Asus NCT-D User Manual

NCT-D (A)

Motherboard

E1768E1768

E1768

E1768E1768

Revised Edition V3Revised Edition V3

Revised Edition V3

Revised Edition V3Revised Edition V3 September 2004September 2004

September 2004

September 2004September 2004

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, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification 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 identification or explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.

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Contents

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

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

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

Typography ......................................................................................... ix

NCT-D (A) specifications summary ...................................................... x

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

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

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

1.3 Special features .................................................................... 1-2

1.3.1 Product highlights................................................... 1-2

1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features ....................................... 1-4

Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information

Chapter 2: Hardware information

Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information

2.1 Before you proceed .............................................................. 2-1

2.2 Motherboard overview .......................................................... 2-2

2.2.1 Placement direction ................................................ 2-2

2.2.2 Screw holes ............................................................ 2-2

2.2.3 Support plates for motherboard............................. 2-3

2.2.4 Motherboard layout ................................................ 2-7

2.2.5 Layout contents ..................................................... 2-8

2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ............................................ 2-10

2.3.1 Installling the CPU ................................................. 2-10

2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan ...................... 2-12

2.4 System memory ................................................................. 2-14

2.4.1 Overview ............................................................... 2-14

2.4.2 Memory configurations ......................................... 2-14

2.4.3 Installing a DIMM ................................................... 2-15

2.4.4 Removing a DIMM ................................................. 2-15

2.5 Expansion slots ................................................................... 2-16

2.5.1 Installing an expansion card .................................. 2-16

2.5.2 Configuring an expansion card.............................. 2-16

2.5.3 Interrupt assignments .......................................... 2-17

2.5.4 PCI/PCI-X slots ...................................................... 2-18

2.5.5 PCI Express x8/x16 slots ..................................... 2-18

2.5.6 Wi-Fi slot .............................................................. 2-18

2.6 Jumpers .............................................................................. 2-19

2.7 Connectors ......................................................................... 2-24

2.7.1 Rear panel connectors .......................................... 2-24

2.7.2 Internal connectors............................................... 2-26

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Contents

Chapter 3: Powering upChapter 3: Powering up

Chapter 3: Powering up

Chapter 3: Powering upChapter 3: Powering up

3.1 Starting up for the first time................................................ 3-1

3.2 Powering off the computer .................................................. 3-2

3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function ........................... 3-2

3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch .................... 3-2

3.3 ASUS POST Reporter™ .......................................................... 3-3

3.3.1 Vocal POST messages ............................................ 3-3

3.3.2 Winbond Voice Editor ............................................. 3-5

Chapter 4: BIOS setupChapter 4: BIOS setup

Chapter 4: BIOS setup

Chapter 4: BIOS setupChapter 4: BIOS setup

4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ........................................ 4-1

4.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy disk .............................. 4-1

4.1.2 AFUDOS utility ........................................................ 4-2

4.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility ................................ 4-5

4.1.4 ASUS EZ Flash utility .............................................. 4-7

4.1.5 ASUS Update utility ................................................ 4-8

4.2 BIOS setup program ........................................................... 4-11

4.2.1 BIOS menu screen ................................................. 4-12

4.2.2 Menu bar ............................................................... 4-12

4.2.3 Navigation keys .................................................... 4-12

4.2.4 Menu items ........................................................... 4-13

4.2.5 Sub-menu items ................................................... 4-13

4.2.6 Configuration fields .............................................. 4-13

4.2.7 Pop-up window ..................................................... 4-13

4.2.8 Scroll bar .............................................................. 4-13

4.2.9 General help .......................................................... 4-13

4.3 Main menu .......................................................................... 4-14

4.3.1 System Time ......................................................... 4-14

4.3.2 System Date ......................................................... 4-14

4.3.3 Legacy Diskette A ................................................ 4-14

4.3.4 Primary, Third and Fourth IDE Master/Slave ......... 4-15

4.3.5 IDE Configuration .................................................. 4-16

4.3.6 System Information .............................................. 4-17

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4.4 Advanced menu .................................................................. 4-18

4.4.1 Instant Music Configuration .................................. 4-18

4.4.2 Speech Configuration ........................................... 4-19

4.4.3 PCI Express Configuration ..................................... 4-19

4.4.4 USB Configuration................................................. 4-20

4.4.5 MPS Configuration ................................................ 4-21

4.4.6 CPU Configuration ................................................. 4-21

Contents

4.4.7 Chipset ................................................................. 4-22

4.4.8 Onboard Devices Configuration ............................4-24

4.4.9 PCI PnP ................................................................. 4-25

4.5 Power menu ........................................................................ 4-27

4.5.1 Suspend Mode ...................................................... 4-27

4.5.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume ................................ 4-27

4.5.3 ACPI 2.0 Support .................................................. 4-27

4.5.4 ACPI APIC Support ................................................ 4-27

4.5.5 APM Configuration ................................................ 4-28

4.5.6 Hardware Monitor ................................................. 4-30

4.6 Boot menu .......................................................................... 4-32

4.6.1 Boot Device Priority .............................................. 4-32

4.6.2 Boot Settings Configuration ................................. 4-33

4.6.3 Security ................................................................ 4-34

4.7 Exit menu ........................................................................... 4-37

Appendix: Block diagramAppendix: Block diagram

Appendix: Block diagram

Appendix: Block diagramAppendix: Block diagram

NCT-D (A) Block diagram ..................................................... A-1

Notices

Federal Communications Commission StatementFederal Communications Commission Statement

Federal Communications Commission Statement

Federal Communications Commission StatementFederal 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 modifications 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 StatementCanadian Department of Communications Statement

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

Canadian Department of Communications StatementCanadian 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 CanadianThis class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian

This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian

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

ICES-003.

ICES-003.ICES-003.

vivi

Safety information

Electrical safetyElectrical safety

Electrical safety

Electrical safetyElectrical safety

•

To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system.

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.

Operation safetyOperation safety

Operation safety

Operation safetyOperation safety

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

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

•

Place the product on a stable surface.

•

If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.

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About this guide

This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard.

How this guide is organizedHow this guide is organized

How this guide is organized

How this guide is organizedHow this guide is organized

This manual contains the following parts:

••

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

•

Chapter 1: Product introduction

••

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new

technology it supports.

••

Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information

•

Chapter 2: Hardware information

••

Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to

perform when installing system components. It includes description of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard.

••

Chapter 3: Powering upChapter 3: Powering up

•

Chapter 3: Powering up

••

Chapter 3: Powering upChapter 3: Powering up This chapter describes the power up sequence, the vocal POST

messages, and ways of shutting down the system.

••

Chapter 4: BIOS setupChapter 4: BIOS setup

•

Chapter 4: BIOS setup

••

Chapter 4: BIOS setupChapter 4: BIOS setup This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS

Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.

••

Appendix: Reference informationAppendix: Reference information

•

Appendix: Reference information

••

Appendix: Reference informationAppendix: Reference information This appendix includes additional information that you may refer to

when configuring the motherboard.

Where to find more informationWhere to find more information

Where to find more information

Where to find more informationWhere to find more information

Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates.

1.1.

ASUS websitesASUS websites

ASUS websites

1.1.

ASUS websitesASUS websites The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware

and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.

2.2.

Optional documentationOptional documentation

Optional documentation

2.2.

Optional documentationOptional documentation Your product package may include optional documentation, such as

warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.

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Conventions used in this guideConventions used in this guide

Conventions used in this guide

Conventions used in this guideConventions used in this guide

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

DANGER/WARNING: DANGER/WARNING:

DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself

DANGER/WARNING: DANGER/WARNING: when trying to complete a task.

CAUTION:CAUTION:

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components

CAUTION:CAUTION: when trying to complete a task.

IMPORTANT: IMPORTANT:

IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a

IMPORTANT: IMPORTANT: task.

NOTE: NOTE:

NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a

NOTE: NOTE: task.

Typography

Bold textBold text

Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.

Bold textBold text

Italics

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

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

Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.

that you must press the enclosed key.

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

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[filename] afudos /iP5GD2.ROM

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NCT-D (A) specifications summary

CPUCPU

CPU

CPUCPU

ChipsetChipset

Chipset

ChipsetChipset

Front Side BusFront Side Bus

Front Side Bus

Front Side BusFront Side Bus

MemoryMemory

Memory

MemoryMemory

Dual 604-pin sockets for Intel® Xeon™ processors with

Extended Memory 64-bit Technology (EM64T)

Supports Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology

Northbridge : Intel® E7525 Memory Controller Hub (MCH) Southbridge : Intel® 6300ESB

800 MHz

Dual-channel memory architecture 4 x 240-pin DIMM sockets support registered ECC

400 MHz DDR2 memory modules

Supports 256 MB up to 8 GB system memory

Expansion slotsExpansion slots

Expansion slots

Expansion slotsExpansion slots

StorageStorage

Storage

StorageStorage

Wi-Fi solutionWi-Fi solution

Wi-Fi solution

Wi-Fi solutionWi-Fi solution (optional)(optional)

(optional)

(optional)(optional)

1 x PCI Express x8 slot (x4 link, PCI Express 1.0a) 1 x PCI Express x16 slots (Graphic card, PCI Express 1.0a) 1 x PCI-X 66 MHz/64-bit slot (PCI-X 1.0a) 1 x PCI-X 66 MHz/64-bit slot (supports ZCR, PCI-X 1.0a) 1 x PCI 33 MHz/32-bit/5V (PCI 2.3) 1 x WiFi slot (ASUS proprietary)

6300ESB South Bridge supports:

Intel

- 2 x Ultra DMA 100/66/33

- 2 x Serial ATA with RAID 0, RAID 1 configuration and the Adaptec® HostRAID™ technology

Optional: Adaptec AIC-8130 PCI-X SATA-II controller supports:

- 4 x SATAII 300 with RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID 0+1 configuration

- Zero-Channel RAID card (optional)

ASUS WiFi-b/g Wi-Fi slot/PCI solution provides:

- support for IEEE 802.11g/b wireless standards

- up to 11 Mbps /54 Mbps wireless data transmission

- Software Access Point (Soft AP) feature on Windows® XP/2003 Server OS

AudioAudio

Audio

AudioAudio

LANLAN

LAN

LANLAN

ADI AD1980 6-channel audio CODEC

Broadcom BMC5751 PCI Express Gigabit LAN controller Supports PCI Express 1.0a interface

USBUSB

USB

USBUSB

Intel

6300ESB South Bridge supports:

- 4 USB 2.0 ports (on the rear panel)

VIA VT6212 PCI USB2.0 controller supports:

- 4 USB 2.0 ports (on the front panel)

IEEE 1394IEEE 1394

IEEE 1394

IEEE 1394IEEE 1394

TI TBS43AB22A PCI IEEE 1394a controller 2 x IEEE 1394a ports

(continued on the next page)

NCT-D (A) specifications summary

Special featuresSpecial features

Special features

Special featuresSpecial features

BIOS featuresBIOS features

BIOS features

BIOS featuresBIOS features

ASUS Post Reporter™ ASUS Q-Fan2 ASUS EZ Flash ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 ASUS MyLogo2 ASUS Instant Music

AMI BIOS, 8 MB Flash ROM, Green, PnP, DMI2.0a, SMBIOS 2.3, WfM2.0

Rear panelRear panel

Rear panel

Rear panelRear panel

InternalInternal

Internal

InternalInternal connectorsconnectors

connectors

connectorsconnectors

1 x PS/2 keyboard port (purple) 1 x PS/2 mouse port (green) 1 x Parallel port 1 x Serial port 1 x Coaxial S/PDIF Out port 1 x IEEE 1394a port 1 x LAN (RJ-45) port 4 x USB 2.0 ports 6-channel audio ports

Floppy disk drive connector Primary and secondary IDE connectors Serial ATA connectors Serial ATA RAID connectors Hard disk activity LED connector Internal audio connectors Chassis intrusion connector Front panel audio connector CPU, Chassis, and Power Fan connectors IEEE 1394a port connector USB connectors SSI 24-pin and 8-pin PSU connector Serial port connector GAME/MIDI port connector Backplane SMBus connector System panel connector

PowerPower

Power

PowerPower RequirementRequirement

Requirement

RequirementRequirement

Form FactorForm Factor

Form Factor

Form FactorForm Factor

Support CDSupport CD

Support CD

Support CDSupport CD contentscontents

contents

contentscontents

SSI power supply (with 24-pin and 8-pin 12 V plugs) ATX 12V 2.0 compliant

ATX form factor: 12 in x 9.8 in (30.5 cm x 24.9 cm)

Device drivers ASUS Server Web-based Management (ASWM) ASUS PC Probe ASUS Live Update Utility Anti-virus software

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

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

introduction

Product

Chapter summary

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

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

1.3 Special features .................................................................... 1-2

ASUS NCT-DASUS NCT-D

ASUS NCT-D

ASUS NCT-DASUS NCT-D

1.1 Welcome!

®®

Thank you for buying an ASUSThank you for buying an ASUS

Thank you for buying an ASUS

Thank you for buying an ASUSThank you for buying an ASUS

®®

NCT-D (A) motherboard! NCT-D (A) motherboard!

NCT-D (A) motherboard!

NCT-D (A) motherboard! NCT-D (A) motherboard!

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

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

1.2 Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

MotherboardMotherboard

Motherboard ASUS NCT-D motherboard

MotherboardMotherboard

I/O modulesI/O modules

I/O modules Serial port module

I/O modulesI/O modules

USB 2.0 (2 ports) and GAME (1 port) module IEEE 1394 module (1-port)

CablesCables

Cables 6 x Serial ATA signal cables

CablesCables

3 x Serial ATA power cables (dual-plug) 2 x Ultra DMA/133 cables 80-conductor IDE cable 3-in-1 floppy disk drive cable

AccessoriesAccessories

Accessories I/O shield

AccessoriesAccessories

X-PAD accessory kit

Application CDsApplication CDs

Application CDs ASUS motherboard support CD (includes ASWM)

Application CDsApplication CDs

DocumentationDocumentation

Documentation User guide

DocumentationDocumentation

Optional itemsOptional items

Optional items ASUS WiFi-g card (PCI) with dipolar antenna

Optional itemsOptional items

ASUS WiFi-b card (Wi-Fi slot) with dipolar antenna

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

ASUS NCT-DASUS NCT-D

ASUS NCT-D

ASUS NCT-DASUS NCT-D

1-11-1

1-1

1-11-1

1.3 Special features

1.3.11.3.1

1.3.1

1.3.11.3.1

Latest processor technology Latest processor technology

Latest processor technology

Latest processor technology Latest processor technology

The motherboard comes with dual 604-pin surface mount ZIF sockets designed for the Intel® Xeon™ processor with 800 MHz Front Side Bus (FSB) and 1 MB L2 cache. The processor incorporates the Intel Hyper-Threading Technology, the Intel® NetBurst™ micro-architecture that features hyper-pipelined technology, and Extended Memory 64-bit Technology (EM64T). The EM64T enables support for 64-bit operating systems, such as 64-bit Windows® and Linux. See page 2-10 for details.

IntelIntel

Intel

IntelIntel

The Intel® E7525 Memory Controller Hub (MCH) and the Intel controller hub (ICH) provide the vital interfaces for the motherboard.

The MCH provides the processor, dual-channel DDR2-400 memory, and PCI Express™ interfaces. The ICH is a new generation server class I/O controller hub that provides the interface for PCI-X 1.0a.

Product highlightsProduct highlights

Product highlights

Product highlightsProduct highlights

E7525 and Intel E7525 and Intel

E7525 and Intel

E7525 and Intel E7525 and Intel

6300 ESB chipset 6300 ESB chipset

6300 ESB chipset

6300 ESB chipset 6300 ESB chipset

6300ESB I/O

DDR2 memory support DDR2 memory support

DDR2 memory support

DDR2 memory support DDR2 memory support

The motherboard supports DDR2 memory which features data transfer rates of 400 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR2 architecture doubles the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance, eliminating bottlenecks with peak bandwidths of up to 8.5 GB/s.

Serial ATA technology Serial ATA technology

Serial ATA technology

Serial ATA technology Serial ATA technology

The motherboard supports the Serial ATA technology through the Serial ATA interfaces controlled by the Intel® 6300ESB and the Adaptec AIC-8130 (optional). The SATA specification allows for thinner, more flexible cables with lower pin count, reduced voltage requirement, and up to 150 MB/s data transfer rate for Intel® 6300ESB and 300 MB/s for AIC-8130. See page 2-27 and 2-28 for details.

PCI Express™ interface PCI Express™ interface

PCI Express™ interface

PCI Express™ interface PCI Express™ interface

The motherboard fully supports PCI Express, the latest I/O interconnect technology that speeds up the PCI bus. PCI Express™ features point-to-point serial interconnections between devices and allows higher clockspeeds by carrying data in packets. This high speed interface is software compatible with existing PCI or PCI-X specifications. See page 2-18 for details.

1-21-2

1-2

1-21-2

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

Gigabit and wireless LAN solutions Gigabit and wireless LAN solutions

Gigabit and wireless LAN solutions

Gigabit and wireless LAN solutions Gigabit and wireless LAN solutions

The motherboard comes with an onboard Gigabit LAN controller to provide a total solution for your wired networking needs. The onboard Broadcom BCM5751 Gigabit LAN controller uses the PCI Express interface and has network throughput close to Gigabit bandwidth. The motherboard also comes with the ASUS proprietary Wi-Fi slot that supports an optional WiFi-b/g card for your wireless Internet, LAN, and file sharing requirements. See page 2-18 for details.

Built-in SATA RAID solution Built-in SATA RAID solution

Built-in SATA RAID solution

Built-in SATA RAID solution Built-in SATA RAID solution

The Intel® 6300ESB allows RAID 0 and RAID 1 configuration for four SATA connectors and supports the Adaotec® HostRAID™ technology. See page 2-27 for details.

The optional Adaptec AIC-8130 PCI-X SATA-II controller supports four additional SATA connectors, and allows RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID 0+1. See page 2-28 for details.

Zero-Channel RAID (ZCR) support (on SATA models only)Zero-Channel RAID (ZCR) support (on SATA models only)

Zero-Channel RAID (ZCR) support (on SATA models only)

Zero-Channel RAID (ZCR) support (on SATA models only)Zero-Channel RAID (ZCR) support (on SATA models only)

The Adaptec AIC-8130 PCI-X SATA-II controller supports an optional Zero-Channel RAID card on the 64-bit PCI-X slot to create a RAID solution, including RAID 0 (striping), RAID 1 (mirroring), RAID 0+1, and RAID 5. The ZCR capability provides a high-performance, cost effective and reliable storage solution to the server system.

6-channel audio6-channel audio

6-channel audio

6-channel audio6-channel audio

Onboard is the ADI AD1980 AC ‘97 audio CODEC that supports 6-channel

5.1 surround sound output, stereo microphone input, variable Sample Rate Conversion (SRC), professional quality 103-dB output with 94-dB SNR, and analog enumeration capability. The SoundMAX 4 XL software features the AudioESP™ (Audio Enumeration and Sensing Process) that allows intelligent detection of the peripherals plugged into the audio ports and identifies the incompatible devices, if any. See page 2-25 for details.

S/PDIF digital sound ready S/PDIF digital sound ready

S/PDIF digital sound ready

S/PDIF digital sound ready S/PDIF digital sound ready

The motherboard supports the S/PDIF Out function through the S/PDIF interfaces on the rear panel and at midboard. The S/PDIF technology turns your computer into a high-end entertainment system with digital connectivity to powerful audio and speaker systems. See page 2-25 for details.

ASUS NCT-DASUS NCT-D

ASUS NCT-D

ASUS NCT-DASUS NCT-D

1-31-3

1-3

1-31-3

IEEE 1394a support IEEE 1394a support

IEEE 1394a support

IEEE 1394a support IEEE 1394a support

The motherboard supports the IEEE 1394a interface that provides high-speed and flexible PC connectivity to a wide range of peripherals and devices compliant to IEEE 1394a standards. The IEEE 1394a interface allows up to 400 Mbps transfer rates through simple, low-cost, high-bandwidth asynchronous (real-time) data interfacing between computers, peripherals, and consumer electronic devices such as camcorders, VCRs, printers,TVs, and digital cameras. See page 2-31 for details.

USB 2.0 technology USB 2.0 technology

USB 2.0 technology

USB 2.0 technology USB 2.0 technology

The motherboard implements the Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 specification, dramatically increasing the connection speed from the 12 Mbps bandwidth on USB 1.1 to a fast 480 Mbps on USB 2.0. USB 2.0 is backward compatible with USB 1.1. See page 2-25 and 2-31 for details.

Temperature, fan, and voltage monitoringTemperature, fan, and voltage monitoring

Temperature, fan, and voltage monitoring

Temperature, fan, and voltage monitoringTemperature, fan, and voltage monitoring

The CPU temperature is monitored by the ASIC (integrated in the Winbond Super I/O) to prevent overheating and damage. The system fan rotations per minute (RPM) is monitored for timely failure detection. The ASIC monitors the voltage levels to ensure stable supply of current for critical components. See page 4-30 and 4-31 for details.

1.3.21.3.2

1.3.2

1.3.21.3.2

CrashFree BIOS 2 CrashFree BIOS 2

CrashFree BIOS 2

CrashFree BIOS 2 CrashFree BIOS 2

This feature allows you to restore the original BIOS data from the support CD in case when the BIOS codes and data are corrupted. This protection eliminates the need to buy a replacement ROM chip. See page 4-5 for details.

ASUS Smart Fan technology ASUS Smart Fan technology

ASUS Smart Fan technology

ASUS Smart Fan technology ASUS Smart Fan technology

The ASUS Smart Fan technology smartly adjusts the fan speeds according to the system loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efficient operation. See page 4-30 for details.

Innovative ASUS featuresInnovative ASUS features

Innovative ASUS features

Innovative ASUS featuresInnovative ASUS features

1-41-4

1-4

1-41-4

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

ASUS POST Reporter™ ASUS POST Reporter™

ASUS POST Reporter™

ASUS POST Reporter™ ASUS POST Reporter™

The motherboard offers a new exciting feature called the ASUS POST Reporter™ to provide friendly voice messages and alerts during the Power-On Self-Tests (POST) informing you of the system boot status and causes of boot errors, if any. The bundled Winbond Voice Editor software lets you to customize the voice messages in different languages. See page 3-3 for details.

ASUS MyLogo2™ ASUS MyLogo2™

ASUS MyLogo2™

ASUS MyLogo2™ ASUS MyLogo2™

This new feature present in the motherboard allows you to personalize and add style to your system with customizable boot logos. See page 4-33 for details.

ASUS Instant Music ASUS Instant Music

ASUS Instant Music

ASUS Instant Music ASUS Instant Music

This unique feature allows you to playback audio files even before entering the operating system. Just press the ASUS Instant Music special function keys and enjoy the music! See page 4-18 for details.

ASUS EZ Flash BIOS ASUS EZ Flash BIOS

ASUS EZ Flash BIOS

ASUS EZ Flash BIOS ASUS EZ Flash BIOS

With the ASUS EZ Flash, you can easily update the system BIOS even before loading the operating system. No need to use a DOS-based utility or boot from a floppy disk. See page 4-7 for details.

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Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

This chapter 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.

information

Hardware

Chapter summary

2.1 Before you proceed .............................................................. 2-1

2.2 Motherboard overview .......................................................... 2-2

2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ............................................ 2-10

2.4 System memory ................................................................. 2-14

2.5 Expansion slots ................................................................... 2-16

2.6 Jumpers .............................................................................. 2-19

2.7 Connectors ......................................................................... 2-24

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2.1 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.

• Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or to 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, ensureBefore you install or remove any component, ensure

•

Before you install or remove any component, ensure

Before you install or remove any component, ensureBefore you install or remove any component, ensure that the power supply is switched off or the powerthat the power supply is switched off or the power

that the power supply is switched off or the power

that the power supply is switched off or the powerthat the power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. cord is detached from the power supply.

cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so

cord is detached from the power supply. cord is detached from the power supply. may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, and/or components.

Onboard LEDOnboard LED

Onboard LED

Onboard LEDOnboard LED

The motherboard comes with a standby power LED. The green LED 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.

SB_PWR1

Standby

Power

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OFF

Powere

Off

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2.2 Motherboard overview

Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits into it.

Make sure to unplug the chassis power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

2.2.12.2.1

2.2.1

2.2.12.2.1

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

2.2.22.2.2

2.2.2

2.2.22.2.2

Place ten (10) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.

Placement directionPlacement direction

Placement direction

Placement directionPlacement direction

Screw holesScrew holes

Screw holes

Screw holesScrew holes

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

Place this side towardsPlace this side towards

Place this side towards

Place this side towardsPlace this side towards the rear of the chassisthe rear of the chassis

the rear of the chassis

the rear of the chassisthe rear of the chassis

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Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information

Chapter 2: Hardware information

Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information

2.2.32.2.3

2.2.3

2.2.32.2.3

Support plates for motherboardSupport plates for motherboard

Support plates for motherboard

Support plates for motherboardSupport plates for motherboard

For additional protection from motherboard breakage due to the weight of the CPU heatsinks, your motherboard package comes with a solution kit that consists of:

• 2 x metal support plates

• 1 x contour sheet

• 3 different sets of metal nuts and rubber pads for varied chassis standoffs (each set contains 8 metal nuts and 2 rubber pads)

To install the support plates:

1. Open and lay your system

chassis flat on a stable surface, then locate the motherboard standoffs as shown.

StandoffStandoff

Standoff

StandoffStandoff

2. Align the holes of the contour

sheet with the standoffs on the

Standoff besideStandoff beside

Standoff beside

Standoff besideStandoff beside power supply cagepower supply cage

power supply cage

power supply cagepower supply cage

base of the chassis. Press the sheet flat making sure that it is completely affixed to the chassis.

The contour sheet fits in only one orientation. Make sure that the hole located about 1 cm from the corner matches the standoff beside the power supply cage.

3. Determine the height of the standoffs on your chassis, and select the

appropriate set of metal nuts and rubber pads from your package.

Use a nut size that is slightly lower than the standoffs on your chassis.

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4. Use a plier to attach four nuts to the bolts on the metal support plate.

5. Align a rubber pad to the

rectagular mark on the center of the plate, then press to attach.

6. Remove the adhesive label underneath a plate.

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Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information

Chapter 2: Hardware information

Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information

7. Carefully align and place the plate on a rectangular cut on the contour sheet.

Make sure that the metal support plates fit perfectly to the rectangular cuts on the contour sheet; otherwise, the CPU heatsink screws would not align to the metal nuts.

8. Repeat steps 4 and 7 to prepare and install the second plate.

9. Remove the contour sheet from the chassis.

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The support plates appear as shown when installed.

10. Install the motherboard with the external I/O ports toward the chassis rear panel. The CPU sockets should be right on top of the support plates.

Heatsink hole matched toHeatsink hole matched to

Heatsink hole matched to

Heatsink hole matched toHeatsink hole matched to a nut on the support platea nut on the support plate

a nut on the support plate

a nut on the support platea nut on the support plate

Make sure that the CPU heatsink holes on the motherboard perfectly match the metal nuts on the support plates; otherwise, you can not install the CPU heatsinks properly.

11. Secure the motherboard with 10 screws. Refer to section “2.2.2 Screw holes” for illustration.

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Chapter 2: Hardware information

Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information

2.2.42.2.4

25cm (9.8in)

2.2.4

2.2.42.2.4

Motherboard layoutMotherboard layout

Motherboard layout

Motherboard layoutMotherboard layout

PS/2KBMS T: Mouse B: Keyboard

SPDIF

COM1

Bottom:

Top:

T:USB4

1394

B:USB3

USB2.0 T: USB1 B: USB2

Top:Line In Center:Line Out Below:Mic In

FP_AUDIO1

AD1980

BUZZER1

GAME1

REAR_FAN1

PARALLEL PORT

USBPW12

Top:

RJ-45

LAN_EN1

CD1

SUPER

I/O

AMI

BIOS

8Mb

KBPWR1

USBPW34

DDR DIMM_B2 (72 bit, 184-pin module)

DDR DIMM_A2 (72 bit, 184-pin module)

REAR_FAN2

Broadcom BCM5751

ATXPWR1

DDR DIMM_B1 (72 bit, 184-pin module)

DDR DIMM_A1 (72 bit, 184-pin module)

PCIE1 (x4 link)

AUX1

PCIE2 (x16 link)

PCIX3 (64-bit PCI-X)

COM2

PCIX4 (64-bit PCI-X)

BPSMB1

PCI5 (32-bit 5V PCI)

SB_PWR1

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CPU_FAN1

E7525

WIFI

Intel

MCH

SATA_EN1

ATX12V1

J4 J3

Adaptec

AIC-8130

TSB43AB22A

FM_CPU1

CMOS Power

1394_EN1

SATA_RAID1

CR2032 3V Lithium Cell

VT6212L

USB_EN1

VIA

CPU1

CPU2

SATA_RAID2

SATA_RAID3

Intel

6300ESB

ICH

FLOPPY

CHASSIS1

HDLED1

USB56USB78IE1394_2

mPGA 604

CPU_FAN2

FM_CPU2

FRNT_FAN2

SATA_RAID4

CLRTC1

SEC_IDE

SATA1

PANEL1

FRNT_FAN1

30.5cm (12in)

SATA2

PRI_IDE

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2.2.52.2.5

2.2.5

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Layout contentsLayout contents

Layout contents

Layout contentsLayout contents

SlotsSlots

Slots

SlotsSlots

PagePage

Page

PagePage

1. CPU sockets 2-10

2. DDR2 DIMM sockets 2-14

3. PCI/PCI-X/PCI Express slots 2-18

4. Wi-Fi slot 2-18

JumpersJumpers

Jumpers

JumpersJumpers

PagePage

Page

PagePage

1. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC1) 2-19

2. CPU fan pin selection (3-pin FM_CPU1, FM_CPU2) 2-20

3. USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW12, USBPW34) 2-20

5. Keyboard power (3-pin KBPWR1) 2-21

6. IEEE 1394 controller setting (3-pin 1394_EN1) 2-21

7. Gigabit LAN controller setting (3-pin LAN_EN1) 2-22

8. SATA controller setting (3-pin SATA_EN1) 2-22

9. USB controller setting (3-pin USB_EN1) 2-23

Rear panel connectorsRear panel connectors

Rear panel connectors

Rear panel connectorsRear panel connectors

PagePage

Page

PagePage

1. PS/2 mouse port (green) 2-24

2. Parallel port 2-24

3. IEEE 1394a port 2-24

4. LAN (RJ-45) port 2-24

5. Line In port (light blue) 2-24

6. Line Out port (lime) 2-24

7. Microphone port (pink) 2-24

8. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4 2-25

9. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2 2-25

10. Serial (COM1) port 2-25

11. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port 2-25

12. PS/2 keyboard port (purple) 2-25

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Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information

Chapter 2: Hardware information

Chapter 2: Hardware informationChapter 2: Hardware information

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