Asus PQ5C User Manual

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P5QC

Motherboard

E3810

First Edition

June 2008

No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).

Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.

ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE), EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.

SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.

Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identification or explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.

Contents.......................................................................................................	iii
Notices.......................................................................................................	viii
Safety information.......................................................................................	ix
About this guide...........................................................................................	x
P5QC specifications summary..................................................................	xii

Chapter 1:		Product introduction
1.1	Welcome!.......................................................................................		1-1
1.2	Package contents.........................................................................		1-1
1.3	Special features............................................................................		1-2
	1.3.1	Product highlights............................................................	1-2
	1.3.2	ASUS unique features.....................................................	1-3
	1.3.3	ASUS Intelligent Performance and
		Overclocking features......................................................	1-7

Chapter 2:		Hardware information
2.1	Before you proceed......................................................................		2-1
	Onboard LED..................................................................................		2-1
2.2	Motherboard overview.................................................................		2-2
	2.2.1	Motherboard layout..........................................................	2-2
	2.2.2	Layout contents...............................................................	2-3
	2.2.3	Placement direction.........................................................	2-4
	2.2.4	Screw holes.....................................................................	2-4
2.3	Central Processing Unit (CPU)....................................................		2-5
	2.3.1	Installing the CPU............................................................	2-6
	2.3.2	Installing the CPU heatsink and fan................................	2-9
	2.3.3	Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan..........................	2-10
2.4	System memory..........................................................................		2-11
	2.4.1	Overview.........................................................................	2-11
	2.4.2	Memory configurations..................................................	2-12
	2.4.3	Installing a DIMM...........................................................	2-17
	2.4.4	Removing a DIMM.........................................................	2-17
2.5	Expansion slots..........................................................................		2-18
	2.5.1	Installing an expansion card..........................................	2-18
	2.5.2	Configuring an expansion card......................................	2-18
	2.5.3	Interrupt assignments....................................................	2-19

iii

Contents

	2.5.4	PCI slots . .......................................................................	2-20
	2.5.5	PCI Express x1 slots .....................................................	2-20
	2.5.6	PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot . ..............................................	2-20
2.6	Jumpers	.......................................................................................	2-21
2.7	Connectors..................................................................................		2-24
	2.7.1 ..................................................	Rear panel connectors	2-24
	2.7.2 ........................................................	Internal connectors	2-26
2.8	Starting up ......................................................for the first time		2-39
2.9	Turning off ...........................................................the computer		2-40
	2.9.1 ..................................	Using the OS shut down function	2-40
	2.9.2 ............................	Using the dual function power switch	2-40

Chapter 3:		BIOS setup
3.1	Managing and updating your BIOS.............................................		3-1
	3.1.1	ASUS Update utility.........................................................	3-1
	3.1.2	ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility...................................................	3-4
	3.1.3	AFUDOS utility................................................................	3-5
3.2	BIOS setup program.....................................................................		3-7
	3.2.1	BIOS menu screen..........................................................	3-8
	3.2.2	Menu bar.........................................................................	3-8
	3.2.3	Navigation keys...............................................................	3-8
	3.2.4	Menu items......................................................................	3-9
	3.2.5	Sub-menu items..............................................................	3-9
	3.2.6	Configuration fields..........................................................	3-9
	3.2.7	Pop-up window................................................................	3-9
	3.2.8	Scroll bar.........................................................................	3-9
	3.2.9	General help....................................................................	3-9
3.3	Main menu...................................................................................		3-10
	3.3.1	System Time..................................................................	3-10
	3.3.2	System Date..................................................................	3-10
	3.3.3	Legacy Diskette A..........................................................	3-10
	3.3.4	Language.......................................................................	3-10
	3.3.5	SATA 1-6.........................................................................	3-11
	3.3.6	Storage Configuration....................................................	3-12
	3.3.7	AHCI Configuration........................................................	3-13
	3.3.8	System Information........................................................	3-14

Contents

3.4	Ai Tweaker menu........................................................................		3-15
	3.4.1	Ai Overclock Tuner .......................................................	3-15
	3.4.2	CPU Ratio Setting ........................................................	3-16
	3.4.3	FSB Strap to North Bridge ............................................	3-16
	3.4.4	DRAM Frequency .........................................................	3-16
	3.4.5	DRAM Timing Control ...................................................	3-17
	3.4.6	DRAM Static Read Control ...........................................	3-18
	3.4.7	DRAM Dynamic Write Control ......................................	3-18
	3.4.8	DRAM Read Training ....................................................	3-18
	3.4.9	DRAM Write Training ....................................................	3-19
	3.4.10	MEM. OC Charger ........................................................	3-19
	3.4.11	Ai Clock Twister ............................................................	3-19
	3.4.12	Ai Transaction Booster .................................................	3-19
	3.4.13	CPU Voltage ................................................................	3-19
	3.4.14	CPU PLL Voltage ..........................................................	3-20
	3.4.15	FSB Termination Voltage ..............................................	3-20
	3.4.16	DRAM Voltage ..............................................................	3-20
	3.4.17	NB Voltage ....................................................................	3-20
	3.4.18	SB Voltage ....................................................................	3-21
	3.4.19	PCIE SATA Voltage .......................................................	3-21
	3.4.20	Load-Line Calibration ...................................................	3-21
	3.4.21	CPU Spread Spectrum .................................................	3-21
	3.4.22	PCIE Spread Spectrum ................................................	3-21
3.5	Advanced menu..........................................................................		3-22
	3.5.1	CPU Configuration.........................................................	3-22
	3.5.2	Chipset..........................................................................	3-24
	3.5.3	Onboard Device Configuration......................................	3-25
	3.5.4	USB Configuration.........................................................	3-26
	3.5.5	PCIPnP..........................................................................	3-27
3.6	Power menu................................................................................		3-28
	3.6.1	Suspend Mode .............................................................	3-28
	3.6.2	Repost Video on S3 Resume........................................	3-28
	3.6.3	ACPI 2.0 Support...........................................................	3-28
	3.6.4	ACPI APIC Support.......................................................	3-28
	3.6.5	APM Configuration........................................................	3-29

Contents

	3.6.6	Hardware Monitor..........................................................	3-30
3.7	Boot menu...................................................................................		3-32
	3.7.1	Boot Device Priority.......................................................	3-32
	3.7.2	Boot Settings Configuration...........................................	3-33
	3.7.3	Security..........................................................................	3-34
3.8	Tools menu..................................................................................		3-36
	3.8.1	ASUS EZ Flash 2..........................................................	3-36
	3.8.2	Drive Xpert Control .......................................................	3-37
	3.8.3	Drive Xpert Mode Update..............................................	3-37
	3.8.4	Express Gate.................................................................	3-38
	3.8.5	ASUS O.C. Profile.........................................................	3-39
	3.8.6	AI NET 2........................................................................	3-40
3.9	Exit menu.....................................................................................		3-41

Chapter 4:		Software support
4.1	Installing an operating system....................................................		4-1
4.2	Support DVD information.............................................................		4-1
	4.2.1	Running the support DVD................................................	4-1
	4.2.2	Drivers menu...................................................................	4-2
	4.2.3	Utilities menu...................................................................	4-3
	4.2.4	Make disk menu..............................................................	4-5
	4.2.5	Manual menu...................................................................	4-6
	4.2.6	ASUS Contact information...............................................	4-6
	4.2.7	Other information.............................................................	4-7
4.3	Software information....................................................................		4-9
	4.3.1	ASUS MyLogo 2™..........................................................	4-9
	4.3.2	AI NET2..........................................................................	4-11
	4.3.3	ASUS PC Probe II.........................................................	4-12
	4.3.4	ASUS AI Suite...............................................................	4-18
	4.3.5	ASUS AI Nap.................................................................	4-20
	4.3.6	ASUS Fan Xpert............................................................	4-21
	4.3.7	ASUS AI Booster...........................................................	4-23
	4.3.8	ASUS EPU–6 Engine....................................................	4-24
	4.3.9	ASUS AI Direct Link.......................................................	4-28
	4.3.10	Audio configurations......................................................	4-30
	4.3.11	ASUS Drive Xpert..........................................................	4-38

Contents

	4.3.12	ASUS Express Gate......................................................	4-49
4.4	RAID configurations...................................................................		4-59
	4.4.1	RAID definitions.............................................................	4-59
	4.4.2	Installing Serial ATA hard disks......................................	4-60
	4.4.3	Intel® RAID configurations.............................................	4-60
4.5	Creating a RAID driver disk.......................................................		4-68
	4.5.1	Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS....	4-68
	4.5.2	Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows®......................	4-68

Appendix:		CPU features
A.1	Intel® EM64T..................................................................................		A-1
	Using the Intel® EM64T feature......................................................		A-1
A.2	Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology (EIST).........................		A-1
	A.2.1	System requirements.......................................................	A-1
	A.2.2	Using the EIST.................................................................	A-2
A.3	Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology............................................		A-3
	Using the Hyper-Threading Technology ........................................		A-3

vii

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.

viii

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 adpater 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.

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 guide contains the following parts:

•Chapter 1: Product introduction

This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports.

•Chapter 2: 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: 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 4: Software support

This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package and the software.

•Appendix: CPU features

The Appendix describes the CPU features and technologies that the motherboard supports.

Where to find more information

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

1.ASUS websites

The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.

2.Optional documentation

Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not part of the standard package.

Conventions used in this guide

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

DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task.

CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task.

IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.

NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a task.

Typography

Bold text	Indicates a menu or an item to select.
Italics	Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.
<Key>	Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign
	means 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	Means that you must type the command exactly
	as shown, then supply the required item or value
	enclosed in brackets.
	Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line:
	afudos /iP5QC.ROM

P5QC specifications summary

CPU	LGA775 socket for Intel® Core™2 Extreme /
	Core™2 Quad /Core™2 Duo / Pentium® dual-core /
	Celeron® dual-core / Celeron® Processors
	Compatible with Intel® 05B/05A/06 processors
	Intel® 45nm Multi-Core CPU support
	* Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list
Chipset	Intel® P45 / ICH10R with Intel® Fast Memory Access
	Technology
System Bus	1600 / 1333 / 1066 / 800 MHz
Memory	2 x DIMM, max. 8GB, DDR3 1333 / 1066 / 800 MHz,
	non-ECC, un-buffered memory
	4 x DIMM, max. 16GB, DDR2 1066 / 800 / 667 MHz,
	non-ECC, un-buffered memory
	Dual channel memory architecture
	* DDR2 1066MHz DIMMs work only on the black slots for
	one DIMM per channel. Ensure to install the DDR2
	1066MHz DIMMs ONLY on the BLACK slots!
	* Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the
	Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists).
Expansion Slots	1 x PCIe 2.0 x16 slot supports PCIe 2.0 mode
	3 x PCIe x1 slots
	2 x PCI slots
Storage	Intel® ICH10R Southbridge:
	- 6 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports
	- Intel® Matrix Storage supporting SATA RAID 0,1,
	5, and 10 and Mix Mode (Intel matrix storage tech.)
	Marvell 88SE6111 controller:
	- 1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 for up to 2 PATA devices
	- 1 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s for Drive Xpert
	Silicon Image SIL5723 controller (Drive Xpert
	Technology):
	- 2 x SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports
	- Supports RAID 0 and RAID 1
LAN	PCIe Gigabit LAN controller, featuring AI NET2
Audio	Realtek® ALC1200, 8-channel High Definition Audio
	CODEC
	- Supports Jack-Detecting, Multi-streaming, and Front
	Panel Jack-Retasking
	- Coaxial S/PDIF out ports at back I/O
	- ASUS Noise-Filtering
IEEE 1394	LSI® L-FW3227 1394a controller supports 2 x IEEE
	1394a ports (one at mid-board, one at back panel)
USB	12 x USB 2.0 ports (6 ports at mid-board, 6 ports at back
	panel)
	(continued on the next page)

xii

P5QC specifications summary

ASUS Unique features	ASUS Power Saving Solution:
	- ASUS 3rd Generation 8-Phase Power Design
	-	ASUS EPU-6 Engine
	-	ASUS AI Nap

ASUS AI Life Features:

- ASUS Express Gate

- ASUS MyLogo 2

- ASUS AI Direct Link

	ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:
	- ASUS Fanless Design: Stylish heatsink
	-	ASUS Fan Xpert
	ASUS EZ DIY:
	-	ASUS Drive Xpert
	-	ASUS Q-Shield
	-	ASUS Q-Connector
	-	ASUS O.C. Profile
	- ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3
	- ASUS EZ Flash 2
ASUS Exclusive	ASUS AI Booster utility
Overclocking Features	Precision Tweaker 2:

- vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 6.25mV increment

- vDIMM: 64-step DRAM voltage control

- vChipset (N.B.): 40-step chipset voltage control - vCPU PLL: 64-step reference voltage control

- vFSB Termination: 15-step Hyper Transport voltage control

SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection)

-FSB tuning from 200MHz up to 800MHz at 1MHz increment

-Memory tuning from 667MHz to 1333MHz for DDR2

-Memory tuning from 200MHz to 2000MHz for DDR3

-PCI Express frequency tuning from 100MHz up to 180MHz at 1MHz increment

Overclocking Protection:

- ASUS C.P.R.(CPU Parameter Recall)

(continued on the next page)

xiii

P5QC specifications summary

Back Panel I/O Ports	1 x PS/2 keyboard port (Purple)
	1 x PS/2 mouse port (Green)
	1 x S/PDIF Out (Coaxial)
	1 x IEEE1394a port
	1 x RJ45 port
	6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports
	8-channel Audio I/O ports
Internal I/O Connectors	3 x USB connectors support additional 6 USB ports
	1 x Floppy disk drive connector
	1 x COM connector
	1 x IDE connector
	6 x SATA connectors
	2 x Drive Xpert SATA connectors
	1 x CPU Fan connector
	2 x Chassis Fan connectors
	1 x Power Fan connector
	1 x IEEE1394a connector
	Front panel audio connector
	1 x S/PDIF Out Header
	Chassis Intrusion connector
	CD audio in
	24-pin ATX Power connector
	8-pin ATX 12V Power connectors
	System Panel (Q-Connector)
BIOS Features	8 Mb AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM 2.0, SM BIOS 2.4
Manageability	WOL by PME, WOR by PME, WOR by Ring, PXE,
Support DVD Contents	Drivers
	ASUS PC Probe II
	ASUS Update
	ASUS AI Suite
	Image-Editing Suite
	Anti-virus software (OEM version)
Form Factor	ATX Form Factor, 12”x 9.6” (30.5cm x 24.4cm)

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

xiv

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

Product1 introduction

	Chapter summary	1
		1

1.1	Welcome!.......................................................................................	1-1
1.2	Package contents.........................................................................	1-1
1.3	Special features............................................................................	1-2

ASUS P5QC

1.1Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ASUS® P5QC motherboard!

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

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

1.2Package contents

Check your motherboard package for the following items.

Motherboard	ASUS P5QC
I/O modules	1 x 1-port eSATA and 1-port 1394 (4-pin) module
Cables	1 x 2-port Serial ATA power cables
	6 x Serial ATA signal cables
	1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable
	1 x Floppy disk drive cable
Accessories	1 x ASUS Q-Shield (I/O shield)
	1 x ASUS Q-Connector Kit (USB, 1394, system
	panel; Retail version only)
Application DVD	ASUS motherboard support DVD
Documentation	User guide

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

ASUS P5QC

1-1

1.3Special features

1.3.1Product highlights

Green ASUS

This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packagings to safeguard consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment.

Intel® Core™2 Extreme / Core™ 2 Quad / Core™2 Duo Processor Support

This motherboard supports the latest Intel® Core™ 2 Extreme / Core™ 2 Quad / Core™ 2 Duo processors in the LGA775 package. It is excellent for multi-tasking, multi-media and enthusiastic gamers with 1600 / 1333 / 1066 / 800 MHz FSB. The

Intel® Core™ 2 series processor is one of the most powerful CPUs in the world. This motherboard also supports Intel® CPUs in the new 45nm manufacturing process.

Intel P45 Chipset

The Intel® P45 Express Chipset is the latest chipset designed to support dualchannel DDR3 1066 / 800 or DDR2 800 / 667 architecture, 1333 / 1066 / 800 FSB (Front Side Bus), PCIe 2.0, and multi-core CPUs. It especially includes Intel®

Fast Memory Access technology that significantly optimizes the use of available memory bandwidth and reduces the latency of the memory accesses.

DDR3 memory support

The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of

1333 / 1066 / 800 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest

3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR3 architecture doubles the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance. Furthermore, this motherboard does not restrict the memory size across two channels. Users may install different memory size DIMMs into the two channels and enjoy dual-channel and single-channel functions at the same time.

This new feature optimizes the use of available memory size. See page 2-13 for details.

1-2	Chapter 1: Product Introduction

DDR2 memory support

The motherboard supports DDR2 memory that features data transfer rates of

1066/800/667 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest

3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR2 architecture doubles the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance, eliminating bottlenecks with peak bandwidths of up to 12.8 GB/s. See page 213 for details.

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.

Serial ATA 3 Gb/s technology and SATA-On-The-Go

This motherboard supports hard drives based on the Serial ATA (SATA) 3 Gb/s storage specification, delivering enhanced scalability and doubling the bus bandwidth for high-speed data retrieval and saves. The external SATA port located at the back I/O provides smart setup and hot-plug functions. Easily backup photos, videos and other entertainment contents to external devices.

1.3.2ASUS unique features

ASUS Express Gate

Taking only 5 seconds to go online from bootup, Express Gate is the one-stop gateway to instant fun! It’s a unique motherboard built-in OS. You can utilize the most popular Instant Messengers (IM) like MSN, Skype, Google talk, QQ, and

Yahoo! Messenger to keep in touch with friends, or quickly check on the weather and e-mails just before leaving your house. What’s more, the user-friendly picture manager lets you view your pictures without entering Windows at anytime!

• The actual boot time depends on the system configuration.

• ASUS Express Gate supports file uploading from SATA HDDs, ODDs and

USB drive and downloading to USB drives only.

ASUS P5QC

1-3

ASUS 3rd Generation 8 Phase Power Design

Longer Life, & Higher Efficiency!

With power efficiency so important to operating temperatures, ASUS' 3rd generation 8-phase VRM design leads the industry with its 95% power efficiency.

High quality power components such as low RDS (on) MOSFETs for minimum switching loss & lower temperatures, Ferrite core chokes with lower hysteresis loss, and high quality Japanese-made conductive polymer capacitors all add up to ensure longer component life and lower power loss - creating more energy efficiency.

ASUS Power Saving Solution

ASUS Power Saving solution intelligently and automatically provides balanced computing power and energy consumption.

ASUS New EPU

"The World's Only Intelligent Power Saving Processor

The new EPU - ASUS' hardware-based energy saving processing unit for the PC, intelligently detects CPU and Graphics card loadings; and optimizes the energy providing system in real-time. With auto phase switching, the new EPU saves up to 80.23% CPU power, enhances power efficiency by up to 96%, and is the world's first energy-saving solution that can adjust both CPU and VGA voltages. The new EPU's user-friendly UI AI Gear 4, also intelligently monitors the PC system status and displays the total power saved in full detail."

ASUS 3rd Generation 8 Phase Power Design

Longer Life, & Higher Efficiency!

With power efficiency so important to operating temperatures, ASUS' 3rd generation 8-phase VRM design leads the industry with its 96% power efficiency. High quality power components such as low RDS (on) MOSFETs for minimum switching loss & lower temperatures, Ferrite core chokes with lower hysteresis loss, and high quality Japanese-made conductive polymer capacitors all add up to ensure longer component life and lower power loss

- creating more energy efficiency.

1-4	Chapter 1: Product Introduction

AI Nap

With AI Nap, the system can continue running at minimum power and noise when you are temporarily away. To wake the system and return to the OS environment, simply click the mouse or press a key.

ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution

ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the overclocking capability.

Fanless Design - Stylish Heatsink Design

The wing-shaped heatsink features 0-dB thermal solution that offers users a noiseless PC environment. Not only the beautifully curved fins upgrade the visual enjoyment for motherboard users, but also the special thickened bottom design effectively cools down hot airflows generated by the north bridge chipset. Combined with usability and aesthetics, the ASUS Patent Wing Heat-sink will give users an extremely silent and cooling experience with the elegant appearance!

DO NOT uninstall the heatsink by yourself. Doing so may affect the heat dissipation performance.

Fan Xpert

ASUS Fan Xpert intelligently allows users to adjust both the CPU and chassis fan speed according to different ambient temperature, which is caused

by different climate conditions in different geographic regions and system loading. Built-in variety of useful profiles offer flexible controls of fan speed to achieve a quiet and cool environment.

ASUS Crystal Sound

This feature can enhance speech-centric applications like Skype, online game, video conference and recording.

ASUS AI Audio 2

AI Audio 2 creates a virtual center channel that expands the overall sound field without introducing a picket fencing effect. Preserving the dialogue or solo performances with downmixing from multichannels will allow you to experience true-to-life high quality audio.

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Noise Filter

This feature detects repetitive and stationary noises (non-voice signals) like computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates it in the incoming audio stream while recording.

ASUS EZ DIY

ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings.

ASUS Drive Xpert

Without drivers or BIOS setups, the ASUS exclusive Drive Xpert is ideal for anyone who needs to secure data on their hard drives or enhance hard drive performances without the hassles of complicated configurations. With Drive Xpert’s user-friendly graphical user interface, users can easily arrange hard drive backups or enhance their hard drive transfer rates - making sure that data is looked after every moment, every day.

ASUS AI Direct Link

AI Direct Link can easily and efficiently transfer large amounts of data via the network cable - saving up to 70% of the total time taken. With AI Direct

Link, it becomes easy to backup or share large data files like movies or other media content.

ASUS Q-Shield

The specially designed ASUS Q-Shield does without the usual “fingers”

-- making it convenient and easy to install. With better electric conductivity, it ideally protects your motherboard against static electricity and shields it against Electronic Magnetic Interference (EMI).

ASUS Q-Connector

ASUS Q-Connector allows you to easily connect or disconnect the chassis front panel cables to the motherboard. This unique module eliminates the trouble of connecting the system panel cables one at a time and avoiding wrong cable connections.

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ASUS O.C. Profile

The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Profile that allows users to conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be stored in the CMOS or a separate file, giving users freedom to share and distribute their favorite settings.

ASUS EZ Flash 2

EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility. Simply press the predefined hotkey to launch the utility and update the BIOS without entering the OS. Update your BIOS easily without preparing a bootable diskette or using an

OS-based flash utility.

ASUS MyLogo 2™

This feature allows you to convert your favorite photo into a 256-color boot logo for a more colorful and vivid image on your screen.

1.3.3ASUS Intelligent Performance and Overclocking features

AI Booster

The ASUS AI Booster allows you to overclock the CPU speed in Windows environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS.

Precision Tweaker 2

Allows the user to adjust the NB Voltage, FSB termination Voltage, CPU PLL

Voltage and the DRAM Voltage in 0.02v steps to finetune voltages to achieve the most precise setting for the ultimate customized overclocking configuration.

C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

The C.P.R. feature of the motherboard BIOS allows automatic re-setting to the BIOS default settings in case the system hangs due to overclocking. When the system hangs due to overclocking, C.P.R. eliminates the need to open the system chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut down and reboot the system, and the BIOS automatically restores the CPU default setting for each parameter.

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1-8	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.

Hardware2 information

	Chapter summary	2
		2

2.1	Before you proceed......................................................................	2-1
2.2	Motherboard overview.................................................................	2-2
2.3	Central Processing Unit (CPU)....................................................	2-5
2.4	System memory..........................................................................	2-11
2.5	Expansion slots..........................................................................	2-18
2.6	Jumpers.......................................................................................	2-21
2.7	Connectors..................................................................................	2-24
2.8	Starting up for the first time......................................................	2-39
2.9	Turning off the computer...........................................................	2-40

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2.1Before 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 ATX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, and/or components.

Onboard LED

The motherboard comes with a standby power LED. 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.

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2.2Motherboard overview

2.2.1Motherboard layout

Refer to 2.7 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors.

2-2	Chapter 2: Hardware information

2.2.2Layout contents

Connectors/Jumpers/Slots		Page
1.	Keyboard power (3-pin USBPW1-4, USBPW7-10, USBPW1112)	2-22
2.	Keyboard power (3-pin PS2_USBPW56)	2-22
3.	ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V)	2-35
4.	LGA775 CPU Socket	2-6
5.	CPU / Northbridge overvoltage setting (3-pin OV_CPU; 3-pin	2-23
	OV_NB)
6.	DDR2/DDR3 DIMM slots	2-11
7.	CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN;	2-32
	3-pin CHA_FAN1-2; 3-pin PWR_FAN)
8.	IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE)	2-27
9.	ICH10R Serial ATA connectors [red] (7-pin SATA1-6)	2-28
10.	Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)	2-21
11.	SIL5723 Serial ATA connectors	2-29
	(7-pin SATA_E1 [orange, port 0]; SATA_E2 [white, port 1])
12.	Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)	2-33
13.	System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)	2-37

14.TPM connector (20-1 pin TPM)

15.	Onboard LED (SB_PWR)	2-1
16.	USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1112)	2-30
17.	IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2)	2-31
18.	Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)	2-33
19.	Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY)	2-26
20.	Optical drive audio connector (4-pin CD)	2-36
21.	Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)	2-34
22.	Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)	2-36

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2.2.3Placement direction

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

2.2.4Screw 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

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Chapter 2: Hardware information

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