
USB device is detected, the item shows None.
USB Functions [Enabled]
Enables or disables the USB functions. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
USB 2.0 Controller Mode [Enabled]
Enables or disables the USB 2.0 controller. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Legacy USB Support [Auto]
Enables or disables support for Legacy USB storage devices including USB ash drives and
USB hard drives. Setting this item to [Auto] allows the system to detect the presence of USB
devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device
is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
[Auto]
USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed]
Congures the USB 2.0 controller in HiSpeed (480Mbps) mode or FullSpeed (12Mbps)
mode. Conguration options: [FullSpeed] [HiSpeed]
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 2-15
Page 48
The following items only appear when a USB storage device is plugged in.
USB Mass Storage Device Conguration
USB Mass Storage Reset Delay [20 Sec]
Sets the maximum time that the BIOS waits for the USB storage device to initialize.
Conguration options: [10 Sec] [20 Sec] [30 Sec] [40 Sec]
Emulation Type [Auto]
Allows you to set the emulation type. Conguration options: [Auto] [Floppy]
[Forced FDD] [Hard Disk] [CDROM]
2.5 Power menu
The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Conguration and
Power Interface (ACPI) and the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then
press <Enter> to display the conguration options.
Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
Power Settings
Suspend Mode [Auto]
ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled]
ACPI APIC support [Enabled]
APM Conguration
HW Monitor Conguration
EuP Ready [Disabled]
M4A78LT PLUS BIOS Setup
Select the ACPI state
used for System
Suspend.
Select Item
+- Change Option
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
Version 0202
Select Screen
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2011, American Megatrends, Inc.
2.5.1 Suspend Mode [Auto]
Selecta the Advanced Conguration and Power Interface (ACPI) state to be used for system
suspend. Conguration options: [S1 (POS) Only] [S3 Only] [Auto]
2.5.2 ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled]
Enables or disables the Advanced Conguration and Power Interface (ACPI) 2.0 support.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
2-16 Chapter 2: BIOS information
Page 49
2.5.3 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]
Enables or disables the Advanced Conguration and Power Interface (ACPI) support in the
Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). When this item is set to [Enabled], the
ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
2.5.4 APM Conguration
Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off]
When this item set to [Power Off], the system goes into off state after an AC power loss.
When this item set to [Power On], the system goes on after an AC power loss. When this
item set to [Last State], the system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system
state was before the AC power loss.
Conguration options: [Power Off] [Power On] [Last State]
Power on From S5 By PME# [Disabled]
Enables or disables PME wake from sleep states. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Power on From S5 By Ring [Disabled]
Enables or disables ring to generate a wake event. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Power on By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]
Enables or disables PS/2 keyboard to generate a wake event.
Conguration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Power Key] [Ctrl - Esc]
Power on By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]
Enables or disables PS/2 mouse to generate a wake event. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Power on From S5 By RTC Alarm [Disabled]
Enables or disables RTC to generate a wake event. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
2.5.5 HW Monitor Conguration
CPU / MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] or [Ignored]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard and CPU
temperatures. Select [Ignored] if you do not want the detected temperatures to be displayed.
CPU Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A]
Chassis Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU / Chassis fan
speeds 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.
VCORE Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage [xx.xxxV] or [Ignored]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard
voltage regulators. Select [Ignored] if you do not want the detected voltage to be displayed.
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 2-17
Page 50
CPU Q-Fan Function [Enabled]
Enables or disables the CPU Q-Fan control feature. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
The following item appears only when you set CPU Q-Fan Function to [Enabled].
CPU Fan Speed Low Limit [200 RPM]
Allows you to manually set a lower limit for the CPU fan speed. If the CPU fan speed is below
the specied limit, the system sends out warning beeps. Conguration options: [500 RPM]
[400 RPM] [300 RPM] [200 RPM] [100 RPM] [Ignored]
CPU Q-Fan Mode [Standard]
This item appears only when you enable the CPU Q-Fan Function feature and allows you to
set the appropriate performance level of the CPU fan.
[Standard] Sets to [Standard] to make the CPU fan automatically adjust depending on
the CPU temperature.
[Silent] Sets to [Silent] to minimize the fan speed for quiet CPU fan operation.
[Turbo] Set to [Turbo] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.
[Manual] Allows you to individually set the CPU fan parameters.
2.5.6 EuP Ready [Disabled]
[Disabled] Disables the Energy Using Products (EuP) Ready function.
[Enabled] Allows BIOS to switch off some power at S5 state to get system ready for
the EuP requirement. When set to [Enabled], power for WOL, WO_USB,
audio and onboard LEDs will be switched off at S5 state.
2.6 Boot menu
The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then
press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.
Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
Boot Settings
Boot Device Priority
Boot Settings Conguration
Security
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2011, American Megatrends, Inc.
M4A78LT PLUS BIOS Setup
Species the Boot
Device Priority
sequence.
A virtual oppy disk
drive (Floppy Drive B:)
may appear when you set
the CD-ROM drive as the
rst boot device.
Select Screen
Select Item
Enter Go to Sub Screen
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
2-18 Chapter 2: BIOS information
Version 0202
Page 51
2.6.1 Boot Device Priority
1st ~ xxth Boot Device [xxx Drive]
These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The
number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices
installed in the system. Conguration options: [Removable Dev.] [Hard Drive]
[ATAPI CD-ROM] [Disabled]
• To select the boot device during system startup, press <F8> when ASUS Logo appears.
• To access Windows
• Press <F5> when ASUS Logo appears.
• Press <F8> after POST.
®
OS in Safe Mode, do any of the following:
2.6.2 Boot Settings Conguration
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 this item is set to [Disabled], BIOS
performs all the POST items. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Full Screen Logo [Enabled]
Enables or disables the full screen logo display feature. Conguration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]
Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo2™ feature.
AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]
Sets the display mode for option ROM. Conguration options: [Force BIOS] [Keep Current]
Bootup Num-Lock [On]
Selects the power-on state for the NumLock. Conguration options: [Off] [On]
Wait for ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]
When this item is set to [Enabled], the system waits for the F1 key to be pressed when error
occurs. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled]
When this item is set to [Enabled], the system displays the message Press DEL to run
Setup during POST. Conguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
2.6.3 Security
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item
then press <Enter> to display the conguration options.
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.
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 2-19
Page 52
To set a Supervisor Password:
1. Select the
2. In the password box, key in a password containing up to six letters or numbers, or
both, then press <Enter>.
3. Conrm the password when prompted.
The message Password Installed appears after you successfully set your password.
To change the supervisor password, follow the same steps as in setting a supervisor
password.
To clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then press
<Enter> twice. The message Password uninstalled appears.
After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change
other security settings.
Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>.
If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real Time Clock
(RTC) RAM. See section 1.9 Jumpers for information on how to erase the RTC RAM.
User Access Level [Full Access]
This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items. Conguration options:
[No Access] [View Only] [Limited] [Full Access]
No Access prevents user access to the Setup utility.
View Only allows access but does not allow change to any eld.
Limited allows changes only to selected elds, such as Date and Time.
Full Access allows viewing and changing all the elds in the Setup utility.
Change User Password
Select this item to set or change the user password. The User Password item on top of the
screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed.
To set a User Password:
1. Select the
2. In the password box, key in a password containing up to six letters or numbers, or
both, then press <Enter>.
3. Conrm the password when prompted.
The message “Password Installed” appears after you set your password successfully.
To change the user password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password.
Change User Password item and press <Enter>.
Clear User Password
Select this item to clear the user password.
Password Check [Setup]
When this item is set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the
Setup utility. When this item is set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both when
accessing Setup and booting the system. Conguration options: [Setup] [Always]
2-20 Chapter 2: BIOS information
Page 53
2.7 Tools menu
The Tools menu items allow you to congure options for special functions. Select an item
then press <Enter> to display the submenu.
Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
Tools Settings
ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS O.C. Prole
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2011, American Megatrends, Inc.
M4A78LT PLUS BIOS Setup
Press ENTER to run the
utility to select and
update BIOS.
This utility supports:
1.FAT 12/16/32 (r/w)
2.NTFS (read only)
3.CD-DISC (read only)
Select Screen
Select Item
Enter Go to Sub Screen
F1 General Help
F10 Save and Exit
ESC Exit
2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a conrmation message
appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to
conrm your choice.
2.7.2 ASUS O.C. Prole
This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.
Add Your CMOS Prole
Allows you to save the current BIOS le to the BIOS Flash. In the Name sub-item, key in
your prole name and press <Enter>, and then choose a prole number to save your CMOS
settings in the Save to sub-item.
Load CMOS Proles.
Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Press <Enter> to
load the le.
Start O.C. Prole
Allows you to run the utility to save and load CMOS. Press <Enter> to run the utility.
Version 0202
• This function can support devices such as a USB ash disk with FAT 32/16 format and
single partition only.
• DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the system
boot failure!
• We recommend that you update the BIOS le only coming from the same memory/CPU
conguration and BIOS version.
• Only the CMO le can be loaded.
ASUS M4A78LT PLUS 2-21
Page 54
2.8 Exit menu
Exit system setup
after saving the
changes.
F10 key can be used
for this operation.
The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS
items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items.
Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
Exit Options
Exit & Save Changes
Exit & Discard Changes
Discard Changes
Load Setup Defaults
Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options from this
menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit.
M4A78LT PLUS BIOS Setup
Exit system setup
after saving the
changes.
F10 key can be used
for this operation.
Version 0202
Exit & Save Changes
Once you are nished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to
ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard backup battery
sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turned off. When you select this
option, a conrmation window appears. Select OK to save changes and exit.
Exit & Discard Changes
Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to the Setup
program. If you made changes to elds other than System Date, System Time, and
Password, the BIOS asks for a conrmation before exiting.
Discard Changes
This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the previously saved
values. After selecting this option, a conrmation appears. Select OK to discard any changes
and load the previously saved values.
Load Setup Defaults
This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup
menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a conrmation window appears.
Select OK to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes or make other changes
before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM.
2-22 Chapter 2: BIOS information
Page 55
ASUS contact information
ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.
Address 15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 11259
Telephone +886-2-2894-3447
Fax +886-2-2890-7798
E-mail info@asus.com.tw
Web site www.asus.com.tw
Technical Support
Telephone +86-21-38429911
Online support support.asus.com
ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)
Address 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539, USA
Telephone +1-510-739-3777
Fax +1-510-608-4555
Web site usa.asus.com
Technical Support
Telephone +1-812-282-2787
Support fax +1-812-284-0883
Online support support.asus.com
ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Germany and Austria)
Address Harkort Str. 21-23, D-40880 Ratingen, Germany
Fax +49-2102-959911
Web site www.asus.de
Online contact www.asus.de/sales
Technical Support
Telephone (Component) +49-1805-010923
Telephone (System/Notebook/Eee/LCD) +49-1805-010920
Support Fax +49-2102-9599-11
Online support support.asus.com
* EUR 0.14/minute from a German xed landline; EUR 0.42/minute from a mobile phone.
*
*
Page 56
EC Declaration of Conformity
We, the undersigned,
Manufacturer:
ASUSTek COMPUTER INC.
Address, City:
No. 150, LI-TE RD., PEITOU, TAIPEI 112, TAIWAN R.O.C.
Country:
TAIWAN
Authorized representative in Europe:
ASUS COMPUTER GmbH
Address, City: HARKORT STR. 21-23, 40880 RATINGEN
Country:
GERMANY
declare the following apparatus:
Product name : Motherboard
Model name : M4A78LT PLUS
conform with the essential requirements of the following directives:
2004/108/EC-EMC Directive
EN 55022:2006+A1:2007
EN 61000-3-2:2006
EN 55013:2001+A1:2003+A2:2006
EN 55024:1998+A1:2001+A2:2003
EN 61000-3-3:2008
EN 55020:2007
1999/5/EC-R &TTE Directive
EN 300 328 V1.7.1(2006-05)
EN 300 440-1 V1.4.1(2008-05)
EN 300 440-2 V1.2.1(2008-03)
EN 301 511 V9.0.2(2003-03)
EN 301 908-1 V3.2.1(2007-05)
EN 301 908-2 V3.2.1(2007-05)
EN 301 893 V1.4.1(2005-03)
EN 302 544-2 V1.1.1(2009-01)
EN 50360:2001
EN 50371:2002
EN 50385:2002
EN 301 489-1 V1.8.1(2008-04)
EN 301 489-3 V1.4.1(2002-08)
EN 301 489-4 V1.3.1(2002-08)
EN 301 489-7 V1.3.1(2005-11)
EN 301 489-9 V1.4.1(2007-11)
EN 301 489-17 V2.1.1(2009-05)
EN 301 489-24 V1.4.1(2007-09)
EN 302 326-2 V1.2.2(2007-06)
EN 302 326-3 V1.3.1(2007-09)
EN 301 357-2 V1.3.1(2006-05)
EN 302 623 V1.1.1(2009-01)
2006/95/EC-LVD Directive
EN 60950-1:2006
EN 60950-1:2006+A11:2009
EN 60065:2002+A1:2006+A11:2008
2009/125/EC-ErP Directive
Regulation (EC) No. 1275/2008
EN 62301:2005
Regulation (EC) No. 642/2009
EN 62301:2005
Regulation (EC) No. 278/2009
EN 62301:2005
Ver. 110101
CE marking
Declaration Date: Mar. 12, 2011
Year to begin affixing CE marking:2011
Position : CEO
Name : Jerry Shen
Signature : __________
(
EC conformit
y
markin
g)
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Per FCC Part 2 Section 2. 1077(a)
Address: 800 Corporate Way, Fremont, CA 94539.
hereby declares that the product
Product Name : Motherboard
Conforms to the following specifications:
FCC Part 15, Subpart B, Unintentional Radiators
FCC Part 15, Subpart C, Intentional Radiators
FCC Part 15, Subpart E, Intentional Radiators
Supplementary Information:
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Signature :
Date : Mar. 12, 2011
Ver. 110101
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