ECS X48T-A User Manual

Preface

This publication, including all photographs, illustrations and software, is protected under international copyright laws, with all rights reserved. Neither this manual, nor any of the material contained herein, may be reproduced without written consent of the author.

Version 1.0A

Disclaimer

The information in this document is subject to change without notice. The manufacturer makes no representations or warranties with respect to the contents hereof and specifically disclaims any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose. The manufacturer reserves the right to revise this publication and to make changes from time to time in the content hereof without obligation of the manufacturer to notify any person of such revision or changes.

Trademark Recognition

Microsoft, MS-DOS and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corp. MMX, Pentium, Pentium-II, Pentium-III, Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel

Corporation. Other product names used in this manual are the properties of their respective

owners and are acknowledged.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna

• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver

• Connect the equipment onto 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

Shielded interconnect cables and a shielded AC power cable must be employed with this equipment to ensure compliance with the pertinent RF emission limits governing this device. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the system’s manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

Preface

Declaration of Conformity

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference, and

• This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation

Canadian Department of Communications

This class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interferencecausing Equipment Regulations.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Réglement sur le matériel brouilieur du Canada.

About the Manual

The manual consists of the following:

Chapter 1 Introducing the Motherboard

Chapter 2 Installing the Motherboard

Chapter 3 Using BIOS

Chapter 4 Using the Motherboard Software

Chapter 5 ATI Crossf ireX

Chapter 6 Intel® Matrix Storage Manager

RAID Configurations

T echnology Support

Preface

Describes features of the motherboard.

Go to

Describes installation of motherboard components.

Go to

Provides information on using the BIOS Setup Utility.

Go to

Describes the motherboard software

Go to

Describes the ATI CrossfireXTM Technology

Go to

Describes the Intel Storage Manager RAID Configurations

Go to

page 1

page 7

page 25

page 45

page 51

Matrix

page 55

ABLE OF CONTENTSABLE OF CONTENTS

ABLE OF CONTENTS

ABLE OF CONTENTSABLE OF CONTENTS

Preface i

Chapter 1 1

Introducing the Motherboard 1

Introduction.....................................................................................1

Feature..............................................................................................2

Specifications...................................................................................4

Motherboard Components............................................................5

iii

Chapter 2

Installing the Motherboard 7

Safety Precautions...........................................................................7

Choosing a Computer Case............................................................7

Installing the Motherboard in a Case...........................................7

Checking Jumper Settings..............................................................8

Setting Jumpers.......................................................................8

Checking Jumper Settings.......................................................9

Jumper Settings.......................................................................9

Installing Hardware..................................................................10

Installing the Processor.........................................................10

Installing Memory Modules..................................................12

Expansion Slots.....................................................................15

Connecting Optional Devices................................................17

Installing a Hard Disk Drive/CD-ROM/SATA Hard Drive...19

Installing a Floppy Diskette Drive........................................20

Connecting I/O Devices................................................................21

Connecting Case Components....................................................22

Front Panel Header...............................................................24

Chapter 3 25

Using BIOS 25

About the Setup Utility ........................ ......................................... 25

The Standard Configuration..................................................25

Entering the Setup Utility......................................................25

Using BIOS......................................................................................26

Standard CMOS Setup...........................................................27

Advanced Setup.....................................................................30

Advanced Chi pset Setup.........................................................32

Integrated Peripherals...........................................................33

7 7

Power Ma nagement Setup.................................................34

PCI/PnP Setup...................................................................35

PC Health Status...............................................................36

M.I.B (MB Intelligent BIOS)..............................................39

Load Default Settings........................................................42

Supervisor Password........................................................42

User Password..................................................................4

Save & Exit Setup..............................................................43

Exit Without Saving............................................................43

Updating the BIOS..............................................................44

Chapter 4

45 45

Using the Motherboard Software 45

About the Software CD-ROM......................................................45

Auto-installing under W indows XP/Vista..................................45

Running Setup....................................................................46

Manual Installation........................................................................50

Utility Software Reference............................................................50

Chapter 5

51 51

A TI CrossFireX™ Technology Support 51

Requirements..................................................................................51

Installing a single graphics card..................................................51

Installing CrossFireX™ graphics cards......................................52

The Catalyst™ Control Center Dialog Box.................................54

View....................................................................................54

To Enable CrossFireX™...................................................54

Chapter 6

55 55

Intel® Matrix Storage Ma nager RAID Configurations 55

Before creating a RAID set...........................................................55

Entering Intel® Matrix Storage M a nager RAID BIOS utility ....56

Creating a RAID set.......................................................................57

Deleting a RAID set.......................................................................59

Resetting disks to Non-RAID......................................................60

Exiting Setup...................................................................................60

Chapter 1

Introducing the Motherboard

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the X48T-A motherboard. This motherboard is a high performance, enhanced function motherboard designed to support the LGA775 socket

Yorkfield/Wolfdale/CoreTM 2 Extreme/Core

Intel for high-end business or personal desktop markets.

The motherboard incorporates the Intel Southbridge (SB) chipsets. quency of 1600/1333/1066/800 MHz using a scalable FSB Vcc_CPU. The memory controller supports DDR3 memory DIMM frequencies of 1600/1333/1066/800. It supports four DDR3 sockets with up to maximum memory of 8 GB. DDR3 Maximum memory bandwidth of 25.6 GB/s in dual-channel symmetric mode assuming DDR3 1600 MHz. High resolution graphics via two PCI Express slots, intended for Graphics Interface, is fully compliant to the PCI Express Base Specification revision 2.0. It supports the ATI CrossFireX cards.

The ICH9-R Southbridge supports two PCI slots which are PCI v2.3 compliant. In addition, two PCI Express x1 slots are supported, fully compliant to the PCI Express Base Specification, Revision 1.1. It implements an EHCI compliant interface that provides 480 Mb/s bandwidth for twelve USB 2.0 ports (six USB ports and three USB headers support additional six USB ports). The Southbridge integrates a Serial ATA host controller, supporting six SATA ports with maximum transfer rate up to 3.0 Gb/ s each. It supports Intel® Matrix Storage Technology, providing both AHCI and RAID 0, 1, 5 and 10 configuration.

The motherboard is equipped with advanced full set of I/O ports in the rear panel, including PS/2 mouse and keyboard connectors, COM, one RCA SPDIFI port, one RCA SPDIFO port, one optical SPDIFO port, one ESATA port, six USB ports, two LAN ports and audio jacks for microphone, line-in and 6-ch line-out. Additionally, one Heat pipe heat sink is supported for NB & CPU heat dissipation.

The Northbridge supports a Front Side Bus (FSB) fre-

Technology that allows you to install GPU graphics

2 Quad/CoreTM 2 Duo processors

X48 Northbridge (NB) and Intel ICH9-R

Introducing the Motherboard

Feature

Processor

The motherboard uses an LGA775 type of Intel® Yorkfield/Wolfdale/CoreTM 2 Extreme/Core

• Accommodates Intel® Yorkfield/Wolfdale/CoreTM 2 Extreme/Core

• Supports a system bus (FSB) of 1600/1333/1066/800 MHz

Quad/Core

2 Quad/CoreTM 2 Duo that carries the following features:

2 Duo processors

Chipset

The X48 Northbridge (NB) and ICH9-R Southbridge (SB) chipsets are based on an innovative and scalable architecture with proven reliability and performance.

X48 (NB)

ICH9-R (SB)

• Supports 36-bit host bus addressing, allowing the CPU to access the entire 64 GB of the memory address space

• 2 GB/s point-to-point Direct Media Interface (DMI) to ICH9 (1 GB/s each direction)

• Supports 512 Mb and 1 Gb DDR3 DRAM technologies for x8 and x16 devices

• Two, 16-lane PCI Express ports intended for external device attach, compliant to the PCI Express* Base Specification revision 2.0

• Enhanced DMA Controller , interrupt controller, a nd timer func-

tions

• Compliant with PCI v2.3 specification

• Integrated SATA 3.0 Gb/s Host Controller

• Supports up to twelve USB 2.0 ports

• Integrated Gigabit LAN Controller

• Supports Intel® Matrix Storage Technology, providing both

AHCI and RAID 0, 1, 5 and 10 configuration

Memory

• Supports DDR3 1600/1333/1066/800 DDR3 SDRAM with Dual-channel architecture

• Accommodates four unbuffered DIMMs

• Up to 2 GB per DIMM with maximum memory size up to 8 GB

Audio

• Compliant with Intel High Definition Audio Codec

• 8-channel audio CODEC

Onboard LAN (Optional)

• Intel Giga LAN Controller

• Realtek Giga LAN Controller

Introducing the Motherboard

Expansion Options

The motherboard comes with the following expansion options:

• Two PCI Express x16 slots for Graphic Interface

• Two PCI Express x1 slots

• Two 32-bit PCI v2.3 compliant slots

• One 40-pin IDE connector that supports two IDE devices

• One floppy disk drive interface

• Six 7-pin SATA connectors

Integrated I/O

The motherboard has a full set of I/O ports and connectors:

• Two PS/2 ports for mouse and keyboard

• One Heat pipe heat sink for NB & CPU heat dissipation

• One Serial port

• One RCA SPDIFI port

• One RCA SPDIFO port

• One optical SPDIFO port

• One ESATA port

• Six USB ports

• Two LAN ports

• Audio jacks for microphone, line-in and 6-ch line-out

BIOS Firmware

This motherboard uses AMI BIOS that enables users to configure many system features including the following:

• Power management

• Wake-up alarms

• CPU parameters

• CPU and memory timing

• ECS M.I.B. BIOS

The firmware can also be used to set parameters for different processor clock speeds.

1. Some hardware specifications and software items are subject to change without prior notice.

2. Due to chipset limitation, we recommend that motherboard be operated in the ambiance between 0 and 50 °C.

Introducing the Motherboard

Specifications

CPU

Chipset

Memory

Expansion Slots

Storage

Audio Dual Giga LAN

Heat Pipe Rear Panel I/O

Internal I/O Connectors & Headers

System BIOS

Form Factor • ATX Size, 305mm x 244mm

• LGA775 socket for latest Intel® Yorkfield/Wolfdale/CoreTM 2 Extreme/Core

• FSB 1600/1333/1066/800 MHz

• Intel X48 & ICH9R

• North Bridge: Intel X48

• South Bridge: Intel ICH9R

• Dual-channel DDR3 memory architecture

• 4 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM socket support up to 8 GB

• Supports DDR3 1600/1333/1066/800 DDR3 SD RAM

• XMP DDR3

• 2 x PCI Express Gen 2.0 x16 slots

• 2 x PCI Express x1 slot

• 2 x PCI slots

• Support by Intel ICH9R

• 6 x Serial ATAII devices

• Supports RAID0, 1, 5, 10

• Support by JMicron® JMB361

• 2 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 device

• 4 x 240-pin DDR3 DIMM socket support up to 8 GB

• 1 x e-SATAII 3.0 Gb/s device

• Realtek ALC 888S supports 8-channel HD audio

• Intel 82566DC GigaLAN Controller

• Realtek 811 1B PCIE GigaLAN Controller

• 1 x ECS QooT echII Heat Pipe

• 1 x PS/2 keyboard & PS/2 mouse connectors

• 6 x USB ports

• 1 x e-SATA port

• 1 x COM port

• 2 x RJ45 LAN connectors

• 1 x Audio port (1 Line in, 4 x Line out, 1 Optical SPDIF Out)

• 1 x RCA SPDIF Out connector (Orange)

• 1 x RCA SPDIF In connector (Yellow)

• 1 x 24-pin ATX Power Supply connector & 8-pin 12V connector

• 1 x IDE connector

• 6 x Serial ATA connectors

• 3 x USB 2.0 headers support additional 6 USB ports

• 1 x Clear CMOS header

• 1 x Front panel header

• 1 x Front panel audio header

• 1 x CD_in header

• 1 x IrDA for SIR header

• 1 x BUZZER

• CPUFAN/SYSFAN connectors

• AMI BIOS with 16Mb SPI ROM

• Supports Plug and Play 1.0A, APM 1.2, Multi Boot, DMI

• Supports ACPI revision 1.0 specification

2 Quad/CoreTM 2 Duo porcessors

Introducing the Motherboard

Motherboard Components

Table of Motherboard Components

LABEL COMPONENTS

LGA775 socket for Intel

1. CPU Socket

1600FSB/Yorkfield/Wolfdale/Core

Extreme/Core

2 Quad/Intel® CoreTM 2 Duo

2. DDR3_1~4 240-pin DDR3 SDRAM slots

3. CPU_FAN

4. ATX_POWER

5. FDD

6. SATA1~6

7. F_PANEL

8. F_USB1~3

9. CLR_CMOS

10. IR

CPU cooling fan connector Standard 24-pin ATX power connector Floppy Disk Drive connector Serial ATA connectors Front panel switch/LED header Front Panel USB headers Clear CMOS jumper Infrared Header

11. IDE Primary IDE connector

12. CD_IN

13. F_AUDIO

14. PCI1~2

15. PCIEX16 PCIEX16_C

16. PCIE1~2

17. ATX4P1

Analog audio input connector Front Panel Audio header 32-bit add-on card slots

PCI Express slots for graphics interface

32-bit add-on card slots Auxiliary power connector for graphics card

18. ATX12V 8-pin +12V power connector

19. SYS_FAN System cooling fan connector

This concludes Chapter 1. The next chapter explains how to install the motherboard.

Yorkfield XE

Introducing the Motherboard

Memo

Introducing the Motherboard

Chapter 2

Installing the Motherboard

Safety Precautions

• Follow these safety precautions when installing the motherboard

• Wear a grounding strap attached to a grounded device to avoid damage from static electricity

• Discharge static electricity by touching the metal case of a safely grounded object before working on the motherboard

• Leave components in the static-proof bags they came in

• Hold all circuit boards by the edges. Do not bend circuit boards

Choosing a Computer Case

There are many types of computer cases on the market. The motherboard complies with the specifications for the ATX system case. First, some features on the motherboard are implemented by cabling connectors on the motherboard to indicators and switches on the system case. Make sure that your case supports all the features required. Secondly, this motherboard supports one floppy diskette drive and two enhanced IDE drives. Make sure that your case has sufficient power and space for all drives that you intend to install.

Most cases have a choice of I/O templates in the rear panel. Make sure that the I/O template in the case matches the I/O ports installed on the rear edge of the motherboard.

This motherboard carries an ATX form factor of 305 x 244 mm. Choose a case that accommodates this form factor.

Installing the Motherboard in a Case

Refer to the following illustration and instructions for installing the motherboard in a case.

Most system cases have mounting brackets installed in the case, which correspond the holes in the motherboard. Place the motherboard over the mounting brackets and secure the motherboard onto the mounting brackets with screws.

Ensure that your case has an I/O template that supports the I/O ports and expansion slots on your motherboard.

Installing the Motherboard

Do not over-tighten the screws as this can stress the motherboard.

Checking Jumper Settings

This section explains how to set jumpers for correct configuration of the motherboard.

Setting Jumpers

Use the motherboard jumpers to set system configuration options. Jumpers with more than one pin are numbered. When setting the jumpers, ensure that the jumper caps are placed on the correct pins.

The illustrations show a 2-pin jumper. When the jumper cap is placed on both pins, the jumper is SHORT. If you remove the jumper cap, or place the jumper cap on just one pin, the jumper is OPEN.

This illustration shows a 3-pin jumper. Pins 1 and 2 are SHORT.

SHORT OPEN

Installing the Motherboard

Checking Jumper Settings

The following illustration shows the location of the motherboard jumpers. Pin 1 is labeled.

Jumper Settings

Jumper

CLR_CMOS

To avoid the system unstability after clearing CMOS, we recommend users to enter the main BIOS setting page to “Load Default Settings” and then “Save Changes and Exit”.

Type

Description Setting (default)

1-2: NORMAL

3-pin

Clear CMOS

2-3: CLEAR CMOS Before clearing the

CMOS, make sure to turn off the system.

Installing the Motherboard

CLR_CMOS

Installing Hardware

Installing the Processor

Caution: When installing a CPU heatsink and cooling fan make sure that you DO NOT scratch the motherboard or any of the surface-mount resistors with the clip of the cooling fan. If the clip of the cooling fan scrapes across the motherboard, you may cause serious damage to the motherboard or its components.

On most motherboards, there are small surface-mount resistors near the processor socket, which may be damaged if the cooling fan is carelessly installed.

Avoid using cooling fans with sharp edges on the fan casing and the clips. Also, install the cooling fan in a well-lit work area so that you can clearly see the motherboard and processor socket.

Before installing the Processor

This motherboard automatically determines the CPU clock frequency and system bus frequency for the processor. You may be able to change the settings in the system Setup Utility. We strongly recommend that you do not over-clock processors or other components to run faster than their rated speed.

Warning:

1. Over-clocking components can adversely affect the reliability of the system and introduce errors into your system. Over-clocking can permanently damage the motherboard by generating excess heat in components that are run beyond the rated limits.

2. Always remove the AC power by unplugging the power cord from the power outlet before installing or removing the motherboard or other hardware components.

This motherboard has an LGA775 socket. When choosing a processor, consider the performance requirements of the system. Performance is based on the processor design, the clock speed and system bus frequency of the processor, and the quantity of internal cache memory and external cache memory.

Installing the Motherboard

CPU Installation Procedure

The following illustration shows CPU installation components.

A. Read and follow the instructions shown on the sticker on the CPU cap.

B. Unload the cap

· Use thumb & forefinger to hold the lifting tab of the cap.

· Lift the cap up and remove the cap completely from the socket.

C. Open the load plate

· Use thumb & forefinger to hold the hook of the lever, pushing down and pulling aside unlock it.

· Lift up the lever.

· Use thumb to open the load plate. Be careful not to touch the contacts.

D. Install the CPU on the socket

· Orientate CPU package to the socket. Make sure you match triangle marker to pin 1 location.

E. Close the load plate

· Slightly push down the load plate onto the tongue side, and hook the lever.

· CPU is locked completely .

F. Apply thermal grease on top of the CPU. G. Fasten the cooling fan supporting base

onto the CPU socket on the motherboard. H. Make sure the CPU fan is plugged to the

CPU fan connector. Please refer to the CPU cooling fan user’s manual for more detail installation procedure.

1. To achieve better airflow rates and heat dissipation, we suggest that you use a high quality fan with 3800 rpm at least. CPU fan and heatsink installation procedures may vary with the type of CPU fan/ heatsink supplied. The form and size of fan/heatsink may also vary.

2. DO NOT remove the CPU cap from the socket before installing a CPU.

3. Return Material Authorization (RMA) requests will be accepted only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the LGA775 socket.

Installing the Motherboard

Installing Memory Modules

This motherboard accommodates four memory modules. It can support four 240-pin DDR3 1600/1333/1066/800. The total memory capacity is 8 GB.

DDR3 SDRAM memory module table

Memory module Memory Bus

DDR3 800 400 MHz DDR3 1066 533 MHz DDR3 1333 667 MHz DDR3 1600 800 MHz

You must install at least one module in any of the four slots. Each module can be installed with 2 GB of memory; total memory capacity is 8 GB.

The four DDR3 memory sockets (DDR3_1, DDR3_2, DDR3_3, DDR3_4) are divided into two channels and each channel has two memory sockets as following:

Channel A: DDR3_1, DDR3_2

Channel B: DDR3_3, DDR3_4

Do not remove any memory module from its antistatic packaging until you are ready to install it on the motherboard. Handle the modules only by their edges. Do not touch the components or metal parts. Always wear a grounding strap when you handle the modules.

Since the model supports one 1600 MHz XMP memory module on each channel, we can only plug two 1600 MHz XMP memory modules on the motherboard.

Installing the Motherboard

Installation Procedure

Refer to the following to install the memory modules.

1 This motherboard supports unbuffered DDR3 SDRAM . 2 Push the latches on each side of the DIMM slot down. 3 Align the memory module with the slot. The DIMM slots are keyed with

notches and the DIMMs are keyed with cutouts so that they can only be installed correctly.

4 Check that the cutouts on the DIMM module edge connector match the

notches in the DIMM slot.

5 Install the DIMM module into the slot and press it firmly down until it

seats correctly. The slot latches are levered upwards and latch on to the edges of the DIMM.

6 Install any remaining DIMM modules.

Installing the Motherboard

Ta ble A: DDR3 (me mory module) QVL (Qualified V endor List)

The following DDR3 1600/1333/1066/800 memory modules have been tested and qualified for use with this motherboard.

Type

DDR3 800

Size Vendor Module Name

512 MB

1 GB

512 MB

DDR3 1066

1GB

2 GB

DDR3 1333 1GB

DDR3 1600 1GB

Nanya HYNIX HY5TQ1G831ZN F-S6

Aeneon AEH93R10F 0737

Apacer

ELPIDA

Hynix HYMT164U64ZNF6-G8 AA

Kingston

A-data M3OSS 3H3I3120B5 Z/Boxed

Aeneon AEH93R10F 0737

C orsair C M3X1024-1066C7/Boxed

H ynix HY5TQ1G831ZNFP-G8

Kingston

Micron 7U D22D9JNL

H ynix HY5TQ1G831ZNFP-G8

Corsair

Qimonda 0734 IDSH51-03A1F1D

Kingston KHX 13 000 D3LL/1G

0649 NT5CB64M8AN-25D

0650 NT5CB64M8AN-BE

Qimonda IDSH51-03A1F1C-

10F

PC 3-8500U-7-00-AP

J53088ASE-AC-E

ELPIDA J5308BASE-AC-E

07090W093

J5308BASE-AC-E

07090W063

C M3X1024-1333C9/Boxed

C M3X1024-

1333C 9 DHX/Boxed

Installing the Motherboard

Expansion Slots

Installing Add-on Cards

The slots on this motherboard are designed to hold expansion cards and connect them to the system bus. Expansion slots are a means of adding or enhancing the motherboard’s features and capabilities. With these efficient facilities, you can increase the motherboard’s capabilities by adding hardware that performs tasks that are not part of the basic system.

PCI1~2 Slots

PCIEX16/ The PCI Express x16 slots are used to install an external PCI PCIEX16_C

Slots

PCIE1~2 Slots

This motherboard is equipped with two standard PCI slots. PCI stands for Peripheral Component Interconnect and is a bus standard for expansion cards, which for the most part, is a supplement of the older ISA bus standard. The PCI slots on this board are PCI v2.3 compliant.

Express graphics card that is fully compliant to the PCI Express Base Specification revision 2.0. For CrossFireXTM information please refer to Chapter 5.

The PCI Express x1 slots are fully compliant to the PCI Express Base Specification revision 1.1.

Before installing an add-on card, check the documentation for the card carefully. If the card is not Plug and Play, you may have to manually configure the card before installation.

Installing the Motherboard

Follow these instructions to install an add-on card:

1 Remove a blanking plate from the system case corresponding to the

slot you are going to use.

2 Install the edge connector of the add-on card into the expansion slot.

Ensure that the edge connector is correctly seated in the slot.

3 Secure the metal bracket of the card to the system case with a screw.

1. For some add-on cards, for example graphics adapters and network adapters, you have to install drivers and software before you can begin using the add-on card.

2. The onboard PCI interface does not support 64-bit SCSI cards.

Installing the Motherboard

Connecting Optional Devices

Refer to the following for information on connecting the motherboard’s optional devices:

F_AUDIO: Front Panel Audio header

This header allows the user to install auxiliary front-oriented microphone and lineout ports for easier access.

Pin Signal Name Pi n Signal Name

1 PORT 1L 2 AUD_GND 3 PORT 1R 4 PRESENCE# 5 PORT 2R 6 SENSE1_RETURN

7 SENSE_SEND 8 KEY

9 PORT 2L 10 SENSE2_RETURN

SAT A1~6: Seri al A T A connectors

These connectors are use to support the Serial ATA devices for the highest data transfer rates (3.0 Gb/s), simpler disk drive cabling and easier PC assembly. It eliminates limitations of the current Parallel ATA interface. But maintains register compatibility and software compatibility with Parallel ATA.

Pin Signal Name

1 Ground 2 TX+

3 TX- 4 Ground

5 RX- 6 RX+ 7 Ground - -

Pin Signal Name

Installing the Motherboard

F_USB1~3: Front Panel USB headers

The motherboard has six USB ports installed on the rear edge I/O port array. Additionally, some computer cases have USB ports at the front of the case. If you have this kind of case, use auxiliary USB connector to connect the front-mounted ports to the motherboard.

Pin Signal Name Function

1 USBPWR Front Panel USB Power

2 USBPWR Front Panel USB Power

3 USB_FP_P0- USB Port 0 Negative Signal

4 USB_FP_P1- USB Port 1 Negative Signal

5 USB_FP_P0+ USB Port 0 Positive Signal 6 USB_FP_P1+ USB Port 1 Positive Signal

7 GND Ground 8 GND Ground 9 Key No pin

10 USB_FP_OC0 Overcurrent signal

Please make sure that the USB cable has the same pin assignment as indicated above. A different pin assignment may cause damage or system hang-up.

CD_IN: Analog Audio Input connector

Pin Signal Name Function

1 CD_L CD In left channel 2 GND Ground 3 GND Ground 4 CD_R CD In right channel

IR: Infrared header

The motherboard supports an Infrared (IR) data port. Infrared ports allow the wireless exchange of information between your computer and similarly equipped devices such as printers, laptops, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), and other computers.

Pin Signal Name Function

1 Not Assigned Not assigned

2 Key No pi n 3 +5V IR Power 4 GND Ground 5 IR_TX IrDA serial output 6 IR_RX IrDA serial input

Installing the Motherboard

Installing a Hard Disk Drive/CD-ROM/SATA Hard Drive

This section describes how to install IDE devices such as a hard disk drive and a CDROM drive.

About IDE Devices

Your motherboard has one IDE interface. An IDE ribbon cable supporting two IDE devices is bundled with the motherboard.

ou must orient the cable connector so that the pin1 (color) edge of the

Y cable corresponds to the pin 1 of the I/O port connector.

IDE: IDE Connector

This motherboard supports six high data transfer SATA ports with each runs up to 3.0 Gb/s. To get better system performance, we recommend users connect the CD-ROM to the IDE channel, and set up the hard dives on the SATA ports.

IDE devices enclose jumpers or switches used to set the IDE device as MASTER or SLAVE. Refer to the IDE device user’s manual. Installing two IDE devices on one cable, ensure that one device is set to MASTER and the other device is set to SLAVE. The documentation of your IDE device explains how to do this.

About SA TA Connectors

Your motherboard features six SATA connectors supporting a total of six drives. SATA refers to Serial ATA (Advanced Technology Attachment) is the standard interface for the IDE hard drives which are currently used in most PCs. These connectors are well designed and will only fit in one orientation. Locate the SATA connectors on the motherboard and follow the illustration below to install the SATA hard drives.

Installing Serial ATA Hard Drives

To install the Serial ATA (SATA) hard drives, use the SATA cable that supports the Serial ATA protocol. This SATA cable comes with a SATA power cable. You can connect either end of the SATA cable to the SATA hard drive or the connector on the motherboard.

SATA cable (optional)

SATA power cable (optional)

Installing the Motherboard

Refer to the illustration below for proper installation:

1 Attach either cable end to the connector on the motherboard. 2 Attach the other cable end to the SATA hard drive. 3 Attach the SATA power cable to the SATA hard drive and connect the

other end to the power supply.

This motherboard supports the “Hot-Plug” function.

Installing a Floppy Diskette Drive

F DD: Floppy Dis k Connector

Connect the single end of the floppy connector to the onboard floppy connector firstly, and then connect the remaining plugs on the other end to the floppy drives correspondingly.

You must orient the cable connector so that the pin 1 (color) edge of the cable corresponds to the pin 1 of the I/O port connector.

Installing the Motherboard

Connecting I/O Devices

The backplane of the motherboard has the following I/O ports:

PS2 Mouse PS2 Keyboard Serial Port Use the COM port to connect serial devices such as mouse

(COM) or fax/modems.

ESATA Port

LAN Ports

USB Ports

SPDIFO

SPDIFI Optical SPDIF

Output Audio Ports

Use the upper PS/2 port to connect a PS/2 pointing device. Use the lower PS/2 port to connect a PS/2 keyboard.

Use this port to connect to an external SATA box or a Serial ATA port multiplier.

Before connecting the ESATA cable, make sure to turn off the power of the external enclosure.

Connect an RJ-45 jack to the LAN port to connect your computer to the Network.

Use the USB ports to connect USB devices.

This jack connects to external digital audio output devices.

This jack connects to external digital audio input devices. This jack connects to external optical digital audio output

devices.

Use the audio jacks to connect audio devices. The C port is for stereo line-in signal, while the E port is for microphone in signal. This motherboard supports audio devices that correspond to the A,B, and D port respectively. In addition, all of the 3 ports, B, and D provide users with both right & left channels individually. Users please refer to the following note for specific port function definition.

A: Center & Woofer D: Front Out B: Back Surround E: Mic_in Rear C: Line-in -

The above port definition can be changed to audio input or audio output by changing the driver utility setting.

Installing the Motherboard

Connecting Case Components

After you have installed the motherboard into a case, you can begin connecting the motherboard components. Refer to the following:

1 Connect the CPU cooling fan cable to CPU_FAN. 2 Connect the system cooling fan connector to SYS_FAN. 3 Connect the case switches and indicator LEDs to the F_PANEL. 4 Connect the standard power supply connector to ATX_POWER. 5 Connect the connector for graphics interface to ATX4P1. 6 Connect the auxiliary case power supply connector to ATX12V.

1. Connecting 24-pin power cable

The ATX 24-pin connector allows you to connect to ATX v2.x power supply.

With ATX v2.x power supply, users please note that when installing 24-pin power cable, the latches of power cable and the ATX_POWER match perfectly.

24-pin power cable

2. Connecting 8-pin power cable

The ATX12V power connector is used to provide power to the CPU.

When installing 8-pin power cable, the latches of power cable and the ATX12V match perfectly.

8-pin power cable

Installing the Motherboard

CPU_FAN: F AN Power Connector

Pin Signal Name Function

1 GND System Ground 2 +12V Power +12V 3 Sense Sensor 4 PWM PWM

Users please note that the fan connector supports the CPU cooling fan of 1.1A ~ 2.2A (26.4W max) at +12V.

SYS_FAN: Syste m Cooling FAN Power Conne ctor

Pin Signal Name Function

1 GND System Ground

+12V Power +12V

3 Sense Sensor

ATX_ POWER: A TX 24-pin Power Connector

Pin Signal Name Pin Signal Name

1 +3.3V 13 +3.3V

2 +3.3V 14 -12V 3 Ground 15 Ground

4 +5V 16 PS_ON

5 Ground 17 Ground

6 +5V 18 Ground 7 Ground 19 Ground 8 PWRGD 20 -5V

9 +5VSB 21 +5V

10 +12V 22 +5V 11 +12V 23 +5V

12 +3.3V 24 Ground

ATX12V : A TX 12V Power Connector

Pin Signal Name

1 Ground

2 Ground 3 Ground

4 Ground

Pin Signal Name

5 +12V

6 +12V

7 +12V

8 +12V

Installing the Motherboard

ATX4P1: Auxli ary Power Connector for Gra phics Interfa ce

Pin Signal Name

1 NC

2 GND 3 GND

4 +12V

Make sure to connect a 4-pin ATX power cable to ATX4P1; otherwise, the system will be unstable.

Front Panel Header

The front panel header (F_PANEL) provides a standard set of switch and LED headers commonly found on ATX or Micro ATX cases. Refer to the table below for information:

Pin Signal Function Pin Signal Function

1 HD_LED_P Hard disk LED(+) 2 FP PWR/SLP *MSG LED(+)

3 HD_LED_N Hard disk LED(- )

5 RST_SW_N Reset Switch(-)

7 RST_SW_P Reset Switch(+)

9 RSVD Reserved

4 FP PWR/SLP *MSG LED(-)

6 PWR_SW_P Power Switch(+)

8 PWR_SW_N Power Switch(-)

10 Key No pin

* MSG LED (dual color or single color)

Hard Drive Activity LED

Connecting pins 1 and 3 to a front panel mounted LED provides visual indication that data is being read from or written to the hard drive. For the LED to function properly, an IDE drive should be connected to the onboard IDE interface. The LED will also show activity for devices connected to the SCSI (hard drive activity LED) connector.

Power/Sleep/Message waiting LED

Connecting pins 2 and 4 to a single or dual-color, front panel mounted LED provides power on/off, sleep, and message waiting indication.

This concludes Chapter 2. The next chapter covers the BIOS.

Installing the Motherboard

Chapter 3

Using BIOS

About the Setup Utility

The computer uses the latest “American Megatrends Inc.” BIOS with support for Windows Plug and Play. The CMOS chip on the motherboard contains the ROM setup instructions for configuring the motherboard BIOS.

The BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) Setup Utility displays the system’ s configuration status and provides you with options to set system parameters. The parameters are stored in battery-backed-up CMOS RAM that saves this information when the power is turned off. When the system is turned back on, the system is configured with the values you stored in CMOS.

The BIOS Setup Utility enables you to configure:

• Hard drives, diskette drives and peripherals

• Video display type and display options

• Password protection from unauthorized use

• Power Management features

The settings made in the Setup Utility affect how the computer performs. Before using the Setup Utility, ensure that you understand the Setup Utility options.

This chapter provides explanations for Setup Utility options.

The Standard Configuration

A standard configuration has already been set in the Setup Utility. However, we recommend that you read this chapter in case you need to make any changes in the future.

This Setup Utility should be used:

• when changing the system configuration

• when a configuration error is detected and you are prompted to make changes to the Setup Utility

• when trying to resolve IRQ conflicts

• when making changes to the Power Management configuration

• when changing the password or making other changes to the Security Setup

Entering the Setup Utility

When you power on the system, BIOS enters the Power-On Self Test (POST) routines. POST is a series of built-in diagnostics performed by the BIOS. After the POST routines are completed, the following message appears:

Press DEL to enter SETUP

Using BIOS

Press the delete key to access the BIOS Setup Utility.

Standard CMOS Setup

Advanced Setup

Advanced Chipset Setup

Integrated Peripherals

Power Management Setup

PCI/PnP Setup

PC Health Status

: Move F10: Save ESC: Exit

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F1:General Help

Enter : Select

F9: Optimized Defaults

M.I.B. (MB Intelligent BIOS)

Load Default Settings Supervisor Password

User Password

Save & Exit Setup Exit Without Saving

+/-/: Value

Using BIOS

The main menu of the Setup Utility displays a list of the options that are available. A highlight indicates which option is currently selected. Use the cursor arrow keys to move the highlight to other options. When an option is highlighted, execute the option by pressing <Enter>.

Some options lead to pop-up dialog boxes that prompt you to verify that you wish to execute that option. Other options lead to dialog boxes that prompt you for information.

Some options (marked with a triangle the values for the option. Use the cursor arrow keys to scroll through the items in the submenu.

In this manual, default values are enclosed in parenthesis. Submenu items are denoted by a triangle

The default BIOS setting for this motherboard applies for most conditions with optimum performance. It is not suggested to change the default values in the BIOS setup and the manufacture takes no responsibility to any damage caused by changing the BIOS settings.

f) lead to submenus that enable you to change

BIOS Navigation Keys

The BIOS navigation keys are listed below:

KEY FUNCTION

ESC Exits the current menu

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+/-/PU/PD Modifies the selected field’s values

Enter Select

F9 F10 Saves the current configuration and exits setup F1 Displays a screen that describes all key functions

Scrolls through the items on a menu

Loads an optimized setting for better performance

Using BIOS

For the purpose of better product maintenance, the manufacture reserves the right to change the BIOS items presented in this manual. The BIOS setup screens shown in this chapter are for reference only and may differ from the actual BIOS. Please visit the manufacture’s website for updated manual.

Sta ndard CMOS Setup

This option displays basic information about your system.

Date (www mm:dd:yy) Tue 03/1 1/2008 Time (hh:mm:ss) 02:49:21

SATA1 Not Detected

SATA2 Not Detected

SATA3 Not Detected

SATA4 Not Detected

SATA5 Not Detected

SATA6 Not Detected

ESATA Not Detected

PATA MASTER Not Detected

PA TA SLAVE Not Detected

IDE BusMaster Enabled Drive

A: 1.44 MB 31/2”

: Move

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F1: General Help

Standard CMOS Setup

Enter : Select

F9: Optimized Defaults

+/-/: Value

User [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT select a field.

Use [+] or [-] to configure system Date.

F10: Save ESC: Exit

Help Item

-TAB] to

Date & Time

The Date and Time items show the current date and time on the computer. If you are running a Windows OS, these items are automatically updated whenever you make changes to the Windows Date and Time Properties utility.

Using BIOS

SATA 1~6/ESATA/PATA MASTER/SLAVE

Your computer has one IDE channel and each channel can be installed with one or two devices (M

aster and Slave). In addition, this motherboard supports six SATA channels and each channel allows one SATA device to be installed. Use these items to configure each device on the SATA channel.

SAT A1

Device : Hard Disk Vendor : ST3160812AS Size : 160.0GB LBA Mode : Supported Block Mode : 16Sectors PIO Mode : 4 Async DMA : MultiWord DMA-2 Ultra DMA : Ultra DMA-6 S.M.A.R.T . : Supported

Type Auto

LBA/Large Mode Auto Block (Multi-Sector Transfer) Auto

PIO Mode Auto

DMA Mode Auto S.M.A.R.T. Auto 32Bit Data Transfer Enabled

: Move

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Enter : Select

F1: General Help

+/-/: Value

F9: Optimized Defaults

F10: Save ESC: Exit

Help Item

Select the type of device connected to the system.

Type (Auto)

Use this item to configure the type of the IDE device that you specify. If the feature is enabled, it will enhance hard disk performance by reading or writing more data during each transfer.

LBA/Large Mode (Auto)

Use this item to set the LAB/Large mode to enhance hard disk performance by optimizing the area the hard disk is visited each time.

Block (Multi-Sector Transfer) (Auto)

If the feature is enabled, it will enhance hard disk performance by reading or writing more data during each transfer.

PIO Mode (Auto)

Use this item to set the PIO mode to enhance hard disk performance by optimizing the hard disk timing.

DMA Mode (Auto)

DMA capability allows user to improve the transfer-speed and data-integrity for compatible IDE devices.

S.M.A.R.T. (Auto)

The S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) system is a diagnostics technology that monitors and predicts device performance. S.M.A.R.T. software resides on both the disk drive and the host computer.

32Bit Data Transfer (Enabled)

Use this item to set the onboard SATA-IDE channel to be disabled, IDE, or RAID.

Using BIOS

Press <Esc> to return to the Standard CMOS Setup page.

IDE BusMaster (Enabled)

This item enables or disables the DMA under DOS mode. We recommend you to leave this item at the default value.

Drive A (1..44 MB 31/2”)

This item defines the characteristics of any diskette drive attached to the system. You only can connect one diskette drive.

Press <Esc> to return to the main menu setting page.

Using BIOS

Advanced Setup

This page sets up more advanced information about your system. Handle this page with caution. Any changes can affect the operation of your computer.

TM Status TM1/TM2

Limit CPUID MaxVal Disabled Enhanced Halt (C1E) Enabled Intel XD Bit Disabled Intel Virtualization T ech. Enabled Intel EIST Enabled Quick Power on Sel f Te st Enabled Boot Up Numlock Status On APIC Mode Enabled 1st Boot Device Corsair Flash Voyag 2nd Boot Device CD/DVD 3rd Boot Device 1st FLOPPY DRIVE Hard Disk Drives Press Enter

Removable Drives Press Enter

Boot Other Device Y es

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TM Status(TM1/TM2)

This item shows TM function status if CPU can support TM function.

Limit CPUID MaxVal (Disabled)

This item allows users to enable or disable the Intel XD bit.

Advanced Setup

Enter : Select

: Move

F1:General Help

F10: Save ESC: Exit+/-/: Value

F9: Optimized Defaults

Help Item

Disabled for WindowsXP

Enhanced Halt (C1E) (Enabled)

This item enables or disables enhanced halt (C1E).

Intel XD Bit (Disabled)

This item allows users to enable or disable the Intel XD bit.

Intel V

irtulization Tech. (Enabled)

This item allows users to enable or disable the Intel Virtulization technology.

Intel EIST (Enabled)

This item allows users to enable or disable the EIST (

Enhanced Intel SpeedStep

technology).

Quick Power on Self T

Enable this item to shorten the power on testing (POST) and have your system start up faster. You might like to enable this item after you are confident that your system hardware is operating smoothly.

Boot Up Numlock Status (On)

This item defines if the keyboard Num Lock key is active when your system is started.

est (Enabled)

Using BIOS

APIC Mode (Enabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the APCI (Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller) mode. APIC provides symmetric multi-processing (SMP) for systems, allowing support for up to 60 processors.

1st/2nd3rd Boot Device (Corsair Flash Voyag/CD/DVD/1st FLOPPY DRIVE)

Use this item to determine the device order the computer used to look for an operating system to load at start-up time. The devices showed here will be different depending on the exact devices installed on your motherboard.

Hard Disk Drives

Scroll to this item and press <Enter> to view the following screen:

Hard Disk Drives

1st Drive 2nd Drive Corsair Flash Voyag

: Move

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F1: General Help

ST3160812AS

Enter : Select

+/-/: Value

F9: Optimized Defaults

F10: Save ESC: Exit

Help Item

Specifies the boot sequence from the available devices.

Press <Esc> to return to the Advanced Setup page.

Removable Drives

Scroll to this item and press <Enter> to view the following screen:

Removable Drives

1st Drive

Removable Drives

1st FLOPPY DRIVE

Help Item

Specifies the boot sequence from the available devices.

: Move

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Enter : Select

F1: General Help

+/-/: Value

F9: Optimized Defaults

Press <Esc> to return to the Advanced Setup page.

Using BIOS

F10: Save ESC: Exit

Boot Other Device (Yes)

When enabled, the system searched all other possible location for an operating system if it fails to find one in the devices specified under the First, Second and Third boot devices.

Press <Esc> to return to the main menu setting page.

Advanced Chipset Setup

This page sets up more advanced information about your system. Handle this page with caution. Any changes can affect the operation of your computer.

Advanced Chipset Setup

Memory Remap Feature Enabled HPET Enabled

Enter : Select

: Move

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F1:General Help

F9: Optimized Defaults

Help Item

ENABLE: Allow remapping of overlapped PCI memory above the total physical memory.

DISABLE: Do not allow remapping of memory .

F10: Save ESC: Exit+/-/: Value

Memory Remap Feature (Enabled)

This item allows you to remap the overlapped PCI memory above the total physical memory if you have a 64 bit OS and 4 GB of RAM.

HPET (Enabled)

This item enables or disables HPET (High Precision Event Timer) support.

Press <Esc> to return to the main menu setting page.

Using BIOS

Integrated Peripherals

This page sets up some parameters for peripheral devices connected to the system.

SATA Configuration Enhanced Onboard SAT A Mode IDE Onboard AUDIO Function Enabled Intel GLAN Function Enabled Intel GLAN Boot ROM Disabled Realtek GLAN Function Enabled Realtek GLAN Boot ROM Disabled Serial Port1 Address 3F8/IRQ4 Onboard IR Disabled USB Functions Enabled Legacy USB Support Enabled On Chip SATA2 Controller IDE Mode

Integrated Peripherals

Help Item

Options Disabled

Compatible Enhanced

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Enter : Select: Move

F1:General Help

F9: Optimized Defaults

F10: Save ESC: Exit+/-/: Value

SATA Configuration (Enhanced)

Use this item to show the Serial ATA Configuration options: Disabled, Compatible, Enhanced.

OnBoard SATA Mode (IDE)

Use this item to select the mode of the Serial ATA.

Onboard AUDIO Function (Enabled)

Use this item to enable or disable the onboard Audio function.

Intel GLAN Function (Enabled)

Enables or disables the Intel Giga LAN function.

Intel GLAN Boot ROM (Disabled)

Use this item to enable and disable the booting from the Intel Giga LAN or a network add-in card with a remote boot ROM installed.

Realtek GLAN Function (Enabled)

Enables or disables the Realtek Giga LAN function.

Realtek GLAN Boot ROM (Disabled)

Use this item to enable and disable the booting from the Realtek Giga LAN or a network add-in card with a remote boot ROM installed.

Serial Port1 Address (3F8/IRQ4)

Use this item to enable or disable the onboard COM1 serial port, and to assign a port address.

Onboard IR (Disabled)

Use this item to enable or disable the onboard infrared port, and to assign a port address.

USB Functions (Enabled)

Use this item to enable or disable the USB function.

Using BIOS

Legacy USB Support (Enabled)

Use this ite

m to enable or disable support for legacy USB devices. Setting to Auto allows the system to detect the presence of USB device at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.

On Chip SATA2 Controller (IDE Mode)

This item allows you to enable or disable the onchip Serial ATA controller.

Press <Esc> to return to the main menu setting page.

Power Management Setup

This page sets up some parameters for system power management operation.

Power Management Setup

ACPI Suspend Type S3 (STR) Soft-off by PWR-BTTN Instant Off PWRON After PWR-Fail Power Off Resume By RING Disabled Resume By PCI/PCI-E/Lan PME Disabled Resume By USB (S3) Disabled Resume By PS2 KB (S3) Disabled Resume By PS2 MS (S3) Disabled Resume on RTC Alarm Disabled

Enter : Select

: Move

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F1:General Help

F9: Optimized Defaults

F10: Save ESC: Exit+/-/: Value

Help Item

Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend.

ACPI Suspend Type (S3(STR))

Use this item to define how your system suspends. In the default, S3, the suspend mode is a suspend to RAM, i.e, the system shuts down with the exception of a refresh current to the system memory.

Soft-Off by PWR-BTTN (Instant Off)

Under ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power management Interface) you can create a software power down. In a software power down, the system can be resumed by Wake Up Alarms. This item lets you install a software power down that is controlled by the power button on your system. If the item is set to Instant-Off, then the power button causes a software power down. If the item is set to Delay 4 Sec, then you have to hold the power button down for four seconds to cause a software power down.

PWRON After PWR-Fail (Power Off)

This item enables your computer to automatically restart or return to its operating status.

Resume By RING (Disabled)

An input signal on the serial Ring Indicator (RI) line (in other words, an incoming call on the modem) awakens the system from a soft off state.

Using BIOS

Resume By PCI/PCI-E/Lan PME (Disabled)

The system can be turned off with a software command. If you enable this item, the system can automatically resume if there is an incoming call on the PCI Modem or PCI LAN card. You must use an ATX power supply in order to use this feature. Use this item to do wake-up action if inserting the PCI card.

Resume By USB (S3) (Disabled)

This item allows you to enable or disable the USB device wakeup function from S3 mode.

Resume By PS2 KB (S3) (Disabled)

This item enable or disable you to allow keyboard activity to awaken the system from power saving mode.

Resume By PS2 MS (S3) (Disabled)

This item enable or disable you to allow mouse activity to awaken the system from power saving mode.

Resume on RTC Alarm (Disabled)

The system can be turned off with a software command. If you enable this item, the system can automatically resume at a fixed time based on the system’s RTC (realtime clock). Use the items below this one to set the date and time of the wake-up alarm. You must use an ATX power supply in order to use this feature.

Press <Esc> to return to the main menu setting page.

PCI / PnP Setup

This page sets up some parameters for devices installed on the PCI bus and those utilizing the system plug and play capability.

Init Display First PCI/PCI Express Allocate IRQ to PCI VGA Ye s

PCI / PnP Setup

Help Item

Select which graphics controller to use as the primary boot device.

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: Move

F1:General Help

F10: Save ESC: Exit+/-/: Value

F9: Optimized Defaults

Enter : Select

Init Display First (PCI/PCI Express)

Use this item to select which graphics controller to use as the primary boot devices.

Allocate IRQ to PCI VGA (Yes)

If this item is enabled, an IRQ will be assigned to the PCI VGA graphics system. You set this value to No to free up an IRQ.

Press <Esc> to return to the main menu setting page.

Using BIOS

PC Health Status

On motherboards support hardware monitoring, this item lets you monitor the parameters for critical voltages, temperatures and fan speeds.

PC Health Status

-=- System Hardware Monitor-= Smart Fan Function Press Enter

System Te mperature : 36°C/96°F CPU Fan Speed :950 RPM System Fan Speed : N/A CPU Vcore : 1.184 V VDIMM : 1.488 V NB Vcore : 1.232 V

-=- PECI Mode -=-

Offset to TCC Activation Temp. : -60

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Smart Fan Function

Enter : Select

: Move

F1:General Help

F10: Save ESC: Exit+/-/: Value

F9: Optimized Defaults

Help Item

Scroll to this item and press <Enter> to view the following screen:

CPU Smart Fan Control Enabled CPU SMART Fan start PWM 28 CPU Fan start Offset (-) 30 CPU DeltaT +3 CPU Fan Slope PWM /1 Unit 5

CPU Fan Full Speed Offset (-) 10

SYS SMART Fan Control Enabled

SYS SMART Fan start PWM 28 SYS Fan start Offset (-) 30

SYS DeltaT +3

SYS Fan Slope PWM /1 Unit 5

SYS Fan Full Speed Offset (-) 10

Help Item

Options Disabled

Enabled

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: Move

F1:General Help

F10: Save ESC: Exit+/-/: Value

F9: Optimized Defaults

Enter : Select

CPU/SYS SMART Fan Control (Enabled)

These items enable you to define the CPU/System temperature by smartly adjusting the CPU/System fan. When it is set at certain temperature, the CPU/SYS Fan PWM value will change accordingly.

CPU/SYS SMART Fan Start PWM (28)

These items are used to set the start PWM value of the CPU/SYS smart fan.

Using BIOS

CPU/SYS Fan start Offset (-) (30)

This item is used to set the start temperature of the smart fan.

CPU/SYS DeltaT (+3)

This item specifies the range that controls CPU/SYS temperature and keeps it from going so high or so low when smart fan works.

CPU/SYS Fan Slope PWM /1 Unit (5)

This item is used to set the Slope Select PWM of the CPU/SYS fan.

CPU/SYS Fan Full Speed Offset (-) (10)

This item is used to set the full speed offset of the CPU/SYS fan.

Press <Esc> to return to the PC Health Status page.

Using BIOS

ECS supports the latest PECI host technology. While using Wolfdale or Yorkfield CPU, the original images of the BIOS item “PC Health Status” and “Smart FAN Function” will be replaced by PECI mode and negative number. (The max data from PECI is zero.)

PC Health Status

Hardware Health Event Monitoring Smart Fan Function Press Enter

System Te mperature CPU Fan Speed: 2537 RPM SYS FAN Speed: 0 RPM CPU Vcore: 1.280V VDIMM: 1.840V

-=- PECI Mode-=-

Offset to TCC Activation T emp.: -20

Enter : Select

: Move

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F1:General Help

SMART Fan Control Enabled SMART Fan start PWM value 28 SMART Fan start Offset (-) 3 0 CPU DeltaT +3 Fan1 Slope PWM value/1 Unit 5

Fan1 Full Speed Offset (-) 1 0

SMART Fan2 Control Disabled

Enter : Select

: Move

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F1:General Help

33°C/91°F

F10: Save ESC: Exit+/-/: Value

F9: Optimized Defaults

F10: Save ESC: Exit+/-/: Value

F9: Optimized Defaults

Help Item

Options

Disabled Enabled

Press <Esc> to return to the PC Health Status page.

System Component Characteristics

These items display the monitoring of the overall inboard hardware health events, such as System & CPU temperature, CPU & DIMM voltage, CPU & system fan speed,...etc.

• System Temperature

• CPU/System Fan Speed

• CPU Vcore

• VDIMM

• NB Vcore

Press <Esc> to return to the main menu setting page.

Using BIOS

M.I.B (MB Intelligent BIOS)

This page enables you to set the clock speed and system bus for your system. The clock speed and system bus are determined by the kind of processor you have installed in your system.

M.I.B (MB Intelligent BIOS)

Manufacturer : Intel Ratio Status: Unlocked (Min:06, Max:Unlimited) Ratio Actual Value: 6

Ratio CMOS Setting 8

CPU Frequency : 400MHz

CPU Over-clocking Func. : Disabled

Auto Detect DIMM/PCI Clk Enabled Spread Spectrum Enabled

Memory Current Type: 7-20-7-7-8-60-4-4-4

DRAM Frequency Auto Configure DRAM Timing by SPD Enabled

SPD eXtreme Memory Profile Standard DRAM Command Rate Auto

CPU Voltage Normal Memory Voltage 1.5V

Enter : Select

: Move

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F1:General Help

F10: Save ESC: Exit+/-/: V

alue

F9: Optimized Defaults

Help item

Sets the ratio between CPU Core Clock and the FSB Frequency. Note: Only available when SpeedStep technology is disabled.

Manufacturer (Intel)

This item displays the information of current manufacturer of the CPU installed in your computer

Ratio Status/Ratio Actual Value

These items show the Locked ratio status and the actual ratio of the CPUinstalled in your system.

Ratio CMOS Setting

This item allows you to set the ratio between CPU Core Clock and FSB Frequency.

CPU Frequency (400MHz)

This ite

m indicates the current CPU frequency. Users can not make any change to

this item. Please noted that the frequency will be varied with different CPU.

CPU Over-clocking Func. (Disabled)

This item decides the CPU over-clocking function installed in your system.

Using BIOS

* When enable the item CPU Over-clocking Func., the following picture will show.

Manufacturer : Intel Ratio Status: Unlocked (Min:06, Max:Unlimited) Ratio Actual Value: 6

Ratio CMOS Setting 6 CPU Over-clocking Func. : Enabled CPU Over-clocking Freq. : 600 PCIE Over-clocking Func. : 100 Auto Detect DIMM/PCI Clk Enabled Spread Spectrum Enabled CPU Voltage Normal Memory Voltage 1.5V

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Frequency/Voltage Control

Enter : Select

: Move

F1:General Help

F9: Optimized Defaults

Help item

F10: Save ESC: Exit+/-/: Value

1. The adjustment range of CPU Over-clocking Freq. depends on the processor. And the system efficiency can be improved by adjusting the item PCIE Over-clocking Func..

2. If the over-clocking fails, please turn off the system power. And then, hold the PageUp key (similar to the Clear CMOS function) and turn on the power, the BIOS will recover the safe default.

3. The improper use or the setting beyond the hardware specification will result in the system instability.

Auto Detect DIMM/PCI Clk (Enabled)

When this item is enabled, BIOS will disable the clock signal of free DIMM/PCI slots.

Spread Spectrum (Disabled)

If you enable spread spectrum, it can significantly reduce the EMI (Electro-Magnetic Interference) generated by the system.

Memory Current Type (7-20-7-7-8-60-4-4-4)

This ite

m shows the Memory Current Type.

DRAM Frequency (Auto)

This item shows the frequency of the DRAM in your computer.

Configure DRAM Timing by SPD (Enabled)

When this item is set to enable, the DDR timing is configured using SPD. SPD (Serial Presence Detect) is located on the memory modules, BIOS reads information coded in SPD during system boot up.

SPD eXtreme Memory Profile (Standard)

Use this item to select the SPD eXtreme Memory Profile. If the item is set to

Standard, the memory will work under the standard mode. If the item is set to Profile 1/2, the memory is capable to reach 1600 MHz.

Using BIOS

DRAM Command Rate (Auto)

When the host (northbridge) locates the desired memory address, it then processors the wait state of command.

CPU Voltage (Normal)

This item allows users to adjust the CPU voltage.

Memory Voltage (1.5V)

This item allows users to adjust the memory voltage.

Warning: Since the manual adjustment to the DIMM setting may result in the instability of the system, users need adjust it carefully when overclocking.

Press <Esc> to return to the main menu setting page.

** When users disable the item Configure DRAM Timing by SPD, the following picture will show.

M.I.B. (MB Intelligent BIOS)

Manufacturer : Intel Ratio Actual Value: 9 CPU Frequency : 266MHz

CPU Over-clocking Func. : Disabled Auto Detect DIMM/PCI Clk Enabled Spread Spectrum Enabled

Memory Current Type: 8-21-8-8-9-61-5-5-5

DRAM Frequency Auto Configure DRAM Timing by SPD Disabled DRAM tCL 8 DRAM tRAS 21 DRAM tRP 8 DRAM tRCD 8 DRAM tWR 9 DRAM tRFC 61 DRAM tWTR 5 DRAM tRRD 5 DRAM tRTP 5 DRAM Command Rate Auto

CPU Voltage Normal Memory Voltage 1.5V

Enter : Select

: Move

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F1:General Help

F9: Optimized Defaults

F10: Save ESC: Exit+/-/: Value

Help Item

Options Enabled

Disabled

Users can adjust the values according to those labelled on the DIMM specification to improve the efficiency of the system. In principle, you need set the values of tCL (CAS Latency Time), tRAS (Active to Precharge Delay), tRP (RAS Precharge Time) and tRCD (RAS to CAS Delay). Besides, the items tWR, tRFC, tWTR, tRRD and tRTP are for the adjust- ment of DIMM when over-clocking.

Using BIOS

Load Default Settings

This option opens a dialog box that lets you install stability-oriented defaults for all appropriate items in the Setup Utility. Select [OK] and then press <Enter> to install the defaults. Select [Cancel] and then press <Enter> to not install the defaults.

Supervisor Password

This page helps you install or change a password.

Supervisor Password

Supervisor Password :Not Installed

Change Supervisor Password Press Enter

Enter : Select

mnlk

: Move

F1:General Help

F10: Save ESC: Exit+/-/: Value

F9: Optimized Defaults

Help item

Install or Change the password.

Supervisor Password (Not Installed)

This item indicates whether a supervisor password has been set. If the password has been installed, Installed displays. If not, Not Installed displays.

Change Supervisor Password (Press Enter)

You can select this option and press <Enter> to access the sub menu. You can use the sub menu to change the supervisor password.

Press <Esc> to return to the main menu setting page.

Using BIOS

User Password

This page helps you install or change a password.

User Password

User Password : Not Installed

Change User Password Press Enter

Enter : Select

mnlk

: Move

F1:General Help

alue

F9: Optimized Defaults

F10: Save ESC: Exit+/-/: V

Help item

Install or Change the password.

User Password (Not Installed)

This item indicates whether a user password has been set. If the password has been installed, Installed displays. If not, Not Installed displays.

Change User Password (Press Enter)

You can select this option and press <Enter> to access the sub menu. You can use the sub menu to change the user password.

Press <Esc> to return to the main menu setting page.

Save & Exit Setup

Highlight this item and press <Enter> to save the changes that you have made in the Setup Utility and exit the Setup Utility. When the Save and Exit dialog box appears, select [OK] to save and exit, or select [Cancel] to return to the main menu.

Exit Without Saving

Highlight this item and press <Enter> to discard any changes that you have made in the Setup Utility and exit the Setup Utility. When the Exit Without Saving dialog box appears, select [OK] to discard changes and exit, or select [Cancel] to return to the main menu.

If you have made settings that you do not want to save, use the “Exit Without Saving” item and select [OK] to discard any changes you have made.

Using BIOS

Updating the BIOS

You can download and install updated BIOS for this motherboard from the manufacturer’s Web site. New BIOS provides support for new peripherals, improvements in performance, or fixes for known bugs. Install new BIOS as follows:

1 If your motherboard has a BIOS protection jumper, change the setting to

allow BIOS flashing.

2 If your motherboard has an item called Firmware Write Protect in Ad-

vanced BIOS features, disable it. (Firmware Write Protect prevents BIOS from being overwritten.)

3 Prepare a bootable device or create a bootable system disk. (Refer to

Windows online help for information on creating a bootable system disk.)

4 Download the Flash Utility and new BIOS file from the manufacturer’s

Web site. Copy these files to the bootable device.

5 Turn off your computer and insert the bootable device in your com-

puter. (You might need to run the Setup Utility and change the boot priority items on the Advanced BIOS Features Setup page, to force your computer to boot from the bootable device first.)

6 At the C:\ or A:\ prompt, type the Flash Utility program name and the file

name of the new BIOS and then press <Enter>. Example: AMINF340.EXE040706.ROM

7 When the installation is complete, remove the bootable device from the

computer and restart your computer. If your motherboard has a Flash BIOS jumper, reset the jumper to protect the newly installed BIOS from being overwritten. The computer will restart automatically.

This concludes Chapter 3. Refer to the next chapter for information on the software supplied with the motherboard.

Using BIOS

Chapter 4

Using the Motherboard Software

About the Software CD-ROM

The support software CD-ROM that is included in the motherboard package contains all the drivers and utility programs needed to properly run the bundled products. Below you can find a brief description of each software program, and the location for your motherboard version. More information on some programs is available in a README file, located in the same directory as the software. Before installing any software, always inspect the folder for files named README.TXT, INSTALL.TXT, or something similar. These files may contain important information that is not included in this manual.

Never try to install all software from folder that is not specified for use with

1. your motherboard.

The notice of Intel HD audio installation (optional): The Intel High Defi-

2. nition audio functionality unexpectedly quits working in Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1 or Windows XP Professional x64 Edition. Users need to download and install the update packages from the Microsoft Download Center “before” installing HD audio driver bundled in the Driver CD. Please log on to us;901105#appliesto for more information.

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-

Auto-installing under W indows XP/Vista

The Auto-install CD-ROM makes it easy for you to install the drivers and software for your motherboard.

If the Auto-install CD-ROM does not work on your system, you can still install drivers through the file manager for your OS (for example, Windows Explorer). Refer to the Utility Folder Installation Notes later in this chapter.

The support software CD-ROM disc loads automatically under Windows XP/Vista. When you insert the CD-ROM disc in the CD-ROM drive, the autorun feature will automatically bring up the install screen. The screen has three buttons on it, Setup, Browse CD and Exit.

If the opening screen does not appear; double-click the file “setup.exe” in the root directory.

Using the Motherboard Software

Setup Tab

Setup

Browse CD

Exit The EXIT button closes the Auto Setup window.

Application Tab

Lists the software utilities that are available on the CD.

Read Me Tab

Displays the path for all software and drivers available on the CD.

Click the Setup button to run the software installation program. Select from the menu which software you want to install.

The Browse CD button is the standard Windows command that allows you to open Windows Explorer and show the contents of the support CD.

Before installing the software from Windows Explorer, look for a file named README.TXT, INSTALL.TXT or something similar. This file may contain important information to help you install the software correctly.

Some software is installed in separate folders for different operating systems, such as Windows XP/Vista. Always go to the correct folder for the kind of OS you are using.

In install the software, execute a file named SETUP.EXE or INSTALL.EXE by double-clicking the file and then following the instructions on the screen.

Running Setup

Follow these instructions to install device drivers and software for the motherboard:

1. Click Setup. The installation program begins:

The following screens are examples only. The screens and driver lists will be different according to the motherboard you are installing.

The motherboard identification is located in the upper left-hand corner.

Using the Motherboard Software

2. Click Next. The following screen appears:

3. Check the box next to the items you want to install. The default options are recom-

mended.

4. Click Next run the Installation Wizard. An item installation screen appears:

5. Follow the instructions on the screen to install the items.

1. Drivers and software are automatically installed in sequence. Follow the onscreen instructions, confirm commands and allow the computer to restart a few times to complete the installation.

2. During the Windows Vista Driver Auto Setup Procedure, users should use one of the following two methods to install the driver after the system restart.

Using the Motherboard Software

Method 1. Run Reboot Setup

Windows Vista will block startup programs by default when installing drivers after the system restart. You must select taskbar icon Run Blocked Program and run Reboot Setup to install the next driver, until you finish all drivers installation.

Method 2. Disable UAC (User Account Control)

* For administrator account only. Standard user account can only use Method 1.

Disable Vista UAC function before installing drivers, then use CD driver to install drivers, it will continue to install drivers after system restart without running blocked

programs.

Follow these instructions to Disable Vista UAC function:

1. Go to Control Panel.

Using the Motherboard Software

2. Select Classic View.

3. Set User Account.

4. Select Turn User Account Control on or off and press Continue.

Using the Motherboard Software

5. Disable User Account Control (UAC) to help protect your computer item and press OK, then press Restart Now. Then you can restart your computer and continue to drivers without running blocked programs.

install

Manual Installation

Insert the CD in the CD-ROM drive and locate the PATH.DOC file in the root directory. This file contains the information needed to locate the drivers for your motherboard.

Look for the chipset and motherboard model; then browse to the directory and path to begin installing the drivers. Most drivers have a setup program (SETUP.EXE) that automatically detects your operating system before installation. Other drivers have the setup program located in the operating system subfolder.

If the driver you want to install does not have a setup program, browse to the operating system subfolder and locate the readme text file (README.TXT or README.DOC) for information on installing the driver or software for your operating system.

Utility Software Reference

All the utility software available from this page is Windows compliant. They are provided only for the convenience of the customer. The following software is furnished under license and may only be used or copied in accordance with the terms of the license.

These software(s) are subject to change at anytime without prior notice. Please refer to the support CD for available software.

This concludes Chapter 4.

Using the Motherboard Software

Chapter 5

ATI CrossFireXTM Technology Support

This motherboard supports the ATI CrossFireX install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the installation procedures in this section.

Technology that allows you to

Requirements

1 You should have a CrossFireXTM Ready motherboard, a CrossFireXTM Edi-

tion graphics card and a CrossFireXTM ready graphics card.

2 Visit the ECS website (www.ecs.com.tw) for a list of qualified CrossFireX

ready graphics card for this motherboard.

3 Make sure that your graphics card driver supports the ATI CrossFireX

technology. Download the latest driver from the ATI website (www.ati.com).

4 Make sure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the

minimum power required by your system.

Installing a single graphics card

1. Install a PCI Express x16 graphics card on the PCIEX16 slot.

2. Connect one end of the external cable to the graphics card.

3. Connect the loose end to the corresponding port on your monitor.

4. Connect an auxiliary power source from the power supply to the graphics card.

ATI CrossFireXTM Technology Support

Installing CrossFireXTM graphics cards

1. Insert the CrossFireX Make sure that the card is properly seated on the slot.

2. Connect an external cable to the CrossFireX PCIEX16_C slot.

External Cable

3. Connect the two CrossFireXTM Edition graphics cards installed on PCIEX16 and PCIEX16_C slots with the CrossFire Bridge.

graphics cards into the PCIEX16 and PCIEX16_C slots.

ready graphics card installed on the

4. Connect the external cable to the corresponding port on your monitor.

5. Connect an auxiliary power source from the power supply to the graphics cards.

ATI CrossFireXTM Technology Support

T able A: Supported PCI Expre ss V GA Card List for CrossFireXTM Function

Vender

ATI

PCI-E Card

MSI RX1300 TD256E (256M) Radeon X1300Pro

ATI X1600XT (256M) Radeon X1600XT PowerColor X1900XTX (512M) Radeon X1900XTX ASUS EAX1950PRO/HTDP/256M/A (256M) Radeon X19500Pro

MSI RX2600XT (256MB) Radeon HD2600XT MSI RX3850-T2D256E-OC (256MB) Radeon HD3850 POWER Color AX3870 512MD-PH Radeon HD3870

ATI CrossFireXTM Technology Support

The CatalystTM Control Center Dialog Box

View

The CatalystTM Control Center provides two views; one is Standard view for beginners, the other is Advance view for advanced users to access and configure the complete features of the software.

To enable CrossFireXTM:

• Set the view to Advance.

• Click the CrossFireXTM item in Graphics Settings.

• In the CrossFireX

CrossFireX

• Click OK to effect the setting.

Setting dialog, tick the box opposite Enable

Set to Advanced View to enable the CrossFireXTM function.

ATI CrossFireXTM Technology Support

Chapter 6

Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID Configurations

The Intel® Matrix Storage Manager allows you to configure RAID 0, and 1 sets on the external Serial ATA hard disk drives.

Before creating a RAID set

Prepare the following items:

1. One SATA HDD.

2. A write-enabled floppy disk.

3. Microsoft

4. Motherboard support CD with Intel® Matrix Storage Manager driver.

Complete the following steps before you create a RAID set:

1. Install the external Serial ATA hard disk drive (HDD) on your system.

2. Set the Onboard SATA Mode item in the BIOS to .RAID.. See section “Integrated Peripherals” for details.

Windows® OS installation disk (Windows XP/Vista).

3. Enter the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager option to set up your RAID

configuration.

4. Create an Intel® Matrix Storage Manager driver disk for Windows® OS

installation. See section “Creating a RAID driver disk” for details.

5. Install the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager driver after the Windows® OS

had been installed.

Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID Configurations

Entering Intel® Matrix Storage Ma nager RAID BIOS utility

1. During POST, press <Ctrl-I> to enter the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID BIOS menu.

2. The main Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID BIOS menu appears.

3 . Use the arrow keys to move the color bar and navigate through the items.

Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID Configurations

Creating a RAID set

1. In the main Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID BIOS menu, highlight Create RAID Volume using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter>.

2. When the RAID Level item is highlighted, use the up/down arrow key to select the RAID set that you want to create.

When more than two HDDs are installed in your computer, the Disks item will be selectable. Then users can select the HDD that you want to belong to the RAID set. Please be noticed that selecting a wrong disk will result in losing the original data of the HDD.

3. Key in the RAID volume capacity. Use the up/down arrow to choose the Capacity. The default value indicates the maximum capacity using the selected disks. Entering a lower capacity allows you to create a second volume on these disks.

Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID Configurations

4. When done, press <Enter> to confirm the creation of the RAID set. A dialogue box appears to confirm the action. Press <Y> to confirm; otherwise, press <N>.

Pressing <Y> deletes all the data in the HDDs.

5. The following screen appears, displaying the relevant information about the RAID set you created.

Users please be noted that RAID 0 (Stripe) is set to accelerate the data access, and RAID 1 (Mirror) is set to provide the data backup. If you want to set RAID 0, you need to set the 2nd Boot Device item in the BIOS to Intel Volume0. See section “Advanced Setup” for details.

Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID Configurations

Deleting a RAID set

1. In the main Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID BIOS menu, highlight Delete RAID Volume using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter>.

2. Use the space bar to select the RAID set you want to delete.

Press the <Del> key to delete the set.

3. A dialogue box appears to confirm the action. Press <Y> to confirm; otherwise, press <N>.

Pressing <Y> deletes all the data in the HDDs.

Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID Configurations

Resetting disks to Non-RAID

An HDD that has been previously configured as part of another RAID set

in another platform is called a broken RAID HDD. When you install a broken RAID HDD, you cannot select this disk when configuring a RAID set through the Intel use this broken RAID HDD as part of the RAID set configured through the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager, you may do so by resetting the disk to Non-RAID. You will, however, lose all data and previous RAID configurations.

To reset disks to Non-RAID:

1. In the main Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID BIOS menu, highlight Reset Disks to Non-RAID using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter>.

2. Use the space bar to select the HDD to reset to Non-RAID.

3. A dialogue box appears to confirm the action. Press <Y> to confirm; otherwise, press <N>.

Pressing <Y> deletes all the data in the HDDs.

Matrix Storage Manager option. If you still want to

Exiting Setup

When you have finished, highlight Exit using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter> to exit the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID BIOS utility.

A dialogue box appears to confirm the action. Press <Y> to confirm; otherwise, press <N> to return to the Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID BIOS menu.

Intel® Matrix Storage Manager RAID Configurations

ECS X48T-A User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual