ASUS P7F-C4L, P7F-CSAS, P7F-C User Manual

P7F-C Series
P7F-C/SAS P7F-C/4L
Motherboard
E5217
First Edition V1 December 2009
No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).
Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.
ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR AN Y 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.
SPECI FI CATI ONS A ND INFO RMATIO N CONTAI NED IN THIS MA NU AL A RE FURNIS HED 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 LIABILI TY FOR ANY ERROR S OR IN ACCURACI ES THAT M AY AP PEA R IN TH IS 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 ........................................................................................................ vii
Safety information .................................................................................... viii
About this guide ......................................................................................... ix
Typography .................................................................................................. x
P7F-C Series specications summary ...................................................... xi
Chapter 1: Product introduction
1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-3
1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-3
1.3 Serial number label ...................................................................... 1-4
1.4 Special features ............................................................................ 1-4
1.4.1 Product highlights ........................................................... 1-4
Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-3
2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-4
2.2.1 Placement direction ........................................................ 2-4
2.2.2 Screw holes .................................................................... 2-4
2.2.3 Motherboard layout ......................................................... 2-5
2.2.4 Layout contents ............................................................... 2-7
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-9
2.3.1 Installing the CPU ........................................................... 2-9
2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan .............................. 2-12
2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan ......................... 2-13
2.3.4 Installing the CPU heatsink in rack ............................... 2-14
2.4 System memory ......................................................................... 2-15
2.4.1 Overview ....................................................................... 2-15
2.4.2 Memory Configurations ................................................. 2-15
2.4.3 Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 2-16
2.4.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 2-16
2.5 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 2-17
2.5.1 Installing an expansion card ......................................... 2-17
2.5.2 Configuring an expansion card ..................................... 2-17
2.5.3 Interrupt assignments ................................................... 2-18
2.5.4 PCI Express x16 slots (x8 link) ..................................... 2-19
2.5.5 PCI slots ........................................................................ 2-19
2.5.6 Installing i Button ........................................................... 2-20
iii
Contents
2.5.7 Connect Thermal sensor cable ..................................... 2-20
2.6 Jumpers ...................................................................................... 2-21
2.7 Connectors ................................................................................. 2-25
2.7.1 Rear panel connectors .................................................. 2-25
2.7.2 Internal connectors ....................................................... 2-26
Chapter 3: Powering up
3.1 Starting up for the rst time ........................................................ 3-3
3.2 Powering off the computer .......................................................... 3-4
3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function .................................... 3-4
3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch .............................. 3-4
Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 4-3
4.1.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ................................................... 4-3
4.1.2 BUPDATER utility............................................................ 4-4
4.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ...................................... 4-6
4.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 4-7
4.2.1 BIOS menu screen .......................................................... 4-8
4.2.2 Menu bar ......................................................................... 4-8
4.2.3 Navigation keys ............................................................... 4-8
4.2.4 Menu items ..................................................................... 4-9
4.2.5 Sub-menu items .............................................................. 4-9
4.2.6 Configuration fields ......................................................... 4-9
4.2.7 Pop-up window ............................................................... 4-9
4.2.8 Scroll bar ......................................................................... 4-9
4.2.9 General help ................................................................... 4-9
4.3 Main menu .................................................................................. 4-10
4.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx] ................................................. 4-10
4.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx] ....................................... 4-10
4.3.3 SATA1—6 .......................................................................4-11
4.3.4 Storage Configuration ................................................... 4-13
4.3.5 AHCI Configuration ....................................................... 4-14
4.3.6 System Information ....................................................... 4-15
4.4 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 4-16
4.4.1 CPU Configuration ........................................................ 4-16
4.4.2 Chipset .......................................................................... 4-20
iv
Contents
4.4.3 Onboard Devices Configuration .................................... 4-22
4.4.4 USB Configuration ........................................................ 4-24
4.4.5 PCIPnP ......................................................................... 4-25
4.4.6 ACPI Configuration ....................................................... 4-26
4.4.7 Event Log Configuration ............................................... 4-28
4.4.8 Intel VT-d Configuration [Disabled] ............................... 4-28
4.4.9 SR-IOV Supprted [Disabled] ......................................... 4-28
4.5 Server menu ............................................................................... 4-29
4.5.1 Remote Access Configuration ....................................... 4-29
4.6 Power menu ................................................................................ 4-31
4.6.1 APM Configuration ........................................................ 4-31
4.6.2 Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 4-33
4.7 Boot menu .................................................................................. 4-34
4.7.1 Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 4-34
4.7.2 Hard Disk Drives; CDROM Drives ................................ 4-34
4.7.3 Boot Settings Configuration .......................................... 4-35
4.7.4 Security ......................................................................... 4-36
4.8 Tools menu ................................................................................. 4-38
4.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 .......................................................... 4-38
4.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 4-39
Chapter 5: RAID conguration
5.1 Setting up RAID ............................................................................ 5-3
5.1.1 RAID definitions .............................................................. 5-3
5.1.2 Installing hard disk drives ................................................ 5-4
5.1.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS ........................................ 5-4
5.1.4 RAID configuration utilities .............................................. 5-4
5.2 Intel® Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM Utility ................... 5-5
5.2.1 Creating a RAID set ........................................................ 5-6
5.2.2 Creating a Recovery set ................................................. 5-7
5.2.3 Deleting a RAID set ........................................................ 5-9
5.2.4 Resetting disks to Non-RAID ........................................ 5-10
5.2.5 Recovery Volume Options .............................................5-11
5.2.6 Exiting the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager .................... 5-12
5.2.7 Rebuilding the RAID ..................................................... 5-12
5.2.8 Setting the Boot array in the BIOS Setup Utility ............ 5-14
5.3 LSI Logic MPT Setup Utility (P7F-C/SAS model only) ............ 5-15
v
Contents
5.3.1 Integrated Mirroring ....................................................... 5-15
5.3.2 Integrated Mirroring Enhanced ..................................... 5-19
5.3.3 Integrated Striping (IS) volume ..................................... 5-22
5.3.4 Managing Arrays ........................................................... 5-25
5.3.5 Viewing SAS topology ................................................... 5-30
5.3.6 Global Properties .......................................................... 5-31
5.4 LSI Software RAID Conguration Utility
(P7F-C/4L model only) ............................................................... 5-34
5.4.1 Creating a RAID set ...................................................... 5-35
5.4.2 Adding or viewing a RAID configuration ....................... 5-41
5.4.3 Initializing the virtual drives ........................................... 5-42
5.4.4 Rebuilding failed drives ................................................. 5-46
5.4.5 Checking the drives for data consistency ..................... 5-48
5.4.6 Deleting a RAID configuration ....................................... 5-51
5.4.7 Selecting the boot drive from a RAID set ...................... 5-52
5.4.8 Enabling WriteCache .................................................... 5-53
Chapter 6: Driver installation
6.1 RAID driver installation ............................................................... 6-3
6.1.1 Creating a RAID driver disk ............................................ 6-3
6.1.2 Installing the RAID controller driver ................................ 6-6
6.2 Intel® chipset device installation .............................................. 6-19
6.3 LAN driver installation ............................................................... 6-21
6.4 VGA driver installation............................................................... 6-23
6.4.1 Windows® Server 2003 ................................................. 6-23
6.5 Management applications and utilities installation ................ 6-25
6.5.1 Running the support DVD ............................................. 6-25
6.5.2 Drivers menu ................................................................. 6-25
6.5.3 Utilities menu ................................................................ 6-26
6.5.4 Make disk menu ............................................................ 6-26
6.5.5 Contact information ....................................................... 6-26
Appendix: Reference information
A.1 P7F-C/SAS Series block diagram ...............................................A-3
A.2 P7F-C/4L Series block diagram ..................................................A-4
vi

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.
REACH
Complying with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulatory framework, we published the chemical substances in our products at ASUS REACH website at http://green.asus.com/english/REACH.htm.
vii

Safety information

Electrical safety
To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system.
When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.
Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all power cables are unplugged.
Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord. These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.
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.
viii
This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical, electronic equipment, and mercury-containing button cell battery) should not be placed in municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic products.

About this guide

This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring the motherboard.
How this guide is organized
This user guide contains the following parts:
Chapter 1: Product introduction
This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technologies it supports.
Chapter 2: Hardware information
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It includes description of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard.
Chapter 3: Powering up
This chapter describes the power up sequence and ways of shutting down the system.
Chapter 4: BIOS setup
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
Chapter 5: RAID conguration
This chapter provides instructions for setting up, creating, and configuring
RAID sets using the available utilities.
Chapter 6: Driver installation
This chapter provides instructions for installing the necessary drivers for different system components.
Appendix: Reference information
This appendix includes additional information that you may refer to when configuring the motherboard.
Where to nd more information
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates.
1. ASUS websites
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
2. Optional documentation
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.
ix
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:
when trying to complete a task.
CAUTION:
when trying to complete a task.
IMPORTANT:
task.
NOTE:
task.
Information to prevent damage to the components
Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a
Tips and additional information to help you complete a
Information to prevent injury to yourself

Typography

Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Italics Used to emphasize a word or a phrase. <Key> Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater­ than sign means that you must press the enclosed key.
Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or Return key.
<Key1+Key2+Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously, the key names are linked with a plus sign (+).
Example: <Ctrl+Alt+D>
Command
exactly as shown, then supply the required item or value enclosed in brackets.
Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:
Means that you must type the command
format A:/S
x
P7F-C Series specications summary
Model Name P7F-C/SAS P7F-C/4L Processor / System Bus
Core Logic Form Factor ASUS Features FAN speed
Memory Total Slots
Expansion Slots (follow SSI Loacation #)
Storage SATA Controller
Networking LAN
Graphic VGA
control Rack Ready
(Rack and Pedestal dual use)
ASWM2.0
Capacity
Memory Type
Memory Size
Total PCI/PCI-X/ PCI-E Slots
Slot Loacation 1 Slot Loacation 2 Slot Loacation 3 Slot Loacation 4 Slot Loacation 5 Slot Loacation 6
SAS Controller
1 * Socket LGA1156 Quad Core Intel Xeon 3400 series Server Processor
Quad Core Intel Core i7-800 series Desktop Processor Quad Core Intel Core i5-700 series Desktop Processor Dual Core 32nm CPU design Ready
Dual Core/Quad Core Intel® 3420 PCH ATX, 12" * 9.6" V V
V V
V V 6/4 (RDIMM/UDIMM) Maximum up to 32GB (RDIMM)
Maximum up to 16GB (UDIMM ) Desktop Processor do not support RDIMM nor ECC UDIMM
DDR3 1066/1333 Unbuffered DIMM with ECC/ non ECC** DDR3 800/1066/1333 Reg DIMM
1 GB, 2GB, 4GB, 8GB (RDIMM) 1 GB, 2GB, 4GB (UDIMM)
6 6
1 * PCI 32bit/33 MHz 1 * PCI 32bit/33 MHz 1 * PCI 32bit/33 MHz 1 * PCI-E x16 (Gen2 x8 link) 1 * PCI 32bit/33 MHz 1 * PCI-E x16 (Gen2 x8 link) Intel® 3420:
6* SATA2 300MB/s ports ­Intel Matrix Storage utility supports software RAID 0, 1, 10 & 5(Windows) LSI MegaRAID driver supports software RAID 0, 1& 10(Windows & Linux) (P7F-C/4L only)
LSI 1068E 8-port SAS controller: LSI® Integrated RAID 0, 1, 1E support
2 * Marvell® 8056 PCI-E GbE LAN
XGI® Z9s DDR2 64MB
4 * Marvell® 8056 PCI-E GbE LAN
xi
P7F-C Series specications summary
Onboard I/O Connectors
Rear I/O Connectors
Management Solution
Monitoring CPU
Environment
*Specications are subject to change without notice.
PSU Connector
USB Connectors
Fan Header Chassis Intruder Serial Port
Header External Serial
Port External USB
Port VGA Port RJ-45 PS/2 KB/Mouse Software
Temperature FAN RPM
24-pin ATX power connector + 8-pin ATX 12V power connector 24+4 pin power supply supported
3 (support 5 USB port) (One for internal Type A USB connector )
5* 4pin 1 1 1 1
1 1
2 2
1 1 2 4 1 1 ASWM2.0 ASWM2.0
V V
V V
Operation temperature: 10℃—35℃ Non operation temperature: -40℃—70℃
Non operation humidity: 20%—90% ( Non condensing)
xii
This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.
Product
introduction
1
Chapter summary
1
1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-3
1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-3
1.3 Serial number label ...................................................................... 1-4
1.4 Special features ............................................................................ 1-4
ASUS P7F-C Series
1.1 Welcome!
Thank you for buying an ASUS® P7F-C Series motherboard!
The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!
Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in your package with the list below.
1.2 Package contents
Check your motherboard package for the following items.
Cables SATA data cable
Accessories
Application CD Support CD Documentation User Guide
Packing Qty.
IO shield Plate for LGA1156 (1U)
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.
Standard Gift Box Pack
P7F-C Series
6 -­1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
1pc per carton 10pcs per carton
Standard Bulk Pack
ASUS P7F-C Series 1-3
1.3 Serial number label
Before requesting support from the ASUS Technical Support team, you must take note of the motherboard's serial number containing 13 characters shown as the figure below. With the correct serial number of the product, ASUS Technical Support team members can then offer a quicker and satisfying solution to your problems.
xxS2xxxxxxxxx
P7F-C Series
xxS2xxxxxxxxx
Made
in
China
合格
1.4 Special features
1.4.1 Product highlights
Intel® LGA1156 Xeon 3400 Processor Ready
This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Xeon 3400 processors in LGA1156 package, which has memory and PCI Express controller integrated to support 2-channel (6 DIMMs) DDR3 memory and 16 PCI Express 2.0 lanes, providing great graphics performance. Intel® Xeon 3400 processor is one of the most powerful and energy efficient CPU in the world.
Intel Turbo Boost
Intel® Turbo Boost opportunistically and automatically allows the processor to run faster than the marked frequency if the processor is operating below power, temperature and current limits. This technology increases performance of both multi-threaded and single-threaded workloads.
Intel Hyper Threading
The thread-level parallelism on each processor makes more efficient use of the processor resources, higher processing throughout and improved performance on today's multi-threaded software.
Intel® EM64T
The motherboard supports Intel® processors with the Intel® EM64T (Extended Memory 64 Technology). The Intel® EM64T feature allows your computer to run on 64-bit operating systems and access larger amounts of system memory for faster and more efficient computing.
1-4 Chapter 1: Product introduction
DDR3 memory support
The P7F-C Series supports UDIMM and RDIMM DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of 1333/1066 MHZ to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of server and workstation applications. The 2-channel DDR3 architecture boosts system performance, eliminating bottlenecks. Furthermore, the supply voltage for the memory is reduced from 1.8 V for DDR2 to just 1.5V for DDR3. This voltage reduction limits the power consumption and heat generation of DDR3 which makes it an ideal memory solution.
PCIe 2.0
This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 device for twice the current speed and bandwidth. This enhances system performance while still providing backward compatibility to PCIe 1.0 devices.
Marvell 88E8056 LAN Solution
The motherboard comes with dual/quad Gigabit LAN controllers and ports which provide a total solution for your networking needs. The onboard Marvell 88E8056 Gigabit LAN controllers use the PCI Express interface and could achieve network throughput close to Gigabit bandwidth.
Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) technology support
(P7F-C/SAS model only)
SAS is the latest storage interface for enterprise-class storage devices. Building on and improving the parallel SCSI foundation, SAS is the new industry standard that includes Serial ATA interoperability, and is projected to be the successor of the Ultra320 SCSI technology.
Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology (EIST)
The Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology (EIST) intelligently manages the CPU resources by automatically adjusting the CPU voltage and core frequency depending on the CPU loading and system speed or power requirement.
Serial ATA II technology
The motherboard supports the Serial ATA II 3 Gb/s technology through the Serial ATA interface and Intel 3420 chipset. The Serial ATA II specification provides twice the bandwidth of the current Serial ATA products with a host of new features, including Native Command Queuing (NCQ), Power Management (PM) Implementation Algorithm, and Hot Swap. Serial ATA allows thinner, more flexible cables with lower pin count and reduced voltage requirements.
ASUS P7F-C Series 1-5
USB 2.0 technology
The motherboard implements the Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 specification, dramatically increasing the connection speed from the 12 Mbps bandwidth on USB
1.1 to a fast 480 Mbps on USB 2.0. USB 2.0 is backward compatible with USB 1.1.
Temperature, fan, and voltage monitoring
The CPU temperature is monitored to prevent overheating and damage. The system fan rotations per minute (RPM) is monitored for timely failure detection. The chip monitors the voltage levels to ensure stable supply of current for critical components.
1-6 Chapter 1: Product introduction
This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It includes description of the jumpers and connectors on the motherboard.
Hardware
information
2
Chapter summary
2
2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-3
2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-4
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-9
2.4 System memory ......................................................................... 2-15
2.5 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 2-17
2.6 Jumpers ...................................................................................... 2-21
2.7 Connectors ................................................................................. 2-25
ASUS P7F-C Series
2.1 Before you proceed
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings.
Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component.
Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or 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 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
1. Standby Power LED
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED. The green LED lights up
to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED.
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-3
2.2 Motherboard overview
Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits into it.
To optimize the motherboard features, we highly recommend that you install it in an ATX 1.1 compliant chassis.
Ensure to unplug the chassis power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components!
2.2.1 Placement direction
When installing the motherboard, ensure that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis as indicated in the image below.
2.2.2 Screw holes
Place nine (9) 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
2-4 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.3 Motherboard layout
P7F-C/SAS
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-5
P7F-C/4L
2-6 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.2.4 Layout contents
Slots/Soocket Page
1. CPU sockets
2. DDR3 sockets
3. PCI Express x 16 slot (x8 link)
4. PCI slots
Jumpers Page
1. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC1)
2. VGA controller setting (3-pin VGA_SW1))
3. CPU Fan and Chassis Fan control setting (3-pin CPUFAN_SEL1, CHAFAN_SEL1)
4. LAN controller setting (3-pin LAN_SW1, LAN_SW2) (LAN_SW3, LAN_SW4 P7F-C/4L Model only)
5. RAID configuration utility selection (3-pin RAID_SEL1) (P7F-C/4L Model only)
6. Onboard storage setting (3-pin SAS_SW1) (P7F-C/SAS Model only)
7. Force BIOS recovery setting (3-pin RECOVERY1)
Rear panel connectors Page
1. PS/2 mouse port (green)
2. PS/2 keyboard port (purple)
3. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2
4. Serial (COM1) port
5. Video Graphics Adapter port
6. LAN 1 (RJ-45) port
7. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port
8. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port
9. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port
2-9
2-15
2-19
2-19
2-21
2-22
2-22
2-23
2-23
2-24
2-24
2-25
2-25
2-25
2-25
2-25
2-25
2-25
2-25
2-25
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-7
Internal connectors Page
1. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, SATA4; RED) (7-pin SATA5, SATA6; Black)
2. Hard disk activity LED connector (4-pin HDLED1)
3. SAS connectors (7-pin SAS1, SAS2, SAS3, SAS4; RED) (7-pin SAS5, SAS6, SAS7, SAS8; Blue) (P7F-C/SAS model only)
4. USB connector (10-1 pin USB34, USB56; A-Type USB7)
5. Serial General Purpose Input/Output connector (6-1 pin SGPIO1)
6. Serial General Purpose Input/Output connectors (6-1 pin SGPIO2/3) (P7F-C/SAS model only)
7. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM2)
8. CPU, front and rear fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN1, FRNT_FAN1, FRNT_FAN2, FRNT_FAN3, REAR_FAN1)
9. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR1, 8-pin EATX12V1)
10. Thermal sensor cable connectors (3-pin TR1)
11. Parallel port connector (26-1 pin LPT1)
12. System panel connector (20-1 pin PANEL1)
13. Auxiliary panel connector (20-2 pin AUX_PANEL1)
2-26
2-26
2-27
2-27
2-28
2-28
2-29
2-29
2-30
2-31
2-31
2-32
2-33
2-8 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
A
B
The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA1156 socket designed for the Intel® Xeon 3400 series Processors.
Upon purchase of the motherboard, ensure that the PnP cap is on the socket and the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/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 LGA1156 socket.
The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts resulting from incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/ incorrect removal of the PnP cap.
2.3.1 Installing the CPU
To install a CPU:
1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.
Before installing the CPU, ensure that the socket box is facing toward you and the load lever is on your left.
2. Press the load lever with your
Load lever
thumb (A), and then move it to the right (B) until it is released from the retention tab.
To prevent damage to the socket pins, do not remove the PnP cap unless you are installing a CPU.
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-9
Retention tab
3. Lift the load lever in the direction of the arrow until the load plate is completely lifted.
4. Remove the PnP cap from the CPU socket.
Load plate
PnP cap
Cap tab
5. Position the CPU over the socket, ensuring that the gold triangle is on the bottom-left corner of the socket, and then fit the socket alignment
CPU notches
keys into the CPU notches.
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!
2-10 Chapter 2: Hardware information
Gold
triangle
mark
Alignment keys
C
B
A
6. Apply some Thermal Interface Material to the exposed area of the CPU that the heatsink will be in contact with, ensuring that it is spread in an even thin layer.
Some heatsinks come with pre­applied thermal paste. If so, skip this step.
The Thermal Interface Material is toxic and inedible. DO NOT eat it. If it gets into your eyes or touches your skin, wash it off immediately, and seek professional medical help.
7. Close the load plate (A), and then push down the load lever (B), ensuring that the front edge of the load plate slides under the retention knob (C).
8. Insert the load lever under the retention tab.
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-11
2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan
The Intel® LGA1156 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.
When you buy a boxed Intel® processor, the package includes the CPU fan and heatsink assembly. If you buy a CPU separately, ensure that you use only Intel®-certified multi-directional heatsink and fan.
Your Intel® LGA1156 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design and requires no tool to install.
Use an LGA1156-compatible CPU heatsink and fan assembly only. The LGA1156 socket is incompatible with the LGA775 and LGA1366 sockets in size and dimension.
If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, ensure that the Thermal Interface Material is properly applied to the CPU heatsink or CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly.
Ensure that you have installed the motherboard to the chassis before you install the CPU fan and heatsink 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.
B
A
B
2. Push down two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to secure
A
the heatsink and fan assembly in place.
A
B
2-12 Chapter 2: Hardware information
B
1
A
Orient the heatsink and fan assembly such that the CPU fan cable is closest to the CPU fan connector.
1
3. Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN1.
DO NOT forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector.
2.3.3 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 to disengage the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard.
B
A
B
A
A
B
B
A
4. Carefully remove the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard.
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-13
2.3.4 Installing the CPU heatsink in rack
The Intel® 1156 processors require a specially designed heatsink to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.
Ensure that you use qualified heatsink assembly only.
Ensure that you have applied the thermal interface material to the top of the CPU before installing the heatsink.
1. Peel off the sticker on the heatsink metal plate and affix the plate to the back of the motherboard, matching the standoffs to the heatsink screw holes.
2. Use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten the four heatsink screws in a diagonal sequence.
Ensure that the heatsink is not skewed or tilted, otherwise the CPU will overheat.
2-14 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.4 System memory
2.4.1 Overview
The motherboard comes with six Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets.
A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR2 DIMM but is notched differently to prevent installation on a DDR2 DIMM socket. DDR3 modules are developed for better performance with less power consumption.
The figure illustrates the location of the DDR3 DIMM sockets:
2.4.2 Memory Congurations
You may install 1 GB, 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB Registerd, or 1 GB, 2 GB, 4 GB Unbuffered with ECC/Non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets using the memory configurations in this section.
RDIMM* DIMM Slot
Per Channel
3 1 Registered DDR3 ECC 1333 Single Rank, Dual Rank 3 1 Registered DDR3 ECC 1066 Quad Rank 3 2 Registered DDR3 ECC 1333 Single Rank, Dual Rank 3 2 Registered DDR3 ECC 800** Quad Rank 3 3 Registered DDR3 ECC 800** Single Rank, Dual Rank
UDIMM DIMM Slot
Per Channel
2 1 Unbuffered DDR3 1333 Single Rank, Dual Rank 2 2 Unbuffered DDR3 1333 Single Rank, Dual Rank *Support Low Voltage DIMMs; **Down from 1066 or 1333 MHz DIMM
DIMM Populated per Channel
DIMM Populated per Channel
DIMM Type Speed Rank per DIMM
DIMM Type Speed Rank per DIMM
Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimum compatibility, it is recommended that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor. DO NOT combine RDIMM and UDIMM.
The motherboard supports x8 DRAM Only and x4 & x16 DRAM are not supported
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-15
2.4.3 Installing a DIMM
Unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so can cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components.
To install a DIMM:
1. Press the retaining clips outward to unlock a DIMM socket.
2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM
1
matches the break on the socket.
3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the socket until the retaining clips snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated.
A DDR3 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.
The DDR3 DIMM sockets do not support DDR and DDR2 DIMMs. DO NOT install DDR or DDR2 DIMMs to the DDR3 DIMM sockets.
2.4.4 Removing a DIMM
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
3
DDR3 DIMM notch
1
Unlocked retaining clip
2
DDR3 DIMM notch
1
1
2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.
2-16 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.5 Expansion slots
In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following subsections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support.
Ensure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.
2.5.1 Installing an expansion card
To install an expansion card:
1. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card.
2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a chassis).
3. Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw for later use.
4. Align the card connector with the slot and press 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.
2.5.2 Conguring an expansion card
After installing the expansion card, configure the it 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 next page.
3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.
When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conflicts will arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable.
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-17
2.5.3 Interrupt assignments
Standard Interrupt assignments
IRQ Priority Standard function
0 1 System Timer
1 2 Keyboard Controller
2 - Programmable Interrupt
3* 11 Communications Port (COM2)
4* 12 Communications Port (COM1)
5* 13 --
6 14 Floppy Disk Controller
7* 15 --
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.
2-18 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.5.4 PCI Express x16 slots (x8 link)
The onboard PCI Express x16 slots provide x8 link to CPU. These slots support VGA cards and various server class high performance add-on cards.
2.5.5 PCI slots
The PCI slot supports cards such as a LAN card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI 2.3 specifications.
PCI Express x16 slot
PCI Express x16 slot
(x8 link)
PCI slot
(x8 link) PCI slot
PCI slot
PCI slot
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-19
2.5.6 Installing i Button
Follow the steps below to install an optional i Button on your motherboard.
1. Locate the I Button slot on the motherboard.
2. Snap the I Button in place.
2.5.7 Connect Thermal sensor cable
Follow the steps below to connect the thermal sensor cable to the connector on your motherboard.
1. Locate the TR1 connector on the motherboard.
2. Connect the thermal sensor cable to the connector.
3. Place the other end of the thermal sensor cable to the device you would like to monitor temperature.
2-20 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.6 Jumpers
1. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC1)
This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords.
To erase the RTC RAM:
1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.
2. Move the jumper cap from pins 1–2 (default) to pins 2–3. Keep the cap on pins 2–3 for about 5–10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1–2.
3. Plug the power cord and the computer turns on automatically.
4. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter data.
Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper default position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!
If the steps above do not help, remove the onboard battery and move the jumper again to clear the CMOS RTC RAM data. After the CMOS clearance, reinstall the battery.
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-21
2. VGA controller setting (3-pin VGA_SW1)
This jumper allows you to enable or disable the onboard VGA controller. Set to pins 1–2 to activate the VGA feature.
3. CPU Fan and Chassis Fan control setting (3-pin CPUFAN_SEL1, CHAFAN_SEL1)
These jumpers allow you to switch for fan pin selection. The CPUFAN_SEL1 jumper is for the CPU fan control and the CHAFAN_SEL1 jumper is for the front fans and rear fans control. Set to pins 1–2 when using 4-pin fans or pins 2–3 when using 3-pin fans.
If you use a 4-pin fan but set the jumper to pin 2-3, the fan you installed may not work.
If you use a 3-pin fan but set the jumper for a 4-pin fan, the fan control will not work and the fan you installed will always run at full speed.
2-22 Chapter 2: Hardware information
4. LAN controller setting (3-pin LAN_SW1, LAN_SW2)
3
4
(LAN_SW3, LAN_SW4
These jumpers allow you to enable or disable the onboard Marvell
P7F-C/4L model only
)
®
88E8056
Gigabit LAN controllers. Set to pins 1–2 to activate the Gigabit LAN feature.–2 to activate the Gigabit LAN feature.2 to activate the Gigabit LAN feature.
5. RAID conguration utility selection (3-pin RAID_SEL1) (
P7F-C/4L model only
)
This jumper allows you to select the RAID configuration utility to use when
you create disk arrays. Place the jumper caps over pins 1–2 if you want to use the LSI Logic Embedded SATA RAID Setup Utility (default); otherwise, place the jumper caps to pins 2–3 to use the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager.
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-23
6. Onboard storage setting (3-pin SAS_SW1)
(P7F-C/SAS model only)
This jumper allows you to enable or disable the onboard LSI1068E SAS controller. Set the jumper to pins 1–2 to enable the SAS function (default).
7. Force BIOS recovery setting (3-pin RECOVERY1)
This jumper allows you to quickly update or recover the BIOS settings when it becomes corrupted.
To update the BIOS:
1. Set the jumper to pins 2–3.
2. Insert the USB flash that contains the original or latest BIOS and turn on the system to recover or update the BIOS.
3. Shut down the system.
4. Set the jumper back to pins 1–2.
5. Turn on the system.
2-24 Chapter 2: Hardware information
2.7 Connectors
2.7.1 Rear panel connectors
1. PS/2 mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse.
2. PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.
3. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports
are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.
4. Serial (COM1) port. This 9-pin communication port is for pointing devices or
other serial devices.
5. Video Graphics Adapter port. This port is for a VGA monitor or other VGA-
compatible devices.
6. LAN 1 (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area
Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.
7. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area
Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.
8. LAN 3 (RJ-45) port.
connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.
9. LAN 4 (RJ-45) port.
connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications.
(P7F-C/4L model only)
This port allows Gigabit
(P7F-C/4L model only)
This port allows Gigabit
LAN port LED indications
LED
LAN port
SPEED
LED
Activity/Link LED Speed LED
Status Description Status Description
OFF No link OFF 10 Mbps connection
GREEN Linked ORANGE 100 Mbps connection
BLINKING Data activity GREEN 1 Gbps connection
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-25
ACT/LINK
2.7.2 Internal connectors
1. Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, SATA4; RED)
(7-pin SATA5, SATA6; Black)
Supported by the Intel® 3420 chipset, these connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk drives that allows up to 3Gb/s of data transfer rate.
If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10, or RAID 5 configuration.
The actual data transfer rate depends on the speed of Serial ATA hard disks installed.
The SATA connectors do not support SATA cables with latch.
2. Hard disk activity LED connector (4-pin HDLED1)
This LED connector is for the storage add-on card cable connected to the SATA or SAS add-on card. The read or write activities of any device connected to the SATA or SAS add-on card causes the front panel LED to light up.
2-26 Chapter 2: Hardware information
3. SAS connectors (7-pin SAS1, SAS2, SAS3, SAS4; Red) (7-pin SAS5, SAS6, SAS7, SAS8; Blue)
(P7F-C/SAS model only)
This motherboard comes with eight (8) Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) connectors, the next-generation storage technology that supports both Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) and Serial ATA (SATA). Each connector supports one device.
4. USB connector (10-1 pin USB34, USB56; A-Type USB7)
These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cables to connectors USB34 and USB56, then install the modules to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specification that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed.
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-27
5. Serial General Purpose Input/Output connector (6-1 pin SGPIO1)
This connector is used for the SGPIO peripherals for the LSI MegaRAID and Intel Matrix RAID SATA LED.
6. Serial General Purpose Input/Output connectors (8-1 pin SGPIO2/3)
(P7F-C/SAS model only)
These connector is used for the SAS chip SGPIO interface that controls the LED pattern generation, device information and general purpose data.
2-28 Chapter 2: Hardware information
7. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM2)
This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.
8. CPU, front and rear fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN1, FRNT_FAN1, FRNT_FAN2, FRNT_FAN3, REAR_FAN1)
The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350 mA–740 mA (8.88 W max.) or a total of 1.75 A–3.7 A (44.4 W max.) at +12V. Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, ensuring that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.
DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components.
These are not jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on the fan connectors!
All fans feature the ASUS Fan Speed Control technology.
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-29
9. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR1, 8-pin EATX12V1)
These connectors are for an ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.
DO NOT forget to connect the 24+8-pin power plugs; otherwise, the system will not boot up.
Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when configuring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.
This motherboard supports ATX2.0 PSU or later version.
Ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power required by your system.
2-30 Chapter 2: Hardware information
10. Thermal sensor cable connectors (3-pin TR1)
This connector is for temperature monitoring. Connect the thermal sensor cable to this connector and place the other end to the device, which you want to monitor temperature.
11. Parallel port connector (26-1 pin LPT1)
This connector is for a parallel port. Connect the parallel port module cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-31
12. System panel connector (20-pin PANEL1)
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.
1. System power LED (3-pin PLED)
This 3-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.
2. Message LED (2-pin MLED)
This 2-pin connector is for the message LED cable that connects to the front message LED. The message LED is controlled by Hardware monitor to indicate an abnormal event occurance.
3. System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)
This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. The speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.
4. Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin HDDLED)
This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or flashes when data is read from or written to the HDD.
5. ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW)
This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button turns the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending on the BIOS settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON turns the system OFF.
6. Reset button (2-pin RESET)
This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without turning off the system power.
2-32 Chapter 2: Hardware information
13. Auxiliary panel connector (20-pin AUX_PANEL1)
This connector is for additional front panel features including front panel SMB, locator LED and switch, chassis intrusion, and LAN LEDs.
1. Front panel SMB (6-1 pin FPSMB)
These leads connect the front panel SMBus cable.
2. LAN activity LED (2-pin LAN1_LED, LAN2_LED)
These leads are for Gigabit LAN activity LEDs on the front panel.
3. Chassis intrusion (4-1 pin CHASSIS)
These leads are for the intrusion detection feature for chassis with intrusion sensor or microswitch. When you remove any chassis component, the sensor triggers and sends a high-level signal to these leads to record a chassis intrusion event. The default setting is short CASEOPEN and GND pin by jumper cap to disable the function.
4. Locator LED (2-pin LOCATORLED1 and 2-pin LOCATORLED2)
These leads are for the locator LED1 and LED2 on the front panel. Connect the Locator LED cables to these 2-pin connector. The LEDs will light up when the Locator button is pressed.
5. Locator Button/Swich (2-pin LOCATORBTN)
These leads are for the locator button on the front panel. This button queries the state of the system locator.
ASUS P7F-C Series 2-33
2-34 Chapter 2: Hardware information
This chapter describes the power up sequence, and ways of shutting down the system.
Powering up
3
Chapter summary
3
3.1 Starting up for the rst time ........................................................ 3-3
3.2 Turning off the computer ............................................................. 3-4
ASUS P7F-C Series
3.1 Starting up for the rst 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
6. After applying power, the system power LED on the system front panel case lights up. For systems with SSI power supplies, the system LED lights up when you press the SSI power button. 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 self-test or POST. 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. At power on, hold down the <Del> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the instructions in Chapter 4.
ASUS P7F-C Series 3-3
3.2 Powering off the computer
3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function
If you are using Windows® 2003 Server:
1. Click the
2. Select box.
3. Select
4. Ensure that the
5. Select shutdown option from the list box.
6. If necessary, key in comments.
7. Click OK.
Start
button then click
Shut Down
Shutdown Event Tracker
from the
Planned
Shut Down
What do you want the computer to do?
.
check box is checked.
.
list
3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch
While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts the system to sleep mode or to soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. Refer to section Chapter 4 for details.
4.5 Power Menu
in
3-4 Chapter 3: Powering up
This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
BIOS setup
4
Chapter summary
4
4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 4-1
4.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 4-7
4.3 Main menu .................................................................................. 4-10
4.4 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 4-16
4.5 Server menu ............................................................................... 4-29
4.6 Power menu ................................................................................ 4-31
4.7 Boot menu .................................................................................. 4-34
4.8 Tools menu ................................................................................. 4-38
4.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 4-39
ASUS P7F-C Series
4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS
The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup:
ASUS EZ Flash 2
1.
BUPDATER utility
2. flash disk drive.)
ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
3. disk drive when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted.)
Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.
(Updates the BIOS using a USB flash disk.)
(Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable USB
(To recover the BIOS using a bootable USB flash
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a bootable
disk drive
motherboard BIOS using the BUPDATER utility.
in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original
USB flash
4.1.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility
The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to use a DOS-based utility.
Before you start using this utility, download the latest BIOS from the ASUS website at www.asus.com.
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2
1. Insert the USB flash disk that contains the latest BIOS file to the USB port.
2. Enter the BIOS setup program. Go to the
Tools
menu to select and press <Enter> to enable it. Or, press <Alt> + <F2> during the POST to enable EZ Flash 2.
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.34
FLASH TYPE: MXIC 25L1605A
Current ROM
BOARD: P7F-C Series VER: 0104 DATE: 10/23/2009
PATH: A:\
A:
Update ROM
BOARD: P7F C SAS VER: 0201 DATE: 11/13/2009
EZ Flash 2
Note
[Enter] Select or Load [Tab] Switch [V] Drive Info [Up/Down/Home/End] Move [B] Backup [Esc] Exit
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-3
3. Press <Tab> to switch between drives until the correct BIOS file is found. When found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update process and automatically reboots the system when done.
This function can support devices such as a USB flash disk with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure!
Ensure to load the BIOS default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Load Setup Defaults item under the Exit menu. See section 4.9 Exit Menu for details.
4.1.2 BUPDATER utility
The succeeding BIOS screens are for reference only. The actual BIOS screen displays may not be the same as shown.
The BUPDATER utility allows you to update the BIOS file in DOS environment using a bootable USB flash disk drive with the updated BIOS file.
Updating the BIOS le
To update the BIOS file using the BUPDATER utility:
1. Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com and download the latest BIOS file for the motherboard. Save the BIOS file to a bootable USB flash disk drive. USB flash disk drive..
2. Copy the BUPDATER utility (BUPDATER.exe) from the ASUS support website at support.asus.com to the bootable USB flash disk drive you created USB flash disk drive you createdyou created earlier.
3. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt, type:
BUPDATER /i[lename].ROM
where [filename] is the latest or the original BIOS file on the bootable USB USB flash disk drive, then press <Enter>., then press <Enter>.
A:\>BUPDATER /i[le name].ROM
4-4 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4. The utility verifies the file, then starts updating the BIOS file.
ASUSTek BIOS Update for DOS V1.06 (09/08/04)
FLASH TYPE: MXIC 25L1605A
Current ROM
BOARD: P7F-C Series VER: 0205 DATE: 07/23/2009
PATH:
WARNING! Do not turn off power during ash BIOS
Note
Writing BIOS:
Update ROM
BOARD: P7F-C Series VER: 0206 DATE: 08/10/2009
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure!
5. The utility returns to the DOS prompt after the BIOS update process is completed. Reboot the system from the hard disk drive.
The BIOS update is nished! Please restart your system.
C:\>
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-5
4.1.3 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility
The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can update a corrupted BIOS file using a USB flash drive that contains the updated BIOS file.
Prepare a USB flash drive containing the updated motherboard BIOS before using this utility.
Recovering the BIOS from a USB ash drive
To recover the BIOS from a USB flash drive:
1. Insert the USB flash drive with the original or updated BIOS file to one USB port on the system.
2. The utility will automatically recover the BIOS. It resets the system when the BIOS recovery finished.
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while recovering the BIOS! Doing so would cause system boot failure!
The recovered BIOS may not be the latest BIOS version for this motherboard. Visit the ASUS website at www.asus.com to download the latest BIOS file.
4-6 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.2 BIOS setup program
This motherboard supports a programmable firmware chip that you can update using the provided utility described in section
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 can change the configuration of your computer in the future. For example, you can enable the security password feature or change the power management settings. This requires you to 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 firmware chip.
The firmware chip on the motherboard stores the Setup utility. When you start up the computer, the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press <Del> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the Setup utility; otherwise, POST continues with its test routines.
If you wish to enter Setup after POST, 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. Being a menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various sub-menus and make your selections from the available options using the navigation keys.
4.1 Managing and updating your
The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply for most conditions to ensure optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS settings, load the default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the Exit Menu. See section
The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for this motherboard.
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-7
4.9 Exit Menu
Load Setup Defaults
.
item under the
4.2.1 BIOS menu screen
Menu bar
Main Advanced Server Power Boot Tools Exit
System Time [13:44:30] System Date [Wed, 11/25/2009]
SATA 1 : [ST3160812AS] SATA 2 : [Not Detected] SATA 3 : [Not Detected] SATA 4 : [Not Detected] SATA 5 : [Not Detected] SATA 6 : [Not Detected]
Storage Conguration
System Information
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
Sub-menu items
Conguration eldsMenu items
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
General help
Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to
select a eld.
Use [+] or [-] to
congure system Date.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
Navigation keys
4.2.2 Menu bar
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:
Main For changing the basic system configuration
Advanced For changing the advanced system settings
Server For changing the advanced server settings
Power For changing the advanced power management (APM)
configuration
Boot For changing the system boot configuration Tools
For configuring options for special functions
Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default
settings
To select an item on the menu bar, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard until the desired item is highlighted.
4.2.3 Navigation keys
At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings.
The navigation keys differ from one screen to another.
4-8 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.2.4 Menu items
The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific items for that menu. For example, selecting Main shows the Main menu items.
System Time [11:17:09] System Date [Wed 11/25/2009]
SATA1 [Not Detected] SATA2 [Not Detected] SATA3 [Not Detected] SATA4 [Not Detected] SATA5 [Not Detected] SATA6 [Not Detected]
Storage Conguration System Information
Use [ENTER], [TAB]
or [SHIFT-TAB] to
select a eld.
Use [+] or [-] to
congure system
Date.
The other items (Advanced, Power, Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items.
Main menu items
4.2.5 Sub-menu items
A solid triangle before each item on any menu screen means that the item has a sub-menu. To display the sub-menu, select the item and press <Enter>.
4.2.6 Conguration elds
These fields show the values for the menu items. If an item is user-configurable, you can change the value of the field opposite the item. You cannot select an item that is not user-configurable.
A configurable field is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a field, select it then press <Enter> to display a list of options. Refer to 4.2.7 Pop-up window.
4.2.7 Pop-up window
Select a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the configuration options for that item.
4.2.8 Scroll bar
A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not fit on the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> /<Page Down> keys to display the other items on the screen.
Pop-up window
Scroll bar
4.2.9 General help
At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item.
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-9
4.3 Main menu
When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an overview of the basic system information.
Refer to section 4.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them.
Main Advanced Server Power Boot Tools Exit
System Time [13:44:30] System Date [Wed, 11/25/2009]
SATA 1 : [ST3160812AS] SATA 2 : [Not Detected] SATA 3 : [Not Detected] SATA 4 : [Not Detected] SATA 5 : [Not Detected] SATA 6 : [Not Detected]
Storage Conguration
System Information
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to
select a eld.
Use [+] or [-] to
congure system Date.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
4.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx]
Allows you to set the system time.
4.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]
Allows you to set the system date.
4-10 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.3.3 SATA1—6
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of IDE/SATA devices. There is a separate submenu for each IDE/SATA device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to display the SATA device information.
Main
SATA1
Device :Hard Disk Vendor :xxxxxxxxx Size :xx.xGB LBA Mode :Supported Block Mode:16Sectors PIO Mode :4 Async DMA :MultiWord DMA-2 Ultra DMA :Ultra DMA-6 S.M.A.R.T.:Supported
Type [Auto] LBA/Large Mode [Auto] Block(Multi-Sector Transfer)M [Auto] PIO Mode [Auto] DMA Mode [Auto] SMART Monitoring [Auto] 32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Select the type of device connected to the system.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device, Vendor, Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and S.M.A.R.T. monitoring). These values are not user-configurable. These items show N/A if no IDE/SATA device is installed in the system.
Type [Auto]
Allows you to select the type of device connected to the system. Configuration options: [Not Installed] [Auto] [CDROM] [ARMD]
LBA/Large Mode [Auto]
Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting to [Auto] enables the LBA mode if the device supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA mode disabled. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
Block (Multi-Sector Transfer) M [Auto]
Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When set to [Auto], the data transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device supports multi-sector transfer feature. When set to [Disabled], the data transfer from and to the device occurs one sector at a time. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto]
PIO Mode [Auto]
Allows you to select the data transfer mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-11
DMA Mode [Auto]
Sets the DMA mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [SWDMA0] [SWDMA1] [SWDMA2] [MWDMA0] [MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2] [UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5]
SMART Monitoring [Auto]
Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]
32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]
Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
4-12 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.3.4 Storage Conguration
The items in this menu allow you to set or change the configurations for the IDE/SATA devices installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you wish to configure the item.
Main
Storage Conguration
SATA Conguration [Enhanced] Congure SATA as [IDE]
Hard Disk Write Protect [Disabled] IDE Detect Time Out (Sec) [35]
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
SATA Conguration [Enhanced]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Compatible] [Enhanced]
Configure SATA as [IDE]
Sets the configuration for the Serial ATA connectors supported by the PCH chip. Configuration options: [IDE] [RAID] [AHCI]
If you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as Parallel ATA physical storage devices, keep the default setting [IDE].
If you want the Serial ATA hard disk drives to use the Advanced Host Controller Interface (AHCI), set this item to [AHCI]. The AHCI allows the onboard storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that increases storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to internally optimize the order of commands.
If you want to create RAID sets with LSI MegaRAID utility, or Intel® Matrix Storage Technology from the Serial ATA hard disk drives, set this item to [RAID].
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Options
Disabled Compatible Enhanced
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
Hard Disk Write Protect [Disabled]
Disables or enables device write protection. This will be effective only if the device is accessed through BIOS. Configuration option: [Disabled] [Enabled]
IDE Detect Time Out (Sec) [35]
Selects the time out value for detecting ATA/ATAPI devices. Configuration options: [0] [5] [10] [15] [20] [25] [30] [35]
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-13
4.3.5 AHCI Conguration
This menu is the section for AHCI configuration. It appears only when you set the item Congure SATA as from the sub-menu of SATA Conguration to [AHCI].
Main
AHCI Settings
SATA Port1 [Not Detected] SATA Port2 [Not Detected] SATA Port3 [Not Detected] SATA Port4 [Not Detected] SATA Port5 [Not Detected] SATA Port6 [Not Detected]
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Some SATA CD/DVD in AHCI mode need to wait ready longer.
SATA Port1–6 [XXXX]
Displays the status of auto-detection of SATA devices.
Main
SATA Port1
Device :Not Detected
SATA Port1 [Auto] SMART Monitoring [Enabled]
SATA Port1 [Auto]
Allows you to select the type of device connected to the system. Configuration options: [Auto] [Not Installed]
SMART Monitoring [Enabled]
Allows you to set the Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Select the type of device connected to the system.
4-14 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.3.6 System Information
This menu gives you an overview of the general system specifications. The BIOS automatically detects the items in this menu.
Main
BIOS Information
BIOS Version :0201 BIOS Build Date :11/13/09
Processor
Type :Intel(R) Xeon(R) CPU X3440 @
2.53GHz Speed :2533MHz
System Memory
Usable Size : 2040MB
System Memory Information
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS Information
Displays the auto-detected BIOS information.
Processor
Displays the auto-detected CPU specification.
System Memory
Displays the auto-detected system memory.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
System Memory Information
Displays system memory information.
Main
System Memory Information
Speed DDR3 1333
DIMM_A1 20484 MB, 2R, 1333 DIMM_A2 N/A DIMM_A3 N/A DIMM_B1 N/A DIMM_B2 N/A DIMM_B3 N/A
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-15
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
4.4 Advanced menu
The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices.
Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction.
Main Advanced Server Power Boot Tools Exit
CPU Conguration
Chipset
Onboard Device Conguration USB Conguration
PCIPnP
ACPI Conguration Event Log Conguration
Intel VT-d [Disabled] SR-IOV Supported [Disabled]
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Congure CPU.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
4.4.1 CPU Conguration
The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically detects. Some items may not appear if your CPU does not support the related functions.
Advanced
Congure advanced CPU settings
Module Version:01.04
Manufacturer:Intel Brand String:Intel(R) Xeon(R) CPU X3440 Frequency :2.53GHz BCLK Speed :133MHz Cache L1 :128 KB Cache L2 :1024 KB Cache L3 :8192 KB Ratio Status:Unlocked (Min:09, Max:21) Ratio Actual Value :21 CPUID :20651
C1E Support [Enabled] Hardware Prefetcher [Enabled] Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch [Enabled] Max CPUID Value Limit [Disabled] Intel(R) Virtualization Tech [Enabled] CPU TM Function [Enabled]
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
This should be enabled in order to enable or disable the "Enchanced Halt State".
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
4-16 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
Scroll down for more items.
Advanced
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Execute-Disable Bit Capability [Enabled] Intel(R) HT Technology [Enabled] Active Processor Cores [All] A20M [Disabled] Intel(R) SpeedStep(TM) Tech [Enabled] Intel(R) TurboMode Tech [Enabled] Intel(R) C-STATE Tech [Enabled] C3 State [ACPI C2] C6 State [Enabled] C State package limit setting [Auto] C1 Auto Demotion [Enabled] C3 Auto Demotion [Enabled]
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.
Sets the ratio between CPU Core Clock and the FSB Frequency. Note:If an invalid ratio is set in CMOS then actual and setpoint values may differ.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
C1E Support [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable Enhanced Halt State support. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Hardware Prefetcher [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Hardware Prefetcher function. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Adjacent Cache Line Prefetch function. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Max CPUID Value Limit [Disabled]
Setting this item to [Enabled] allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs with extended CPUID functions. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Intel(R) Virtualization Tech [Enabled]
The Intel® Virtualization Technology allows a hardware platform to run multiple operating systems separately and simultaneously, enabling one system to virtually function as several systems. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
CPU TM Function [Enabled]
This function enables the overheated CPU to throttle the clock speed to cool down. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-17
Execute-Disable Bit Capability [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the No-Execution Page Protection Technology. Setting this item to [Disabled] forces the XD feature flag to always return to zero (0). Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Intel(R) HT Technology [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Intel Hyper-Threading Technology function. When disabled, only one thread per activated core is enabled. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
Active Processor Cores [All]
Allows you to choose the number of CPU cores to activate in each processor package.Configuration options: [All] [1] [2]
A20M [Disabled]
Legacy OSes and APs may need A20M enabled. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Intel(R) SpeedStep (TM) Tech [Enabled]
When set to [Disabled], the CPU runs at its default speed. When set to [Enabled], the CPU speed is controlled by the operating system. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Intel(R) TurboMode Tech [Enabled]
Turbo mode allows processor cores to run faster than marked frequency in specific condition.Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Intel(R) C-STATE Tech [Enabled]
The Intel® C-State Technology allows the CPU to save more power under idle mode. Enable this item only when you install a C-State Technology-supported CPU. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
The following items appear only when you
item to [Enabled].
Intel(R) C-STATE Tech
set the
C3 State [ACPI C2]
Allows you to select Nehalem C state action. Configuratiton options: [Disabled] [ACPI C2] [ACPI C3]
C6 State [Enabled]
Allows you to select Nehalem C state action. Configuratiton options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
4-18 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
C State package limit setting [Auto]
We recommend that you set this item to [Auto] for BIOS to automatically detect the C-State mode supported by your CPU. Configuration options: [Auto] [C1] [C3] [C6]
C1 Auto Demotion [Enabled]
When this item is enabled, the CPU will conditionally demote C3/C6/C7 requests to C1 based on the uncore auto-demote information. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
C3 Auto Demotion [Enabled]
When this item is enabled, the CPU will conditionally demote C6/C7 requests to C3 based on the uncore auto-demote information. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-19
4.4.2 Chipset
The Chipset configuration menu allows you to change advanced chipset settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.
Advanced
Advanced Chipset Settings
WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction.
Uncore Conguration
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Congure CPU Bridge
features.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
Uncore Conguration
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Advanced
Advanced
CPU Bridge Chipset Conguration
Uncore Conguration
CPU REVISION :B0
IMC : Lynneld
Current CSI Frequency :6.400GT Current Memory Frequency :1066 Mhz
Memory Remap Feature [Enabled]
PCI MMIO Allocation: 4GB To 3072MB
CSI Links Speed [Full-Speed]
DRAM Frequency [Auto] CSI Frequency [Auto]
Congure DRAM Timing by SPD [Enabled]
DRAM Margin Ranks [Disabled] Memory Frequency [Auto]
MRC Serial Debug Message Level [Disabled] Memory Mode [Independent] Demand Scrubbing [Disabled] Patrol Scrubbing [Disabled]
Memory ECC Function [Enabled] Throttling - Closed Loop [Disabled]
Double Rate Refresh [Auto] Throttling - Open Loop [Disabled]
Page Policy [Closed] Adaptive Page [Disabled] Data Scramble [Enabled] Memory Thermal Throttling [Disabled]
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
To transition the CSI
ENABLE: Allow links to full-speed
remapping of or leave them in
overlapped PCI memory slow-mode.
above the total physical memory.
DISABLE: Do not allow remapping of memory.
←→ Select Screen
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option
+- Change Option F1 General Help
F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit
F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
ESC Exit
Memory Remap Feature [Enabled]
Setting this item to [Enabled] allows you to remapp the overlapped PCI memory above the total physical memory. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
DRAM Frequency [Auto]
You may allow the system to detect DDR3 memory frequency via SPD or designate a specific frequency. Configuration options: [Auto] [800 MHz] [1066 MHz] [1333 MHz]
Refer to the memory AVL on ASUS website at www.asus.com.
4-20 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
Congure DRAM Timing by SPD [Enabled]
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
The ofllowing 10 items appear when you set Configure DRAM Timing by SPD to [Disabled].
DRAM tCL [7]
Configuration options: [3]—[15]
DRAM tRAS [20]
Configuration options: [9]—[63]
DRAM tRP [7]
Configuration options: [3]—[15]
DRAM tRCD [7]
Configuration options: [3]—[15]
DRAM tWR [8]
Configuration options: [3]—[31]
DRAM tRFC [59]
Configuration options: [15]—[255]
DRAM tWTR [4]
Configuration options: [4]—[31]
DRAM tRRD [4]
Configuration options: [4]—[15]
DRAM tRTP [4]
Configuration options: [4]—[15]
DRAM tFAW [20]
Configuration options: [15]—[63]
DRAM Margin Ranks [Disabled]
Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
MRC Serial Debug Message Level [Disabled]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Minimum] [Maximum] [Test]
Memory ECC Function [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable Memory ECC fucntion. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-21
Double Rate Refresh [Auto]
Allows you to enable or disable Double Rate Refresh. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled]
Page Poilcy [Closed]
Configuration options: [Closed] [Open]
Adaptive Page [Disabled]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Data Scramble [Disabled]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Memory Thermal Throttling [Disabled]
Setting this item to [CLTT] to Closed Loop Thermal Throttling and [OLTT] to Open Loop Thermal Throttling. Configuration options: [CLTT] [OLTT] [Disabled] [Auto]
4.4.3 Onboard Devices Conguration
The Onboard Devices Configuration menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for onboard devices.
Take caution when changing the settings of the Onboard Devices Configuration menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction.
Advanced
Onboard Devices Conguration
OnBoard LAN1 Boot ROM [PXE] OnBoard LAN2 Boot ROM [PXE] OnBoard LAN3 Boot ROM [PXE] OnBoard LAN4 Boot ROM [PXE] LSI 1068E Boot ROM [Enabled] Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4] Serial Port2 Address [2F8/IRQ3] Parellel Port Address [378] Parellel Port Mode [Normal] Interrupt 19 Capture [Enabled]
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Options
Enabled Disabled
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
4-22 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
Onboard LAN1/2/3/4 Boot ROM [PXE]
Allows you to configure the onboard LAN1/2/3/4 boot mode. Configuration: [Disabled] [PXE]
Onboard LAN3/4 Boot ROM
are available only for
P7F-C/4L
model.
LSI 1068E Boot ROM [Enabled]
Allows you to configure the onboard LSI 1068E boot mode. Configuration: [Enabled] [Disabled]
LSI 1068E Boot ROM
is available only for
P7F-C/SAS
model.
Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]
Allows you to select the Serial Port1 base address. Configuration options: [Disabled] [3F8/IRQ4] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3]
Serial Port2 Address [2F8/IRQ3]
Allows you to select the Serial Port2 base address. Configuration options: [Disabled] [2F8/IRQ3] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3]
Parallel Port Address [378]
Allows you to select the Parallel Port base address. Configuration options: [Disabled] [378] [278] [3BC]
Parallel Port Mode [Normal]
Allows you to select the Parallel Port mode. Configuration options: [Normal] [Bi-Directional] [ECP] [EPP] [ECP & EPP]
Interrupt 19 Capture [Enabled]
When set to [Enabled], this function allows the option ROMs to trap Interrupt 19. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-23
4.4.4 USB Conguration
Advanced
USB Conguration
Module Version - 2.24.5-13.4
USB Devices Enabled:
2 Hubs
USB Functions [Enabled] Legacy USB Support [Auto]
BIOS EHCI Hand-off [Enabled]
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc.
USB Functions [Enabled]
Allows you to enabled or disable the USB function. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Legacy USB Support [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable support for legacy USB devices. Setting to [Auto] allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto]
BIOS EHCI Hand-Off [Enabled]
Enables or disables the BIOS EHCI hand-off support. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Options
Disabled Enabled
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
4-24 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.4.5 PCIPnP
The PCIPnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices.
Take caution when changing the settings of the PCI/PnP Configuration menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction.
Advanced
Advanced PCI/PnP Settings
WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction.
Plug And Play O/S [No]
PCI Option ROM Scan Order [Bus 0 First] Onboard Option ROM Priority [Normal]
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
NO: lets the BIOS
congure all the
devices in the system. YES: lets the operating system congure Plug and Play (PnP) devices not required for boot if your system has a Plug and Play operating system.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
Plug And Play O/S [No]
When set to [No], BIOS configures all the devices in the system. When set to [Yes] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system configures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot. Configuration options: [No] [Yes]
PCI Option ROM Scan Order [Bus 0 First]
Allows you to select the PCI option ROM scanning order. The scanning of the option ROM will start from the lowest bus, device, fucntion number if you set this item to [Bus 0 First]; the scanning starts from the highest bus, device, function number if you set this item to [Bus N First]. Configuration options: [Bus 0 First] [Bus N First]
Onboard Option ROM Priority [Normal]
Allows you to select the onboard option ROM priority. Configuration options: [Normal] [High]
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-25
4.4.6 ACPI Conguration
Advanced
ACPI Settings
Advanced ACPI Conguration Chipset ACPI Conguration General WHEA Conguration
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Advanced ACPI
Conguration
settings.
Use this section to
congure additional
ACPI options.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
Advanced ACPI Conguration
Advanced
Advanced ACPI Conguration
ACPI APIC support [Enabled] BIOS-->AML ACPI table [Enabled] Headless mode [Disabled]
ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) support in the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). When set to [Enabled], the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Include ACPI APIC table pointer to RSDT pointer list.
BIOS-->AML ACPI table [Enabled]
Allows you to include the BIOS-->AML exchange table pointer to (X)RSDT pointer list.Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Headless mode [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Headless operation mode through ACPI. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
4-26 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
Chipset ACPI Conguration
Advanced
South Bridge ACPI Conguration
Energy Lake Feature [Disabled] APIC ACPI SCI IRQ [Disabled] High Performance Event Timer [Enabled] HPET Memory Address [FED00000h]
Energy Lake Feature [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Energy Lake feature. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]
We do not recommend you enable this feature.
APIC ACPI SCI IRQ [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the APIC ACPI SCI IRQ feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
High Performance Event Timer [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the High Performance Event Timer feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
HPET Memory Address [FED00000h]
Configuration options: [FED00000h] [FED01000h] [FED02000h] [FED03000h]
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Enabled Disabled
Options
General WHEA Conguration
Advanced
General WHEA Conguration
WHEA Support [Enabled]
WHEA Support [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Windows Hardware Error Architecture. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-27
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Enabled or disable Windows Hardware Error Architecture.
4.4.7 Event Log Conguration
Main Advanced
Event Logging details
View Event Log Mark all event as read Clear Event Log
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
View all unread events on the Event Log.
View Event Log
Press <Enter> to read all the unread event log.
Mark all events as read
Press <Enter> to mark all the events as read.
Clear Event Log
Press <Enter> to clear all events on the event log.
4.4.8 Intel VT-d Conguration [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the Intel Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
4.4.9 SR-IOV Supprted [Disabled]
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
4-28 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.5 Server menu
Main Advanced Server Power Boot Tools Exit
Remote Access Conguration
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Congure Remote Access.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
4.5.1 Remote Access Conguration
The items in this menu allows you to configure the Remote Access features. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.
Server
Congure Remote Access type and parameters
Remote Access [Enabled]
Serial port number [COM2]
Base Address, IRQ [2F8h, 3]
Serial Port Mode [57600 8,n,1] Flow Control [Hardware] Redirection After BIOS POST [Disabled] Terminal Type [VT-UTF8]
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Select Remote Access type.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
Remote Access [Enabled]
Enables or disables the remote access feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
The following items appear only when Remote Access is set to [Enabled].
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-29
Serial port number [COM2]
Selects the serial port for console redirection. Configuration options: [COM1] [COM2]
Base Address. IRQ [2F8h, 3]
This item is not user-configurable and changes with the configuration of Serial port number.
Serial Port Mode [57600 8,n,1]
Sets the Serial port mode. Configuration options: [115200 8,n,1] [57600 8,n,1] [38400 8,n,1] [19200 8,n,1] [09600 8,n,1]
Flow Control [Hardware]
Allows you to select the flow control for console redirection. Configuration options: [None] [Hardware] [Software]
Redirection After BIOS POST [Disabled]
Sets the redirection mode after the BIOS Power-On Self-Test (POST). Some operating system may not work when set to [Always]. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Boot Loader] [Always]
Terminal Type [VT-UTF8]
Allows you to select the target terminal type. Configuration options: [ANSI] [VT100] [VT-UTF8]
4-30 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.6 Power menu
Main Advanced Server Power Boot Tools Exit
APM Conguration
Hardware Monitor
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Include ACPI APIC table pointer to RSDT pointer list.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
4.6.1 APM Conguration
Power
APM Conguration
Restore on AC Power Loss [Last State] Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled] Power On By External Modems [Disabled] Power On By PCI Devices [Disabled] Power On By PCIE Devices [Disabled]
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
<Enter> to select whether or not to restart the system after AC power loss.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
Restore on AC Power Loss [Last State]
When set to [Power Off], the system goes into off state after an AC power loss. When set to [Power On], the system will reboot after an AC power loss. When set to [Last State], the system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was before the AC power loss. Configuration options: [Power Off] [Power On] [Last State]
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-31
Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable RTC to generate a wake-up event. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
The following items appear only when the to [Enabled].
Resume On RTC Alarm
item is set
RTC Alarm Date [15]
To set the alarm date, highlight this item and press the <+> or <-> key to make the selection.
System Time [12:30:30]
Use the <ENTER>, <TAB> or <SHIFT-TAB> key to select a field. Use the <+> or <-> key to configure alarm time.
Power On By External Modems [Disabled]
[Disabled] Disables to power up the computer when the external modem
receives a call while the computer is in Soft-off mode.
[Enabled] The computer could be powered up when the external modem
receives a call while the computer is in Soft-off mode.
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 On By PCI Devices [Disabled]
[Disabled] Disables the PME to wake up from S5 by PCI devices. [Enabled] Allows you to turn on the system through a PCI LAN or modem
card. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.
Power On By PCIE Devices [Disabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the PCIE devices to generate a wake event.
[Disabled] Disables the PCIE devices to generate a wake event. [Enabled] Enables the PCIE devices to generate a wake event.
4-32 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.6.2 Hardware Monitor
Power
Hardware Monitor
CPU Temperature(PECI) [ 35ºC/ 94ºF] MB Temperature [ 30ºC/ 86ºF]
TR1 Temperature [ N/A ]
CPU Fan1 Speed [ 5357RPM] FRNT FAN1 Speed [ N/A ] FRNT FAN2 Speed [ N/A ] FRNT FAN3 Speed [ N/A ] REAR FAN1 Speed [ N/A ] FAN Speed Control [Generic Mode] VCORE1 [ 1.052 V]
3.3V Voltage [ 3.246 V] 5V Voltage [ 5.196 V] 12V Voltage [12.000 V] VBAT Voltage [ 3.126 V] 3VSB Voltage [ 3.198 V]
1.5V ICH Voltage [ 1.504 V]
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
CPU1 Temperature
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
CPU/MB/TR1 Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard component and CPU temperatures. Select [Ignored] if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures.
CPU Fan1; FRNT Fan1–3 Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A] REAR Fan1 Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A]
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the speed of CPU fans, front fans, and rear fans in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the field shows [N/A].
Fan Speed Control [Generic Mode]
Allows you to configure the ASUS Smart Fan feature that smartly adjusts the fan speeds for more efficient system operation. Configuration options: [Full Speed Mode] [High Density Mode] [Generic Mode] [Whisper Mode]
VCORE1, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage, VBAT Voltage, 3VSB Voltage, 1.5V ICH Voltage
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard voltage regulators. Select [Ignored] if you do not want to detect this item.
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-33
4.7 Boot menu
The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.
Main Advanced Server Power Boot Tools Exit
Boot Settings
Boot Device Priority
Boot Settings Conguration
Security
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
4.7.1 Boot Device Priority
Boot
Boot Device Priority
1st Boot Device [Removable Dev.] 2nd Boot Device [ATAPI CD-ROM] 3rd Boot Device [Hard Drive] 4th Boot Device [Network:B02 D00 Yu] 5th Boot Device [Network:B03 D00 Yu] 6th Boot Device [Network:B04 D00 Yu] 7th Boot Device [Network:B05 D00 Yu]
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Species the Boot
Device Priority sequence.
A virtual oppy disk
drive (Floppy Drive B: ) may appear when you set the CD-ROM drive
as the rst boot
device.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
Species the Boot
Device Priority sequence.
A device enclosed in parenthesis has been disabled in the corresponding type menu.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
1st—xxth Boot Device [XXXXXXX]
These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices. The number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number of devices installed in the system. Configuration options: [xxxxx Drive] [Disabled]
4.7.2 Hard Disk Drives; CDROM Drives
These two items appear only when you install more than two hard disk drives or optical drives to you system. These items allows you to specify the boot priority sequence of the hard disk drives or the optical drives.
4-34 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.7.3 Boot Settings Conguration
Boot
Boot Settings Conguration
Quick Boot [Enabled] Full Screen Logo [Enabled] AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS] Bootup Num-Lock [On] Wait For ‘F1‘ If Error [Enabled] Hit ‘DEL‘ Message Display [Enabled]
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
Quick Boot [Enabled]
Enabling this item allows the BIOS to skip some power on self tests (POST) while booting to decrease the time needed to boot the system. When set to [Disabled], BIOS performs all the POST items. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Full Screen Logo [Enabled]
Allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo2™ feature.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Allows BIOS to skip certain tests while booting. This will decrease the time needed to boot the system.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
+- Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]
Allows you to set the display mode for Options ROM. Configuration options: [Force BIOS] [Keep Current]
Bootup Num-Lock [On]
Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock. Configuration options: [Off] [On]
Wait For ‘F1‘ If Error [Enabled]
When set to [Enabled], the system waits for the <F1> key to be pressed when error occurs. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
Hit ‘DEL‘ Message Display [Enabled]
When set to [Enabled], the system displays the message “Press DEL to run Setup” during POST. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-35
4.7.4 Security
The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options.
Boot
Security Settings
Supervisor Password : Not Installed User Password : Not Installed
Change Supervisor Password Change User Password
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
Change Supervisor Password
Select this item to set or change the supervisor password. The Supervisor Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set
a password, this item shows Installed.
To set a Supervisor Password:
1. Select the Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>.
2. From the password box, type a password composed of at least six letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>.
3. Confirm the password when prompted.
The message “Password Installed” appears after you successfully set your password.
To change the supervisor password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password.
To clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then press <Enter>. The message “Password Uninstalled” appears.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
<Enter> to change password. <Enter> again to disable password.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
Enter Change F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM. See section 2.6 Jumper for information on how to erase the RTC RAM.
4-36 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change other security settings.
Main Advanced Server Power Boot Tools Exit
Supervisor Password : Installed User Password : Not Installed
Change Supervisor Password User Access Level [Full Access] Change User Password Password Check [Setup]
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
<Enter> to change password. <Enter> again to disable password.
User Access Level [Full Access]
This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items. Configuration options: [No Access] [View Only] [Limited] [Full Access]
No Access prevents user access to the Setup utility.
View Only allows access but does not allow change to any field.
Limited allows changes only to selected fields, such as Date and Time.
Full Access allows viewing and changing all the fields in the Setup utility.
Change User Password
Select this item to set or change the user password. The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed.
To set a User Password:
1. Select the Change User Password item and press <Enter>.
2. On the password box that appears, type a password composed of at least six letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>.
3. Confirm the password when prompted.
The message “Password Installed” appears after you set your password successfully.
To change the user password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password.
Password Check [Setup]
When set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup utility. When set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both when accessing Setup and booting the system. Configuration options: [Setup] [Always]
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-37
4.8 Tools menu
The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the submenu.
Main Advanced Server Power Boot Tools Exit
ASUS EZ Flash 2
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
4.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2
Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to confirm your choice. Check section 4.1.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility for details.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Press ENTER to run the utility to select and update BIOS. This uitlity supports
1. FAT 12/16/32 (r/w)
2. NTFS (read only)
3. CD-DISC (read only)
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
4-38 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
4.9 Exit menu
The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items.
Main Advanced Server Power Boot Tools Exit
Exit Options
Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes
Load Setup Defaults
v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2009, American Megatrends, Inc.
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 & Save 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. An onboard backup battery sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turned off. When you select this option, a confirmation window appears. Select YES to save changes and exit.
BIOS SETUP UTILITY
Exit system setup after saving the changes.
F10 key can be used for this operation.
←→ Select Screen ↑↓ Select Item
Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC 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. Press <Enter> to save the changes while exiting.
Exit & Discard Changes
Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to the Setup program. If you made changes to fields other than System Date, System Time, and Password, the BIOS asks for a confirmation before exiting.
Discard Changes
This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the previously saved values. After selecting this option, a confirmation appears. Select
YES to discard any changes and load the previously saved values.
Load Setup Defaults
This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a confirmation window appears. Select YES to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes or make other changes before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM.
ASUS P7F-C Series 4-39
4-40 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
This chapter provides instructions for setting up, creating, and configuring RAID sets using the available utilities.
RAID
conguration
5
Chapter summary
5
5.1 Setting up RAID ............................................................................ 5-3
5.2 Intel® Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM Utility ................... 5-5
5.3 LSI Logic MPT Setup Utility
5.4 LSI Software RAID Conguration Utility
(P7F-C/4L model only)
(P7F-C/SAS model only)
............................................................... 5-35
............ 5-15
ASUS P7F-C Series
5.1 Setting up RAID
The motherboard supports the following SATA RAID solutions:
Intel Matrix Storage Manager
• support (for Windows OS only).
LSI1068E PCI-E SAS controller
• drives and RAID0, RAID1, and RAID1E configuration.
LSI MegaRAID software RAID Conguration Utility
• with RAID 0, RAID 1, and RAID 10 support (for both Linux and Windows OS).
5.1.1 RAID denitions
RAID 0
(Data striping)
data in parallel, interleaved stacks. Two hard disks perform the same work as a single drive but at a sustained data transfer rate, double that of a single disk alone, thus improving data access and storage. Use of two new identical hard disk drives is required for this setup.
RAID 1
(Data mirroring)
drive to a second drive. If one drive fails, the disk array management software directs all applications to the surviving drive as it contains a complete copy of the data in the other drive. This RAID configuration provides data protection and increases fault tolerance to the entire system. Use two new drives or use an existing drive and a new drive for this setup. The new drive must be of the same size or larger than the existing drive.
RAID 1-E
secondary (or alternate) copy stored on a different disk. You can use three or more hard disk drives for this configuration.
RAID 10
data) having to be calculated and written. With the RAID 10 configuration you get all the benefits of both RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations. Use four new hard disk drives or use an existing drive and three new drives for this setup.
RAID 5
drives. Among the advantages of RAID 5 configuration include better HDD performance, fault tolerance, and higher storage capacity. The RAID 5 configuration is best suited for transaction processing, relational database applications, enterprise resource planning, and other business systems. Use a minimum of three identical hard disk drives for this setup.
(Enhanced RAID 1)
is data striping and data mirroring combined without parity (redundancy
stripes both data and parity information across three or more hard disk
optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write
copies and maintains an identical image of data from one
with RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10, and RAID 5
(P7F-C/SAS model only)
has a striped layout with each stripe unit having a
supports SAS disk
(P7F-C/4L model only)
If you want to boot the system from a hard disk drive included in a created RAID set, copy first the RAID driver from the support CD to a floppy disk before you install an operating system to the selected hard disk drive.
Please refer to chapter 2 for how to select the RAID configuration utility. Move the jumper to choose between LSI MegaRAID and Intel® Matrix RAID.
ASUS P7F-C Series 5-3
5.1.2 Installing hard disk drives
The motherboard supports Serial ATA for RAID set configuration. For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array.
To install the SATA hard disks for RAID configuration:
1. Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays following the instructions in the system user guide.
2. Connect a SATA signal cable to the signal connector at the back of each drive and to the SATA connector on the motherboard.
3. Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector on each drive.
5.1.3 Setting the RAID item in BIOS
You must set the RAID item in the BIOS Setup before you can create a RAID set from SATA hard disk drives attached to the SATA connectors supported by Intel® 3420 chipset. To do this:
1. Enter the BIOS Setup during POST.
2. Go to the
3. Set
4. Press <F10> to save your changes and exit the BIOS Setup.
Main Menu
Congure SATA as
Refer to Chapter 4 for details on entering and navigating through the BIOS Setup.
Storage Conguration
>
to [RAID]
, then press <Enter>.
5.1.4 RAID conguration utilities
Depending on the RAID connectors that you use, you can create a RAID set using the utilities embedded in each RAID controller. For example, use the
Embedded SATA RAID Setup Utility
installed Serial ATA hard disk drives on the Serial ATA connectors supported by the Intel® 3420 chipset.
Refer to the succeeding section for details on how to use the RAID configuration utility.
5-4 Chapter 5: RAID configuration
Intel® Matrix Storage Manager
or the
LSI Logic
if you
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