P5L-MX
Motherboard
E2737
First
Edition
August 2006
Copyright © 2006 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 byASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.
ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OFANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FORAPARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALLASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES ORAGENTS BE LIABLE FORANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESSAND THE LIKE), EVEN IFASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGESARISING FROMANY DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.
SPECIFICATIONSAND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUALARE FURNISHED FOR INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY,ANDARE SUBJECT TO CHANGEATANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE,AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUEDASACOMMITMENT BY ASUS.ASUSASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FORANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THAT MAYAPPEAR IN THIS MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.
Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identification or explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.
ii
Contents
Notices................................................................................................. |
vi |
Safety information............................................................................... |
vii |
About this guide................................................................................. |
viii |
Typography.......................................................................................... |
ix |
P5L-MX specifications summary............................................................ |
x |
Chapter 1:
Product introduction
1.1 |
Welcome!............................................................................... |
1-2 |
|
1.2 |
Package contents.................................................................. |
1-2 |
|
1.3 |
Special features..................................................................... |
1-2 |
|
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1.3.1 |
Product highlights.................................................... |
1-2 |
|
1.3.2 |
Innovative ASUS features........................................ |
1-4 |
1.4 |
Before you proceed............................................................... |
1-5 |
|
1.5 |
Motherboard overview........................................................... |
1-6 |
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1.5.1 |
Placement direction................................................. |
1-6 |
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1.5.2 |
Screw holes............................................................. |
1-6 |
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1.5.3 |
Motherboard layout................................................. |
1-7 |
1.6 |
Central Processing Unit (CPU)............................................... |
1-8 |
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1.6.1 |
Installling the CPU.................................................... |
1-8 |
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1.6.2 Installling the CPU heatsink and fan...................... |
1-11 |
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1.6.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan................... |
1-13 |
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1.7 |
System memory.................................................................. |
1-15 |
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1.7.1 |
Overview................................................................ |
1-15 |
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1.7.2 |
Memory configurations.......................................... |
1-15 |
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1.7.3 DDR2 Qualified Vendors List.................................. |
1-17 |
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1.7.4 |
Installing a DIMM.................................................... |
1-19 |
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1.7.5 |
Removing a DIMM................................................... |
1-19 |
1.8 |
Expansion slots.................................................................... |
1-20 |
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1.8.1 Installing an expansion card................................... |
1-20 |
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1.8.2 Configuring an expansion card............................... |
1-21 |
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1.8.3 |
Interrupt assignments........................................... |
1-19 |
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1.8.4 |
PCI slots................................................................. |
1-22 |
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1.8.5 |
PCI Express x16 .................................................... |
1-22 |
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1.8.6 |
PCI Express x1 ...................................................... |
1-22 |
1.9 |
Jumpers |
............................................................................... |
1-23 |
iii
Contents
1.10 Connectors.......................................................................... |
1-25 |
|
1.10.1 |
Rear panel connectors........................................... |
1-25 |
1.10.2 |
Internal connectors................................................ |
1-26 |
Chapter 2:
BIOS setup
2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS......................................... |
2-2 |
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2.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy disk............................... |
2-2 |
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2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash utility................................................ |
2-3 |
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2.1.3 |
AFUDOS utility......................................................... |
2-4 |
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2.1.4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility................................. |
2-6 |
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2.1.5 |
ASUS Update utility................................................. |
2-8 |
2.2 |
BIOS setup program............................................................ |
2-11 |
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2.2.1 |
BIOS menu screen.................................................. |
2-12 |
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2.2.2 |
Menu bar................................................................ |
2-12 |
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2.2.3 |
Navigation keys..................................................... |
2-12 |
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2.2.4 |
Menu items............................................................ |
2-13 |
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2.2.5 |
Sub-menu items..................................................... |
2-13 |
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2.2.6 |
Configuration fields................................................ |
2-13 |
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2.2.7 |
Pop-up window...................................................... |
2-13 |
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2.2.8 |
Scroll bar............................................................... |
2-13 |
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2.2.9 |
General help........................................................... |
2-13 |
2.3 |
Main menu........................................................................... |
2-14 |
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2.3.1 |
System Time.......................................................... |
2-14 |
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2.3.2 |
System Date.......................................................... |
2-14 |
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2.3.3 |
Legacy Diskette A ................................................ |
2-14 |
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2.3.4 Primary, Third and Fourth IDE Master/Slave.......... |
2-15 |
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2.3.5 |
IDE Configuration................................................... |
2-16 |
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2.3.6 |
System Information............................................... |
2-17 |
2.4 |
Advanced menu................................................................... |
2-18 |
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2.4.1 |
JumperFree Configuration..................................... |
2-18 |
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2.4.2 |
USB Configuration.................................................. |
2-21 |
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2.4.3 |
CPU Configuration.................................................. |
2-22 |
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2.4.4 |
Chipset.................................................................. |
2-23 |
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2.4.5 |
Onboard Devices Configuration............................. |
2-26 |
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2.4.6 |
PCI PnP................................................................... |
2-28 |
iv
Contents
2.5 |
Power menu......................................................................... |
2-29 |
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2.5.1 |
Suspend Mode....................................................... |
2-29 |
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2.5.2 |
ACPI 2.0 Support .................................................. |
2-29 |
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2.5.3 |
ACPI APIC Support ................................................ |
2-29 |
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2.5.4 |
APM Configuration................................................. |
2-30 |
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2.5.5 |
Hardware Monitor.................................................. |
2-32 |
2.6 |
Boot menu........................................................................... |
2-34 |
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2.6.1 |
Boot Device Priority............................................... |
2-34 |
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2.6.2 |
Boot Settings Configuration.................................. |
2-35 |
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2.6.3 |
Security................................................................. |
2-36 |
2.7 |
Exit menu............................................................................ |
2-38 |
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Chapter 3:
Software support
3.1 |
Installing an operating system.............................................. |
3-2 |
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3.2 |
Support CD information......................................................... |
3-2 |
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3.2.1 Running the support CD.......................................... |
3-2 |
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3.2.2 |
Drivers menu........................................................... |
3-3 |
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3.2.3 |
Utilities menu........................................................... |
3-4 |
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3.2.4 |
Make disk menu....................................................... |
3-5 |
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3.2.5 |
Manuals menu.......................................................... |
3-6 |
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3.2.5 |
ASUS Contact information....................................... |
3-6 |
Appendix:
CPU features
A.1 |
Intel® EM64T......................................................................... |
A-2 |
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Using the Intel® EM64T feature............................................. |
A-2 |
|
A.2 |
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST)..................... |
A-2 |
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A.2.1 |
System requirements.............................................. |
A-2 |
|
A.2.2 |
Using the EIST......................................................... |
A-3 |
A.3 |
Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology....................................... |
A-4 |
|
Notices
Federal
Communications Commission Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
•This device may not cause harmful interference, and
•This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will
not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
•Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
•Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
•Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
•Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes
or 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.
vi
Safety information
Electrical
safety
•To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system.
•When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
•Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all power cables are unplugged.
•Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.
•Make sure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contact your local power company.
•If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.
Operation safety
•Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all the manuals that came with the package.
•Before using the product, make sure all cables are correctly connected and the power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealer immediately.
•To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry.
•Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area where it may become wet.
•Place the product on a stable surface.
•If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.
The symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not be placed in municipal waste. Please check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.
vii
About this guide
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard.
How
this guide is
organized
This manual contains the following parts:
•Chapter 1:
Product introduction
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. This chapter also lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system
components. It includes description of the jumpers and connectors on the motherboard.
•Chapter 2:
BIOS setup
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
•Chapter 3:
Software support
This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes with the motherboard package.
Where to find more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates.
1. ASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
2. Optional
documentation
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.
viii
Conventions used in
this guide
To make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual.
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task.
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task.
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.
Typography
Bold text |
Indicates a menu or an item to select |
Italics |
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase |
<Key> |
Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign means |
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that you must press the enclosed key |
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Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or |
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Return key |
<Key1+Key2+Key3> |
If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the |
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key names are linked with a plus sign (+) |
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Example: <Ctrl+Alt+D> |
Command |
Means that you must type the command exactly as shown, |
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then supply the required item or value enclosed in |
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brackets |
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Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line: |
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afudos /i[filename] |
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afudos /iP5LMX.ROM |
ix
P5L-MX specifications summary
CPU
Chipset
Front
Side Bus
Memory
VGA
Expansion
slots
Storage
Audio
LAN
USB
Rear panel
BIOS features
LGA775 socket for Intel® Core™2 Extreme / Core™2 Duo / Pentium® D / Pentium® 4 / Celeron® D Processors
Compatible with Intel® 06/05B/05A processors Supports Intel® next generation 65nm processors Supports Intel® Enhanced Memory 64 Technology (EM64T),
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST), and Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology
Northbridge: Intel® 945G
Southbridge: Intel® ICH7
1066/800/533 MHz
Dual-channel memory architecture
2 x 240-pin DIMM sockets support up to 4GB of unbufferred non-ECC 667/533/400 MHz DDR2 DIMMs
Integrated Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator 950
1 x PCI Express x16 slot for discrete graphics cards 1 x PCI Express x1
2 x PCI slots
Intel® ICH7 SouthBridge supports:
-1 x IDE connector for up to two Ultra DMA 133/100/66/33 devices
-4 x Serial ATA 3Gb/s ports
ADI® ADI1986A 6-channel High-Definition audio CODEC
Supports Jack-Sensing, Enumeration Technology S/PDIF out interface support
Attansic L1 Gigabit LAN controller
Supports up to 8 USB 2.0 ports
1 x Parallel port
1 x LAN (RJ-45) port
4 x USB 2.0 ports
1 x VGA port
1 x Serial port
1 x PS/2 keyboard port
1 x PS/2 mouse port
6-channel high-definition audio I/O ports
4 Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, WfM2.0, DMI2.0, SM BIOS 2.3, ASUS EZ Flash, ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2
(continued on the next page)
P5L-MX specifications summary
Special features |
ASUS EZ Flash |
|
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 |
|
ASUS MyLogo™ 2 |
|
ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) |
|
ASUS Q-Fan |
Industry standard |
PCI 2.2, USB 2.0 |
Manageability |
WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME, Chassis |
|
Intrussion |
Internal |
2 x USB 2.0 connectors for 4 additional USB 2.0 ports |
connectors |
1 x CPU fan connector |
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1 x Chassis fan connector |
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1 x 24-pin EATX power connector |
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1 x 4-pin ATX 12 V power connector |
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1 x CD in connector |
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1 x Front panel high-definition audio connector |
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1 x S/PDIF out connector |
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1 x System Panel connector |
Power |
ATX power supply (with 24-pin and 4-pin 12 V plugs) |
Requirement |
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Form Factor |
Micro-ATX form factor: 9.6 in x 8 in (24.5cm x 20.3cm) |
Support CD |
Device drivers |
contents |
ASUS PC Probe II |
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ASUS update |
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ASUS Screensaver |
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.
xi
xii
This chapter describes the motherboard |
1 |
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features and the new technologies |
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it supports. |
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Product |
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introduction |
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1.1Welcome!
Thank you for buying an ASUS ® P5L-MX motherboard!
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in your package with the list below.
1.2Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items.
Motherboard |
ASUS P5L-MX motherboard |
Cables |
1 x Serial ATA Cable Kit (SATA/Power) |
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1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable |
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1 x Floppy disk drive cable |
Accessories |
I/O shield |
Application CDs |
ASUS motherboard support CD |
Documentation |
User guide |
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
1.3Special features
1.3.1 Product highlights
LGA775
Intel®
Core™2 Processor Ready 
This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Core™2 processor in the LGA775 package. With the new Intel® Core™ microarchitecture technology and 1066 / 800 MHz FSB, Intel® Core™2 processor is one of the most powerful and energy efficient CPU in the world.
64-bit CPU support 
The motherboard supports 64-bit processors that provides high performance computing and faster memory access required for memory and data intensive applications.
1- |
Chapter 1: Product introduction |
Intel
® 945G chipset 
The Intel® 945G graphics memory controller hub (GMCH) and the ICH7 I/O controller hub provide the vital interfaces for the motherboard. The GMCH features the Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator 950, an integrated graphics engine for enhanced 3D, 2D, and video capabilities. The GMCH provides the interface for a processor in the 775-land package with 533/800/1066 MHz front side bus (FSB), dual channel DDR2 at speeds of up to 667 MHz, and PCI Express x16 graphics card.
The Intel® ICH7 Southbridge represents the seventh generation I/O controller hub that provides the interface for PCI Express and 6-channel high definition audio.
DDR2 memory support
The motherboard supports DDR2 memory which features data transfer rates of 667/533/400 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR2 architecture doubles the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance, eliminating bottlenecks with peak bandwidths of up to 10.7 GB/s. See pages 115 to 1-18 for details.
PCI
Express™
interface
The motherboard fully supports PCI Express, the latest I/O interconnect technology that speeds up the PCI bus. PCI Express features point topoint serial interconnections between devices and allows higher clockspeeds by carrying data in packets. This high speed interface is software compatible with existing PCI specifications. See page 1-22 for details.
Serial
ATA technology 
The motherboard supports the Serial ATA technology through the Serial ATA interfaces and the Intel® ICH7 chipset. The SATA specification allows for thinner, more flexible cables with lower pin count, reduced voltage requirement, and up to 300 MB/s data transfer rate.
ASUS P5L-MX |
1- |
1.3.2 Innovative
ASUS features
CrashFree BIOS 2 
This feature allows you to restore the original BIOS data from the support CD in case when the BIOS codes and data are corrupted. This protection
eliminates the need to buy a replacement ROM chip. See page 2-6 for details.
ASUS EZ
Flash
BIOS
With the ASUS EZ Flash, you can easily update the system BIOS even before loading the operating system. No need to use a DOS-based utility or boot from a floppy disk. See page 2-3 for details.
ASUS MyLogo 2 
ASUS My Logo 2 is the new feature present in the motherboard that allows you to personalize and add style to your system with customizable and animated boot logos. See pages 2-35 for details.
C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)
The C.P.R. feature of the motherboard BIOS allows automatic re-setting to the BIOS default settings in case the system hangs due to overclocking. When the system hangs due to overclocking, C.P.R. eliminates the need to open the system chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut down and reboot the system, and the BIOS automatically restores the CPU default setting for each parameter.
1- |
Chapter 1: Product introduction |
1.4Before you proceed
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings.
•Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.
•Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or to a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity
•Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.
•Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component.
•Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, and/or components.
Onboard LED
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED.
-MX |
SB_PWR |
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P5L |
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ON |
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OFF |
Standby |
Powered |
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Power |
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Off |
P5L-MX Onboard LED |
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ASUS P5L-MX |
1- |
1.5Motherboard overview
Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits into it.
Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.
1.5.1 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 as indicated in the image below.
1.5.2 Screw holes
Place six (6) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.
Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.
Place this side towards the rear of the chassis
P5L-MX
1- |
Chapter 1: Product introduction |
1.5.3 Motherboard layout
20.3cm (8in)
PS/2KBMS
T: Mouse
B: Keyboard
ATX12V
1 |
PORT |
COM |
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LGA775 |
VGA |
PARALLEL |
USB12
USBPW1234 |
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LAN_USB34 |
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Intel GMCH945G |
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ICS PRS552 |
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AUDIO |
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CR2032 3V |
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Attansic |
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PCIEX1_1 |
Lithium Cell |
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L1 |
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CMOS Power |
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CPU_FAN |
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MX |
DDR2 DIMM A1 (64 bit,240-pin module) |
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DDR2 DIMM B1 (64 bit,240-pin module) |
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P5L- |
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Super I/O
CHA_FAN1
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FLOPPY |
EATXPWR |
24.5cm (9.6in) |
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PRI IDE |
PCIEX16
USBPW5678 |
SB_PWR |
PCI1
USB56 |
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PCI2 |
4Mb |
AD1986A |
BIOS |
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R |
AAFP |
CD |
SPDIF_OUT |
SPI_J1
Intel ICH7
PANEL
USB78 |
CLRTC |
SATA1 |
SATA2 |
SATA3 |
SATA4 |
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ASUS P5L-MX |
1- |
1.6Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA775 socket designed for the Intel® Core™2 Extreme/Core™2 Duo/Pentium® D/Pentium® 4 and Celeron® D processors.
•Your boxed Intel® Core™2 Extreme/Core™2 Duo/Pentium® D/
Pentium® 4 or Celeron® D LGA775 processor package should come with installation instructions for the CPU, fan and heatsink assembly. If the instructions in this section do not match the CPU documentation, follow the latter.
•Upon purchase of the motherboard, make sure that the PnP cap is on the socket and the socket pins are not bent. Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket pins/motherboard components.
ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is shipment/ transit-related.
•Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the LGA775 socket.
•The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket pins resulting from incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/ loss/incorrect removal of the PnP cap.
1.6.1 Installling
the CPU
To install a CPU:
1.Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.
P5L-MX |
P5L-MX CPU Socket 775 |
Before installing the CPU, make sure that the socket box is facing towards you and the load lever is on your left.
1- |
Chapter 1: Product introduction |
2.Press the load lever with your thumb (A) and move it to the left (B) until it is released from the retention tab.
Retention tab |
A |
PnP Cap |
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Load lever |
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B
This side of the cam box should face you.
To prevent damage to the socket pins, do not remove the PnP cap unless you are installing a CPU.
3.Lift the load lever in the direction of the arrow to a 135º angle.
4.Lift the load plate with your
thumb and forefinger to a 100º |
B |
|
angle (A), then push the PnP cap |
||
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from the load plate window to |
|
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remove (B). |
A |
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Load plate |
5.Position the CPU over the socket, making sure that the gold triangle is on the bottom left corner of the socket. The socket alignment key should fit into the CPU notch.
Alignment 
Gold triangle mark
ASUS P5L-MX |
1- |
6. Close the load plate (A), then |
A |
push the load lever (B) until it |
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snaps into the retention tab. |
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B |
The CPU fits in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU!
The motherboard supports Intel® LGA775 processors with the Intel® Enhanced Memory 64 Technology (EM64T), Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST), and Hyper Threading Technology.
If you install a dual-core CPU, make sure to connect the chassis fan cable to CHA_FAN connector for system stability.
1-10 |
Chapter 1: Product introduction |
1.6.2 Installling
the CPU heatsink and fan
The Intel® Core™2 Extreme/Core™2 Duo/Pentium® D/Pentium® 4 and Celeron® D processors require a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.
•Install the motherboard to the chassis before you install the CPU fan
and heatsink assembly
•When you buy a boxed Intel® Core™2 Extreme/Core™2 Duo/ Pentium® D/Pentium® 4 or Celeron® D LGA775 processor, the packageincludes the CPU fan and heatsink assembly. If you buy a CPU separately, make sure that you use only Intel® certified multi directional heatsink and fan.
•Your I Intel® Core™2 Extreme/Core™2 Duo/Pentium® D/Pentium® 4 or Celeron® D LGA775 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a pushpin design and requires no tool to install.
If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, make sure that a Thermal Interface Material is properly applied to the CPU heatsink or CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly.
To install the CPU heatsink and fan:
1.Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, making sure that the four fasteners match the holes on the motherboard.
Fastener
Motherboard 
Make sure each fastener is oriented as shown, with the narrow groove directed outward.
ASUS P5L-MX |
1-11 |
2.Push down two fasteners at
a time in a diagonal sequence |
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B |
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to secure the heatsink and fan |
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assembly in place. |
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A |
A |
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A |
B |
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B |
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BA
3.When the fan and heatsink assembly is in place, connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN.
CPU_FAN
CPU FAN PWM
CPU FAN IN
CPU FAN PWR
GND
P5L-MX
P5L-MX CPU Fan Connector
Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector.
1-12 |
Chapter 1: Product introduction |
1.6.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan
To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan:
1.Disconnect the CPU fan cable from the connector on the motherboard.
2.Rotate each fastener counterclockwise.
3.Pull up two fasteners at a
time in a diagonal sequence |
|
B |
||
to disengage the heatsink |
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A |
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and fan assembly from the |
A |
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motherboard. |
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B |
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AB
BA
ASUS P5L-MX |
1-13 |
4.Remove the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard.
5.Rotate each fastener clockwise to reset the orientation.
The narrow end of the groove should point outward after resetting. (The photo shows the groove shaded for emphasis.)
Narrow end of the groove
1-14 |
Chapter 1: Product introduction |
1.7System memory
1.7.1 Overview
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets.
A DDR2 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR DIMM but has a 240-pin footprint compared to the 184-pin DDR DIMM. DDR2 DIMMs are notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR DIMM socket.
The figure illustrates the location of the DDR2 DIMM sockets:
DIMM A1 |
DIMM B1 |
|
112 Pins |
P5L-MX |
Pins |
|
128 |
P5L-MX 240-pin DDR2 DIMM Sockets
Channel |
Sockets |
Channel A |
DIMM_A1 |
Channel B |
DIMM_B1 |
|
|
1.7.2 Memory configurations
You may install 128MB, 256 MB, 512 MB and 1 GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR2 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.
•For dual-channel configuration, the size of memory module installed per channel must be the same (DIMM_A1= DIMM_B1)
•Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, it is recommended that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor. Refer to the DDR2 Qualified Vendors List on page 1-17 for details.
•If you are installing only one DIMM module for a Single-channel configuration, install the module on DIMM_B1.
ASUS P5L-MX |
1-15 |
Important
notice on installing
Windows® XP 32-bit version
If you install Windows® XP 32-bit version Operating System (OS), the limitation of this OS version is that it may reserve a certain amount of memory space for system devices. We recommend that you install less than 3 GB system memory if you would like to work under Windows® XP 32-bit version OS. The excess memory installation will not cause any usage problem, but it will not give users the benefit of manipulating this excess memory space.
Visit the ASUS FAQ site for further explanation: http://support.asus.com/faq/faq.aspx?SLanguage=en-us
Under General
Search, make the selections as shown, then click Search. Click the article titled “4GB memory installed
but less
memory size detected.”
You also may check the URLs below for third party comments on this issue:
http://dlsvr01.asus.com/pub/ASUS/mb/4GB_Rev1.pdf http://www.intel.com/support/motherboards/server/sb/cs-016594.htm
1-16 |
Chapter 1: Product introduction |
1.7.3DDR2 Qualified Vendors List
The following table lists the memory modules that have been tested and qualified for use with this motherboard. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus. com) for the latest DDR2 DIMM modules for this motherboard.
DDR2 667 Qualified Vendors List
|
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DIMM support |
|
Size |
Vendor |
Model |
Brand |
Side(s) |
Component |
A |
B |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
56MB |
Kingston |
KVR667D2N5/256 |
Elpida |
SS |
E2508AB-6E-E |
• |
• |
512MB |
Kingston |
KVR667D2N5/512 |
Kingston |
SS |
D6408TE8WL-27 |
• |
• |
512MB |
Kingston |
KVR667D2E5/512 |
Elpida |
SS |
E5108AE-6E-E |
• |
• |
1G |
Kingston |
KVR667D2N5/1G |
Kingston |
DS |
D6408TE8WL-3 |
• |
• |
512MB |
Samsung |
KR M378T6553CZ0-CE6 |
Samsung |
SS |
K4T51083QC |
• |
• |
512MB |
Samsung |
KR M378T6453FZ0-CE6 |
Samsung |
DS |
K4T56083QF-ZCE6 |
• |
• |
1G |
Samsung |
KR M378T2953CZ0-CE6 |
Samsung |
SS |
K4T51083QC-ZCE6 |
• |
• |
256MB |
Infineon |
HYS64T32000HU-3S-A |
Infineon |
SS |
HYB18T512160AF-3SSSS17310 |
• |
• |
512MB |
Infineon |
HYS64T32000HU-3S-A |
Infineon |
SS |
HYB18T5128000AF-3SSSS27416 |
• |
• |
512MB |
Infineon |
HYS64T64000HU-3S-A |
Infineon |
SS |
HYB18T512800AF3SFSS05346 |
• |
• |
1G |
Infineon |
HYS64T128020HU-3S-A |
Infineon |
DS |
HYB18T512800AF3SSSS28104 |
• |
• |
512MB |
Corsair |
VS512MB667D2 |
Corsair |
DS |
MIII0052532M8CEC |
• |
• |
512MB |
HY |
HYMP564U64AP8-Y4 AA |
Hynix |
SS |
HY5PS12821AFP-Y4 |
• |
• |
512MB |
HY |
HYMP564U64AP8-Y5 AA |
Hynix |
SS |
HY5PS12821AFP-Y5 |
• |
• |
1G |
HY |
HYMP512U64AP8-Y5 AB |
Hynix |
DS |
HY5PS12821AFP-Y5 |
• |
• |
512MB |
Kingmax |
KLCC28F-A8EB5 |
Elpida |
SS |
E5108AE-6E-E |
• |
• |
512MB |
Kingmax |
KLCC28F-A8KB5 |
Kingmax |
SS |
KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX |
• |
• |
1G |
Kingmax |
KLCD48F-A8KB5 |
Kingmax |
DS |
KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX |
• |
• |
512MB |
Apacer |
78.91092.420 |
Elpida |
SS |
E5108AE-6E-E |
• |
• |
512MB |
Apacer |
AU512E667C5KBGC |
Apacer |
SS |
AM4B5708MIJS7E0627B |
• |
• |
1G |
Apacer |
78.01092.420 |
Elpida |
DS |
E5108AE-6E-E |
• |
• |
1G |
Apacer |
AU01GE667C5KBGC |
Apacer |
DS |
AM4B5708MIJS7E0627B |
• |
• |
512MB |
ADATA |
M20EL5G3H3160B1C0Z |
Elpida |
SS |
E5108AE-6E-E |
• |
• |
512MB |
VDATA |
M2GVD5G3H31A4I1C52 |
VDATA |
SS |
VD29608A8A-3EC20615 |
• |
• |
512MB |
VDATA |
M2YVD5G3H31P4I1C52 |
VDATA |
SS |
VD29608A8A-3EG20627 |
• |
• |
1G |
VDATA |
M2GVD5G3I41P6I1C52 |
VDATA |
DS |
VD29608A8A-3EG20627 |
• |
• |
1G |
VDATA |
M2GVD5G3I41C4I1C52 |
VDATA |
DS |
VD29608A8A-3EC20620 |
• |
• |
256MB |
Nanya |
NT256T64UH4A1FY-3C |
Nanya |
SS |
NT5TU32M16AG-3C |
• |
• |
512MB |
Nanya |
NT512T64U88A1BY-3C |
Nanya |
SS |
NT5TU64M8AE-3C |
• |
• |
512MB |
AENEON |
AET660UD00-30DA98Z |
AENEON |
SS |
AET93F30DA 0552 |
• |
• |
1G |
AENEON |
AET760UD00-30DA98Z |
AENEON |
DS |
AET93F30DA8EE47414G 0540 |
• |
• |
512MB |
AENEON |
AET660UD00-30DA98Z |
AENEON |
SS |
AET93F300A 0606 |
• |
• |
1G |
AENEON |
AET760UD00-30DA98Z |
AENEON |
DS |
AET93F30DA 0604 |
• |
• |
512MB |
VERITECH |
GTP512HLTM45EG |
VERITECH |
SS |
VTD264M8PC6G01A164129621 |
• |
• |
1G |
VERITECH |
GTP01GHLTM55EG |
VERITECH |
DS |
VTD264M8PC6G01A164129621 |
• |
• |
512MB |
GEIL |
GX21GB5300DC |
GEIT |
SS |
Heat-Sink Package |
• |
• |
512MB |
Century |
CENTURY 512MB |
Nanya |
SS |
NT5TU64M8AE-3C |
• |
• |
512MB |
Century |
CENTURY 512MB |
Hynix |
SS |
HY5PS12821AFP-Y5 |
• |
• |
1G |
Century |
CENTURY 1G |
Hynix |
DS |
HY5PS12821AFP-Y5 |
• |
• |
1G |
Century |
CENTURY 1G |
Nanya |
DS |
NT5TU64M8AE-3C |
• |
• |
512MB |
KINGBOX |
512MB 667MHz |
KINGBOX |
SS |
EPD264082200-4 |
• |
• |
ASUS P5L-MX |
1-17 |
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