ASUS P4S8X User Manual

P4S8X

®

User Manual

Motherboard

P4S8X

Checklist

E1 120
Sepetember 2002

Copyright © 2002 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, 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.

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.

The product name and revision number are both printed on the product itself. Manual revisions
are released for each product design represented by the digit before and after the period of
the manual revision number. Manual updates are represented by the third digit in the manual
revision number.

For previous or updated manuals, BIOS, drivers, or product release information, contact
ASUS at: http://www.asus.com or through any of the means indicated on the following page.

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.

ii

About this guide

This user manual contains complete information for installing the ASUS
P4S8X motherboard.

How this guide is organized

• Chapter 1: Product introduction. A summary of product features and

special attributes of new technologies.

• Chapter 2: Hardware information. A list of hardware setup procedures
and descriptions of all jumpers and connectors on the motherboard.

• Chapter 3: Powering up. Describes the power up sequence with
information on BIOS beep codes.

• Chapter 4: BIOS setup. How to change system settings using onboard
BIOS firmware. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are supplied.

• Chapter 5: Software support. A summary of contents on the
motherboard support CD ROM.

• Appendix and Glossary . Optional components and technical definitions.

• Index

Conventions used in this guide

Features

T o make sure that you perform set-up tasks properly , take note of the following
symbols used throughout this manual.

WARNING! Information to prevent injury to yourself.

CAUTION! Information to prevent damage to the components.

IMPORTANT! Information that you MUST follow to complete a task.

NOTE! Tips and helpful information.

iii

Safeguards

Contents

About this guide .............................................................................. iii

How this guide is organized.................................................... iii

Conventions used in this guide............................................... iii

Safety information ........................................................................... vi

FCC/CDC statements .................................................................... vii

ASUS contact information ............................................................. viii

Chapter 1: Product introduction ............................................. 1

Welcome!........................................................................................ 1

1.1 Package contents .................................................................. 1

1.2 Core Specifications ................................................................ 2

1.3 Special Features .................................................................... 3

1.4 Motherboard Components...................................................... 4

1.4.1 Component Locations................................................ 5

1.5 Value-added Solutions ........................................................... 6

Chapter 2: Hardware information ............................................ 7

2.1 Motherboard installation ......................................................... 7

2.2 Motherboard layout ................................................................ 8

2.3 Before you proceed...............................................................10

2.4 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ..............................................11

2.5 System memory ....................................................................17

2.6 Expansion slots.....................................................................21

2.7 Jumpers ................................................................................24

2.8 Connectors ...........................................................................27

Chapter 3: Powering up ......................................................... 41

3.1 Starting up for the first time................................................... 41

3.2 Vocal POST Messages .........................................................42

3.3 Powering off the computer.................................................... 44

Chapter 4: BIOS setup ........................................................... 45

4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS....................................... 45

4.2 BIOS Setup program.............................................................50

4.3 Main menu ............................................................................53

4.3.1 Primary & Secondary Master/Slave ......................... 54

iv

Contents

4.3.2 Keyboard Features .................................................. 58

4.4 Advanced Menu ....................................................................60

4.4.1 Chip Configuration ................................................... 63

4.4.2 I/O Device Configuration.......................................... 66

4.4.3 PCI Configuration .................................................... 68

4.5 Power Menu..........................................................................71

4.5.1 Power Up Control .................................................... 73

4.5.2 Hardware Monitor .................................................... 75

4.6 Boot Menu ............................................................................76

4.7 Exit Menu..............................................................................78

Chapter 5: Software support ................................................. 81

5.1 Install an operating system................................................... 81

5.2 Support CD information.........................................................81

5.3 P4S8X Motherboard Support CD ......................................... 82

5.4 Using the Promise Chip for RAID 0 or 1 ............................... 84

5.5 Manual Installation of IDE/RAID Drivers ............................... 92

5.6 ASUS PC Probe....................................................................94

5.7 ASUS Live Update ................................................................99

5.8 ASUS MyLogo™.................................................................100

5.9 3Deep Color Tuner..............................................................102

5.10 Winbond Voice Editor ..........................................................104

5.11 Winbond Smart Manager ....................................................108

5.12 Multi-Channel Audio Feature Setup ..................................... 112

Glossary ................................................................................ 115

Index ...................................................................................... 119

v

Safety information

Electrical safety

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

• When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the
power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are
connected. 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 adpater or extension cord.
These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.

• Make sure that your power supply is set to the voltage available in your
area.

• If the power supply is broken, contact a qualified service technician or your
retailer .

Operational safety

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

• Before use ensure all cables are correctly connected and the power cables
are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact the 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.

• Mount the motherboard inside a standard PC enclosure.

• If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified

service technician or the dealer.

vi

FCC/CDC statements

Federal Communications Commission Statement

This device complies with FCC Rules Part 15. 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 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.

vii

ASUS contact information

ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (Asia-Pacific)

Address: 150 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 112
General Tel: [phone]
General Fax: [phone]
General Email: [e-mail]

Technical Support:

MB/Others (Tel): [phone] (English)
Notebook (Tel): [phone] (English)
Desktop/Server (Tel): [phone] (English)
Support Fax: [phone]
Support Email: [e-mail]
Web Site: www.asus.com.tw
Newsgroup: cscnews.asus.com.tw

ASUS COMPUTER INTERNATIONAL (America)

Address: 6737 Mowry Avenue, Mowry Business Center,

Building 2, Newark, CA 94560, USA
General Fax: [phone]
General Email: [e-mail]

Technical Support:

Support Fax: [phone]
General Support: [phone]
Notebook Support : +1-877-918-ASUS (2787)
Web Site: www.asus.com
Support Email: [e-mail]

ASUS COMPUTER GmbH (Europe)

Address: Harkortstr. 25, 40880 Ratingen, BRD, Germany
General Fax: [phone]
General Email: [e-mail] (for marketing requests only)

Technical Support:

Support Hotline: MB/Others: [phone]
Notebook (Tel): [phone]
Support Fax: [phone]
Support (Email): www.asuscom.de/de/support (for online support)
Web Site: www.asuscom.de

viii

Chapter 1

Product introduction

ASUS P4S8X motherboard

Welcome!

Thank you for buying the ASUS® P4S8X motherboard!

The ASUS
long-lasting, superlative performance. The ASUS® P4S8X motherboard is
the prime choice for home PCs and workstations.

The P4S8X incorporates the Intel
SiS 648 chipset to set a new benchmark for an effective desktop platform
solution.

Before installing the motherboard, check the items in your package:

P4S8X motherboard delivers a host of new features to ensure

®

Pentium® 4 Processor coupled with the

~ CPU Thermal Protection
~ Up to 3GB of system memory of PC 2700 / 2100 / 1600 DDR
~ High-resolution graphics via an AGP 8X slot
~ Digital Audio Interface for 3D sound (Optional)

™

~ Realtek
~ Serial A TA connection onboard for easy system upgrade (Optional)
~ Four USB ports plus a headers for two more

LAN Controller onboard (Optional)

1.1 Package contents

Check your P4S8X package for the following items.

ASUS P4S8X motherboard (ATX 30.5 cm x 21.9 cm)
ASUS P4S8X support CD
ASUS 2-port USB 2.0 / Game port module (Optional)
80 pin conductor ribbon cable for UltraDMA/33/66/100/133 IDE drives
9 pin COM2 cable
Ribbon cable for a 3.5-inch floppy drive
Bag of extra jumper caps
User Guide

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

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

1

1.2

The P4S8X motherboard is designed and assembled according to the highest
standards. This ASUS motherboard represents the latest advances to supply
users the finest componentry available today...

Latest 533MHz P4 Processor Technology: Intel Pentium 4 Socket 478

Northwood/Willamette Processor. The Pentium 4 processor utilizes the
advanced 0.18 micron processor core in FC-PGA2 package for a

2.53+GHz frequency , while the Northwood processor uses the 0.13 micron
processor core with 512KB L2 cache for up to a speedy 2.53+ GHz
frequency and a 400/533 MHz FSB. The P4 offers optimized performance
for audio, video, and Internet applications.

North Bridge Chipset: the SiS

533/400MHz Front Side Bus, and the fastest 333 MHz memory bus.

South Bridge Chipset: the SiS

UltraDMA133/100/66/33 for burst mode data transfer rates up to 133MB/
sec, and USB controller with three root hubs for six USB ports.

PC 2700 (333MHz) / 2100 (266MHz) / 1600 (200MHz) DDR Support:

Equipped with three Double Data Rate Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR
DIMM) sockets to support up to 3GB of DDR DRAM, the newest memory
standard with the highest bandwidth and lowest latency currently available.
This new memory technology increases performance by executing two
actions per clock cycle, supplying data transfer rates up to 2.7 GB/s for
166MHz DDR SDRAM and 2.1GB/s for 133MHz DDR SDRAM.

Core Specifications

®

648 supports AGP 8X/4X/2X mode,

®

963 integrated peripheral controller supports

UltraDMA133 Support: Comes with an onboard PCI Bus Master IDE

controller with two connectors that support four IDE devices on two
channels. Supports UltraDMA133/100/66/33, PIO Modes 3 & 4, Bus
Master IDE DMA Mode 2, and Enhanced IDE devices, such as DVD­ROM, CD-ROM, CD-R/RW, LS-120, and Tape Backup drives.

Multi-I/O Chipset: The W83697SF chip offers complete support for a variety

of I/O functions. Provides two high-speed UART compatible serial ports
and one parallel port with EPP and ECP capabilities. UAR T2 can switch
from COM2 to the Infrared Module for wireless connections. The Super
I/O controller supports a floppy disk drive.

Smart BIOS: 4Mb firmware enables boot block write protection, and HD/

SCSI/MO/ZIP/CD/Floppy boot selection.

Expansion: One AGP 8XSlot, four USB ports, one COM port, one COM

header , six PCI slots, SPDIF digital audio, front audio panel, 1394 header,
smart card header.

Connections: Parallel, PS/2 mouse, PS/2 keyboard, 4 USB, 1394

port(Optional), RJ45 (optional), Microphone/ Line-In / Line-Out
jacks(Optional), Standard ATX, AUX and 12V power.

2

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.3 Special Features

ASUS EZ Plug™ (See page 33.)

This patented ASUS technology uses the existing power supply
instead of having to buy a new ATX 12V power supply: ASUS EZ
Plug™ is a 4-pin +12V connector that provides additional power
required by P4 CPUs.

ASUS EZ Flash BIOS

(See page 45.)

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.

ASUS POST Reporter

™

(See page 67 and 108.)

P4S8X offers the ASUS POST Reporter™ to provide friendly voice
messages and alerts during the Power-On Self-Test (POST). Through
the system’s internal speaker, or an added external speaker, messages
inform you of system boot status and causes of boot errors. Bundled

™

Winbond

Voice Editor software helps customize voice messages, and

offers multi-language support.

™

ASUS MyLogo

(See page 100.)

This new feature present in the P4S8X motherboard helps you to
personalize and add style to your system with customizable boot logos.

ASUS Q-Fan feature

(See page 75.)

The ASUS Q-Fan technology smartly adjusts the fan speeds according
to the system loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efficient operation.

ASUS Multi-language BIOS

(See page 59.)

The multi-language BIOS offers the language of your choice from
several options. Localized BIOS menus are easy to configure. Visit the
ASUS website for the supported languages.

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

3

1.4

Motherboard Components

Before installing the P4S8X motherboard, take time to familiarize yourself
with its configuration.

Location

Processor Support Socket 478 for Intel® P4™ Processors.............................. 4

®

Chipsets SiS

Main Memory 3 DDR SDRAM DIMM Sockets (3GB) ............................. 7

Expansion Slots 6 PCI Slots..................................................................... 23

System I/O 2 IDE Connectors (UltraDMA133 Support)...................... 8

Hardware Monitoring System Voltage Monitor ( integrated in ASUS ASIC)....... 11

Special Feature Onboard AGP Warning LED (Red) .................................. 3

Network Feature Realtek 100/10 Mbps LAN PHYs (Optional).................. 29

Audio Features (on audio models only)

Power ATX 12V Power Supply Connector .................................. 1

Form Factor ATX

648 North Bridge ..................................................... 5

®

963 South Bridge ................................................... 10

SiS

Serial A T A Controller(Optional) ...................................... 17

Audio Controller(Optional) ............................................. 24

Multi-I/O Controller......................................................... 27

4Mbit Programmable Flash EEPROM ........................... 28

Realtek 1394 PHY (Optional) ....................................... 31

Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) 8X Slot ....................... 9

Promise ATA133 IDE Connector(Optional) .................... 12

System Panel Connector ............................................... 14

USB Headers (USB_56) ................................................ 15

Serial A T A Headers(Optional) ........................................ 16

Floppy Disk Drive Connector ......................................... 18

Serial (COM2) Header ................................................... 19

Game Port ..................................................................... 20

Smart Card Connector................................................... 21

Infrared Connector......................................................... 22

Modem Connector ......................................................... 25

IEEE 1394 Header(Optional) ......................................... 32

PS/2 Mouse Connector..................................... (green) 33

Parallel Port ................................................................... 34

USB Connectors (Port 1/2) ............................................ 39

IEEE 1394 Connector .................................................... 40

Serial Port (COM1) ........................................................ 41

USB Connectors (Port 3/4) ............................................ 42

PS/2 Keyboard Connector ............................... (purple) 43

Onboard Power-on LED (Green) ................................... 13

RJ45 Connector (Optional) ............................................ 35

Front Panel Audio Header ............................................. 30

Audio Connectors .......................................................... 26

Line In Connector ....................................... (light blue) 36

Line Out Connector..............................................(lime) 37

Microphone Connector ........................................(pink) 38

AUX12V EZ-Plug Power Supply Connector .................... 2

ATX Power Supply Connector ......................................... 6

4

Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.4.1 Component Locations

32

31
30

29
28

1

2 5

3

46 7

8
9

10

27
26

25
24

23

22

21

33 34

19

11
12

13

1720

1516

35

1418

36
37

43 42 41 39

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

40

38

5

1.5 Value-added Solutions

Software Audio

CMI-9739A supports 6-Ch output, with an SPDIF Input/Output module
for coaxial and fiber interfaces. Experience surround-sound and enhanced
3D audio.

Smart Card Reader Support

Card Reader comes onboard to support the cutting-edge technology for
increased security in authenticating online transactions, editing IC-based
information.

USB2.0: The latest connection standard for next generation components

and peripherals. Compatible with 1.1 USB, the new 2.0 USB protocol
delivers transfer speeds up to 40 times faster at 480Mb/s.

NOTICE: USB 2.0 functions are not supported under Win98 and WinME.

T emperature, Fan and V oltage Monitoring: CPU temperature is monitored

by the ASUS ASIC through the CPU’s internal thermal diode to prevent
overheating and damage. All system fans are monitored for RPM and
failure. System voltage levels are monitored to ensure stable voltage to
critical motherboard components.

(Optional)

: On audio models, a 963 digital audio CODEC,

(Optional)

: A special connector for the Smart

Auto Fan Off: The system fans powers off automatically even in sleep mode.
ACPI Ready: Advanced Configuration Power Interface (ACPI) provides more

Energy Saving Features for operating systems that support OS Direct
Power Management (OSPM).

Onboard LAN (Optional): The motherboard incorporates the RTL8201BL

PHY chip to support 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Fast Ethernet networking.

Concurrent PCI: Concurrent PCI allows multiple PCI transfers from PCI

master busses to the memory and processor.

Dual Function Power Button: Push the power button for less than 4 seconds

when the system is operating places the system into sleep or soft-off
modes, depending on the BIOS or OS setting. If the power button is
pressed for more than 4 seconds, the system enters soft-off mode.

6

Chapter 1: Product introduction

Chapter 2

Hardware information

ASUS P4S8X motherboard

2.1 Motherboard installation

Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis
to ensure that the motherboard fits into it. The P4S8X uses the ATX form
factor that measures 30.5 cm (12.0 in.) x 21.9 cm (8.6 in.), a standard fit
for most chassis.

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

2.1.1 Placement direction

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

2.1.2 Screw holes

Place seven (7) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the
motherboard to the chassis.

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

Place this side towards
the rear of the chassis

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

7

2.2 Motherboard layout

21.9cm (8.6in)

PS/2KBMS
T: Mouse
B: Keyboard

USB2.0

T: USB3

B: USB4

COM1

1394

USB2.0

T: USB1
B: USB2

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

4MB

MODEM

C-Media

6CH

Codec

IR_CON

SMARTCON

KBPWR

USBPWR_34

PARALLEL PORT

ATX12V

USBPWR_12

Top:

RJ-45

FP_AUDIO

ISA

I/O

SMART

CD

AUX

FP_LO_SWL

FP_LO_SWR

REALTEK

SPDIF

GAME

EZ_PLUG

IEEE1394_2

REALTEK

CPU_FAN

PWR_FAN1

SiS648

HOST/

Memory

Controller

AGP_WARN

Accelerated Graphics Port

AGP

PCI1

P4S8X

PCI2

PCI3

PCI4

®

PCI5

PCI6

COM2

FLOPPY

ATX Power Connector

Socket 478

Controller

PDC20376

PROMISE

USBPWR_56

DDR DIMM1 (64/72 bit, 184-pin module)

0 1

DDR DIMM3 (64/72 bit, 184-pin module)

DDR DIMM2 (64/72 bit, 184-pin module)

4 5

2 3

SEC_IDE

SiS963

MuTLOL

Media

I/O

CR2032 3V

SEC_SATA

PRI_SATA

Lithium Cell

CMOS Power

ASUS

BUZZER

CHA_FAN

USB_56

with

ASIC

IDE_LED

Monitor

Hardware

SPEECH

SB_PWR

CLRTC

SMB

CHASSIS

PANEL

30.5cm (12.0in)

PRI_IDE

PRI_ATA133

The audio and LAN features are optional. These components are
grayed out in the above motherboard layout.

8

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.2.1 Layout contents

CPU, Memory and Expansion Slots

1) Socket 478 p. 12 Installing the CPU

2) Heatsink p. 14 Installing the Heatsink and Fan

3) Memory p. 17 System Memory Support

4) PCI 1/2/3/4/5/6 p. 21 32-bit PCI Bus Expansion Slots

5) AGP 8x p. 23 Accelerated Graphics Slot

Motherboard Settings (Switches and Jumpers)

1) USBPWR_12, _34, _56 p. 24 USB Device Wake-up (+5V / +5VSB)

2) FP_LO_SWR,_SWL p. 25 Line out selector (2 x 2 pin)

3) KBPWR p. 25 Keyboard Wake Up (3 pin)

4) CLRTC p. 26 Clear RTC RAM (3 pin)

Connectors

1) PS2KBMS p. 27 PS/2 Mouse Port (6 pin female)

2) PS2KBMS p. 27 PS/2 Keyboard Port (6 pin female)

3) USB p. 28 Universal Serial Bus Ports 1 & 2 (2 x 4 pin female)

4) PRINTER p. 28 Parallel Port (25 pin female)

5) RJ45 p. 28 Fast-Ethernet Port Connector

6) COM1/2 p. 29 Serial Port and Header (9 pin male, 10-1 pin male)

7) AUDIO p. 29 Audio Connectors (Six 1/8” jacks)

8) 1394 p. 30 IEEE-1394 Port (female jack)

9) IDELED p. 30 IDE Activity LED (2 pin)

10) PRI_IDE1 / SEC_IDE1, p. 31 IDE Connectors (Three 40-1 pin)
PRI_ATA133

11) FLOPPY p. 32 Floppy Disk Drive Connector (34-1 pin)

12) CPU_, CPA_, PWR_FAN p. 32 Chassis and CPU Fan Connectors (Two 3 pin)

13) ATXPWR p. 33 ATX Power Supply Connector (20 pin)

14) USB56 p. 34 USB Headers (Two 10-1 pin)

15) CD, AUX, MODEM p. 34 Internal Audio Connectors (Three 4-1 pin) (optional)

16) SPDIF p. 35 Digital Audio Connector (6 pin)

17) IR_CON p. 35 Infrared module connector (5-1 pin)

18) IEEE13394_2 p. 36 IEEE-1394 Header (8-pin) (Optional)

19) CHASSIS p. 36 Chassis Open Alarm Lead (4-1 pin)

20) SMB p. 37 SMBus Connector (6-1 pin)

21) PRI_SATA, SEC_SATA p. 37 SATA Serial Connectors (2 x 7 pin)

22) SMARTCON p. 38 Smart Card Reader con. (14-1 pin) (optional)

23) GAME p. 38 Game Connector (16-1 pin)

24) FP_AUDIO p. 39 Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin)

25) PLED p. 40 System Power LED Lead (3-1 pin)

26) SPEAKER p. 40 System Warning Speaker Lead (4 pin)

27) SMI p. 40 System Management Interrupt Lead (2 pin)

28) PWRSW p. 40 ATX Power Switch / Soft-Off Switch Lead (2 pin)

29) RESET p. 40 Reset Switch Lead (2-pin)

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

9

2.3 Before you proceed

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

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

2. 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.

3. Hold components by the edges and do not to touch the ICs on them.

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

5. Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the

ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is
detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause

severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, and/or
components.

Onboard System Indicators (LED - Light Emitting Diodes)

The GREEN onboard LED indicates that the system power is okay. This
light also lights when the PC is in suspend or soft-off mode. The RED
onboard warning LED lights up only if the wrong type of AGP card is
connected to the board: (See AGP 8X, p. 23)

AGP_WARN

P4S8X

®

P4S8X Onboard LED

ON

Incorrect

AGP Card

SB_PWR

ON

Standby

Power

OFF

Correct

AGP Card

OFF

Powered

Off

10

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.4 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

2.4.1 Overview

The motherboard comes with a surface mount 478-pin Zero Insertion
Force (ZIF) socket. This socket is specifically designed for the Intel
Pentium® 4 478/Northwood Processor.

The Intel Pentium 4 Processor in the 478-pin package uses the Flip-Chip
Pin Grid Array 2 (FC-PGA2) package technology, and includes the Intel
NetBurst™ micro-architecture. The Intel NetBurst micro-architecture
features the hyper-pipelined technology, rapid execution engine, 400 /
533MHz system bus, and execution trace cache. Together, these attributes
improve system performance by allowing higher processor frequencies,
faster execution of integer instructions, and a data transfer rates of 3.2 and

4.2GB/s.

Gold Mark

®

®

Note in the illustration that the CPU has a gold triangular mark on one
corner. This mark indicates the processor Pin 1 that should match a
specific corner of the CPU socket.

Incorrect installation of the CPU into the socket may bend the pins and
severely damage the CPU!

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

11

2.4.2 Installing the CPU

Follow these steps to install a CPU.

1. Locate the 478-pin ZIF socket on the motherboard.

2. Unlock the socket by pressing the lever sideways, then lift it up to a
90°-100° angle.

Socket Lever

90 -100

12

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

Chapter 2: Hardware information

3. Position the CPU above the socket such that its marked corner
matches the base of the socket lever.

4. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place.

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

Gold Mark

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

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

13

2.4.3 Installing the heatsink and fan

The Intel® Pentium® 4 478/Northwood Processor requires a specially
designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition
and performance.

When you buy a boxed Intel Pentium 4 478/Northwood Processor, the
package includes the heatsink, fan, and retention mechanism.

In case you buy a CPU separately, make sure that you use only Intel
certified heatsink and fan.

Follow these steps to install the CPU heatsink and fan.

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

CPU Heatsink

Retention Module Base

Your boxed Intel Pentium 4 478/Northwood Processor package 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.

14

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2. Position the fan with the retention mechanism on top of the heatsink.
Align and snap the four hooks of the retention mechanism to the holes
on each corner of the module base.

Make sure that the fan and retention mechanism assembly perfectly
fits the heatsink and module base, otherwise you cannot snap the
hooks into the holes.

Retention Hole

Retention Lock

Keep the retention locks lifted upward while fitting the retention
mechanism to the module base.

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

Retention Hook Snapped
to the Retention Hole

15

3. Push down the locks on the retention mechanism to secure the
heatsink and fan to the module base.

When secure, the retention locks should point to opposite directions.

2.4.4 Connecting the CPU fan cable

When the fan, heatsink, and the retention mechanism are in place,
connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled
CPUFAN.

CPU Fan Connector (CPUFAN)

16

Don’t forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring
errors may occur if you fail to plug this connector.

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.5 System memory

2.5.1 Overview

The motherboard comes with three Double Data Rate (DDR) Dual Inline
Memory Module (DIMM) sockets. These sockets support up to 3GB
system memory using 184-pin unbuffered non-ECC PC2700/2100/1600
DIMMs.

104 Pins

P4S8X

®

P4S8X 184-Pin DDR DIMM Sockets

A DDR DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it fits in only one direction.
DO NOT force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the DIMM.

80 Pins

The DDR SDRAM technology evolved from the mainstream PC66, PC100,
PC133 memory known as Single Data Rate (SDR) SDRAM. DDR memory
however, has the ability to perform two data operations in one clock cycle,
thus providing twice the throughput of SDR memory.

DDR Data Transfer Rate DDR Base Frequency

2.7 GB/s 166MHz

2.1 GB/s 133MHz

1.6 GB/s 100MHz

A DDR DIMM has the same physical dimensions as an SDR DIMM, but it
has a 184-pin footprint compared to the 168-pin of the SDR DIMM. Also, a
DDR DIMM is single notched while an SDR DIMM is double notched.
Therefore, a DDR DIMM is not backward compatible with SDR, and should
be installed only in a socket specially designed for DDR DIMMs.

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

17

2.5.2 Memory configurations

You may install any DDR DIMMs with 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB and
1GB densities into the three DIMM sockets.

DDR DIMMs may be installed in the following sizes:

DIMM Location 184-pin DDR DIMM Total Memory

Socket 1 (Rows 0&1) 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, 1GB x1 =
Socket 2 (Rows 2&3) 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, 1GB x1 =
Socket 3 (Rows 4&5) 64MB, 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, 1GB x1 =

Total system memory (Max. 3GB) =

DDR333 DIMM Qualified Vendor List

The following table lists the DDR333 memory modules that have been
tested and qualified for use with this motherboard.

Vendor Model Type/Size

Nanya NT5DS16M8AT-6 PC2700/256MB
Samsung K4H280838D-TCB3 PC2700/128MB
Samsung K4H280838D-TCB3 PC2700/256MB
Micron MT8VDDT1664AG-335B1 PC2700/128MB

Micron MT16VDDT3264AG-335B1 PC2700/256MB

Use only the tested and qualified DDR333 DIMMs listed above. Other
DDR DIMMs manufactured by other vendors may not be suitable for
this motherboard. Visit the ASUS website for the latest qualified DDR
module list.

18

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.5.3 Installing a DIMM

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

Follow these steps to install a DIMM.

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

2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches
the break on the socket.

Unlocked Retaining Clip

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

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

19

2.5.4 Removing a DIMM

Follow these steps to remove a DIMM.

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

Support the DIMM lightly with your fingers when pressing the retaining
clips. The DIMM might get damaged when it flips out with extra force.

2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.

20

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.6 Expansion slots

In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The motherboard has
six PCI slots and one Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) slot. The following
sub-sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support.

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

2.6.1 Installing an expansion card

Follow these steps 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 firmly 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.

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

21

2.6.2 Configuring an expansion card

After physically installing the expansion card, configure the card by
adjusting the software settings.

1. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any.
See Chapter 4 for information on BIOS setup.

2. Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the bottom of this
page.

3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.

Standard Interrupt Assignments

IRQ Priority Standard Function

0 1 System Timer
1 2 Keyboard Controller
2 N/A Programmable Interrupt
3* 11 Communications Port (COM2)
4* 12 Communications Port (COM1)
5* 13 Sound Card (sometimes LPT2)
6 14 Floppy Disk Controller
7* 15 Printer Port (LPT1)
8 3 System CMOS/Real Time Clock
9* 4 ACPI Mode when used
10* 5 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering
11* 6 IRQ Holder for PCI Steering
12* 7 PS/2 Compatible Mouse Port
13 8 Numeric Data Processor
14* 9 Primary IDE Channel
15* 10 Secondary IDE Channel

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

IRQ assignments for this motherboard

ABCDEFGH

PCI slot 1 ———shared ————
PCI slot 2 — shared ——————
PCI slot 3 ——shared —————
PCI slot 4 ———shared ————
PCI slot 5 shared ———————
PCI slot 6 — shared ——————
Onboard USB HC0 ————used ———
Onboard USB HC1 —————used ——
Onboard USB HC2 ——————used —
Onboard USB HC3 ———————used
AGP — shared ——————
Onboard Audio ——shared —————
Onboard LAN ———shared ————

When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support
“Share IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments.

22

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.6.3 PCI slots

There are six 32-bit PCI slots in this motherboard. The slots support PCI
cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply
with PCI specifications. The following figure shows a LAN card installed on a
PCI slot.

2.6.4 AGP slot

This motherboard has an Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) slot that supports
any AGP 8X / 4X / 2X 1.5V cards.

CAUTION! This motherboard does not support 3.3V AGP cards; if a

3.3V card is inserted, the red LED warning light lights up and the board
will not power up; use only 1.5V AGP cards! To avoid damaging your
AGP graphics card, your computer’s power supply should be unplugged
before inserting your graphics card into the slot.

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

23

2.7 Jumpers

The jumpers on the motherboard allow you to change some feature settings
to suit your customized system configuration.

1. USB Device Wake-Up (3 x 3 pin USBPWR_12, _34, _56)

The default setting, [1-2] (+5V) disables the USB wake-up feature. Reset
these jumpers to pins [2-3] (+5VSB) to wake up the computer using USB
devices.

The USB device wake-up feature requires a power supply that can
provide at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. If this requirement is not met,
the system does not power up. The total current consumed must NOT
exceed the power supply capability (+5VSB) whether under normal
condition or in sleep mode. Also note that ONLY USB +5VSB can
support S3 resume function.

USBPWR_34
USBPWR_12

P4S8X

®

P4S8X USB Device Wake Up

2
1

+5V +5VSB

(Default)

USBPWR_56

12

+5V

(Default)

3
2

23

+5VSB

24

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2. Line out selector (2 x 2 pin FP_LO_SWR, FP_LO_SWL)
(on audio models only)

By default, these jumpers are shorted (jumper caps on) to route the signal
from the audio controller to the rear panel Line Out jack to make it available
for audio out devices like speakers or headphones.

If you connect the Intel Front Panel audio cable to the FP_Audio connector ,
(see page 39 for the connector location) remove the caps from these jumpers
to allow automatic switching of audio signals between the rear panel Line
Out jack and the audio cable.

P4S8X

FP_LO_SWL

FP_LO_SWR

®

BLOL
FLOL
BLOR
FLOR

P4S8X Internal Line Out Selector

3. Keyboard Wake Up (3 pin KBPWR)

This allows you to disable or enable the keyboard power up function. Set this
jumper to Enable if you wish to use your keyboard (by pressing <Spacebar>)
to power up your computer . This feature requires an ATX power supply that
can supply at least 300mA on the +5VSB lead. The default is set to Enable.
(The computer will not power ON if you set this to Enable but do not have the
correct ATX power supply. NOTE: This jumper must be set in conjunction
with Wake On PS2 KB/PS2 Mouse/CIR in 4.5.1 Power Up Control.

KBPWR

12

+5V

P4S8X

®

P4S8X Keyboard Power Setting

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

32

+5VSB

(Default)

25

4. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC)

Y ou can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters
by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The RAM data in CMOS, that include
system setup information such as system passwords, is powered by the
onboard button cell battery.

To erase the RTC RAM:

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

2. Remove the motherboard battery.

3. Remove the jumper cap from the CLRTC jumper, [1-2] and place

it on jumpers [2-3] for a few seconds.

4. Replace the jumper cap to the Normal postion, [1-2].

5. Replace the battery.

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

7. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS

setup to re-enter data.

P4S8X

®

P4S8X Clear RTC RAM

CLRTC

12

Normal Clear CMOS

(Default)

32

26

Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.8 Connectors

This section describes and illustrates the internal connectors on the
motherboard.

WARNING! Some pins are used for connectors or power sources. These

are clearly distinguished from jumpers in the Motherboard Layout. Placing
jumper caps over these connector pins will cause damage to your
motherboard.

IMPORTANT! Ribbon cables should always be connected with the red

stripe to Pin 1 in the connector scoket.

1. PS/2 Mouse Port (Green, 6-pin PS2KBMS)

The system automatically directs IRQ12 to the PS/2 mouse if one is
detected. If no mouse is detected, IRQ12 become available to expansion
cards. See PS/2 Mouse Function Control in 4.4 Advanced Menu.

PS/2 Mouse (6-pin Female)

2. PS/2 Keyboard Port (Purple, 6-pin PS2KBMS)

This connection is for a standard keyboard using an PS/2 plug (mini DIN).
This connector does not allow standard AT size (large DIN) keyboard
plugs. Y ou may use a DIN to mini DIN adapter on standard A T keyboards.

PS/2 Keyboard (6-pin Female)

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

27

3. Universal Serial Bus Ports 1 and 2 (Black, Two x 4-pin USB)

Four USB ports are available for connecting USB devices.

USB 2

USB 0

USB 1

Universal Serial Bus

USB3

4. Parallel Port (Burgundy 25-pin PRINTER)
You can enable the parallel port and choose the IRQ through Onboard
Parallel Port (see 4.4.2 I/O Device Configuration).

NOTE! Serial printers must be connected to the serial port.

Parallel Port (25-pin Female)

5. Fast-Ethernet Port Connector (RJ45) (optional)

This RJ45 connector is located on top of the USB Ports 0 & 1. The RJ45
supports connectivity for local area networks.

28

Chapter 2: Hardware information

RJ-45

6. Serial Port and Header

(Teal/Turquoise 9-pin COM1, 10-1 pin COM2)

One serial port can be used for pointing devices, printers or other serial
devices. An onboard header supports a serial bracket. T o enable these ports,
see Onboard Serial Port 1 in 4.4.2 I/O Device Configuration for the
settings.

COM1

Serial Ports (9-pin Male)

COM2

P4S8X

®

P4S8X Serial COM2 Bracket

PIN 1

7. Audio Connectors (Three 1/8” AUDIO) (optional)

The Line Out (lime) connects a headphone or speakers. The Line In (light
blue) connects a tape players or other audio sources. The Mic (pink) connects
a microphone.

NOTE! The functions of the audio connectors Line Out, Line In, and Mic

change when the 6-channel audio feature is enabled. Refer to Chapter

5. SOFTW ARE SETUP.

In

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

Out

Mic

29

8. IEEE-1394 Port (Female 1394)

This IEEE-1394 port supports a variety of devices. (see 4.4.2 I/O Device
Configuration).

1394

9. IDE Activity LED (2-pin IDELED)

This connector supplies power to the hard disk activity LED. The read or
write activities of any device connected to the primary or secondary IDE
connector cause this LED to light up.

P4S8X

®

P4S8X IDE Activity LED

Some pins are used for connectors or power sources. These are
clearly distinguished from jumpers in the Motherboard Layout. Placing
jumper caps over these connector pins will cause damage to your
motherboard.

IDE_LED

30

Chapter 2: Hardware information

10. IDE Connectors (40-1 pin PRI_IDE / SEC_IDE, PRI_ATA133)

Three connectorS support the UltraDMA133/100/66 IDE hard disk ribbon
cable provided with the motherboard. Connect the cable’s blue connector
to the PRI_IDE (recommended) or to the SEC_IDE connector; then
connect the gray connector to the UltraDMA133/100/66 slave device (hard
disk drive) and the black connector to the UltraDMA133/100/66 master
device. It is recommended that non-UltraDMA133/100/66 devices be
connected to the secondary IDE connector. If installing two hard disks,
configure the second drive as a slave device; set the slave hard disk
jumper according to the HDD instructions.

~ The PRI_ATA133 connector supports only one hard disk drive for use
in a RAID array . The PRI_AT A133 connector supports either RAID1/0 in
combination with either of the Serial ATA connectors. (See pages 37

and 82 for more information about RAID.)

~ BIOS supports specific device bootup. If more than two
UltraDMA133/100/66 devices are used, purchase another UltraDMA133/
100/66 cable. It is possible to configure two hard disks as master devices
by using two separate ribbon cables, one for the primary IDE connector ,
and another for the secondary IDE connector.

Pin 20 on each IDE connector is removed to match the covered hole
on the UltraDMA cable connector. This prevents incorrect orientation
when you connect the cables.

PIN 1

NOTE: Orient the red markings
(usually zigzag) on the IDE
ribbon cable to PIN 1.

P4S8X

®

SEC_IDE

PIN 1

P4S8X IDE Connectors

PRI_IDE

PRI_ATA133

1. For UltraDMA133/100/66 IDE devices, use an 80-conductor
IDE cable. The UltraDMA/66 cable included in the motherboard
package also supports UltraDMA133.

2. Always connect ribbon cables with the red stripe to Pin 1 on
the connectors. Pin 1 is usually on the side closest to the power
connector on hard drives and CD-ROM drives, but may be on the
opposite side on floppy disk drives.

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

31

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

This connector supports the provided floppy drive ribbon cable. After
connecting one end to the motherboard, connect the other end to the
floppy drive. (Pin 5 is removed to prevent incorrect insertion when using
ribbon cables with pin 5 plug).

FLOPPY

P4S8X

®

NOTE: Orient the red markings on
the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.

PIN 1

P4S8X Floppy Disk Drive Connector

12.CPU and Chassis Fan Connectors (3 x 3-pin CHA_FAN,CPA_FAN,
PWR_FAN)

The two fan connectors support cooling fans of 350mA (4.2 Watts) or a
total of 1A (12W) at +12V. Orient the fans so that the heat sink fins allow
air flow to go across the onboard heat sinks instead of the expansion
slots. The fan wiring and plug may vary depending on the fan
manufacturer . Connect the fan cable to the connector matching the black
wire to the ground pin.

Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Lack of
sufficient air flow within the system may damage the motherboard
components. These are not jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on
the fan connectors!

32

P4S8X

®

P4S8X 12-Volt Fan Connectors

Rotation

PWR_FAN

GND

Rotation

+12V

CPU_FAN

GND

+12V

CHA_FAN

GND

+12V

Rotation

Chapter 2: Hardware information

13.A TX power connectors and ASUS EZ Plug

™

(20-pin ATXPWR, 4-pin ATX+12V, 4-pin AUX+12V)

These connectors connect to an ATX 12V power supply. The plugs from
the power supply are designed to fit these connectors in only one
orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the
connectors completely fit.

In addition to the 20-pin ATXPWR connector, this motherboard requires
that you connect the 4-pin ATX +12V power plug to provide sufficient
power to the CPU.

If you are using a standard ATX power supply that does not have the
added A TX +12V plug, then simply connect one of the 4-pin device power
plugs into the ASUS EZ Plug™ connector labeled AUX12V.

Make sure that your ATX 12V power supply can provide at least 8A on
the +12V lead and at least 1A on the +5-volt standby lead (+5VSB).
The minimum recommended wattage is 230W, or 300W for a fully
configured system. The system may become unstable and may
experience difficulty powering up if the power supply is inadequate.

+5.0VDC

+5.0VDC

ATXPWR

Pin 1

P4S8X

®

+5VSB

+12.0VDC

P4S8X ATX & Auxiliary Power Connectors

COM

COM

COM

-5.0VDC

COM

COM

+5.0VDC

PWR_OK

ATX12V

+3.3VDC

-12.0VDC

COM

PS_ON#

COM

+3.3VDC

+3.3VDC

+5.0VDC

+12V DC COM

+12V DC COM

AUX12V

+12V
GND
GND
+5V

Pin 1

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

33

14.USB header (2 x 10-1 pin USB_56)

If the USB port connectors on the rear panel are inadequate, a USB header
is available for additional USB port connectors. Connect the bundled 2-port
USB connector set to this header and mount the USB bracket to an open
slot in the chassis.

P4S8X

USB+5V

LDM5

LDP5

GND

®

USB_56

1

NC

P4S8X USB 2.0 Header

LDP6

LDM6

USB+5V

GND

15.Internal audio connectors (4-pin CD, AUX, MODEM) (optional)

These connectors allow you to receive stereo audio input from sound
sources such as a CD-ROM, TV tuner, or MPEG card. The MODEM
connector allows the onboard audio to interface with a voice modem
card with a similar connector . It also allows the sharing of mono_in (such
as a phone) and a mono_out (such as a speaker) between the audio and
a voice modem card.

CD

AUX

(White)

Left Audio Channel
Ground
Ground
Right Audio Channel

P4S8X

MODEM

Modem-In

Ground
Ground

®

Modem-Out

(Black)

34

P4S8X Internal Audio Connectors

Chapter 2: Hardware information

16.Digital audio connector (6 pin SPDIF) (optional)

This connector connects an S/PDIF audio module that allows digital
instead of analog sound output. Connect one end of the audio cable to
the S/PDIF Out connector on the motherboard, and the other end to the
S/PDIF module.

The S/PDIF module is not included in the motherboard package.

SPDIF

SPDIF_IN

P4S8X

®

SPDIF_OUT

P4S8X Digital Audio Connector

+5V

GND

GND

1

17. Infrared module connector (5-1 pin IR_CON)

This connector supports an optional wireless transmitting and receiving
infrared module. This module mounts to a small opening on system
chassis that support this feature. You must also configure the UART2
Use As parameter in BIOS to set UART2 for use with IR. See section
“4.4.2 I/O Device Configuration” for details.

Use the five pins as shown in Back View and connect a ribbon cable from
the module to the motherboard SIR connector according to the pin
definitions.

Front View Back View

IRTX

GND

IRRX

+5V
(NC)

P4S8X

IR_CON

+5V

GND

IRTX

IRRX

1

®

P4S8X Infrared Module Connector

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

35

18. IEEE-1394 Header (8-pin IEEE1394_2) (Optional)

This header supports an IEEE-1394 serial connector cable set that mounts
to a standard expansion slot in the computer case. 1394-compliant internal
fixed disk drives may also be connected to these headers.

IEEE1394_2

P4S8X

TPB2-

TPB2+

+12V

Ground

®

P4S8X 1394 Headers

Ground

Ground

TPA2+

TPA2-

19. Chassis Open Alarm Lead (4-1 pin CHASSIS)

This lead is intended for a chassis designed to support intrusion detection.
The lead requires an external detection mechanism such as a chassis
intrusion monitor/sensor or microswitch. When any chassis component is
removed, the sensor is triggered and a high-level signal is sent to this lead to
record a chassis intrusion event. The event is then be processed by software
such as LDCM. When not using the chassis intrusion lead, place a jumper
cap over the pins to close the circuit. Removing the jumper cap will prevent
the system from booting up.

CHASSIS

P4S8X

Chassis Signal

®

GND

+5VSB_MB

36

P4S8X Chassis Alarm Lead

Chapter 2: Hardware information

20. SMBus Connector (6-1 pin SMB)

This connector supports SMBus (System Management Bus) devices. SMBus
devices communicate by means of the SMBus with an SMBus host and/or
other SMBus devices. SMBus is a multi-device bus that permits multiple
chips to connect to the same bus and enable each one to act as a master by
initiating data transfer.

SMB

+3V

P4S8X

SMBDATA

Ground

®

SMBCLK
FLOATING

1

P4S8X SMBus Connector

21. SATA Serial ATA IDE Connectors

(2 x 7-pin PRI_SATA, SEC_SATA)

Two headers support serial ATA IDE HDD devices. Both RAID 0 or 1 is
supported by both serial connectors. Only one HDD may be attached to
each serial A T A IDE connector for RAID 0 or 1. In addition, one HDD may be
connected to the PRI_A TA133 connector along with one HDD to each serial
A T A connector in a RAID 0 array . (See pages 31 and 82 for more information

about RAID setups.)

GND

GND

GND

RSATA_TXN2

RSATA_RXP2

RSATA_RXN2

RSATA_TXP2

SEC_SATA

P4S8X

GND

GND

RSATA_TXN1

®

RSATA_TXP1

P4S8X SATA Connectors PRI_SATA

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

RSATA_RXP1

RSATA_RXN1

GND

37

22. Smart Card Reader connector (14-1 pin SMARTCON) (optional)

This connector accommodates a Smart Card Reader that allows you to
conveniently make transactions such as financial, health care, telephony ,
or traveling services through a Smart Card user interface software. When
using this connector , configure the UART2 Use As parameter in BIOS to
set UART2 for use with Smart Card. See section “4.4.2 I/O Device
Configuration” for details.

SMARTCON

P4S8X

®

P4S8X Smartcard

NC

NC

1

NC

VCC

SCRREST

SCIO

NC

NC

SCPWR

SCRCLK

SCRRES#

NC2

GND

23. Game Connector (16-1 pin GAME)

This connector supports an external game port. An example of a PCI game
port is illustrated.

38

P4S8X

®

P4S8X Game Connector

GND

GND

+5V

J1B2

J1CY

J1B1

J1CX

+5V

GAME

+5V

J2B1

J2B2

J2CX

J2CY

MIDI_IN

MIDI_OUT

Chapter 2: Hardware information

24. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin FP_AUDIO)
(on audio models only)

This is an interface for the Intel® front panel audio cable that supplies
convenient connection and control of audio devices.

Ensure that the jumper caps are removed from the FP_LO_SWR and
FP_LO_SWL jumpers if you installed the Intel front panel audio cable.
Refer to page 25 for the location of the audio jumpers.

FP_AUDIO

P4S8X

®

P4S8X Audio Panel Connector

LineOut_RL

LineOut_RR

AGND

LineOut_FL
NC
LineOut_FR
MICPWRNC
MIC

ASUS P4S8X motherboard user guide

39

Panel Connector (20 pin PANEL)
The following diagram illustrates items 25-29:

P4S8X

Keyboard Lock
Power LED

+5 V

+5 V

®

Message LED

SMI Lead

* Requires an ATX power supply.

PLED

Keylock

MLED

ExtSMI#

Ground

Ground

Speaker
Connector

Speaker

Ground

+5V

Ground

PWR

Reset

Ground

Ground

Reset SW

ATX Power
Switch*

P4S8X System Panel Connectors

25. System Power LED Lead (3-1 pin PLED)

This connector supplies the system power LED. The LED lights up when
the system power is on, and the LED blinks when the system is in sleep
or soft-off mode.

26. System Warning Speaker Lead (4 pin SPEAKER)

This connector supplies the case-mounted speaker to sound system
beeps and warnings.

27. System Management Interrupt Lead (2 pin SMI)

This connector permits switching to suspend mode, or “Green” mode:
system activity is decreased to conserve power and system components.
Attach the case-mounted suspend switch this 2-pin connector.

28. ATX Power Switch / Soft-Off Switch Lead (2 pin PWRSW)

The system power is controlled by a momentary switch attached to this
connector. Pressing the button switches the system between ON and
SLEEP, or ON and SOFT OFF, depending on the BIOS or OS settings.
Pressing the button while in the ON mode for more than 4 seconds turns
the system off.

29. Reset Switch Lead (2-pin RESET)

This connector supports the case-mounted reset switch for rebooting
the system without turning off the power switch.

40

Chapter 2: Hardware information

Chapter 3

Powering up

ASUS P4S8X motherboard

3.1 Starting up for the first time

1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.

2. Be sure that all switches are off.

3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the
system chassis.

4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge
protector.

5. Turn on the devices in the following order:

a. Monitor
b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)
c. System power (if you are using an ATX power supply, you need to

switch on the power supply as well as press the ATX power switch
on the front of the chassis).

6. After applying power, the power LED on the system front panel case
lights up. For ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up when you
press the ATX power switch. If your monitor complies with “green”
standards or if it has a “power standby” feature, the monitor LED may
light up or switch between orange and green after the system LED
turns on. The system then runs the power-on tests. While the tests are
running, the BIOS beeps or additional messages appear on the
screen. If you do not see anything within 30 seconds from the time you
turned on the power, the system may have failed a power-on test.
Check the jumper settings and connections or call your retailer for
assistance.

7. This motherboard does not support 3.3V AGP cards; if a 3.3V card is
inserted, the red LED warning light lights up and the board will not
power up; use only 1.5V AGP cards! To avoid damaging your AGP
graphics card, your computer’s power supply should be unplugged
before inserting your graphics card into the slot.

Award BIOS Beep Codes

Beep Meaning

One short beep when No error during POST
displaying logo
Long beeps in an endless loop No DRAM installed or detected
One long beep followed by Video card not found or video card
three short beeps memory bad
High frequency beeps when CPU overheated;
system is working System running at a lower frequency

You will not hear the BIOS beeps when the ASUS POST Reporter is
enabled. You will hear the vocal POST messages instead.

8. At power on, hold down <Delete> to enter BIOS Setup. Follow the
instructions in Chapter 4.

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41

3.2 Vocal POST Messages

This motherboard includes the Winbond speech controller to support a
special feature called the ASUS POST Reporter™. This feature gives you
vocal POST messages and alerts to inform you of system events and boot
status. In case of a boot failure, you will hear the specific cause of the
problem.

These POST messages are customizable using the Winbond Voice Editor
software that came with your package. You can record your own
messages to replace the default messages.

Following is a list of the default POST messages and their corresponding
actions, if any.

POST Message Action

No CPU installed • Install an Intel Pentium 4

478/Northwood Processor into the
CPU socket.

System failed CPU test • Check the CPU if properly installed.

• Call ASUS technical support for
assistance. See the “ASUS contact
information” and www.asus.com.

System failed memory test • Install 184-pin unbuffered

DDR SDRAM DIMMs into the DIMM
sockets.

• Check if the DIMMs on the DIMM
sockets are properly installed.

• Make sure that your DIMMs are
not defective.

• Refer to section “2.5 System
memory” for instruction on installing
a DIMM.

System failed VGA test • Install a PCI VGA card into one of

the PCI slots, or an AGP card
into the AGP slot.

• Make sure that your VGA/AGP card
is not defective.

System failed due to CPU • In JumperFree mode, check your
over-clocking CPU settings in BIOS and make

sure you only set to the recom­mended settings. See section “4.4
Advanced menu.”

• In jumper mode, refer to section
“2.7 Jumpers.”

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Chapter 3: Powering up

POST Message Action

No keyboard detected • Check your keyboard if properly

connected to the purple PS/2
connector on the rear panel.

• See section “1.4.1 Component
Locations” for the location of the
connector.

No floppy disk detected • Make sure you have connected a

floppy disk to the floppy disk
connector on the motherboard.

• See section “2.8 Connectors.”

No IDE hard disk detected • Make sure you have connected an

IDE hard disk drive to the one of the
IDE connectors on the motherboard.

• See section “2.8 Connectors.”

CPU temperature too high • Check CPU fan if working properly.
CPU fan failed • Check the CPU fan and make sure

it turns on after you applied power
to the system.

CPU voltage out of range • Check your power supply and

make sure it is not defective.

• Call ASUS technical support for
assistance. See the “ASUS contact
information” on page x.

System completed Power-On Self Test • No action required
Computer now booting from operating • No action required

system

You may disable the ASUS POST Reporter in the BIOS setup. See
section “4.4.2 I/O Device Configuration”.

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43

3.3 Powering off the computer

You must first exit the operating system and shut down the system before
switching off the power. For ATX power supplies, you can press the ATX
power switch after exiting or shutting down the operating system. If you
use Windows 95/98/2000/XP, click the Start button, click Shut Down, then
click the OK button to shut down the computer. The power supply should
turn off after Windows shuts down.

The message “You can now safely turn off your computer” does not
appear when shutting down with ATX power supplies.

44

Chapter 3: Powering up

Chapter 4

BIOS setup

ASUS P4S8X motherboard

4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS

It is recommended that you save a copy of the motherboard’s original
BIOS to a bootable floppy disk in case you need to reinstall the original

BIOS later.

4.1.1 Using ASUS EZ Flash to update the BIOS

The ASUS EZ Flash feature allows you to easily update the BIOS without
having to go through the long process of booting from a diskette and using
a DOS-based utility. The EZ Flash is built-in the BIOS firmware so it is
accessible by simply pressing <Alt> + <F2> during the Power-On Self
Tests (POST).

Follow these steps to update the BIOS using ASUS EZ Flash.

1. Download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS website (see ASUS
contact information on page viii). Save the file to a floppy disk.

Write down the BIOS file name on a piece of paper. You need to type
the exact BIOS file name at the EZ Flash screen.

2. Reboot the computer.

3. To use EZ Flash, press <Alt> + <F2> during POST to display the
following screen.

ASUS EZ Flash V1.00

Copyright (C) 2002, ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.

[Onboard BIOS Information]
BIOS Version : ASUS P4S8X ACPI BIOS Revision xxxx
BIOS Model : P4S8X
BIOS Built Date : 08/15/02

Please Enter File Name for NEW BIOS: _
*Note: EZ Flash will copy file from A:\, Press [ESC] to reboot

The BIOS information in the above screen is for reference only. What
you see on your screen may not be exactly the same as shown.

4. Insert the disk that contains the new BIOS file into the floppy drive. You
will receive the error message, “WARNING! Device not ready.” if you
proceed to step 5 without the disk in the drive.

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45

5. At the prompt, “Please Enter File Name for NEW BIOS: _”, type in the
BIOS file name that you downloaded from the ASUS website, then
press <Enter>.

EZ Flash will automatically access drive A to look for the file name that
you typed. When found, the following message appears on screen.

[BIOS Information in File]
BIOS Version: P4S8X Boot Block

WARNING! Continue to update the BIOS (Y/N)? _

If you accidentally typed in a wrong BIOS file name, the error
message, “WARNING! File not found.” appears. Press <Enter> to
remove the message, then type in the correct file name. Press
<Enter>.

6. At the above prompt, type

Y to continue with the update process.

Pressing N exits the EZ Flash utility and reboots the system without
updating the BIOS.

The following prompts appear if you pressed Y.

Flash Memory: SST 42LF008

1. Update Main BIOS area (Y/N)? _

2. Update Boot Block area (Y/N)? _

7. For item 1, “Update Main BIOS area,” press Y to update.

8. For item 2,

“Update Boot Block area,” press Y to update.

DO NOT shutdown or reset the system while updating the BIOS boot
block area! Doing so may cause system boot failure.

9. When the update process is done, the message, “Press a key to

reboot”

appears. Press any key to reboot the system with the new

BIOS.

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

4.1.2 Using AFLASH from a Floppy Disk

1. T ype FORMAT A:/S at the DOS prompt to create a bootable system disk.
DO NOT copy AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS to the disk.

2. Insert Support CD.

3. T ype COPY D:\Software\AFLASH\AFLASH.EXE A:\ (assuming D is your
CD-ROM drive) to copy AFLASH.EXE to the boot disk you created.

NOTE! AFLASH works only in DOS mode. It does not function in the

DOS prompt within Windows, and does not function with certain memory
drivers that may be loaded when you boot from the hard drive. It is
recommended that you reboot using a floppy disk. Use only a DOS 6.2,
WIN95 / WIN98 boot disk.

4. Reboot the computer from the floppy disk.

NOTE! BIOS setup must specify “Floppy” as the first item in the boot

sequence.

5. In DOS mode, type A:\AFLASH <Enter> to run AFLASH.

IMPORTANT! If the word “unknown” appears after Flash Memory:, the

memory chip is either not programmable or is not supported by the ACPI
BIOS and therefore, cannot be programmed by the Flash Memory Writer
utility.

6. Select 1. Save Current BIOS to File from the Main menu and press
<Enter>. The Save Current BIOS To File screen appears.

7. Type a filename and the path, for example, A:\XXX-XX.XXX, then
press <Enter>.

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47

4.1.3 Updating BIOS procedures

Update the BIOS only if you have problems with the motherboard and
you are sure that the new BIOS revision will solve your problems.
Careless updating may result to more problems with the motherboard!

1. Download an updated ASUS BIOS file from the Internet (see the ASUS
website: www.asus.com) and save to the boot floppy disk you created
earlier.

2. Boot from the floppy disk.

3. At the “A:\” prompt, type AFLASH and then press <Enter>.

4. At the Main Menu, type 2 then press <Enter>. The Update BIOS
Including Boot Block and ESCD screen appears.

5. Type the filename of your new BIOS and the path, for example,
A:\XXX-XX.XXX, then press <Enter>.

To cancel this operation, press <Enter>.

6. When prompted to confirm the BIOS update, press Y to start the
update.

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

7. The utility starts to program the new BIOS information into the Flash
ROM. The boot block is updated automatically only when necessary.
This minimizes the possibility of boot problems in case of update
failures. When the programming is done, the message “Flashed
Successfully” appears.

8. Follow the onscreen instructions to continue.

If you encounter problems while updating the new BIOS, DO NOT turn
off the system because this may cause boot problems. Just repeat the
process, and if the problem persists, load the original BIOS file you
saved to the boot disk. If the Flash Memory Writer utility is not able to
successfully update a complete BIOS file, the system may not boot. If
this happens, call the ASUS service center for support.

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49

4.2 BIOS Setup program

This motherboard supports a programmable EEPROM that you can
update using the provided utility described in section “4.1 Managing and

updating your BIOS.”

Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard,
reconfiguring your system, or prompted to “Run Setup”. This section
explains how to configure your system using this utility.

Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you may want to
change the configuration of your computer in the future. For example, you
may want to enable the security password Feature or make changes to the
power management settings. This requires you to reconfigure your system
using the BIOS Setup program so that the computer can recognize these
changes and record them in the CMOS RAM of the EEPROM.

The EEPROM on the motherboard stores the Setup utility. When you start
up the computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this
program. Press <Delete> during the Power-On Self Test (POST) to enter
the Setup utility, otherwise, POST continues with its test routines.

If you wish to enter Setup after POST, restart the system by pressing
<Ctrl> + <Alt> + <Delete>, or by pressing the reset button on the system
chassis. You can also restart by turning the system off and then back on.
Do this last option only if the first two failed.

The Setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. It is
a menu-driven program, which means you can scroll through the various
sub-menus and make your selections among the predetermined choices.

Because the BIOS software is constantly being updated, the following
BIOS setup screens and descriptions are for reference purposes only,
and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

4.2.1 BIOS menu bar

The top of the screen has a menu bar with the following selections:
MAIN Use this menu to make changes to the basic system

configuration.

ADVANCED Use this menu to enable and make changes to the

advanced features.

POWER Use this menu to configure and enable Power Management

features.

BOOT Use this menu to configure the default system device used

to locate and load the Operating System.

EXIT Use this menu to exit the current menu or to exit the Setup

program.

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

4.2.2 Legend bar

At the bottom of the Setup screen is a legend bar. The keys in the legend
bar allow you to navigate through the various setup menus. The following
table lists the keys found in the legend bar with their corresponding
functions.

Navigation Key(s) Function Description

<F1> or <Alt + H> Displays the General Help screen from any-

where in the BIOS Setup

<Esc> Jumps to the Exit menu or returns to the main

menu from a sub-menu

Left or Right arrow Selects the menu item to the left or right
Up or Down arrow Moves the highlight up or down between fields

- (minus key) Scrolls backward through the values for the

highlighted field

+ (plus key) or spacebar Scrolls forward through the values for the high-

lighted field

<Enter> Brings up a selection menu for the highlighted

field

<Home> or <PgUp> Moves the cursor to the first field
<End> or <PgDn> Moves the cursor to the last field
<F5> Resets the current screen to its Setup Defaults
<F10> Saves changes and exits Setup

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51

General help

In addition to the Item Specific Help window, the BIOS setup program also
provides a General Help screen. You may launch this screen from any
menu by simply pressing <F1> or the <Alt> + <H> combination. The
General Help screen lists the legend keys and their corresponding
functions.

Saving changes and exiting the Setup program

See “4.7 Exit Menu” for detailed information on saving changes and exiting
the setup program.

Scroll bar

When a scroll bar appears to the right of a help window, it indicates that
there is more information to be displayed that will not fit in the window. Use
<PgUp> and <PgDn> or the up and down arrow keys to scroll through the
entire help document. Press <Home> to display the first page, press
<End> to go to the last page. To exit the help window, press <Enter> or
<Esc>.

Sub-menu

Note that a right pointer symbol (as shown on the
left) appears to the left of certain fields. This pointer
indicates that you can display a sub-menu from this
field. A sub-menu contains additional options for a
field parameter. To display a sub-menu, move the
highlight to the field and press <Enter>. The sub­menu appears. Use the legend keys to enter values
and move from field to field within a sub-menu as
you would within a menu. Use the <Esc> key to
return to the main menu.

Take some time to familiarize yourself with the legend keys and their
corresponding functions. Practice navigating through the various menus
and sub-menus. If you accidentally make unwanted changes to any of the
fields, use the set default hot key <F5> to load the Setup default values.
While moving around through the Setup program, note that explanations
appear in the Item Specific Help window located to the right of each menu.
This window displays the help text for the currently highlighted field.

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

4.3 Main menu

When you enter the Setup program, the following screen appears.

System Time [XX:XX:XX]

Sets the system to the time that you specify (usually the current time). The
format is hour, minute, second. Valid values for hour, minute and second
are Hour: (00 to 23), Minute: (00 to 59), Second: (00 to 59). Use the <Tab>
or <Shift> + <Tab> keys to move between the hour, minute, and second
fields.

System Date [XX/XX/XXXX]

Sets the system to the date that you specify (usually the current date). The
format is month, day, year. Valid values for month, day, and year are
Month: (1 to 12), Day: (1 to 31), Year: (up to 2084). Use the <Tab> or
<Shift> + <Tab> keys to move between the month, day, and year fields.

Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]

Sets the type of floppy drive installed. Configuration options: [None] [360K,

5.25 in.] [1.2M , 5.25 in.] [720K , 3.5 in.] [1.44M, 3.5 in.] [2.88M, 3.5 in.]

Floppy 3 Mode Support [Disabled]

This is required to support older Japanese floppy drives. The Floppy 3
Mode feature allows reading and writing of 1.2MB (as opposed to 1.44MB)
on a 3.5-inch diskette. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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53

4.3.1 Primary & Secondary Master/Slave

Type [Auto]

Select [Auto] to automatically detect an IDE hard disk drive. If automatic
detection is successful, Setup automatically fills in the correct values for
the remaining fields on this sub-menu. If automatic detection fails, this may
be because the hard disk drive is too old or too new. If the hard disk was
already formatted on an older system, Setup may detect incorrect
parameters. In these cases, select [User Type HDD] to manually enter the
IDE hard disk drive parameters. Refer to the next section for details.

Before attempting to configure a hard disk drive, make sure you have
the correct configuration information supplied by the drive
manufacturer. Incorrect settings may cause the system to fail to
recognize the installed hard disk.

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

[User Type HDD]

Manually enter the number of cylinders, heads and sectors per track for
the drive. Refer to the drive documentation or on the drive label for this
information.

After entering the IDE hard disk drive information into BIOS, use a disk
utility, such as FDISK, to partition and format new IDE hard disk drives.
This is necessary so that you can write or read data from the hard disk.
Make sure to set the partition of the Primary IDE hard disk drives to
active.

If no drive is installed or if you are removing a drive and not replacing it,
select [None].

Other options for the Type field are:

[CD-ROM] - for IDE CD-ROM drives
[LS-120] - for LS-120 compatible floppy disk drives
[ZIP] - for ZIP-compatible disk drives
[MO] - for IDE magneto optical disk drives
[Other A TAPI Device] - for IDE devices not listed here

After making your selections on this sub-menu, press the <Esc> key to
return to the Main menu. When the Main menu appears, the hard disk
drive field displays the size for the hard disk drive that you configured.

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55

Translation Method [LBA]

Select the hard disk drive type in this field. When Logical Block Addressing
(LBA) is enabled, the 28-bit addressing of the hard drive is used without
regard for cylinders, heads, or sectors. Note that LBA Mode is necessary
for drives with more than 504MB storage capacity. Configuration options:
[LBA] [LARGE] [Normal] [Match Partition Table] [Manual]

Cylinders

This field configures the number of cylinders. Refer to the drive
documentation to determine the correct value. To make changes to this
field, set the Type field to [User Type HDD] and the Translation Method
field to [Manual].

Head

This field configures the number of read/write heads. Refer to the drive
documentation to determine the correct value. To make changes to this
field, set the Type field to [User Type HDD] and the Translation Method
field to [Manual].

Sector

This field configures the number of sectors per track. Refer to the drive
documentation to determine the correct value. To make changes to this
field, set the Type field to [User Type HDD] and the Translation Method
field to [Manual].

CHS Capacity

This field shows the drive’s maximum CHS capacity as calculated by the
BIOS based on the drive information you entered.

Maximum LBA Capacity

This field shows the drive’s maximum LBA capacity as calculated by the
BIOS based on the drive information you entered.

Multi-Sector Transfers [Maximum]

This option automatically sets the number of sectors per block to the
highest number that the drive supports. Note that when this field is
automatically configured, the set value may not always be the fastest
value for the drive. You may also manually configure this field. Refer to the
documentation that came with the hard drive to determine the optimum
value and set it manually. To make changes to this field, set the Type field
to [User Type HDD]. Configuration options: [Disabled] [2 Sectors] [4
Sectors] [8 Sectors] [16 Sectors] [32 Sectors] [Maximum]

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

SMART Monitoring [Disabled]

This field allows you to enable or disable the S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring,
Analysis and Reporting Technology) system that utilizes internal hard disk
drive monitoring technology. This parameter is normally disabled because
the resources used in the SMART monitoring feature may decrease
system performance. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

PIO Mode [4]

This option lets you set a PIO (Programmed Input/Output) mode for the
IDE device. Modes 0 through 4 provide successive increase in
performance. Configuration options: [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]

Ultra DMA Mode [Disabled]

Ultra DMA capability allows improved transfer speeds and data integrity for
compatible IDE devices. Set to [Disabled] to suppress Ultra DMA
capability. To make changes to this field, set the Type field to [User Type
HDD]. Configuration options: [0] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [Disabled]

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57

4.3.2 Keyboard Features

Boot Up NumLock Status [On]

This field enables users to activate the Number Lock function upon system
boot. Configuration options: [Off] [On]

Keyboard Auto-Repeat Rate [12/Sec]

This controls the speed at which the system registers repeated keystrokes.
Options range from 6 to 30 characters per second. Configuration options:
[6/Sec] [8/Sec] [10/Sec] [12/Sec] [15/Sec] [20/Sec] [24/Sec] [30/Sec]

Keyboard Auto-Repeat Delay [1/4 Sec]

This field sets the time interval for displaying the first and second
characters. Configuration options: [1/4 Sec] [1/2 Sec] [3/4 Sec] [1 Sec]

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

Language [English]

This field displays the BIOS language version.

Supervisor Password [Disabled] / User Password [Disabled]

These fields allow you to set passwords. To set a password, highlight the
appropriate field and press <Enter>. Type in a password then press
<Enter>. You can type up to eight alphanumeric characters. Symbols and
other characters are ignored. To confirm the password, type the password
again and press <Enter>. The password is now set to [Enabled]. This
password allows full access to the BIOS Setup menus. To clear the
password, highlight this field and press <Enter>. The same dialog box as
above appears. Press <Enter>. The password is set to [Disabled].

A note about passwords

The BIOS Setup program allows you to specify passwords in the Main
menu. The passwords control access to the BIOS during system startup.
Passwords are not case sensitive, meaning, passwords typed in either
uppercase or lowercase letters are accepted. The BIOS Setup program
allows you to specify two different passwords: a Supervisor password and
a User password. If you did not set a Supervisor password, anyone can
access the BIOS Setup program. If you did, the Supervisor password is
required to enter the BIOS Setup program and to gain full access to the
configuration fields.

Halt On [All Errors]

This field specifies the types of errors that will cause the system to halt.
Configuration options: [All Errors] [No Error] [All but Keyboard] [All but
Disk] [All but Disk/Keyboard]

Installed Memory [XXX MB]

This field automatically displays the amount of conventional memory
detected by the system during the boot process.

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59

4.4 Advanced Menu

CPU Speed [Manual]

This field displays the internal frequency of the CPU.

CPU Frequency Multiple (when CPU Speed is set to [Manual])

This field displays the frequency multiple between the CPU’s internal
frequency (CPU speed) and external frequency.

CPU External Frequency (MHz) (when CPU Speed is set to [Manual])

The setting displayed in this field depends on the CPU Frequency Multiple.
This feature tells the clock generator which frequency to send to the
system bus and PCI bus. The bus frequency (external frequency)
multiplied by the bus multiple equals the CPU speed.

Memory Frequency [Auto]

This field is defaulted to function automatically, and determines whether
the memory clock frequency is set to be in synchronous or asynchronous
mode with respect to the system frequency.

CPU VCore Setting [Auto]

This field determines if the CPU Vcore is automatically scaled or set manually
by the user. The default for this field is [Auto], so the CPU vcore voltage is
set for maximum performance without stressing the CPU. Configuration
options: [Manual] [Auto]

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Chapter 4: BIOS Setup

CPU VCore [1.750V] (for Willamette), [1.500V] (for Northwood)

When the CPU VCore Setting parameter above is set to [Manual], the CPU
VCore item allows you to select a specific CPU core voltage. This field is not
accessible when the CPU VCore Setting is set to [Auto]. CPU core voltage
options vary for both Willamette and Northwood processors. See the following
table:

P4 Processor Voltage Range
Willamette

1.750V, 1.775V, 1.800V, 1.825V, 1.850V,

1.875V, 1.900V, 1.925V, 1.950V

Northwood 1.500V, 1.525V, 1.550V, 1.575V, 1.600V,

1.625V, 1.650V, 1.675V, 1.700V, 1.725V,

1.750V, 1.775V, 1.800V

AGP Voltage Adjustment [Auto]

This field is defaulted to [Auto]. Select the voltages to increase the power
output to the AGP. Configuration options: [Auto] [1.5] [1.6] [1.7]

DDR Voltage Adjustment [Auto]

This field is defaulted to [Auto]. Select the voltages to increase the power
output to the DDR memory. Configuration options: [Auto] [2.5] [2.6] [2.7]

CPU Level 2 Cache [Enabled]

This field is defaulted to [Enabled]. Select [Disabled] to turn off the CPU
Level 2 built-in cache. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

BIOS Update [Enabled]

This field functions as an update loader integrated into the BIOS to supply
the processor with the required data. When set to [Enabled], the BIOS
loads the update on all processors during system bootup. Configuration
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

PS/2 Mouse Function Control [Auto]

The default setting [Auto] permits the system to detect a PS/2 mouse at
startup. If a mouse is detected, the BIOS assigns IRQ12 to the PS/2
mouse. Otherwise, IRQ12 can be used for expansion cards. When you set
this field to [Enabled], BIOS reserves IRQ12, whether or not a PS/2 mouse
is detected at startup. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Auto]

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USB Legacy Support [Auto]

This motherboard supports Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices. The
default of [Auto] permits the system to detect a USB device at startup. If
detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If not detected, the
USB controller legacy mode is disabled. When you set this field to
[Disabled], the USB controller legacy mode is disabled whether or not you
are using a USB device. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto]

OS/2 Onboard Memory > 64M [Disabled]

When using OS/2 operating systems with installed DRAM of greater than
64MB, you need to set this option to [Enabled]. Otherwise, leave to the
default setting [Disabled]. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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4.4.1 Chip Configuration

SDRAM Configuration [By SPD]

This parameter allows you to set the optimal timings for items 2–5,
depending on the memory modules that you are using. The default setting
is [By SPD], which configures items 2–5 by reading the contents in the
SPD (Serial Presence Detect) device. The EEPROM on the memory
module stores critical information about the module, such as memory type,
size, speed, voltage interface, and module banks.
Configuration options: [User Defined] [By SPD]

NOTE! The following 4 SDRAM parameters appear only when you set

the SDRAM Configuration to [User Defined].

SDRAM CAS Latency [2.5T]

This item controls the latency between the SDRAM read command and the
time the data actually becomes available.

SDRAM RAS to CAS Delay [3T]

This item controls the latency between the SDRAM active command and the
read/write command.

SDRAM RAS Precharge Time [3T]

This item controls the idle clocks after issuing a precharge command to the
SDRAM.

SDRAM RAS Active Time [6T]

This item controls the number of SDRAM clocks used for SDRAM parameters.

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Chipset Clock Mode [Synchronous]

When set to [Synchronous], AGP/PCI frequency is coordinated with the
CPU frequency. When set to [Asynchronous], AGP/PCI frequency is not
adjusted according to the CPU frequency. When set to [Performance] the
AGP/PCI frequency is set to a higher value. Configuration options:
[Synchronous] [Asynchronous] [Performance]

SDRAM Command Lead-off Time [Auto]

When set to [2T], memory read/write commands are issued 1 clock cycle
behind the memory address (MA). When set to [1T], read/write
commands and MA are issued simultaneously. Configuration options: [2T]
[1T] [Auto]

Graphics Aperture Size [64MB]

This feature sets the size of mapped memory for AGP graphic data.
Configuration options: [4MB] [8MB] [16MB] [32MB] [64MB] [128MB]
[256MB]

AGP Capability [8X Mode]

This motherboard supports the AGP 8X / 4X interfaces. When a 4X card
is inserted, the default is [4X Mode]. When an 8X card is inserted, the
default is [8X Mode]. AGP 8x and 4X are backward-compatible, so you
may keep the default [4X Mode] even if you are using an AGP 1X or 2X
video card. When set to [1X Mode], the AGP interface only provides a
peak data throughput of 266MB/s even if you are using an AGP 2X/4X
card. When set to [2X Mode], the AGP interface provides a peak data
trhoughput of only 533MB/s even if you are using an AGP 4X card.
Configuration options: [1X Mode] [2X Mode] [4X Mode] [8X Mode]

AGP Fast Write Capability [Enabled]

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Video Memory Cache Mode [UC]

USWC (uncacheable, speculative write combining) is a new cache
technology for the video memory of the processor. It can greatly improve
the display speed by caching the display data. You must set this to UC
(uncacheable) if your display card does not support this feature, otherwise
the system may not boot. Configuration options: [UC] [USWC]

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Memory Hole At 15M-16M [Disabled]

This field allows you to reserve an address space for ISA expansion cards.
Setting the address space to a particular setting makes that memory
space unavailable to other system components. Expansion cards can only
access memory up to 16MB. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

PCI 2.1 Support [Enabled]

This field allows you to enable or disable the PCI 2.1 features. Keep the
default setting [Enabled] if you installed PCI 2.1 compliant cards. Set to
[Disabled] if you installed any card that is not PCI 2.1 compliant.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Onboard PCI IDE Enable [Both]

This field allows tou to enable either the primary IDE channel or secondary
IDE channel, or both. You can also set both channels to [Disabled].
Configuration options: [Both] [Primary] [Secondary] [Disabled].

IDE Bus Master Support [Enable]

This field enables or disables the IDE Bus Master Capability under the
DOS environment. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

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4.4.2 I/O Device Configuration

Floppy Disk Access Control [R/W]

When set to [Read Only], this parameter protects files from being copied to
floppy disks by allowing reads from, but not writes to, the floppy disk drive.
The default setting [R/W] allows both reads and writes. Configuration
options: [R/W] [Read Only]

Onboard Serial Port 1 [3F8H/IRQ4]
Onboard Serial Port 2 [2F8H/IRQ3]

These fields allow you to set the addresses for the onboard serial
connectors. Serial Port 1 and Serial Port 2 must have different addresses.
Configuration options: [3F8H/IRQ4] [2F8H/IRQ3] [3E8H/IRQ4] [2E8H/
IRQ10] [Disabled]

UART2 Use As [COM Port]

This field allows you to select the device on which to assign UART2. If you
select [IR] or [Smart Card Reader], set an I/O address for the item
Onboard Serial Port 2. Configuration options: [COM Port] [IR] [Smart
Card Reader]

Onboard Parallel Port [378H/IRQ7]

This field sets the address of the onboard parallel port connector. If you
disable this field, the Parallel Port Mode and ECP DMA Select
configurations are not available. Configuration options: [Disabled] [378H/
IRQ7] [278H/IRQ5]

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Parallel Port Mode [ECP+EPP]

This field allows you to set the operation mode of the parallel port.
[Normal] allows normal-speed operation but in one direction only; [EPP]
allows bidirectional parallel port operation; [ECP] allows the parallel port to
operate in bidirectional DMA mode; [ECP+EPP] allows normal speed
operation in a two-way mode. Configuration options: [Normal] [EPP] [ECP]
[ECP+EPP]

ECP DMA Select [3]

This field allows you to configure the parallel port DMA channel for the
selected ECP mode. This selection is available only if you select [ECP] or
[ECP+EPP] in Parallel Port Mode above. Configuration options: [1] [3]

Onboard Game Port [200H-207H]

This field sets the I/O address to the game port. Configuration options: [200H­207H] [208H-20FH] [Disabled]

Onboard MIDI [Disabled]

This field sets the I/O address for MIDI. Configuration options: [330H-331H]
[300H-301H] [Disabled]

Speech POST Reporter [Enabled]

This field enables or disables the ASUS POST Reporter™feature. More
information is available in section 3.2, V ocal POST Messages. Configuration
options: [Enabled] [Disabled].

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4.4.3 PCI Configuration

Slot 1/4, 2/6, 3, 5 IRQ [Auto]

These fields automatically assign the IRQ for each PCI slot. The default
setting for each field is [Auto], which utilizes auto-routing to determine IRQ
assignments. Configuration options: [Auto] [NA] [3] [4] [5] [7] [9] [10] [11]
[12] [14] [15]

PCI/VGA Palette Snoop [Disabled]

Some non-standard VGA cards, like graphics accelerators or MPEG video
cards, may not show colors properly. Setting this field to [Enabled] corrects
this problem. If you are using standard VGA cards, leave this field to the
default setting [Disabled]. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

PCI Latency Timer [32]

Leave this field to the default setting [32] for best performance and
stability.

Primary VGA BIOS [PCI VGA Card]

This field allows you to select the primary graphics card. Configuration
options: [PCI VGA Card] [AGP VGA Card]

USB Function [Enabled]

This motherboard supports Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices. Keep the
default setting [Enabled] if you connect USB devices. Select the setting
[Disabled] if you do not wish to use the USB feature. Configuration
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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USB 2.0 Function [Enabled]

This motherboard supports Universal Serial Bus 2.0 (USB) devices. Keep
the default setting [Enabled] if you connect USB 2.0 devices. Select the
setting [Disabled] if you do not wish to use the USB 2.0 feature.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Onboard LAN Boot Rom [Disabled]

This motherboard supports boot up from onboard LAN Boot Rom. Select
the [Enabled] to activate this feature. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]

Onboard ATA device [Enabled]

This motherboard enables the onboard Promise ATA/RAID controller by
default. Select the [Disabled] to shut off the ATA controller. Configuration
options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Onboard ATA device First [Yes]

This motherboard enables boot up from the Promise ATA/RAID controller
and its supporting firmware. Select the [No] to deactivate the priority of the
Promise controller at boot-up. Configuration options: [Yes] [No]

4.4.3.1 Onboard PCI Devices Control

Onboard LAN [Enabled]

allows the BIOS to detect whether you are using any LAN device. If an LAN
device is detected, the onboard LAN controller is enabled; if no LAN device
is detected, the controller is disabled. If there are conflicts with the onboard
PCILAN controller, set the appropriate field to [Disabled]. Configuration
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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Onboard 1394 Controller [Enabled]

The onboard 1394 controller is disabled by default. To enable connection of
1394 devices, select [Auto] Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Onboard AC97 Audio Controller [Auto]

[Auto] allows the BIOS to detect whether you are using any modem/audio
device. If a modem/audio device is detected, the onboard modem/audio
controller is enabled; if no modem/audio device is detected, the controller is
disabled. If there are conflicts with the onboard modem/audio controller, set
the appropriate field to [Disabled]. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]

4.4.3.2 PCI IRQ Resource Exclusion

IRQ XX Reserved [No/ICU]

These fields indicate whether or not the displayed IRQ for each field is
being used by a legacy (non-PnP) ISA card. The setting [No/ICU] for an
IRQ field indicates that you are using the ISA Configuration Utility (ICU),
and that this particular IRQ is NOT required by a legacy ISA card. Set the
IRQ field to [Yes] if you install a legacy ISA card that requires a unique IRQ
and you are NOT using ICU. Configuration options: [No/ICU] [Yes]

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4.5 Power Menu

The Power menu allows you to reduce power consumption. This feature
turns off the video display and shuts down the hard disk after a period of
inactivity.

Power Management [User Defined]

This field allows you to activate or deactivate the automatic power saving
features. When set to [Disabled], the power management features do not
function regardless of the other settings on this menu. The [User Defined]
option allows you to set the period of inactivity before the system enters
suspend mode. Refer to “Suspend Mode” later in this section.

When set to [Max Saving], system power is conserved to its greatest
amount. This setting automatically puts the system into suspend mode
after a brief period of system inactivity. [Min Saving] allows the least power
saving as the system enters suspend mode only after a long period of
inactivity. Configuration options: [User Defined] [Disabled] [Min Saving]
[Max Saving]

You should install the Advanced Power Management (APM) utility to
keep the system time updated even when the computer enters
suspend mode. In Windows 3.x and Windows 95, you need to install
Windows with the APM feature. In Windows 98 or later, APM is
automatically installed as indicated by a battery and power cord icon
labeled “Power Management” in the Control Panel. Select the item
“Advanced” in the Power Management Properties dialog box.

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Video Off Option [Suspend -> Off ]

This field determines when to activate the video off feature for monitor
power management. Configuration options: [Always On] [Suspend -> Off]

Video Off Method [DPMS OFF]

This field defines the video off features. The Display Power Management
System (DPMS) feature allows the BIOS to control the video display card if
it supports the DPMS feature. [Blank Screen] only blanks the screen. Use
this for monitors without power management or “green” features.

Even if installed, your screen saver does not display when you select
[Blank Screen] for the above field.

[V/H SYNC+Blank] blanks the screen and turns off vertical and horizontal
scanning. Configuration options: [Blank Screen] [V/H SYNC+Blank]
[DPMS Standby] [DPMS Suspend] [DPMS OFF] [DPMS Reduce ON]

HDD Power Down [Disabled]

Shuts down any IDE hard disk drives in the system after a period of
inactivity as set in this user-configurable field. This feature does not affect
SCSI hard drives. Configuration options: [Disabled] [1 Min] [2 Min] [3
Min]...[15 Min]

ACPI Suspend To RAM [Disabled]

This field allows you to enable or disable the ACPI Suspend-to-RAM
feature. To support this feature, the +5VSB of the power supply should
have the capacity to provide more than 720mA current. Configuration
options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Suspend Mode [Disabled]

Sets the time period before the system goes into suspend mode.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [1~2 Min] [2~3 Min] [4~5 min] [8~9 Min]
[20 Min] [30 Min]

PWR Button < 4 Secs [Soft Off]

When set to [Soft off], the ATX switch can be used as a normal system
power-off button when pressed for less than 4 seconds. [Suspend] allows
the button to have a dual function where pressing less than 4 seconds
puts the system in sleep mode. Regardless of the setting, holding the ATX
switch for more than 4 seconds powers off the system. Configuration
options: [Soft off] [Suspend]

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4.5.1 Power Up Control

AC PWR Loss Restart [Disabled]

This allows you to set whether or not to reboot the system after power
interruptions. [Disabled] leaves your system off while [Enabled] reboots the
system. [Previous State] sets the system back to the state it was before
the power interruption. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
[Previous State]

Wake/Power Up On Ext. Modem [Disabled]

This allows either settings of [Enabled] or [Disabled] for powering up the
computer when the external modem receives a call while the computer is
in Soft-off mode. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

The computer cannot receive or transmit data until the computer and
applications are fully running. Thus, connection cannot be made on the
first try. Turning an external modem off and then back on while the
computer is off causes an initialization string that turns the system
power on.

Power Up On PCI Device [Disabled]

When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to turn on the system
through a PCI modem. This feature requires an ATX power supply that
provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]

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Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]

This parameter allows you to use specific keys on the keyboard to turn on
the system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at
least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar]
[Ctrl-Esc] [Power Key]

Automatic Power Up [Disabled]

This allows an unattended or automatic system power up. You may
configure your system to power up at a certain time of the day by selecting
[Everyday] or at a certain time and day by selecting [By Date].
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Everyday] [By Date]

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4.5.2 Hardware Monitor

Q-FAN Function [Disabled]

The default enables automatic FAN control. Configuration options:
[Disabled] [Enabled]

MB Temperature [xxxC/xxxF]
CPU Temperature [xxxC/xxxF]

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the MB
(motherboard) and CPU temperatures.

CPU Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or N/A
Chassis Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or N/A
POWER Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or N/A

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the CPU, power and
chassis fan speeds and displays the fan speeds in revolutions per minute
(RPM). If any of the fans is not connected to the fan connectors on the
motherboard, the specific field will show N/A.

VCORE Voltage, +3.3V Voltage, +5V Voltage, +12V Voltage

The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output
through the onboard voltage regulators and show the values on these
fields.

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4.6 Boot Menu

Boot Sequence

The Boot menu allows you to select among the four possible types of boot
devices listed using the up and down arrow keys. By using the <+> or
<Space> key, you can promote devices and by using the <-> key, you can
demote devices. Promotion or demotion of devices alters the priority which
the system uses to search for a boot device on system power up.
Configuration fields include Removable Devices, IDE Hard Drive, ATAPI
CD-ROM, and Other Boot Device.

Removable Device [Legacy Floppy]

Configuration options: [Disabled] [Legacy Floppy] [LS-120] [ZIP]
[ATAPIMO]

IDE Hard Drive

This field allows you to select which IDE hard disk drive to use in the boot
sequence. Pressing [Enter] will show the product IDs of all connected IDE
hard disk drives.

ATAPI CD-ROM

This field allows you to select which ATAPI CD-ROM drive to use in the
boot sequence. Pressing [Enter] will show the product IDs of all your
connected ATAPI CD-ROM drives.

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Other Boot Device Select [INT18 Device (Network)]

The default enables INT18 Devices. Select [SCSI/Onboard ATA Boot
Device] to activate the Promise ATA/RAID controller at boot-up.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [SCSI / Onboard ATA Boot Device]
[INT18 Device (Network)]

Plug & Play O/S [No]

This field allows you to use a Plug-and-Play (PnP) operating system to
configure the PCI bus slots instead of using the BIOS. When [Yes] is
selected, interrupts may be reassigned by the OS. If you installed a non­PnP OS or if you want to prevent reassigning of interrupt settings, keep
the default setting [No]. Configuration options: [No] [Yes]

Boot Virus Detection [Enabled]

This field allows you to set boot virus detection, ensuring a virus-free boot
sector. The system halts and displays a warning message when it detects
a virus. If this occurs, you can either allow the operation to continue or use
a virus-free bootable floppy disk to restart and investigate your system.
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Quick Power On Self Test [Enabled]

This field speeds up the Power-On-Self Test (POST) routine by skipping
retesting a second, third, and fourth time. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]

Boot Up Floppy Seek [Enabled]

When enabled, the BIOS will seek the floppy disk drive to determine
whether the drive has 40 or 80 tracks. Configuration options: [Disabled]
[Enabled]

Full Screen Logo [Enabled]

This field enables the display of the full screen logo that appears as the
PC boots up. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Make sure that the above item is set to [Enabled] if you wish to use the
ASUS MyLogo™ feature.

Interrupt Mode [APIC]

This item controls the IRQ structure. The new APIC creates a range of IRQs
larger than the standard 16 IRQ channels. The standard setting of PIC limits
the number of IRQs to the standard IRQ0 to IRQ15. Windows 2000 and XP
support APIC settings. Select between new APIC or PIC. Configuration
options: [APIC] [PIC]

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4.7 Exit Menu

When you have made all of your selections from the various menus in the
Setup program, save your changes and exit Setup. Select Exit from the
menu bar to display the following menu.

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

Exit Saving Changes

Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the
Exit menu to ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM.
The CMOS RAM is sustained by an onboard backup battery and stays on
even when the PC is turned off. When you select this option, a
confirmation window appears. Select [Yes] to save changes and exit.

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

Exit Discarding 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 fields other than
system date, system time, and password, the BIOS asks for a confirmation
before exiting.

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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 confirmation window appears. Select [Yes] to load default
values. Select Exit Saving Changes or make other changes before saving
the values to the non-volatile RAM.

Discard Changes

This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the
previously saved values. After selecting this option, a confirmation
appears. Select [Yes] to discard any changes and load the previously
saved values.

Save Changes

This option saves your selections without exiting the Setup program. You
can then return to other menus and make further changes. After you select
this option, a confirmation window appears. Select [Yes] to save any
changes to the non-volatile RAM.

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Chapter 5

Software support

ASUS P4S8X motherboard

5.1 Install an operating system

This motherboard supports Windows 98/ME/NT/2000/XP and OS/2 operating
system (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates
so you can maximize the features of your hardware.

5.1.1 Windows the first time installation

When you start Windows for the first time after installing the motherboard,
Windows 98 detects all Plug-n-Play devices devices. Follow the Add New
Hardware wizard to install the necessary device drivers. When prompted to
restart, select No. Refer to the following sections in this chapter to install the
software and drivers contained in the support CD.

NOTE! Because motherboard settings and hardware options vary, use

the setup procedures presented in this chapter for general reference only .
Refer to your OS documentation for more information.

5.2 Support CD information

The support CD that came with the motherboard contains useful software
and several utility drivers that enhance the motherboard features.

NOTE! The contents of the support CD are subject to change at any

time without notice. Visit the ASUS website for updates.

5.2.1 Running the support CD

To begin using the support CD, simply insert the CD into your CD-ROM
drive. The CD automatically displays the welcome screen and the installation
menus if Autorun is enabled in your computer.

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5.3 P4S8X Motherboard Support CD

NOTE: The support CD contents are subject to change without notice.
To begin using your support CD disc, just insert it into your CD-ROM

drive and the support CD installation menu should appear . If the menu
does not appear, double-click or run D:\ASSETUP.EXE (assuming that
your CD-ROM drive is drive D:).

5.3.1 Installation Procedure

Click on the name of the driver or program group to begin installation. Follow
the instructions that appear on the setup screens. All drivers and programs
install automatically . Refer to 6. Software Reference for operating instructions.

5.3.2 Available Installation Menus

Drivers:

• SiS® Mini IDE Driver: Installs the

IDE support driver.

• Promise® FastTrak376 Driver:

Installs the drivers for the
Promise A T A/RAID IDE
controller.

• SiS® AGP Driver: Installs the

AGP driver for the SiS chipset.

• C-Media® Audio Driver and Application: Installs the multi-channel

audio driver and program application.

• SiS® PCI LAN Driver: Installs the PCI LAN driver for making fast

ethernet connections.

• USB 2.0 Driver: Installs the latest USB 2.0 system driver.

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The USB 2.0 Driver is supported under theWin2K and WinXP Operating
Systems.

Chapter 5: Software support