DFI CA33-SC User Manual

CA33-SC

Rev. A+
System Board
Users Manual

43200020

Copyright

This publication contains information that is protected by copyright.
No part of it may be reproduced in any form or by any means or
used to make any transformation/adaptation without the prior
written permission from the copyright holders.

This publication is provided for informational purposes only. The
manufacturer makes no representations or warranties with respect to
the contents or use of this manual and specifically disclaims any
express or implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for any
particular purpose. The user will assume the entire risk of the use or
the results of the use of this document. Further, the manufacturer
reserves the right to revise this publication and make changes to its
contents at any time, without obligation to notify any person or
entity of such revisions or changes.

© 2000. All Rights Reserved.

Trademarks

Microsoft® MS-DOS®, WindowsTM, Windows® 95, Windows® 98,
Windows® 2000 and Windows NT® 4.0 are registered trademarks
of Microsoft Corporation. Intel®, Pentium® III and Celeron

TM

are
registered trademarks of Intel Corporation. VIA CyrixIII is a
registered trademark of VIA Technologies, Inc. Award is a registered
trademark of Award Software, Inc. Other trademarks and registered
trademarks of products appearing in this manual are the properties
of their respective holders.

Caution:

Danger of explosion if battery incorrectly replaced.
Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the
manufacturer.
Dispose of used batteries according to the battery manufacturers
instructions.

FCC and DOC Statement on Class B

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 when the equipment is operated in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
the instruction manual, 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 the receiver.
 Connect the equipment into 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.

Notice:

1. The changes or modifications not expressly approved by the
party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority
to operate the equipment.

2. Shielded interface cables must be used in order to comply with
the emission limits.

Table of Contents

Read Me First..........................................................

Chapter 1 - Introduction

1.1 Features and Specifications..................................................................................

1.2 Package Checklist.........................................................................................................

Chapter 2 - Hardware Installation

2.1 System Board Layout .............................................................................................

2.2 System Memory.............................................................................................................

2.3 Frequency Ratio Settings for Processors................................................

2.4 Jumper Settings for Selecting the CPU Type...............................................

2.5 Jumper Settings for Selecting the CPUs Front Side Bus...............

2.6 Jumper Settings for Clearing CMOS Data..........................................

2.7 Jumper Settings for the Onboard Audio Codec...........................

2.8 Ports and Connectors.............................................................................................

Chapter 3 - Award BIOS Setup Utility

3.1 The Basic Input/Output System.....................................................................

3.1.1 Standard CMOS Setup....................................................................

3.1.2 BIOS Features Setup..........................................................................

3.1.3 Chipset Features Setup....................................................................

3.1.4 Power Management Setup............................................................

3.1.5 PNP/PCI Configuration....................................................................

3.1.6 Load Fail-Safe Settings......................................................................

3.1.7 Load Optimal Settings......................................................................

3.1.8 Integrated Peripherals.........................................................................

3.1.9 Supervisor Password..........................................................................

3.1.10 User Password.........................................................................................

3.1.11 IDE HDD Auto Detection...........................................................

3.1.12 Save & Exit Setup.................................................................................

3.1.13 Exit Without Saving..............................................................................

7

12

38
38
42
46
51
56
58
58
59
64
64
65
66
66

13
14
16
18
19
20
21
22

6

73
73

Chapter 4 - Supported Softwares

4.1 Desktop Management Interface.....................................................................

4.2 VIA Hardware Monitor............................................................................................

4.3 VIA Service Pack..........................................................................................................

4.4 Audio Drivers and Software Application...............................................

4.5 Drivers and Utilities Installation Notes.....................................................

Appendix A - System Error Messages

A.1 POST Beep.......................................................................................................................

A.2 Error Messages..............................................................................................................

Appendix B - Troubleshooting

B.1 Troubleshooting Checklist....................................................................................

67
70
70
71
72

75

Introduction

1

6

Read Me First

This page contains a summary of the important notes that must be
given special attention to prior to using the system board.

Processor

 The frequency ratio of some processors may have been locked

by the manufacturer. If you are using this kind of processor,
setting an extended ratio for the processor will have no effect.
The system will instead use its factory default ratio.

 The frequency ratio of processors greater than 8x has been

locked by the manufacturer and will no longer have the flexibility
of using extended ratios. Therefore, the system will use the
processors factory default ratio.

 Selecting an external bus clock other than 66MHz, 100MHz or

133MHz may result to the processors or systems instability and
are not guaranteed to provide better system performance.

System Memory

The system board supports both VCM and PC SDRAM DIMMs. If
you are using more than one DIMM, make sure you insert the same
type of DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. Using different types (VCM
or PC SDRAM) of DIMMs may cause problems.

5VSB Power

If you are using the (1) Wake-On-LAN and/or (2) Wake-On-Ring
(internal modem) functions, the 5VSB power source of your power

supply must support ≥720mA.

Drivers

Make sure to reboot the system after each driver installation.
Problems will occur if you reboot only after installing all the drivers.

1

Introduction

7

1.1 Features and Specifications

1.1.1 Features

Chipset

 VIA® 82C693A/82C686A AGPset

Processor

The system board is equipped with Socket 370. It is also equipped
with a switching voltage regulator that automatically detects 1.30V
to 2.05V.

 Pentium® III FCPGA 133MHz FSB (533EB-866EB) or 100MHz

FSB (500E-800E) processor

 Celeron

TM

66MHz FSB: FCPGA (566MHz-600MHz) or PPGA

(300A-533MHz) processor

 Future VIA CyrixIII processor

System Memory

 16MB to 512MB using VCM (Virtual Channel Memory) or PC

SDRAM DIMM (unbuffered or registered)

 Two 168-pin DIMM sockets
 Uses x64 or x72 PC SDRAM, 3.3V

- PC-66 SDRAM DIMM for 66MHz FSB processors

- PC-100 SDRAM DIMM for 100/66MHz FSB processors

- PC-133 SDRAM DIMM for 133MHz FSB processors

 ECC supported (uses x72 PC SDRAM DIMM)

Chapter 1 - Introduction

Note:

If you are using more than one DIMM, make sure you insert
the same type of DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. Using
different types (VCM or PC SDRAM) of DIMMs may cause
problems.

Introduction

1

8

Expansion Slots

The system board is equipped with 1 dedicated AGP slot. AGP is an
interface designed to support high performance 3D graphics cards. It
utilizes a dedicated pipeline to access system memory for texturing,
z-buffering and alpha blending; delivering up to 533MB/sec.
bandwidth for 3D graphics applications. AGP in this system board
will deliver faster and better graphics with your PC.

The system board is also equipped with 2 dedicated PCI slots and
1 shared ISA/AMR slot. AMR (Audio/Modem Riser) is an interface
designed for installing an audio riser card, modem riser card or
audio/modem riser card that is compliant to the AMR specification.

Onboard Audio Features

 Supports Microsoft® DirectSound/DirectSound 3D
 AC97 supported with full duplex, independent sample rate con-

verter for audio recording and playback

ATX Double Deck Ports (PC 99 color-coded connectors)

 Two USB ports
 Two NS16C550A-compatible DB-9 serial ports
 One SPP/ECP/EPP DB-25 parallel port
 One mini-DIN-6 PS/2 mouse port
 One mini-DIN-6 PS/2 keyboard port
 One game/MIDI port
 Three audio jacks: line-out, line-in and mic-in

Connectors

 One connector for 2 additional external USB ports
 One connector for IrDA interface
 Two IDE connectors
 One floppy drive interface supports up to two 2.88MB floppy

drives

 One 20-pin ATX power supply connector

DIMMs

2MBx64/x72
4MBx64/x72
8MBx64/x72

Memory Size

16MB
32MB
64MB

DIMMs

16MBx64/x72
32MBx64/x72

Memory Size

128MB
256MB

1

Introduction

9

 One Wake-On-LAN connector
 One Wake-On-Ring connector
 CPU, chassis and AGP fan connectors
 Two CD audio-in connectors
 1 TAD connector for telephony audio device

PCI Bus Master IDE Controller

 Two PCI IDE interfaces support up to four IDE devices
 Supports ATA/33 or ATA/66 hard drives
 PIO Mode 3 and Mode 4 Enhanced IDE (data transfer rate up

to 16.6MB/sec.)

 Bus mastering reduces CPU utilization during disk transfer
 Supports ATAPI CD-ROM, LS-120 and ZIP

IrDA Interface

The system board is equipped with an IrDA connector for wireless
connectivity between your computer and peripheral devices. It
supports peripheral devices that meet the HPSIR and ASKIR
standard.

USB Ports

The system board supports 4 USB por ts. Two onboard USB ports
are located at the ATX double deck ports of the board. The J21
connector on the system board allows you to connect the optional
3rd and 4th USB ports. These optional USB ports, which are
mounted on a card-edge bracket, will be provided as an option.
USB allows data exchange between your computer and a wide
range of simultaneously accessible external Plug and Play peripherals.

BIOS

 Award BIOS, Windows® 95/98/2000 Plug and Play compatible
 Supports SCSI sequential boot-up
 Flash EPROM for easy BIOS upgrades
 Supports DMI 2.0 function
 2Mbit flash memory

Introduction

1

10

Desktop Management Interface (DMI)

The system board comes with a DMI 2.0 built into the BIOS. The
DMI utility in the BIOS automatically records various information
about your system configuration and stores these information in the
DMI pool, which is a part of the system board's Plug and Play
BIOS. DMI, along with the appropriately networked software, is
designed to make inventory, maintenance and troubleshooting of
computer systems easier. Refer to chapter 4 for instructions on using
the DMI utility.

1.1.2 System Health Monitor Functions

The system board is capable of monitoring the following system
health conditions.

 Monitors CPU/system temperature and overheat alarm
 Monitors VCORE/3.3V/5V/12V/2.5V voltages and failure alarm
 Monitors CPU/chassis fan speed and failure alarm
 Automatic CPU and chassis fans on/off control
 Read back capability that displays temperature, voltage and fan

speed

Refer to the Chipset Features Setup section in chapter 3 and the
VIA Hardware Monitor section in chapter 4 for more information.

1.1.3 Intelligence

Automatic CPU/Chassis Fan Off

The CPU and chassis fans will automatically turn off once the system
enters the Suspend mode.

Dual Function Power Button

Depending on the setting in the Soft-Off By PWR-BTTN field of
the Power Management Setup, this switch will allow the system to
enter the Soft-Off or Suspend mode.

1

Introduction

11

Wake-On-Ring

This feature allows the system that is in the Suspend mode or Soft
Power Off mode to wake-up/power-on to respond to calls coming
through an internal or external modem. Refer to Wake-On-Ring
Connector in chapter 2 and Resume On LAN/Ring in the Power
Management Setup section in chapter 3 for more information.

Important:

If you are using a modem add-in card, the 5VSB power source
of your power supply must support a minimum of ≥720mA.

RTC Timer to Power-on the System

The RTC installed on the system board allows your system to
automatically power-on on the set date and time. Refer to Resume
On Alarm in the Power Management Setup section in chapter 3 for
more information.

Wake-On-LAN

The Wake-On-LAN function allows the network to remotely wake
up a Soft Power Down (Soft-Off) PC. Your LAN card must support
the remote wakeup function. Refer to Wake-On-LAN Connector in
chapter 2 and Resume On LAN/Ring in the Power Management
Setup section in chapter 3 for more information.

Important:

The 5VSB power source of your power supply must support a
minimum of ≥720mA.

AC Power Failure Recovery

When power returns after an AC power failure, you may choose to
either power-on the system manually, let the system power-on
automatically or return to the state where you left off before power
failure occurs. Refer to PWR Lost Resume State in the Power
Management Setup section in chapter 3 for more information.

Introduction

1

12

ACPI

The system board is designed to meet the ACPI (Advanced
Configuration and Power Interface) specification. ACPI has energy
saving features that enables PCs to implement Power Management
and Plug-and-Play with operating systems that support OS Direct
Power Management.

Virus Protection

Most viruses today destroy data stored in hard drives. The system
board is designed to protect the boot sector and partition table of
your hard disk drive.

1.2 Package Checklist

The system board package contains the following items:

þ The system board
þ A users manual
þ One IDE cable for ATA/33 or ATA/66 IDE drives
þ One 34-pin floppy disk drive cable
þ One Main Board Utility CD

If any of these items are missing or damaged, please contact your
dealer or sales representative for assistance.

2

Hardware Installation

13

2.1 System Board Layout

Chapter 2 - Hardware Installation

2

14

Hardware Installation

2.2 System Memory

The system board is equipped
with two 168-pin DIMM (Dual
In-line Memory Module) sockets
that support VCM or PC
SDRAM DIMM. PC SDRAM
(Synchronous Dynamic Random
Access Memory) uses a fast
memory interface technology that
includes using the clock on the
chip to synchronize with the CPU
clock so that the timing of the
memory chips and the timing of
the CPU are synchronized. This saves time during transmission of
data, subsequently increasing system performance.

The system board also supports the ECC (Error Checking and
Correction) function. To use this function, you must install DIMM that
supports parity. Refer to chapter 1 (System Memory section) for
detailed specification of the memory supported by the system
board.

Warning:

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage your system board,
processor, disk drives, add-in boards, and other components. Perform
the upgrade instruction procedures described at an ESD workstation
only. If such a station is not available, you can provide some ESD
protection by wearing an antistatic wrist strap and attaching it to a
metal part of the system chassis. If a wrist strap is unavailable,
establish and maintain contact with the system chassis throughout
any procedures requiring ESD protection.

2

Hardware Installation

15

1. Pull the tabs which are at the ends of the socket to the side.

2. Position the DIMM above the socket with the notches in the
module aligned with the keys on the socket.

3. Seat the module vertically into the socket. Make sure it is
completely seated. The tabs will hold the DIMM in place.

Pin 1

Notch

Key

Tab

Tab

2.2.1 Installing the DIM Module

A DIM module simply snaps into a DIMM socket on the system
board. Pin 1 of the DIM module must correspond with Pin 1 of the
socket.

2

16

Hardware Installation

2.3 Frequency Ratio Settings for Processors

The following table shows the available frequency ratios and their
corresponding DIP switch setting. There are 4 switches on SW1. The
black rectangle in the diagram denotes the part that is protruding,
the adjustable switch. Make sure SW1 is set correctly before
applying power, otherwise you will not be able to power-on the
system.

In the example above:

Switch 1: Off
Switch 2: Off
Switch 3: On
Switch 4: On

233MHz 350MHz

3.5x

266MHz 400MHz 4x

450MHz 4.5x

333MHz 5x

Processor

SW1

66MHz 100MHz

Freq.
Ratio

5.5x

Processor

SW1

66MHz

100MHz

Freq.
Ratio

400MHz

433MHz

466MHz

500MHz

6x

6.5x

7x

7.5x

8x533MHz

500MHz

366MHz

133MHz

533MHz

133MHz

650MHz

700MHz 933MHz*

866MHz

800MHz

750MHz 1GHz*

800MHz 1.067GHz*

--------

667MHz

733MHz

300MHz

300AMHz

550MHz

600MHz

600MHz

2

Hardware Installation

17

Important:

 The frequency ratio of some processors shown in the table

may have been locked by the manufacturer. If you are using
this kind of processor, setting an extended ratio for the
processor will have no effect. The system will instead use its
factory default ratio.

 The frequency ratio of processors greater than 8x has been

locked by the manufacturer and will no longer have the
flexibility of using extended ratios. Therefore, the system will
use the processors factory default ratio.

 At the time this document was printed, the CPUs marked

with asterisk (*) are not yet available. They are included in
the table for reference only.

 The processors supported by the system board support

VID (Voltage Identification). The switching voltage regulator
on the system board will automatically set the voltage
regulator according to the voltage of the processor.

2

18

Hardware Installation

2.4 Jumper Settings for Selecting the CPU Type

CPU Type Select - Jumper JP1

This jumper is used to select the
type of processor installed on the
system board.

1-2 On: Intel® CPU

(default)

1

2

3

1

2

3

2-3 On: Reserved for

Factory Use

2

Hardware Installation

19

2.5 Jumper Settings for Selecting the CPUs Front
Side Bus

CPU Front Side Bus Select - Jumpers JP2 and JP3

These jumpers are used to select
the front side bus of the
processor installed on the system
board. The default setting is Auto

- the system will automatically run
according to the FSB of the
processor.

Warning:

Some processors, when overclocked, may result to the
processors or systems instability and are not guaranteed to
provide better system performance. If you are unable to boot
your system due to overclocking, make sure to set these
jumpers back to their default settings.

2-3 On1-2 On

All Off

1

2

3

1

2

3

1

2

3

JP2

1-2 On

2-3 On

2-3 On

All Off

JP3

1-2 On

2-3 On

All Off

1-2 On

Auto*

66MHz

100MHz

133MHz

* denotes default setting

2

20

Hardware Installation

2.6 Jumper Settings for Clearing CMOS Data

Clear CMOS Data - Jumper JP6

If you encounter the following,

a) CMOS data becomes

corrupted.

b) You forgot the supervisor or

user password.

c) You are unable to boot-up the

computer system because the
processors bus clock was
incorrectly set in the BIOS.

you can reconfigure the system
with the default values stored in
the ROM BIOS.

To load the default values stored in the ROM BIOS, please follow
the steps below.

1. Power-off the system and unplug the power cord.

2. Set JP6 pins 2 and 3 to On. Wait for a few seconds and set JP6
back to its default setting, pins 1 and 2 On.

3. Plug the power cord and power-on the system.

If your reason for clearing the CMOS data is due to incorrect
setting of the processors bus clock in the BIOS, please proceed
to step 4.

4. After powering-on the system, press <Del> to enter the main
menu of the BIOS.

5. Select the Chipset Features Setup submenu and press <Enter>.

6. Set the CPU/PCI Clock (MHz) field to its default setting or an
appropriate bus clock. Refer to CPU/PCI Clock (MHz) in the
Chipset Features Setup section in chapter 3 for more
information.

7. Press <Esc> to return to the main menu of the BIOS setup
utility. Select Save & Exit Setup and press <Enter>.

2

Hardware Installation

21

2-3 On:

Clear CMOS Data

1-2 On: Normal

(default)

123 123

8. Type <Y> and press <Enter>.

2.7 Jumper Settings for the Onboard Audio Codec

Onboard Audio Codec Settings - Jumper JP7

The default setting is 1-2 On, the
onboard audio codec enabled. If
you are not using the onboard
audio codec, set this jumper pins
2 and 3 to On - Disabled.

2-3 On: Onboard

Audio Codec Disabled

1-2 On: Onboard

Audio Codec Enabled

(default)

12 3 123

2

22

Hardware Installation

2.8.2 PS/2 Mouse and PS/2 Keyboard Ports

The system board is equipped
with an onboard PS/2 mouse
(Green) and PS/2 keyboard
(Purple) ports - both at location
CN1 of the ATX double deck
ports. The PS/2 mouse port uses
IRQ12. If a mouse is not
connected to this port, the
system will reserve IRQ12 for
other expansion cards.

Warning:

Make sure to turn off your
computer prior to
connecting or disconnecting
a mouse or keyboard.
Failure to do so may damage the system board.

2.8 Ports and Connectors

2.8.1 Serial Ports

The system board is equipped
with onboard serial ports (COM
1: J3 and COM 2: J5) - both in
Teal/Turquoise color located at
the ATX double deck ports of
the board.

These ports are RS-232C
asynchronous communication
ports with 16C550A-compatible
UARTs that can be used with
modems, serial printers, remote
display terminals, and other serial
devices. You can set the serial
ports I/O address in the
Integrated Peripherals submenu of the BIOS.

2

Hardware Installation

23

2.8.3 Parallel Port

The system board has a stan­dard printer port (J4 ­Burgundy) located at the ATX
double deck ports of the board
for interfacing your PC to a
parallel printer. It supports
Normal, ECP and EPP modes.
You can set the ports mode in
the Integrated Peripherals
submenu of the BIOS.

2.8.4 Floppy Disk Drive Connector

The system board is equipped with a shrouded floppy disk drive
connector that supports two standard floppy disk drives. To prevent
improper floppy cable installation, the shrouded floppy disk header
has a keying mechanism. The 34-pin connector on the floppy cable
can be placed into the header only if pin 1 of the connector is
aligned with pin 1 of the header. You may enable or disable this
function in the Integrated Peripherals submenu of the BIOS.

Setting

Normal

ECP
(Extended Capabilities
Por t)

EPP
(Enhanced Parallel Port)

Function

Allows normal speed operation
but in one direction only.

Allows parallel port to operate in
bidirectional mode and at a
speed faster than the SPPs data
transfer rate.

Allows bidirectional parallel port
operation at maximum speed.

2

24

Hardware Installation

2.8.5 IDE Disk Drive Connector

The system board is equipped with two shrouded PCI IDE headers
that will interface four Enhanced IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics)
disk drives. To prevent improper IDE cable installation, each shrouded
PCI IDE header has a keying mechanism. The 40-pin connector on
the IDE cable can be placed into the header only if pin 1 of the
connector is aligned with pin 1 of the header.

Connecting the IDE Disk Drive Cable

1. If you are connecting two IDE
disk drives, install the 40-pin
connector of the IDE cable
into the primary shrouded
IDE header (IDE1 - J6). If you
are adding a third or fourth
IDE device, install the 40-pin
connector of the other IDE
cable into the secondary
shrouded IDE header (IDE2

- J7).

Connecting the Floppy Disk Drive Cable

1. Install the 34-pin header
connector into the shrouded
floppy disk header (J8) on the
system board. The colored
edge of the ribbon should be
aligned with pin 1 of J8.

2. Install the other 34-pin header
connector(s) into the disk
drive(s). Align the colored
edge of the daisy chained
ribbon cable with pin 1 of the
drive edge connector(s). The
end-most connector should be attached to the drive you want
to designate as Drive A.

2

Hardware Installation

25

2. Install the other 40-pin header connector(s) into the device with
the colored edge of the ribbon cable aligned with pin 1 of the
drive edge connector(s).

Note:

Refer to your disk drive users manual for information about
selecting proper drive switch settings.

Adding a Second IDE Disk Drive

When using two IDE drives, one must be set as the master and the
other as the slave. Follow the instructions provided by the drive
manufacturer for setting the jumpers and/or switches on the drives.

The system board supports Enhanced IDE or ATA-2, ATA/33 or
ATA/66 hard drives. We recommend that you use hard drives from
the same manufacturer. In a few cases, drives from two different
manufacturers will not function properly when used together. The
problem lies in the hard drives, not the system board.

Important:

If you encountered problems while using an ATAPI CD-ROM
drive that is set in Master mode, please set the CD-ROM drive
to Slave mode. Some ATAPI CD-ROMs may not be recognized
and cannot be used if incorrectly set in Master mode.

2

26

Hardware Installation

2.8.6 Universal Serial Bus Ports

The system board supports 4
USB ports. USB allows data
exchange between your computer
and a wide range of
simultaneously accessible external
Plug and Play peripherals. You
must have the proper drivers
installed in your operating system
to use the USB ports. Refer to
your operating systems manual
or documentation.

Two onboard USB ports (J1 ­Black) are located at the ATX
double deck ports of the board.
The J21 connector on the system
board allows you to connect the optional 3rd and 4th USB ports.
These optional USB ports, which are mounted on a card-edge
bracket, will be provided as an option. If you wish to use the
optional 3rd and 4th USB ports, install the card-edge bracket to the
system chassis then insert the connector that is attached to the USB
port cables to J21. The USB ports cable connector can be inserted
only if pin 1 of the cable is aligned with pin 1 of J21.

J21 for USB 3

and USB 4

Pin

1
3
5
7
9

Function

VCC

-Data
+Data
Ground
Key

Function

VCC

-Data
+Data
Ground
Ground

Pin

2
4
6
8

10

2

Hardware Installation

27

2.8.7 IrDA Connector

The system board is equipped with an IrDA connector for wireless
connectivity between your computer and peripheral devices. The
IRDA (Infrared Data Association) specification supports data
transfers of 115K baud at a distance of 1 meter.

Connect your IrDA cable to connector J22 on the system board. Set
UART 2 Mode in the Integrated Peripherals submenu of the BIOS
to the type of IrDA standard supported by your device. You must
have the proper drivers installed in your operating system to use
this connector. Refer to your operating systems manual or
documentation.

Pin

1

2
3
4
5

Function

VCC
N. C.
IRRX
Ground
IRTX

Note:

The sequence of the pin functions on some IrDA cable may be
reversed from the pin function defined on the system board.
Make sure to connect the cable to the IrDA connector
according to their pin functions.

2

28

Hardware Installation

2.8.8 CPU Fan Connector

The processor must be kept cool by using a fan with heatsink.
Connect the CPU fan to the 3-pin fan connector at location J2 on
the system board. The system is capable of monitoring and
controlling the speed of the CPU fan. The CPU fan, together with the
chassis fan, will automatically turn off once the system enters the
Suspend mode.

2.8.9 Chassis Fan Connector

If you are installing a chassis fan in the system unit, connect the fans
connector to location J14 on the system board. The fan will provide
adequate airflow throughout the chassis to prevent overheating the
processor. The system is capable of monitoring and controlling the
speed of the chassis fan. The chassis fan, together with the CPU fan,
will automatically turn off once the system enters the Suspend mode.

Pin

1
2

3

Function

On/Off
+12V

Sense

Pin

1
2

3

Function

On/Off

+12V

Sense

2

Hardware Installation

29

2.8.10 AGP Fan Connector

If the system board is installed with an AGP add-in card and you
wish to install a fan on the add-in card, connect the fans connector
to location J17 on the system board. Refer to the add-in cards
manual for instructions on installing the fan.

Pin

1
2

3

Function

Ground
+12V
N. C.

2.8.11 Game/MIDI Port

The Game/MIDI port is identical
to that of a standard PC game
adapter or game I/O port.
Connect an analog joystick to
the 15-pin D-sub connector (J11

- Gold) located at the ATX
double deck ports of the system
board. This port works well with
any application that is compatible
with the standard PC joystick.

2

30

Hardware Installation

2.8.12 Audio Jacks

The system board is equipped with 3 audio jacks. A jack is a one­hole connecting interface for inserting a plug.

Line-out Jack (J9 - Lime)

This jack is used to connect
external speakers for audio
output from the system board.

Line-in Jack (J10 - Light Blue)

This jack can be connected to
any external audio devices such
as Hi-fi set, CD player, AM/FM
radio tuner, synthesizer, etc.
Connect a stereo cable from the
line-out jack of your external
device to this line-in jack.

Mic-in Jack (J12 - Pink)

Connect a microphone to the mic-in jack.

2

Hardware Installation

31

2.8.13 Internal Audio Connectors

CD-in

The system board is equipped
with 2 CD audio-in connectors.
Depending on the type of
CD-ROM drive and the cable
connector it uses, connect one
end of the cable (included in
the CD-ROM package) to the
CD-in connector on the
system board and the other
end to the audio line-out
connector on the CD-ROM
drive.

TA D

TAD is a connector for telephony audio devices such as voice
modem cards. By installing a PCI voice modem card that is also
equipped with a TAD connector, connect one end of the cable (that
came with the card) to the cards TAD connector and the other end
to the TAD connector on the system board. The voice modem will
interface with the onboard audio allowing voice to come from the
external speaker.

TA D

(J18)

Pin

1
2
3
4

Function

Left audio channel
Ground
Ground
Right audio channel

Pin

1

2
3
4

Function

Modem-out
(from modem)

Ground
Ground
Modem-in

(to modem)

CD-in

(J15)

CD-in

(J16)

2

32

Hardware Installation

2.8.14 Wake-On-LAN Connector

The Wake-On-LAN connector is used to connect to a LAN card
that has the same connector. This function will allow the network to
remotely power-on a Soft Power Down (Soft-Off) PC. However, if
your system is in the Suspend mode, you can power-on the system
only through an IRQ or DMA interrupt.

To use the Wake-On-LAN function, you must enable the Resume on
LAN/Ring field in the Power Management Setup of the BIOS. Your
LAN card package should include a cable. Connect one end of the
cable to the wakeup header on the card and the other end to
location J20 on the system board. The network will detect Magic
Packet and assert a wakeup signal to power-up the system. Refer to
the add-in cards manual for details. Note: Your LAN card must
support the remote wake up function.

Important:

The 5VSB power source of your power supply must support a
minimum of ≥720mA.

Pin

1
2
3

Function

+5VSB

Ground

WOL

2

Hardware Installation

33

2.8.15 Wake-On-Ring Connector

The Wake-On-Ring connector is used to connect to an internal
modem card that has the same connector. It will allow the system
that is in the Suspend mode or Soft Power Off mode to wake-up/
power-on to respond to calls coming through the internal modem
card.

To use this function, connect one end of the cable (that came with
the card) to the cards wake-on-ring connector and the other end to
location J13 on the system board. You must also enable the Resume
on LAN/Ring field in the Power Management Setup of the BIOS.

If you are using an external modem, the ring-on function will come
through the serial port where the external modem is connected.

Pin

1
2

Function

Ground
RI#

Important:

If you are using a modem add-in card, the 5VSB power source
of your power supply must support a minimum of ≥720mA.

2

34

Hardware Installation

2.8.16 PCI Standby Power LED

The PCI Standby Power LED will turn red when the system is in the
power-on, Soft-Off or Suspend state.

Important:

Lighted LEDs (red) serve as a reminder that you must power­off the system then turn off the power supplys switch or
unplug the power cord prior to installing any add-in cards.

2

Hardware Installation

35

2.8.17 Power Connector

The pin assignment of the ATX power connector is shown below.

Pin

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

10

Function

3.3V

3.3V
Ground
+5V
Ground
+5V
Ground
PW-OK
5VSB
+12V

Pin

11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20

Function

3.3V

-12V
Ground
PS-ON
Ground
Ground
Ground

-5V
+5V
+5V

Important:

The system board requires a minimum of 3.3V/6A electric
current.

2

36

Hardware Installation

2.8.18 Front Panel LEDs and Switches

HD-LED: Primary/Secondary IDE LED

This LED will light when the hard drive is being accessed.

G-LED: Green LED

This LED will light when the system is in the Suspend mode.

ATX - S W : AT X Po w e r S w i t c h

Depending on the setting in the BIOS setup, this switch is a dual
function power button that will allow your system to enter the Soft­Off or Suspend mode. Refer to Soft-Off By PWR-BTTN in the
Power Management Setup (chapter 3).

G-SW: Green Switch

This switch will allow your system to enter the Suspend mode.

RESET: Reset Switch

This switch allows you to reboot without having to power off the
system thus prolonging the life of the power supply or system.

SPEAKER: Speaker Connector

This connects to the speaker installed in the system chassis.

POWER LED: Power/Standby LED

Use pins 21 to 23 to connect to the Power/Standby LED. When the
systems power is on, this LED will light. When the system is in the
Suspend mode, it will blink every second.

2

Hardware Installation

37

Note:

If a system did not boot-up and the Power/Standby LED did
not light after it was powered-on, it may indicate that the CPU
or memory module was not installed properly. Please make
sure they are properly inserted into their corresponding socket.

Pin

1
2

3
4

5
6
7

8
9

10
11

12
13

14
15
16

17
18
19

20
21

22
23
24
25

Pin Assignment

HD-LED

(Primary/Secondary IDE LED)

G-LED

(Green LED)

ATX-SW

(ATX power switch)

G-SW

(Green switch)

RESET

(Reset switch)

SPEAKER

(Speaker connector)

POWER LED

(Power/Standby LED)

HDD LED Power
HDD

N. C.
Green LED Power

Ground
N. C.
PWRBT

Ground
N. C.
SMI

Ground
N. C.
H/W Reset

Ground
N. C.
Speaker Data

N. C.
Ground
Speaker Power

N. C.
Standby Signal

N.C.
Ground
N. C.
Ground

Use pins 21 to 23
for the Power/
Standby LED.

38

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

3.1 The Basic Input/Output System

The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) is a program that takes care
of the basic level of communication between the processor and
peripherals. In addition, the BIOS also contain codes for various
advanced features found in this system board. This chapter explains the
Setup Utility for the Award BIOS.

After you power up your system, the BIOS message appears on your
screen and the memory count begins. After the memory test, the
following message will appear on the screen:

Press DEL to enter setup

If the message disappears before you respond, restart your system or
press the Reset button. You may also restart the system by pressing
the <Ctrl> <Alt> and <Del> keys simultaneously.

When you press <Del>, the main menu screen will appear.

3.1.1 Standard CMOS Setup

Use the arrow keys to highlight Standard CMOS Setup and press
<Enter>. A screen similar to the one on the next page will appear.

ROM PCI/ISA BIOS

CMOS SETUP UTILITY

AWARD SOFTWARE, INC.

ST ANDARD CMOS SETUP
BIOS FEATURES SETUP
CHIPSET FEATURES SETUP
POWER MANAGEMENT SETUP
PNP/PCI CONFIGURA TION
LOAD FAIL-SAFE SETTINGS
LOAD OPTIMAL SETTINGS

INTEGRATED PERIPHERALS
SUPERVIS OR P ASSWORD
USER PASSWORD
IDE HDD AUTO DETECTION
SAVE & EXIT SETUP
EXIT WITHOUT SAVING

Esc
F10

: Quit
: Save & Exit Setup

↑↓→←

(Shift) F2

: Select Item
: Change Color

Chapter 3 - Award BIOS Setup Utility

39

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

Date

The date format is <day>, <month>, <date>, <year>. Day displays
a day, from Sunday to Saturday. Month displays the month, from
January to December. Date displays the date, from 1 to 31. Year
displays the year, from 1994 to 2079.

Time

The time format is <hour>, <minute>, <second>. The time is based
on the 24-hour military-time clock. For example, 1 p.m. is 13:00:00.
Hour displays hours from 00 to 23. Minute displays minutes from 00
to 59. Second displays seconds from 00 to 59.

Primary Master, Primary Slave, Secondary Master and Secondary Slave

These fields allow you to enter the appropriate specifications for the
type of hard disk drive(s) installed in your system. Press <PgUp> or
<PgDn> to select a numbered hard disk type or type the number
and press <Enter>. The hard disk will not work properly if you enter
improper information for this field. You can use Type User to define
your own drive type manually. This information should be included in
the documentation from your hard disk vendor. If you select Type
Auto, the BIOS will auto-detect the HDD & CD-ROM drive at the
POST stage and show the IDE for the HDD & CD-ROM drive. If a
hard disk has not been installed, select None and press <Enter>.

The settings on the screen are for reference only. Your version may not be
identical to this one.

ROM PCI/ISA BIOS
ST ANDARD CMOS SETUP
AWARD SOFTWARE, INC.

Date (mm:dd:yy) : Mon, May 15 2000
Time (hh:mm:ss) : 13: 27: 50

HARD DISKS
Primary Master
Primary Slave
Secondary Master
Secondary Slave

TYPE
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto

SIZE

0
0
0
0

CYLS

0
0
0
0

HEAD

0
0
0
0

PRECOMP

0
0
0
0

LANDZ

0
0
0
0

SECTOR

0
0
0
0

MODE
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto

Drive A : 1.44M, 3.5 in.
Drive B : None

Video : EGA/VGA
Halt on : All Errors

Base Memory : 640K
Extended Memory : 64512K
Other Memory : 384K

Total Memory : 65536K

PU/PD/+/- : Modify

↑↓→←

: Select Item
: Change Color(Shift)F2

:
:
:
:

Esc
F1

: Quit
: Help

40

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

Drive A and Drive B

These fields identify the types of floppy disk drives installed.

None No floppy drive is installed
360K, 5.25 in. 5-1/4 in. standard drive; 360KB capacity

1.2M, 5.25 in. 5-1/4 in. AT-type high-density drive; 1.2MB capacity
720K, 3.5 in. 3-1/2 in. double-sided drive; 720KB capacity

1.44M, 3.5 in. 3-1/2 in. double-sided drive; 1.44MB capacity

2.88M, 3.5 in. 3-1/2 in. double-sided drive; 2.88MB capacity

Video

This field selects the type of video adapter used for the primary
system monitor. Although secondary monitors are supported, you do
not have to select the type in Setup. The default setting is EGA/VGA.

EGA/VGA Enhanced Graphics Adapter/Video Graphics Array. For

EGA, VGA, SVGA and PGA monitor adapters.

CGA 40 Color Graphics Adapter. Power up in 40-column mode.
CGA 80 Color Graphics Adapter. Power up in 80-column mode.
Mono Monochrome adapter. Includes high resolution

monochrome adapters.

Halt On

This field determines whether the system will stop if an error is
detected during power up. The default setting is All Errors.

All Errors The system boot will stop whenever the BIOS detects

a non-fatal error.

No Errors The system boot will not stop for any errors detected.
All, But Keyboard The system boot will not stop for a keyboard

error; it will stop for all other errors.

All, But Diskette The system boot will not stop for a disk error;

it will stop for all other errors.

All, But Disk/Key The system boot will not stop for a disk or

keyboard error; it will stop for all other errors.

41

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

Memory

The base memory size, extended memory size and the other memory
size cannot be altered; your computer automatically detects and displays
them.

Base Memory The POST will determine the amount of base (or

conventional) memory installed in the system. The
value of the base memory is typically 512K for
systems with 512K memory installed on the
motherboard or 640K for systems with 640K or
more memory installed on the motherboard.

Extended Memory The BIOS determines how much extended

memory is present during the POST. This is the
amount of memory located above 1MB in the
CPUs memory address map.

Other Memory This refers to the memory located in the 640K to

1024K address space. This is the memory that can
be used for different applications. DOS uses this
area to load device drivers in an effort to keep as
much base memory free for application programs.
The BIOS is the most frequent user of this RAM
area since this is where it shadows the ROM.

42

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

3.1.2 BIOS Features Setup

The BIOS Features Setup allows you to configure your system for basic
operation. Some entries are defaults required by the system board,
while others, if enabled, will improve the performance of your system
or let you set some features according to your preference.

The settings on the screen are for reference only. Your version may not be
identical to this one.

Virus Warning

This field protects the boot sector and partition table of your hard disk
drive. When this field is enabled, the Award BIOS will monitor the boot
sector and partition table of the hard disk drive. If an attempt is made
to write to the boot sector or partition table of the hard disk drive,
the BIOS will halt the system and an error message will appear.

After seeing the error message, if necessary, you will be able to run
an anti-virus program to locate and remove the problem before any
damage is done.

Many disk diagnostic programs which attempt to access the boot
sector table will cause the warning message to appear. If you are
running such a program, we recommend that you first disable this field.
Also, disable this field if you are installing or running certain operating
systems like Windows® 95/98/2000 or the operating system may not
install nor work.

ROM PCI/ISA BIOS

BIOS FEATURES SETUP

AWARD SOFTWARE, INC.

Virus Warning
CPU L1 Cache
CPU L2 Cache
CPU L2 Cache ECC Checking
Quick Power On Self Test
Boot Sequence
Swap Floppy Drive
Boot Up Floppy Seek
Boot Up NumLock Status
DRAM ECC Checking
Typematic Rate Setting
Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec)
Typematic Delay (Msec)
Security Option
PCI/VGA Palette Snoop
OS Select For DRAM > 64MB
HDD S.M.A.R.T. Capability
Processor Serial Number

: Disabled
: Enabled
: Enabled
: Enabled
: Enabled
: A, C, SCSI
: Disabled
: Disabled
:On
: Disabled
: Disabled
:6
: 250
: Setup
: Disabled
: Non-OS2
: Disabled
: Disabled

ESC
F1
F5
F6
F7

: Quit
: Help
: Old Values
: Load Fail-Safe Settings
: Load Optimal Settings

↑↓→←

PU/PD/+/­(Shift) F2

: Select Item
: Modify
: Color

43

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

CPU L1 Cache and CPU L2 Cache

These fields speed up the memory access. The default value is enabled.
Enable the external cache for better performance.

CPU L2 Cache ECC Checking

The processors supported by the system board come with built-in
Level 2 cache. By default, ECC is enabled to check the Level 2 cache.
If you are not using this function, set this field to Disabled.

Quick Power On Self Test

This field speeds up Power On Self Test (POST) after you power on
your system. When Enabled, the BIOS will shorten or skip some check
items during POST.

Boot Sequence

This field determines which drive to search first for the disk operating
system. The default is A, C, SCSI. The options are:

A, C, SCSI; C, A, SCSI; C, CDROM, A; CDROM, C, A;
D, A, SCSI; E, A, SCSI; F, A, SCSI; SCSI, A, C;
SCSI, C, A; C only; LS/ZIP, C.

Swap Floppy Drive

When this field is enabled and the system is booting from the floppy
drive, the system will boot from drive B instead of drive A. When this
field is disabled and the system is booting from the floppy drive, the
system will boot from drive A. You must have two floppy drives to
use this function.

Boot Up Floppy Seek

When enabled, the BIOS will check whether the floppy disk drive installed
is 40 or 80 tracks. Note that the BIOS cannot distinguish between 720K,

1.2M, 1.44M and 2.88M drive types as they are all 80 tracks. When
disabled, the BIOS will not search for the type of floppy disk drive by
track number. Note that there will not be any warning message if the drive
installed is 360KB.

44

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

Boot Up NumLock Status

This allows you to determine the default state of the numeric keypad.
By default, the system boots up with NumLock On wherein the
function of the numeric keypad is the number keys. When set to Off,
the function of the numeric keypad is the arrow keys.

DRAM ECC Checking

If you are using x72 (72-bit) PC SDRAM DIMMs, which are DIMMs

that support the ECC (Error Checking and Correction) function, set
this field to Enabled. It will allow the system to recover from memory
failure. It detects single-bit and multiple-bit errors, then automatically
corrects single-bit error.

Typematic Rate Setting

When disabled, continually holding down a key on your keyboard will
cause the BIOS to report that the key is down. When the typematic
rate is enabled, the BIOS will not only report that the key is down,
but will first wait for a moment, and, if the key is still down, it will begin
to report that the key has been depressed repeatedly. For example,
you would use such a feature to accelerate cursor movements with
the arrow keys.

Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec)

This field allows you to select the rate at which the keys are
accelerated.

Typematic Delay (Msec)

This field allows you to select the delay between when the key was
first depressed and when the acceleration begins.

Security Option

This field determines when the system will prompt for the password

- everytime the system boots or only when you enter the BIOS
setup. Set the password in the Supervisor/User Password submenu.

System The system will not boot and access to Setup will be

denied unless the correct password is entered at the
prompt.

45

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

Setup The system will boot, but access to Setup will be denied

unless the correct password is entered at the prompt.

PCI/VGA Palette Snoop

It determines whether the MPEG ISA/VESA VGA cards can work with
PCI/VGA or not. The default value is Disabled.

Enabled MPEG ISA/VESA VGA cards work with PCI/VGA.
Disabled MPEG ISA/VESA VGA cards does not work with PCI/

VGA.

OS Select for DRAM > 64MB

This field allows you to access the memory that is over 64MB in
OS/2. The options are: Non-OS2 and OS2.

HDD S.M.A.R.T. Capability

The system board supports SMART (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and
Reporting Technology) hard drives. SMART is a reliability prediction
technology for ATA/IDE and SCSI drives. The drive will provide sufficient
notice to the system or user to backup data prior to the drives failure.
The default is Disabled. If you are using hard drives that support
S.M.A.R.T., set this field to Enabled. SMART is supported in ATA-3 or
later hard drives.

Processor Serial Number

This field will appear only when you are using Intels Pentium III or
later processor. These processors come with an individual
"processor serial number" which by default is activated. Therefore,
when connected to the Internet, the processor transmits the serial
number online making it possible to track your online activity. The
field provides you the option of disabling this function.

46

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

3.1.3 Chipset Features Setup

The settings on the screen are for reference only. Your version may not be
identical to this one.

This section gives you functions to configure the system based on
the specific features of the chipset. The chipset manages bus speeds
and access to system memory resources. It also coordinates
communications between the conventional ISA bus and the PCI bus.

These items should not be altered unless necessary. The default

settings have been chosen because they provide the best operating
conditions for your system. The only time you might consider making
any changes would be if you discovered some incompatibility or that
data was being lost while using your system.

DRAM Timing Select

This field is used to set the timing of the DRAMs installed on the
system board. Selecting Turbo will reduce the CAS access time by
1 clock tick.

SDRAM CAS Latency

This field is used to set the clock cycle for the CAS latency.

ROM PCI/ISA BIOS

CHIPSET FEATURES SETUP

AWARD SOFTWARE, INC.

↑ ↓ → ←

ESC
F1
F5
F6
F7

: Quit
: Help
: Old Values
: Load Fail-Safe Settings
: Load Optimal Settings

PU/PD/+/­(Shift) F2

: Select Item
: Modify
: Color

:25

o

C/77oF
:26oC/78oF
: 5851 RPM
: 0 RPM

: Normal
:3
: Host CLK

: Disabled
: Enabled
: Enabled
: Enabled
: Disabled
: Disabled
: Enabled
: Disabled
: Disabled
: Disabled
:64
: Enabled
: Enabled
: Disabled

DRAM Timing Select
SDRAM CAS Latency
DRAM Clock

Concurrrent PCI/Host
CPU to PCI Write Buffer
PCI Dynamic Bursting
PCI Master 0 WS Write
PCI Delay Transaction
PCI#2 Access #1 Retry
AGP Master 1 WS Write
AGP Master 1 WS Read
Video RAM Cacheable
Memory Hole At 15M-16M
AGP Aperture Size (MB)
AGP-2X Mode
Onboard USB Controller
USB Keyboard Support

CPU/PCI Clock (MHz)
Spread Spectrum
Current CPU T emp.
Current System Temp.
Current CPU FAN Speed
Current Chassis FAN Speed
Vcore :

: Default
: Disabled

2.5V :

3.3V :
5V :

12V :

1.66V

2.46V

3.27V

5.00V

12.00V

47

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

DRAM Clock

HCLK-33M The memory clock speed is CPU clock speed minus

33MHz. For example, if the Host Clock is 133MHz,
133MHz - 33MHz = 100MHz. Meaning, the memory
clock speed will run at 100MHz.

Host Clk Sets the memory clock speed equal to that of the

CPU clock speed.

Concurrent PCI/Host

When enabled, the PCI/AGP master to CPU cycle will be concurrent
whenever the Host CPU is performing R/W access to the PCI or
slave devices.

CPU to PCI Write Buffer

Enabled Writes from the CPU to the PCI bus are buffered to

offset the speed difference between the CPU and PCI
bus.

Disabled Writes are not buffered therefore the CPU must wait

until the write cycle is complete before star ting another
write cycle.

PCI Dynamic Bursting

When enabled, every write transaction goes to the write buffer.

PCI Master 0 WS Write

When enabled, writes to the PCI bus are executed with zero wait
state.

PCI Delay Transaction

When enabled, this function frees up the PCI bus for other PCI
masters during the PCI-to-ISA transactions. This allows PCI and ISA
buses to be used more efficiently and prevents degradation of
performance on the PCI bus when ISA accesses are made.

PCI#2 Access #1 Retry

Set this field to Enabled if you want to rotate the priority of the PCI
masters.

48

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

AGP Master 1 WS Write

Set this field to Enabled to add one clock tick to AGP write
operations.

AGP Master 1 WS Read

Set this field to Enabled to add one clock tick to AGP read
operations.

Video RAM Cacheable

When enabled, it allows the video RAM to be cacheable thus providing
better video performance. If your graphics card does not support this
function, leave this field in its default setting - Disabled.

Memory Hole At 15M-16M

In order to improve system performance, certain space in memory can
be reserved for ISA cards. This memory must be mapped into the
memory space below 16MB. When enabled, the CPU assumes the 15­16MB memory range is allocated to the hidden ISA address range
instead of the actual system DRAM. When disabled, the CPU assumes
the 15-16MB address range actually contains DRAM memory. If more
than 16MB of system memory is installed, this field must be disabled
to provide contiguous system memory.

AGP Aperture Size (MB)

This field is relevant to the memory-mapped graphics data of the
AGP card installed in your system. Leave this in its default setting, which
is 64MB.

AGP-2X Mode

This field is used to enable the AGP 2x interface which transfers video
data at 533MB/sec. bandwidth thus delivering faster and better
graphics to your PC. Make sure your graphics card supports the AGP
2x mode.

Onboard USB Controller

We recommend that you leave this field in its default setting ­Enabled.

49

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

USB Keyboard Support

By default, USB Keyboard Support is Disabled. However, if you are
using a USB keyboard under DOS, make sure to enable this function.

CPU/PCI Clock (MHz)

This field provides several options for selecting the external system
bus clock of the processor. When selecting the external bus clock, the
PCI clock will at the same time appear next to the external bus
clock selected. For example, if you selected 66.8/33.4, 66.8MHz is
the external bus clock and 33.4MHz is the PCI clock. Regardless of
the type of processor used, the default setting is Default. Under
this setting, the system will run according to the processors clock
frequency.

Important:

Selecting an external bus clock other than 66MHz, 100MHz or
133MHz may result to the processors or systems instability
and are not guaranteed to provide better system performance.

If you selected an option other than Default and is unable to boot
up the system, there are 2 methods of going back to its default
setting.

Method 1: Clear the CMOS data by setting jumper JP6 pins 2 and

3 to On. All fields in the BIOS Setup will automatically
be set to their default settings.

Method 2: Press the <Insert> key and power button simulta-

neously, then release the power button first. Keep-on
pressing the <Insert> key until the power-on screen ap­pears. This will allow the system to boot according to
the FSB of the processor. Now press the <Del> key to
enter the main menu of the BIOS. Select "Chipset Fea­tures Setup" and set the "CPU/PCI Clock (MHz)" field
to "Default" or an appropriate clock frequency.

Note:

Use a PS/2 or AT (requires a DIN to mini DIN adapter)
keyboard for method 2.

50

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

Spread Spectrum

Leave this field in its default setting. Do not alter this setting unless
advised by an engineer or technician.

Current CPU Temperature, Current System Temperature, Current
CPU Fan Speed and Current Chassis Fan Speed

These fields show the current temperature of the CPU, internal
temperature of the system, and the current fan speed of the CPU
and chassis fans in RPM (Revolutions Per Minute).

Vcore

This field shows the voltage of the CPU.

2.5V, 3.3V, 5V and 12V

These fields show the output voltage of the power supply.

If you want a warning message to pop-up or a warning alarm to
sound when an abnormal condition occurs, you must install the VIA
Hardware Monitor utility. This utility is included in the CD that came
with the system board. Refer to the VIA Hardware Monitor section
in chapter 4 of this manual for more information.

51

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

3.1.4 Power Management Setup

The Power Management Setup allows you to configure your system to
most effectively save energy. If you like to use the soft power down
feature of Windows 95/98/2000, you must enable the Power
Management below. Select Min. Power, Max. Power or User Define.
Either one can be used as long as it is NOT disabled.

The settings on the screen are for reference only. Your version may not be
identical to this one.

ROM PCI/ISA BIOS

POWER MANAGEMENT SETUP

AWARD SOFTWARE, INC.

ACPI Function
Power Management
PM Control by APM
Video Off Method
Video Off After
Standby Mode
Suspend Mode
HDD Power Down
Soft-Off by PWR-BTTN
PWR Lost Resume State

** PM Events **
VGA
LPT & COM
HDD & FDD
PCI Master
Resume on LAN/Ring
Resume on Alarm

Resume on PCI Event

: Enabled
: User Define
:Yes
: DPMS
: Suspend
: Disabled
: Disabled
: Disabled
: Instant-Off
: Keep Off

: Off
: LPT/COM
:On
: Off
: Disabled
: Disabled

: Disabled

ESC
F1
F5
F6
F7

: Quit
: Help
: Old Values
: Load Fail-Safe Settings

: Load Optimal Settings

PU/PD/+/­(Shift) F2

: Select Item
: Modify
: Color

↑ ↓ → ←

Primary INTR
IRQ3 (COM 2)
IRQ4 (COM 1)
IRQ5 (LPT 2)
IRQ6 (Floppy Disk)
IRQ7 (LPT 1)

IRQ8 (RTC Alarm)
IRQ9 (IRQ2 Redir)
IRQ10 (Reserved)
IRQ11 (Reserved)
IRQ12 (PS/2 Mouse)
IRQ13 (Coprocessor)
IRQ14 (Hard Disk)
IRQ15 (Reserved)

:On
: Primary
: Primary
: Primary
: Primary
: Disabled
: Disabled
: Secondary
: Secondary
: Secondary
: Primary
: Primary
: Primary
: Disabled

ACPI Function

This function should be enabled only in operating systems that
support ACPI. Currently, only Windows® 98/2000 supports this
function.

Power Management

This field allows you to select the type (or degree) of power saving
by changing the length of idle time that elapses before the Standby
mode and Suspend mode are activated.

Disabled No power management. Disables the Standby and

Suspend modes.

Min Saving Minimum power saving time for Standby and Suspend

mode = 1 hr.

Max Saving Maximum power saving time for Standby and

Suspend mode = 10 sec.

User Define Allows you to set the power saving time in the

Standby Mode and Suspend Mode fields.

52

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

PM Control by APM

Yes An Advanced Power Management device will be activated to

enhance the power saving mode and stop the CPUs inter­nal clock. Use this option in Windows® 95/98/2000. (default)

No The system BIOS will ignore APM when initiating the Power

Management mode.

Video Off Method

This determines the manner in which the monitor is blanked.

V/H SYNC + Blank This option will cause the system to turn off

the vertical and horizontal synchronization
ports and write blanks to the video buffer.

Blank Screen This option only writes blanks to the video buffer.
DPMS Initializes display power management signaling. Use

this option if your video board supports it.

Video Off After

N/A The system BIOS will never turn off the screen.
Suspend The screen is off when the system is in the Suspend

mode.

Standby The screen is off when the system is in the Standby

mode.

Standby Mode

This is selectable only when the Power Management field is set to
User Define. When the system enters the Standby mode according
to the power saving time selected, video will be shut off while all
other devices still operate at full speed.

53

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

Suspend Mode

This is selectable only when the Power Management field is set to User
Define. When the system enters the Suspend mode according to the
power saving time selected, the CPU and onboard peripherals will be
shut off.

HDD Power Down

After the set time of system inactivity, the hard disk drive will be
powered down while all other devices remain active.

Soft-Off by PWR-BTTN

This field allows you to select the method of powering off your system.

Hold 4 Sec. Regardless of whether the Power Management

function is disabled or not, if the power button is
pushed and released in less than 4 sec, the system
enters the Suspend mode. The purpose of this function
is to prevent the system from powering off in case
you accidentally hit or pushed the power button.
Push and release again in less than 4 sec to restore.
Pushing the power button for more than 4 seconds
will power off the system.

Instant-Off Pressing and then releasing the power button at

once will immediately power off your system.

PWR Lost Resume State

Keep Off When power returns after an AC power failure, the

systems power is off. You must press the Power
button to power-on the system.

Turn On When power returns after an AC power failure, the

system will automatically power-on.

Last State When power returns after an AC power failure, the

system will return to the state where you left off
before power failure occurs. If the systems power is
off when AC power failure occurs, it will remain off
when power returns. If the systems power is on
when AC power failure occurs, the system will power­on when power returns.

54

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

PM Events

VGA

When set to On, the system will respond and wake up to any
VGA activity.

LPT & COM

Select the port you would like the system to respond and wake
up when an event occurs on that port.

HDD & FDD

When set to On, the system will respond and wake up to any
hard drive or floppy drive activity.

PCI Master

When set to On, the system will respond and wake up to any
PCI or bus master activity.

Resume On LAN/Ring

This field supports two functions.

• When enabled, the system will power-on to respond to calls

coming through an external or internal modem. Refer to Wake­On-Ring Connector in chapter 2 for more information.

• When enabled, the LAN card in the system will allow the

network to power-on a Soft Power Down (Soft-Off) PC.
However, if your system is in the Suspend mode, you can wake
up the system only through an IRQ or DMA interrupt. Your
LAN card must support the remote wake up function. Refer
to Wake-On-LAN Connector in chapter 2 for more
information.

Resume On Alarm

Enabled When Enabled, you can set the date and time you

would like the Soft Power Down (Soft-Off) PC to
power-on in the Date (of Month) and Resume
Time (hh:mm:ss) fields. However, if the system is
being accessed by incoming calls or the network
prior to the date and time set in these fields, the
system will give priority to the incoming calls or
network.

Disabled Disables the automatic power-on function. (default)

55

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

Date (of Month)

0 The system will power-on everyday according to the

time set in the Resume Time (hh:mm:ss) field.

1-31 Select a date you would like the system to power-on.

The system will power-on on the set date, and time
set in the Resume Time (hh:mm:ss) field.

Resume Time (hh:mm:ss)

This is used to set the time you would like the system to power­on. If you want the system to power-on everyday as set in the
Date (of Month) field, the time set in this field must be later
than the time of the RTC set in the Standard CMOS Features
submenu.

Resume on PCI Event

Enabled Access to a PCI card such as a modem or LAN card

will cause the system to wake up. The PCI card must
support the wake up function.

Disabled The system will not wake up despite access to the

PCI card.

Primary INTR

When set to On, the system will respond and wake up to an IRQ
activity that has been detected.

IRQ3 to IRQ15

Access to the specified IRQ will cause the system to wake up
completely from the power management mode. When disabled, the
system will not wake up from the power management mode despite
access to the specified IRQ.

56

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

The settings on the screen are for reference only. Your version may not be
identical to this one.

3.1.5 PNP/PCI Configuration

This section describes configuring the PCI bus system. It covers some
very technical items and it is strongly recommended that only
experienced users should make any changes to the default settings.

ROM PCI/ISA BIOS

PNP/PCI CONFIGURATION

AWARD SOFTWARE, INC.

Resources Controlled By
Reset Configuration Data

: Auto
: Disabled

ESC
F1
F5
F6
F7

: Quit
: Help
: Old Values
: Load Fail-Safe Settings

: Load Optimal Settings

PU/PD/+/­(Shift) F2

: Select Item
: Modify
: Color

↑ ↓ → ←

Assign IRQ for USB
Assign IRQ for VGA
PCI Slot 1 Use IRQ
PCI Slot 2 Use IRQ

: Enabled
: Enabled
: Auto
: Auto

Resources Controlled By

The Award Plug and Play BIOS has the capability to automatically
configure all of the boot and Plug and Play compatible devices.

Auto The system will automatically detect the settings for you.
Manual This will allow you to set the IRQ/DMA (assigned to

the add-in cards) to Legacy ISA or PCI/ISA PnP. For
non-PnP ISA cards, select Legacy ISA. For PnP ISA or
PCI cards, select PCI/ISA PnP.

57

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

Reset Configuration Data

Enabled The BIOS will reset the configuration data once

automatically. It will then recreate a new set of
configuration data.

Disabled The BIOS will not reset the configuration data.

Assign IRQ for USB

When Enabled, the system automatically assigns an IRQ for the USB
device connected to your system. However, if you are not using USB
devices and an ISA slot requires an IRQ, set this function to Disabled.
The IRQ previously occupied by the USB device will be available for
the ISA slot.

Note:

When Disabled, a Yellow mark will appear in Windows 95/98s
Device Manager.

Assign IRQ for VGA

When Enabled, the system automatically assigns an IRQ for the VGA
card installed. Your VGA card will need an IRQ only when using the
video capture function of the card. If you are not using this function
and a new device requires an IRQ, you can set this function to
Disabled. The IRQ (previously occupied by the VGA card) will be
available for your new device.

Note:

When Disabled, a Yellow mark will appear in Windows 95/98s
Device Manager.

PCI Slot 1 Use IRQ and PCI Slot 2 Use IRQ

By default, an IRQ is automatically assigned to each PCI slot. You may
also manually assign an IRQ to these slots. The options are: 3, 4, 5, 7,
9, 10, 11, 12, 14 and 15.

58

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

3.1.6 Load Fail-Safe Settings

The Load Fail-Safe Settings submenu loads the troubleshooting default
values permanently stored in the ROM chips. These settings are not
optimal and turn off all high performance features. You should use these
values only if you have hardware problems. Highlight this option on the
main menu and press <Enter>. The message below will appear.

Load Fail-Safe Settings (Y/N)? N

If you want to proceed, type <Y> and press <Enter>. The default
settings will be loaded.

3.1.7 Load Optimal Settings

The Load Optimal Settings submenu loads optimized settings from the
BIOS ROM. Use the Setup default values as standard values for your
system. Highlight this option on the main menu and press <Enter>. The
message below will appear.

Load Optimal Settings (Y/N)? N

Type <Y> and press <Enter> to load the Setup default values.

59

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

3.1.8 Integrated Peripherals

The settings on the screen are for reference only. Your version may not be
identical to this one.

ROM PCI/ISA BIOS

INTEGRATED PERIPHERALS

AWARD SOFTWARE, INC.

ESC
F1
F5
F6
F7

: Quit
: Help
: Old Values
: Load Fail-Safe Settings

: Load Optimal Settings

PU/PD/+/­(Shift) F2

: Select Item
: Modify
: Color

↑ ↓ → ←

Onboard FDD Controller
Onboard Serial Port 1
Onboard Serial Port 2
UART 2 Mode

Onboard Parallel Port
Onboard Parallel Mode
ECP Mode Use DMA
Parallel Port EPP Type
AC97 Modem
AC97 Audio
Sound Blaster
SB I/O Base Address
SB IRQ Select
SB DMA Select
MPU-401
MPU-401 I/O Address
Game Port (200-207H)

: Enabled
: 3F8/IRQ4
: 2F8/IRQ3
: Standard

: 378/IRQ7
: ECP/EPP
:3
: EPP1.9
: Auto
: Auto
: Disabled
: 220H
: IRQ 5
: DMA 1
: Disabled
: 330-333H
: Enabled

Onboard Primary PCI IDE
Onboard Secondary PCI IDE
IDE Prefetch Mode
IDE HDD Block Mode
IDE Primary Master PIO
IDE Primary Slave PIO
IDE Secondary Master PIO
IDE Secondary Slave PIO
IDE Primary Master UDMA
IDE Primary Slave UDMA
IDE Secondary Master UDMA
IDE Secondary Slave UDMA
Init Display First

: Enabled
: Enabled
: Enabled
: Enabled
: Auto
: Auto
: Auto
: Auto
: Auto
: Auto
: Auto
: Auto
: AGP

Onboard FDD Controller

Enabled Enables the onboard floppy disk controller.
Disabled Disables the onboard floppy disk controller.

Onboard Serial Port 1 and Onboard Serial Port 2

Auto The system will automatically select an I/O address for the

onboard serial port 1 and serial port 2.

3F8/IRQ4, 2F8/IRQ3, 3E8/IRQ4, 2E8/IRQ3 Allows you to manually

select an I/O address for the onboard serial port 1 and
serial port 2.

Disabled Disables the onboard serial port 1 and/or serial port 2.

UART 2 Mode

The system board supports IrDA function for wireless connectivity
between your computer and peripheral devices. You may not use IrDA
(J22) and the COM 2 serial port (J5) at the same time. By default,
this field is set to Standard, wherein you may use the COM 2 serial
port. If you want to use the IrDA function, please follow the steps
below.

1. Connect your IrDA cable to connector J22 on the system
board.

60

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

2. Set this field to the type of IrDA standard supported by your
IrDA peripheral/device (HPSIR or ASKIR). For better transmission
of data, your IrDA peripheral device must be within a 30o angle
and within a distance of 1 meter.

3. Set the IR Function Duplex and TX, RX Inverting Enable fields
appropriately.

IR Function Duplex

Half Data is transmitted before receiving data.
Full Transmits and receives data simultaneously

TX, RX Inverting Enable

The options are No, Yes; Yes, No; Yes, Yes; No, No.

Onboard Parallel Port

378/IRQ7, 278/IRQ5, 3BC/IRQ7 Selects the I/O address and IRQ

for the onboard parallel port.

Disabled Disables the onboard parallel port.

Onboard Parallel Mode

The options are ECP/EPP, Normal, EPP and ECP. These apply to a
standard specification and will depend on the type and speed of
your device. Refer to your peripherals manual for the best option.

Normal

Allows normal speed operation but in one direction only.

ECP (Extended Capabilities Port)

Allows parallel port to operate in bidirectional mode and at a
speed faster than the normal modes data transfer rate.

EPP (Enhanced Parallel Port)

Allows bidirectional parallel port operation at maximum speed.

If you selected ECP/EPP, both the ECP Mode Use DMA and
Parallel Port EPP Type fields are selectable. If you selected EPP, only
the Parallel Port EPP Type field is selectable. If you selected ECP,
only the ECP Mode Use DMA field is selectable.

61

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

ECP Mode Use DMA

This is used to select a DMA channel for the parallel port. The
options are 1 and 3.

Parallel Port EPP Type

The options are EPP1.9 and EPP1.7.

AC97 Modem

Auto Select this option when you are using a primary or

secondary modem riser card, or audio/modem riser
card.

Disabled Select this option if you are not using a primary or

secondary modem riser card, or audio/modem riser
card.

AC97 Audio

Auto Select this option when you are using the onboard

audio codec, an audio riser card or audio/modem riser
card.

Disabled Select this option when you are using a PCI or ISA

sound card.

Note:

The Sound Blaster to Game Port (200-207H) fields will
appear only if the AC97 Audio field is set to Auto.

Sound Blaster

This field is used to enable or disable the sound blaster.

SB I/O Base Address

This field is used to select the sound blasters I/O base address.
The options are 220H, 240H, 260H and 280H.

SB IRQ Select

This field is used to select the sound blasters IRQ. The options
are IRQ 5, IRQ 7, IRQ 9 and IRQ 10.

62

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

SB DMA Select

This field is used to select the sound blasters DMA. The options
are DMA 0, DMA 1, DMA 2 and DMA 3.

MPU-401

This field is used to enable or disable MPU-401.

MPU-401 I/O Address

This field is used to select MPU-401s I/O address. The options
are 330-333H, 300-303H, 310-313H and 320-323H.

Game Port (200-207H)

This field is used to enable or disable the onboard game port.

Onboard Primary PCI IDE and Onboard Secondary PCI IDE

These fields allow you to enable or disable the primary and secondary
IDE controller. The default is Enabled. Select Disabled if you want to
use a different hard drive controller.

IDE Prefetch Mode

This allows data and addresses to be stored in the internal buffer of
the chip, thus reducing access time. Enable this field to achieve better
performance.

IDE HDD Block Mode

Enabled The IDE HDD uses the block mode. The system BIOS

will check the hard disk drive for the maximum block size
the system can transfer. The block size will depend on the
type of hard disk drive.

Disabled The IDE HDD uses the standard mode.

63

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

IDE Primary Master/Slave PIO and IDE Secondary Master/Slave PIO

PIO means Programmed Input/Output. Rather than have the BIOS
issue a series of commands to effect a transfer to or from the disk
drive, PIO allows the BIOS to tell the controller what it wants and
then let the controller and the CPU perform the complete task by
themselves. Your system suppor ts five modes, 0 (default) to 4, which
primarily differ in timing. When Auto is selected, the BIOS will select the
best available mode after checking your drive.

Auto The BIOS will automatically set the system according to your

hard disk drives timing.

Mode 0-4 You can select a mode that matches your hard disk

drives timing. Caution: Do not use the wrong setting or
you will have drive errors.

IDE Primary Master/Slave UDMA and IDE Secondary Master/Slave
UDMA

These fields allow you to set the Ultra DMA in use. When Auto is
selected, the BIOS will select the best available option after checking
your hard drive or CD-ROM.

Auto The BIOS will automatically detect the settings for you.
Disabled The BIOS will not detect these categories.

Init Display First

This field is used to select whether to initialize AGP or PCI first
when the system boots.

AGP When the system boots, it will first initialize AGP.
PCI Slot When the system boots, it will first initialize PCI.

64

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

3.1.9 Supervisor Password

If you want to protect your system and setup from unauthorized entry,
set a supervisors password with the System option selected in the
Security Option field of the BIOS Features Setup. If you want to
protect access to setup only, but not your system, set a super visors
password with the Setup option selected. You will not be prompted
for a password when you cold boot the system.

Use the arrow keys to highlight Supervisor Password and press
<Enter>. The message below will appear.

Enter Password:

Type in the password. You are limited to eight characters. When done,
the message below will appear:

Confirm Password:

You are asked to verify the password. Type in exactly the same
password. If you type in a wrong password, you will be prompted to
enter the correct password again. To delete or disable the password
function, highlight Supervisor Password and press <Enter>, instead of
typing in a new password. Press the <Esc> key to return to the main
menu.

3.1.10 User Password

If you want another user to have access only to your system but not
to setup, set a users password with the System option selected in
the Security Option field of the BIOS Features Setup. If you want a
user to enter a password when trying to access setup, set a users
password with the Setup option selected.

Using users password to enter Setup allows a user to access only the
User Password option that appears on the main menu screen.
Access to all other options is denied. To set, confirm, verify, disable or
delete a users password, follow the procedures described in the
Supervisor Password section. If you forget your password, refer to
the procedure described in the same section.

65

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

3.1.11 IDE HDD Auto Detection

Use this field to detect the parameters for the hard disk drives
installed in your system. These parameters will then be automatically
entered into the "Standard CMOS Setup". The IDE HDD Auto
Detection screen displays the following categories of information: Size,
Cylinders, Heads, Precomp, LandZone, Sectors and Mode.

ROM PCI/ISA BIOS

CMOS SETUP UTILITY

AWARD SOFTWARE, INC.

HARD DISKS TYPE SIZE CYLS HEAD RECOMP LANDZ SECTOR MODE

Primary Master:

Select Primary Master Option (N=Skip): N
OPTIONS SIZE CYLS HEAD RECOMP LANDZ SECTOR MODE
2 (Y) 853 827 32 0 1653 63 LBA

1 853 1654 16 65535 1653 63 Normal
3 853 827 32 65536 1653 63 Large

Note: Some OS (like SCO-UNIX) must be “NORMAL” for installation

ESC: Skip

The settings on the screen are for reference only. Your version may not be
identical to this one.

For hard drives larger than 528MB, you would typically select the LBA
type. Certain operating systems require that you select Normal or
Large. Please check your operating systems manual or Help desk on
which one to select.

66

3

Award BIOS Setup Utility

3.1.12 Save & Exit Setup

When all the changes have been made, highlight Save & Exit Setup
and press <Enter>. The message below will appear:

Save to CMOS and Exit (Y/N)? N

Type Y and press <Enter>. The modifications you have made will be
written into the CMOS memory, and the system will reboot. You will
once again see the initial diagnostics on the screen. If you wish to make
additional changes to the setup, press <Ctrl> <Alt> <Esc>
simultaneously or <Del> after memory testing is done.

3.1.13 Exit Without Saving

When you do not want to save the changes you have made, highlight
Exit Without Saving and press <Enter>. The message below will
appear:

Quit Without Saving (Y/N)? N

Type Y and press <Enter>. The system will reboot and you will once
again see the initial diagnostics on the screen. If you wish to make any
changes to the setup, press <Ctrl> <Alt> <Esc> simultaneously or
<Del> after memory testing is done.

67

4

Supported Softwares

4.1 Desktop Management Interface (DMI)

The system board comes with a DMI built into the BIOS. DMI, along
with the appropriately networked software, is designed to make
inventory, maintenance and troubleshooting of computer systems easier.
With DMI, a network administrator or MIS engineer can remotely
access some information about a particular computer system without
physically going to it. Quite often a service call may be unnecessary as
the problem can be solved remotely.

The DMI utility in the BIOS automatically records various information
about your system configuration. Information about the type and speed
of CPU, type and amount of memory for each memory slot, BIOS
revision level, types of add-in PCI boards and components, certain
revision numbers of hardware installed, etc. are automatically detected
and stored in the DMI pool, which is a part of the system board's
Plug and Play BIOS. Additional information, such as ISA based
peripherals, which may not be automatically detected, can be manually
recorded in the DMI pool by using the Add DMI menu. The DMI pool
data is then verified or updated whenever the system hardware or
setup is altered.

4.1.1 Running the DMI Utility

To run the DMI utility, type: DMICFG.EXE. You can download this utility
from ftp.dfiusa.com - /utilities/DMI directory.

The DMI utility must run in real mode with at least 180K of base
memory. Memory managers like HIMEM.SYS (required by Windows)
must not be installed. You may do this by using one of the 3 methods
listed below.

1. Boot up from a system diskette without the AUTOEXEC.BAT and
CONFIG.SYS files,

2. REM HIMEM.SYS in the CONFIG.SYS, or

3. Press <F5> during bootup to bypass your AUTOEXEC.BAT and
CONFIG.SYS files.

Chapter 4 - Supported Softwares

68

4

Supported Softwares

4.1.2 Using the DMI Utility

The four menus located on top of the DMI Configuration Utility screen
are Edit DMI, Add DMI, Load DMI File and Save DMI File. Use the

← or → (left or right) arrow keys to select a menu from the Menu

bar.

On the left side of the screen is a list of the system configuration items.

Use the ↑ or ↓ (up or down) arrow keys to select an item.

The commands at the bottom of the screen will allow you to navigate
through the various setup menus.

Edit DMI

1. Use the ← or → arrow keys to select the Edit DMI menu.

2. Highlight the item on the left screen that you would like to edit

by using the ↑ or ↓ arrow keys, then press <Enter>.

3. The cursor will move to the screen you select allowing you to edit
information. The screen will also display the auto-detected
information.

4. Press <F10> to update the edited information into the flash ROM.

s

n

Move cursor ENTER-Accept DEL-Delete ESC-Abort&Exit

↑ ↓ ↑ ↓

↑ ↓ ↑ ↓

↑ ↓

←←

←←

←

→→

→→

→

Award DMI Configuration Utility Copyright Award Software Inc, 1996

[Edit DMI] [Add DMI] [Load DMI File] [Save DMI File]

s

BIOS

System

Enclosure/Chassis

Processor

Memory Controller

Memory Module
Memory Module
Memory Module
Memory Module

Cache

Cache
Port Connector
Port Connector
Port Connector
Port Connector
Port Connector
Port Connector
Port Connector

System Slots

*** BIOS Auto Detect ***

Type : BIOS Information
Handle : 0000

Vendor Name :
BIOS Version :
BIOS Starting Address Segment : E000
BIOS Build Date :
BIOS Characteristics :
Size of BIOS ROM : 0256K

69

4

Supported Softwares

Add DMI

1. Use the ← or → arrow keys to select the Add DMI menu.

2. Highlight the item on the left screen that you would like to add

by using the ↑ or ↓ arrow keys, then press <Enter>.

3. The cursor will move to the screen you select allowing you to enter
information about the added item.

4. Press <F10> to save information into the flash ROM.

To view information about the added items, go to the Edit DMI menu.

Load DMI File

1. Use the ← or → arrow keys to select the Load DMI File menu.

2. The following message will appear.

Press [Enter] to select DMI file for load

Press <Enter>.

3. The DMI files will appear on the screen. Select the file you would
like to load and press <Enter>.

4. The following message will appear.

Do you want to execute? (Y/N)

Type <Y>. All previous DMI structures will be destroyed and the
new file will be saved into the flash ROM.

Save DMI File

1. Use the ← or → arrow keys to select the Save DMI File menu.

2. The following message will appear.

Press [Enter] to select DMI file for save

Press <Enter>.

3. Enter the directory and filename under which you would like the
DMI file saved.

70

4

Supported Softwares

4.2 VIA Hardware Monitor

The system board comes with the VIA Hardware Monitor utility
contained in the provided CD. It is capable of monitoring the
systems hardware conditions such as the temperature of the CPU
and system, voltage, and speed of the CPU and chassis fans. It also
allows you to manually set a range to the items being monitored. If
the values are over or under the set range, a warning message will
pop-up. The utility can also be configured so that a beeping alarm
will sound whenever an error occurs. We recommend that you use
the Default Setting which is the ideal setting that would keep the
system in good working condition.

Note:

Use this utility only in Windows® 95, Windows® 98, Windows

®

98 SE, Windows® 2000 or Windows NT® 4.0 operating
system.

To install the utility, insert the CD into a CD-ROM drive. The autorun
screen (Main Board Utility CD) will appear. Click the VIA Hardware
Monitor button to install the utility. Refer to its readme file for
instructions on using the utility.

4.3 VIA® Service Pack

The CD in the system board package also comes with the VIA

®

Service Pack. The service pack includes the following drivers.

 Bus Master PCI IDE Driver
 AGP VxD Driver
 VIA INF Driver (VIA Chipset Functions Registry)
 VIA PCI IRQ Miniport Driver

To install the drivers, insert the CD into a CD-ROM drive. The
autorun screen (Main Board Utility CD) will appear. Click the VIA
Service Pack button. For installation instructions or information, click
the Read Me button in the autorun screen.

4.3.1 VIA® Service Pack Installation Notes

AGP VxD Driver and VIA INF Driver in the VIA Service Pack
are supported in Windows® 95, Windows® 98 and Windows® 98
second edition.

71

4

Supported Softwares

You must first install VIA® Service Pack prior to installing any other
drivers. However, this may not be the case for some AGP cards.
Please read carefully the following information.

Important:

The VGA driver that came with some AGP cards is already
bundled with the AGP VxD driver. Since the version of the
bundled VxD driver may be older than the one provided in the
CD, installing the bundled VxD driver may cause problems. If
you are using this type of card, we recommend that you install
first the AGP cards VGA driver before installing the VIA Service
Pack.

To install the VIA Service pack, please follow the steps below.

1. Insert the CD that came with the system board package into a
CD-ROM drive. The autorun screen (Main Board Utility CD) will
appear.

2. Click VIA Service Pack.

3. The Welcome screen will appear. Click Next. Please read the
VIA Service Pack readme carefully before proceeding to step 4.

4. Follow the prompts on the screen to complete the installation.

5. Reboot the system for the drivers to take effect.

4.4 Audio Drivers and Software Application

The CD in the system board package also includes audio drivers
and audio playback software for Windows 95, Windows 98,
Windows 98 SE, Windows NT 4.0 and Windows 2000 operating
systems. For installation instructions or information about their
corresponding readme, click the Read Me button in the autorun
screen. The autorun screen normally appears after the CD is inserted
into a CD-ROM drive.

72

4

Supported Softwares

4.5 Drivers and Utilities Installation Notes

1. "Autorun" ONLY supports the Windows 95, Windows 98,
Windows 98 SE, Windows 2000 and Windows NT 4.0
operating systems. If after inserting the CD, "Autorun" did not
automatically start (which is, the Main Board Utility CD screen
did not appear), please go directly to the root directory of the
CD and double-click "Autorun".

2. Please go to DFI's web site at "http://www.dfi.com/support/
download1.asp" for the latest version of the drivers or software
applications.

3. All steps or procedures to install software drivers are subject to
change without notice as the softwares are occassionally updated.
Please refer to the readme files, if available, for the latest
information.

A

System Error Message

73

When the BIOS encounters an error that requires the user to
correct something, either a beep code will sound or a message will
be displayed in a box in the middle of the screen and the message,
PRESS F1 TO CONTINUE, CTRL-ALT-ESC or DEL TO ENTER
SETUP, will be shown in the information box at the bottom. Enter
Setup to correct the error.

A.1 POST Beep

There are two kinds of beep codes in the BIOS. One code
indicates that a video error has occured and the BIOS cannot
initialize the video screen to display any additional information. This
beep code consists of a single long beep followed by three shor t
beeps. The other code indicates that a DRAM error has occured.
This beep code consists of a single long beep.

A.2 Error Messages

One or more of the following messages may be displayed if the
BIOS detects an error during the POST. This list indicates the error
messages for all Awards BIOSes:

CMOS BATTERY HAS FAILED

The CMOS battery is no longer functional. It should be replaced.

Caution:

Danger of explosion if battery incorrectly replaced. Replace only
with the same or equivalent type recommended by the
manufacturer. Dispose of used batteries according to the
battery manufacturers instructions.

CMOS CHECKSUM ERROR

Checksum of CMOS is incorrect. This can indicate that CMOS has
become corrupt. This error may have been caused by a weak
battery. Check the battery and replace if necessary.

DISPLAY SWITCH IS SET INCORRECTLY

The display switch on the motherboard can be set to either
monochrome or color. This indicates the switch is set to a different

Appendix A - System Error Message

A

74

System Error Message

setting than indicated in Setup. Determine which setting is correct,
either turn off the system and change the jumper or enter Setup
and change the VIDEO selection.

FLOPPY DISK(S) fail (80)

Unable to reset floppy subsystem.

FLOPPY DISK(S) fail (40)

Floppy type mismatch.

Hard Disk(s) fail (80)

HDD reset failed.

Hard Disk(s) fail (40)

HDD controller diagnostics failed.

Hard Disk(s) fail (20)

HDD initialization error.

Hard Disk(s) fail (10)

Unable to recalibrate fixed disk.

Hard Disk(s) fail (08)

Sector Verify failed.

Keyboard is locked out - Unlock the key

The BIOS detects that the keyboard is locked. Keyboard controller
is pulled low.

Keyboard error or no keyboard present

Cannot initialize the keyboard. Make sure the keyboard is attached
correctly and no keys are being pressed during the boot.

Manufacturing POST loop

System will repeat POST procedure infinitely while the keyboard
controller is pull low. This is also used for the M/B burn in test at
the factory.

BIOS ROM checksum error - System halted

The checksum of ROM address F0000H-FFFFFH is bad.

Memory test fail

The BIOS reports memory test fail if the memory has error(s).

B

Troubleshooting

75

B.1 Troubleshooting Checklist

This chapter of the manual is designed to help you with problems
that you may encounter with your personal computer. To efficiently
troubleshoot your system, treat each problem individually. This is to
ensure an accurate diagnosis of the problem in case a problem has
multiple causes.

Some of the most common things to check when you encounter
problems while using your system are listed below.

1. The power switch of each peripheral device is turned on.

2. All cables and power cords are tightly connected.

3. The electrical outlet to which your peripheral devices are
connected is working. Test the outlet by plugging in a lamp or
other electrical device.

4. The monitor is turned on.

5. The displays brightness and contrast controls are adjusted
properly.

6. All add-in boards in the expansion slots are seated securely.

7. Any add-in board you have installed is designed for your system
and is set up correctly.

Monitor/Display

If the display screen remains dark after the system is turned on:

1. Make sure that the monitors power switch is on.

2. Check that one end of the monitors power cord is properly
attached to the monitor and the other end is plugged into a
working AC outlet. If necessary, try another outlet.

3. Check that the video input cable is properly attached to the
monitor and the systems display adapter.

4. Adjust the brightness of the display by turning the monitors
brightness control knob.

Appendix B - Troubleshooting

B

76

Troubleshooting

The picture seems to be constantly moving.

1. The monitor has lost its vertical sync. Adjust the monitors vertical
sync.

2. Move away any objects, such as another monitor or fan, that
may be creating a magnetic field around the display.

3. Make sure your video cards output frequencies are supported
by this monitor.

The screen seems to be constantly wavering.

1. If the monitor is close to another monitor, the adjacent monitor
may need to be turned off. Fluorescent lights adjacent to the
monitor may also cause screen wavering.

Power Supply

When the computer is turned on, nothing happens.

1. Check that one end of the AC power cord is plugged into a live
outlet and the other end properly plugged into the back of the
system.

2. Make sure that the voltage selection switch on the back panel is
set for the correct type of voltage you are using.

3. The power cord may have a short or open. Inspect the cord
and install a new one if necessary.

Floppy Drive

The computer cannot access the floppy drive.

1. The floppy diskette may not be formatted. Format the diskette
and try again.

2. The diskette may be write-protected. Use a diskette that is not
write-protected.

3. You may be writing to the wrong drive. Check the path
statement to make sure you are writing to the targeted drive.

4. There is not enough space left on the diskette. Use another
diskette with adequate storage space.

B

Troubleshooting

77

Hard Drive

Hard disk failure.

1. Make sure the correct drive type for the hard disk drive has
been entered in the BIOS.

2. If the system is configured with two hard drives, make sure the
bootable (first) hard drive is configured as Master and the
second hard drive is configured as Slave. The master hard drive
must have an active/bootable partition.

Excessively long formatting period.

1. If your hard drive takes an excessively long period of time to
format, it is likely a cable connection problem. However, if your
hard drive has a large capacity, it will take a longer time to
format.

Parallel Port

The parallel printer doesnt respond when you try to print.

1. Make sure that your printer is turned on and that the printer is
on-line.

2. Make sure your software is configured for the right type of
printer attached.

3. Verify that the onboard LPT ports I/O address and IRQ settings
are configured correctly.

4. Verify that the attached device works by attaching it to a parallel
port that is working and configured correctly. If it works, the
printer can be assumed to be in good condition. If the printer
remains inoperative, replace the printer cable and try again.

B

78

Troubleshooting

Serial Port

The serial device (modem, printer) doesnt output anything or is
outputting garbled characters.

1. Make sure that the serial devices power is turned on and that
the device is on-line.

2. Verify that the device is plugged into the correct serial port on
the rear of the computer.

3. Verify that the attached serial device works by attaching it to a
serial port that is working and configured correctly. If the serial
device does not work, either the cable or the serial device has a
problem. If the serial device works, the problem may be due to
the onboard I/O or the address setting.

4. Make sure the COM settings and I/O address are configured
correctly.

Keyboard

Nothing happens when a key on the keyboard was pressed.

1. Make sure the keyboard is properly connected.

2. Make sure there are no objects resting on the keyboard and
that no keys are pressed during the booting process.

System Board

1. Make sure the add-in card is seated securely in the expansion
slot. If the add-in card is loose, power off the system, re-install
the card and power up the system.

2. Check the jumper settings to ensure that the jumpers are
properly set.

3. Verify that all memory modules are seated securely into the
memory sockets.

4. Make sure the memory modules are in the correct locations.

5. If the board fails to function, place the board on a flat surface
and seat all socketed components. Gently press each component
into the socket.

6. If you made changes to the BIOS settings, re-enter setup and
load the BIOS defaults.