Statement:
This manual is the intellectual property of Foxconn Inc. Although the
information in this manual may be changed or modified at any time,
Foxconn does not obligate itself to inform the user of these changes.
Trademark:
All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Version:
User’s Manual V1.1 in English for NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA series
motherboard.
P/N: 91-181-NF3-AA-1E
Symbol description:
Note: refers to important information that can help you to use motherboard
better.
Attention: indicates that it may damage hardware or cause data loss,
and tells you how to avoid such problems.
Warning: means that a potential risk of property damage or physical
injury exists.
More information:
If you want more information about our products, please visit the following
website: h
ttp://www.foxconnchannel.com
Declaration of conformity
HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY COMPANY LTD
66 , CHUNG SHAN RD., TU-CHENG INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT,
TAIPEI HSIEN, TAIWAN, R.O.C.
declares that the product
Motherboard
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA
is in conformity with
(reference to the specification under which conformity is declared in
accordance with 89/336 EEC-EMC Directive)
þ EN 55022/A1: 2000 Limits and methods of measurements of radio disturbance
characteristics of information technology equipment
þ EN 61000-3-2/A14:2000 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
Part 3: Limits
Section 2: Limits for harmonic current emissions
(equipment input current <= 16A per phase)
þ EN 61000-3-3/A1:2001 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
Part 3: Limits
Section 2: Limits of voltage fluctuations and flicker in low-voltage
supply systems for equipment with rated current <= 16A
þ EN 55024/A1:2001 Information technology equipment-Immunity characteristics limits
and methods of measurement
Signature : Place / Date : TAIPEI/2005
Printed Name : James Liang Position/ Title : Assistant President
Declaration of conformity
Trade Name: WinFast
Model Name: NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA
Responsible Party: PCE Industry Inc.
Address: 458 E. Lambert Rd.
Fullerton, CA 92835
Telephone: 714-738-8868
Facsimile: 714-738-8838
Equipment Classification: FCC Class B Subassembly
Type of Product: Motherboard
Manufacturer: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY
COMPANY LTD
Address: 66 , CHUNG SHAN RD., TU-CHENG
INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT, TAIPEI HSIEN,
TAIWAN, R.O.C.
Supplementary Information:
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions : (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2)
this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
Tested to comply with FCC standards.
Signature : Date : 2005
Table of Contents
Chapter
Main Features.............................................................................................2
Motherboard Layout...................................................................................4
Chapter
CPU............................................................................................................7
Memory....................................................................................................11
Power Supply...........................................................................................12
Rear Panel Connectors.............................................................................13
Other Connectors.....................................................................................15
Expansion Slots........................................................................................19
Jumpers...................................................................................................20
Chapter
Enter BIOS Setup......................................................................................24
Main menu................................................................................................24
Standard CMOS Features.........................................................................26
BIOS Features..........................................................................................29
Advanced BIOS Features.........................................................................31
Advanced Chipset Features.....................................................................33
Integrated Peripherals...............................................................................35
Power Management Setup........................................................................39
PnP/PCI Configurations.............................................................................41
PC Health Status.......................................................................................42
Load Fail-Safe Defaults............................................................................43
Load Optimized Defaults...........................................................................43
Set Supervisor/User Password................................................................43
Save & Exit Setup.....................................................................................44
Exit Without Saving...................................................................................44
1
2
3
Product Introduction
Installation Instructions
BIOS Description
Table of Contents
Chapter
Utility CD content...................................................................................... 46
Start to install drivers................................................................................ 47
Chapter
RAID Arrays.............................................................................................49
Basic Configuration Instructions...............................................................50
Setting Up the BIOS..................................................................................51
Entering the RAID BIOS Setup...................................................................52
NVIDIA RAID Utility Installation...................................................................56
Initializing and Using the Disk Array...........................................................59
Win2K Limitation with Bootable RAID.........................................................60
4
5
Driver CD Introduction
NVIDIA RAID Introduction
6
Warning:
1.Attach the CPU and heatsink using silica gel to ensure full contact.
2.It is suggested to select high-quality, certified fans in order to avoid
damage to the motherboard and CPU due to high temperature.
3.Never turn on the machine if the CPU fan is not properly installed.
4.Ensure that the DC power supply is turned off before inserting or re-
moving expansion cards or other peripherals, especially when you
insert or remove a memory module. Failure to switch off the DC power
supply may result in serious damage to your system or memory
module.
Warning:
We cannot guarantee that your system will operate normally while
over-clocked. Normal operation depends on the over-clock capacity of
your device.
Attention:
Since BIOS programs are upgraded from time to time, the BIOS de-
scription in this manual is just for reference. We do not guarantee that
the content of this manual will remain consistent with the actual BIOS
version at any given time in the future.
Attention:
The pictures of objects used in this manual are just for your reference.
Please refer to the physical motherboard.
This manual is suitable for motherboard of NF3250K8AA/
NF3250GK8AA series. Each motherboard is carefully designed
for the PC user who wants diverse features.
-L with onboard 100M LAN
-K with onboard 1G LAN
-6 with 6-channel audio
-8 with 8-channel audio
-E with 1394
-S with SATA
-R with RAID
You can find PPID label on the motherboard. It indicates the
functions that the motherboard has.
For example:
On the blue mark of the PPID label, it means the motherboard
supports 6-Channel Audio (-6), 1394 port (-E), onboard 100M
LAN (-L), SATA function (-S).
Chapter
Thank you for buying WinFast NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA
series motherboard. This series of motherboard is one of
our new products, and offers superior performance, reliabil-
ity and quality, at a reasonable price. This motherboard
adopts the advanced NVIDIA nForce3 250/nForce3 250Gb
chipset, providing users a computer platform with a high
integration-compatibility-performance price ratio.
This chapter includes the following information:
1
1
v Main Features
v Motherboard Layout
Chapter 1 Product Introduction
Main Features
Size:
l ATX form factor of 11.6” x 9.6”
Microprocessor:
l Supports socket 754 for Sempron
l Supports HyperTransport
TM
TM
, Athlon
Technology
Chipset:
l NVIDIA: nForce3 250/nForce3 250Gb
System Memory
l Three 184-pin DDR DIMM slots
l Supports PC3200/2700/2100 memory
l Supports 128/256/512/1024Mb technology up to 3GB
USB 2.0 Port
l Supports hot-plug
l Eight USB 2.0 ports (four rear panel ports, two onboard USB headers
providing four extra ports)
l Supports wake-up from S1 and S3 mode
l Supports USB 2.0 protocol up to 480Mbps transmission rate
TM
64 processors
Onboard Serial ATA (optional)
l 150MBps transfer rate
l Two Serial ATA connectors (controlled by NVIDIA Chipset)
l Two Serial ATA connectors (controlled by Silicon 3112A) (optional)
NVIDIA RAID Technology
l Supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1 and JBOD
l Cross-controller RAID uniquely supports both SATA and PATA disk devices within
a single array
Silicon 3112A RAID Technology (optional)
l Supports RAID 0, RAID 1
2
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
Chapter 1 Product Introduction
Onboard 1394 (optional)
l Supports hot-plug
l With rate of transmission at 400Mbps
l Self-configured addressing
l Supports two independent 1394 units synchronously at most
Onboard LAN (-L/-K) (optional)
l Supports10/100/1000 (-K optional) Mbps Ethernet
l LAN interface built-in on board
Onboard Audio
l AC’ 97 2.3 Specification Compliant
l Supports S/PDIF output
l Onboard Line-in jack, Line-out jack, Microphone jack
l Supports 6-channel audio (setting via software)
BIOS
l Licensed advanced AWARD (Phoenix) BIOS, supports flash ROM, Plug-and-
Play
l Supports IDE HDD, Floppy, CD-ROM, SCSI HDD or USB device boot up
Green Function
l Supports ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Interface)
l Supports S0 (normal), S1 (power on suspend), S3 (suspend to RAM), S4
(suspend to disk-depends on OS), and S5 (soft-off) ACPI state
Expansion Slots
l Five PCI slots
l One AGP slot
AGP 8X support
l Supports AGP 8X graphics cards
Advanced Features
l PCI 2.3 Specification Compliant
l Supports PC Health function (capable of monitoring system voltage, CPU/
system temperature, and fan speed)
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
3
Motherboard Layout
1
2
3
4
5
6
Chapter 1 Product Introduction
24252627
23
22
21
20
19
7
8
9
1413121110
1. Front 1394 Connector (optional)
2. System Fan Connector
3. Wake Up On Modem Connector
4. S/PDIF Out Connector
5. SATA Connectors (controlled by
NVIDIA Chipset )
6. NVIDIA nForce3 250/nForce3 250Gb
7. Front USB Connectors
8. Clear CMOS Jumper
9. Chassis Intruder Connector
10. Chipset Fan Connector
11. Speaker Connector
12. BIOS TBL Jumper
13. Front Panel Connector
14. Floppy Disk Connector
15 16
15. IDE Connectors
16. ATX Power Connector
17. IrDA Connector
18. DDR DIMM Slots
19. SATA connectors (controlled by
Silicon 3112A) (optional)
20.CPU Socket
21. CPU Fan Connector
22. AGP Slot
23. 12V ATX Power Connector
24. Front Audio Connector
25. CD_IN Connector
26. AUX_IN Connector
27. PCI Expansion slots
Note:The above motherboard layout is provided for reference
only; please refer to the physical motherboard.
4
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
18
17
Chapter
This chapter introduces the hardware installation process,
including the installation of the CPU and memory. It also
addresses the connection of your power supply, use of the
rear panel connectors, connection of hard drive and floppy
drive data cables, and setting up various other feature of the
motherboard. Caution should be exercised during the installation process. Please refer to the motherboard layout
prior to any installation and read the contents in this chapter
carefully.
2
2
Chapter 1 Product Introduction
This chapter includes the following information:
v CPU
v Memory
v Power Supply
v Rear Panel Connectors
v Other Connectors
v Expansion Slots
v Jumpers
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
5
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
Notes:
Take note of the following precautions before you install components
or change settings.
1. Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object, such
as an attached power supply, before handling components to avoid
damaging them due to static electricity.
2. Unplug the power cord before opening your chassis or touching any
components.
3. Hold components by their edges to avoid touching any exposed
integrated circuits (ICs).
4. Whenever you uninstall a component, place it on a grounded anti-
static pad or into the anti-static bag that it came in.
6
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
CPU
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
This motherboard supports Sempron
TM
HyperTransport
Technology.
TM or
Athlon
TM
64 processors and
Attention:
The CPU pins must be properly aligned with the holes in the
socket, otherwise the CPU may be damaged.
For the detailed CPU vendor list qualified on this motherboard, please
visit the website: http://www.foxconnchannel.com
Installation of CPU
Follow these steps to install the CPU.
1.Unlock the socket by pressing the le-
ver sideways, then lift it up to a 90
o
angle.
2.Align the cut edge to the gap in the base
of the socket. Carefully insert the CPU
into the socket until it fits in place.
90
o
Gap in the base
3. When the CPU is in place, press it
firmly on the socket while you push
down the socket lever to secure the
CPU. The lever clicks on the side tab
to indicate that it is locked.
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
Cut edge
Push down the socket
lever to secure the CPU.
7
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
Installation of CPU Fan
New technology allows processors to run at higher and higher frequencies.
To avoid problems arising from high-speed operation, for example,
overheating, you need to install the proper fan. The following procedure is
provided for reference only, please refer to your CPU fan user guide for the
actual procedure.
CPU Fan
CPU Heatsink
CPU Retention Mechanism
CPU Retention Bracket
CPU Retention Lock
1.Locate the CPU retention mecha-
nism base (surrounds the CPU
socket) (If the rentention mechanism
not be installed).
8
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
2.If required, apply a light coating of
silica gel to the top of the CPU.
NOTE: The CPU heatsink may have
a pre-applied thermal compound. In
that case, the silica gel is not required.
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
3. Place the cooling set onto the re-
tention mechanism. Attach one end
of the retention bracket to retention
mechanism.
5.Push down the retention bracket lock on the retention mechanism to secure
the heatsink and fan to module base.
4.Align the other end of the reten-
tion bracket to fasten the cooling
set on the top of the retention
mechanism.
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
9
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
6.Connect the fan’s power cable to the appropriate 3-pin terminal on the
motherboard.
10
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
Memory
This motherboard includes three 184-pin slots with 266/333/400 MHz Single
Channel DDR DRAM interface, If you install two or more modules, they must be
the same speed. Mixing memory modules from different manufactures are not
recommended.
For the lastest memory modules support list, please visit the website:
http://www.foxconnchannel.com
Installation of DDR Memory
1.There is only one gap in the center of the DIMM slot, and the memory module
can be fixed in one direction only.
2.Align the memory module to the DIMM slot, and insert the module verti-
cally into the DIMM slot.
104 Pins 80 Pins
3.The plastic clips at both sides of the DIMM slot will lock automatically.
Note:
Be sure to unplug the AC power supply before adding or re-
moving expansion cards or other system peripherals, espe-
cially the memory devices, otherwise your motherboard or the
system memory might be seriously damaged.
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
11
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
Power Supply
This motherboard uses an ATX power supply. In order to avoid damaging any
devices, make sure that they have been installed properly prior to connecting
the power supply.
ATX Power Connector: PWR1
PWR1 is the ATX power supply connector.
Make sure that the power supply cable
ATX 20-pin Power Connector
5V GND 3.3V GND GND
5V -5V GND PS-ON -12V
20
and pins are properly aligned with the
connector on the motherboard. Firmly
plug the power supply cable into the con-
nector and make sure it is secure.
ATX 12V Power Connector: PWR2
The 4 pin ATX 12V power supply connects
to PWR2 and provides power to the CPU.
10
GND
5VSB
12V
PWR-OK 3.3V
ATX 12V Power Connector
GND
12V
5V
1 2
3
Attention:
You have to press the power button for more than four seconds if
you change the default Instant-off setting to “Delay 4 Sec” for the
“Soft-Off by PBTN” option in the BIOS Power Management Setup.
11
1
GND 3.3V GND
5V
GND
12V
4
12
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
Rear Panel Connectors
This motherboard provides the following ports as below:
86
7
LAN Port (-L/-K)
(optional)
1
PS/2 Mouse Port
PS/2 Keyboard Port
2
1
PS/2 Mouse Port
Parallel Port
4
(Printer Port)
COM1 USB 2.0 Port
3
COM2
5
1394 Port
(optional)
This green 6-pin connector is for a PS/2 mouse.
2
PS/2 Keyboard Port
This purple 6-pin connector is for a PS/2 keyboard.
3
Serial Port: COM1
This 9-pin COM1 port is for pointing devices or other serial devices.
4
Parallel Port: Printer Port
The 25-pin port connects a parallel printer, a scanner, or other devices.
Line-in
Line-out
Microphone
9
5
Serial Port: COM2
This 9-pin COM2 port is for pointing devices or other serial devices.
6
1394 Port (optional)
This digital interface supports electronic devices such as digital cameras,
scanners, and printers.
7
USB 2.0 Ports
These four Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting USB
2.0/1.1 devices.
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
13
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
8
LAN Port (-L/-K)(optional)
This port allows connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network
hub.
Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications:
-L
10M Data activity
10M Link
100M Data activity
100M Link
-K
100M Data activity
100M Link
Giga Data activity
Giga Link
9
Line in, Line out, Microphone Jacks
Green LED
Blinking
Blinking once
Green LED
Blinking
Blinking
Yellow LED
Blinking
Blinking once
Dual color LED
Green
Yellow
light
light
light
light
Green LED
Yellow LED/
Dual color LED
When using a 2-channel sound source, the Line out jack is used to connect to
speaker or headphone; the Line in jack connects to an external CD player, tape
player or other audio device. The Microphone jack is used to connect to the
microphone.
When using a 6-channel sound source, connect the front speaker to the green
audio output; connect the surround sound speaker to the blue audio output;
connect the center speaker/subwoofer to the red Microphone output.
Blue
14
Green
Red
Front Left Front Right
Rear Left
Center
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
Rear Right
Subwoofer
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
Other Connectors
This motherboard includes interfaces for FLOPPY, IDE devices, SATA devices,
USB devices, 1394 devices, IR module, CPU fan, system fan, and others.
FLOPPY
This motherboard includes a standard FLOPPY interface, supporting 360 K, 720 K,
1.2 M, 1.44 M, and 2.88 M FDDs.
HDD connectors: PIDE & SIDE
These connectors support the provided UltraDMA 133/100/66/33 IDE hard disk
ribbon cable. Connect the cable’s blue connector to the primary (recommended)
or secondary IDE connector, then connect the gray connector to the UltraDMA
133/100/66/33 slave device (hard disk drive) and the black connector to the
UltraDMA 133/100/66/33 master device. If you install two hard disks, you must
configure the second drive as a slave device by setting its jumper accordingly.
Refer to the hard disk documentation for the jumper settings.
Attention:
Ribbon cables are directional, therefore, make sure to always con-
nect with the cable on the same side as pin 1 of the PIDE/SIDE or
FLOPPY connector on the motherboard.
Front Panel Connector: FP1
This motherboard includes one connector for con-
necting the front panel switch and LED indicator.
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
PLEDPWRBTN#
1
IDE_LEDRESET
+ -
+ -
FPFP1!
NC
15
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
Hard Disk LED Connector (IDE_LED)
Attach the connector to the IDE_LED on the front panel of the case; the LED will
flash while the HDD is in operation.
Reset Switch (RESET)
Attach the connector to the Reset switch on the front panel of the case; the
system will restart when the switch is pressed.
Power LED Connector (PLED)
Attach the connector to the Power LED on the front panel of the case. The Power
LED indicates the power supply status. When the system is in S0 status, the
LED is on. When the system is in S1 status, the LED is blink. When the system
is in S3, S4, S5 status, the LED is off.
Power Switch Connector (PWRBTN#)
Attach the connector to the power button of the case. Pushing this switch allows
the system to be turned on and off rather than using the power supply button.
1 2
USB Connectors: F_USB 1, F_USB 2
Besides four USB ports on the rear panel, the series
of motherboards also have two 10-pin headers on
board which may connect to the front panel USB
cable to provide additional four USB ports.
IrDA Connector: IR
The IrDA infrared transmission allows your computer to send and receive data via an infrared ray.
The relevant parameters for the BIOS Integrated
Peripherals should be set prior to using this
function.
1394 Connector(optional): F_1394
The 1394 expansion cable can be connected to either the front (provided that the front panel of your
chassis is equipped with the appropriate interface)
or the rear panel of the chassis.
VCC
D4-
D4+
GND
Empty
F_USB1
VCC
D6-
D6+
GND
Empty
F_USB2
1
IR
GND
+12V
TPB-
GND
TPA-
F_1394
VCC
D5-
D5+
GND
NC
9 10
1 2
VCC
D7-
D7+
GND
NC
9 10
+5V
Empty
IRRX
GND
IRTX
10 9
Empty
+12V
TPB+
GND
TPA+
2 1
16
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
Fan Connectors: CPU_FAN, FAN_1, FAN_2
There are three fan connectors on this motherboard.
+12V
SENSE
1
+12V
GND
SENSEGND
1
FAN_1
1
GND
+12V
SENSE
FAN_2CPU_FAN
Audio Connectors: CD_IN, AUX_IN
CD_R
CD_IN, AUX_IN is Sony standard CD audio
connectors, to receive audio input from the CD-ROM,
attach its audio connector to the CD_IN/AUX_IN au-
dio connectors on the motherboard.
1
GND
CD_L
AUX_R
1
GND
AUX_L
CD_IN
AUX_IN
S-ATA Connectors: SATA_1, SATA_2, SATA_3 (optional), SATA_4
(optional)
The Serial ATA connectors are used to connect
the S-ATA devices to the motherboard. These
connectors support the thin Serial ATA cables
for primary internal storage devices. The current S-ATA interface allows up to 150MB/s data
transfer rate. SATA_1, SATA_2 are controlled by
NVIDIA chipset, SATA_3, SATA_4 are controlled
by Silicon 3112A (optional).
Front Audio Connector: F_AUDIO
The audio port includes two parts – the Front
Audio and Rear Audio. Their priority is sequenced from high to low (Front Audio to Rear
Audio). If headphones are plugged into the front
panel of the chassis (using the Front Audio),
then the Line Out (Rear Audio) on the rear panel
will not work. If you do not want to use the Front
Audio, pin 5 and 6, pin 9 and 10 must be short,
and then the signal will be sent to the rear audio port.
GND
TX+
TX-
GND
RX-
RX+
GND
GND
RX+
RX-
GND
TX-
TX+
GND
SATA_2/SATA_3/SATA_4
MIC_IN
NC
AUD_OUT_L
1
SATA_1
1
1 2
MIC_GND
+5VACMIC_PWR
AUD_RET_R AUD_OUT_R
EMPTY
AUD_RET_L
9 10
F_AUDIO
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
17
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
Speaker Connector: SPEAKER OUT
The speaker connector is used to connect
speaker of the chassis.
Chassis Intruder Connector (optional): INTR
The connector connects to the chassis security
switch on the case. The system can detect the
chassis intrusion through the status of this
connector. To utilize this function, set “Case open
Warning” to “Enabled” in the “PC Health Status
Menu” section of the CMOS Setup.Save and exit,
then boot the operating system once to make
sure this function takes effect.
S/PDIF Out Connector: SPDIF_OUT
The S/PDIF out connector is capable of providing digital audio to external speaker or compressed AC3 data to an external Dolby digital
decoder.
Note: The empty pin of SPDIF cable should be
aligned to empty pin of S/PDIF out connector.
Empty
SPK(Pull high) SPKJ
NC
1
SPEAKER OUT
INTRUDERJ
1
GND
INTR
5V
1
Empty
SPDIF_OUT
1
GND
SPDIF_OUT
Wake Up On Modem Connector: WOM
Through this function, system in suspend or
soft-off mode can be waken up by a ring signal
received from the internal modem. When this
function is used, be sure an internal modem
card which supports this function is provided.
Then connect the header to the relevant connector on the modem card, set “WOR(RI#) From
Soft-Off” as “Enabled” in the “Power Management Setup” section of the CMOS Setup. Save
and exit, then boot the operating system once to
make sure this function takes effect.
18
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
1
WOM
Modem wake up
GND
5V_SB_SYS
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
Expansion Slots
This motherboard includes five 32-bit Master PCI bus slots and one AGP slot.
PCI Slots
The expansion cards can be installed in the five PCI slots. When you install or
remove such cards, please make sure that the power cord has been unplugged
from the power supply. Please read carefully the instructions provided for such
cards, then install and set the necessary hardware and software for such cards,
such as the jumper or BIOS settings.
AGP Slot
This motherboard has an AGP slot that supports 1.5V AGP cards. AGP is an
interfacing specification designed to display 3D images. It provides a specialized
66Mhz, 32-bit channel to allow the graphic controller to directly access the master
memory and supports 4X and 8X speeds.
AGP Qualified Vendor List
The following table lists the AGP cards that have been tested and qualified for
use with this motherboard.
For more details graphics card support list qualified on this motherboard, plsease
visit the website: http://www.foxconnchannel.com
NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
19
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
Jumpers
Users can change the jumper settings on this motherboard if necessary. This
section explains how to use the various functions of this motherboard by changing the jumper settings. Users should read the following contents carefully prior
to modifying any jumper settings.
Description of Jumpers
1. For the jumpers on this motherboard, pin 1 can be identified by the silkscreen printed “ ” next to it. However, in this manual, pin 1 is simply
labeled as “1”.
2. The following table provides some explanations of the jumper pin settings.
Users should refer to the table while adjusting jumper settings.
Jumper Diagram Definition Description
1
1
1
1
1
1
1-2 Set pin 1 and pin 2 closed
2-3 Set pin 2 and pin 3 closed
Closed Set the pin closed
Open Set the pin opened
Clear CMOS Jumper: CLS_CMOS
This motherboard uses the CMOS RAM to store all
the set parameters. The CMOS can be cleared by
removing the CMOS jumper. Reference the follow-
ing process.
1. Turn off the AC power supply and short pins 1 and
2 on the jumper.
2. Return the jumper to the normal setting (locking
pins 2 and 3 together with the jumper cap).
3. Turn on the system. The BIOS is returned to the
default settings.
Warning:
1.Disconnect the power cable before adjusting the jumper
settings.
2.DO NOT clear the CMOS while the system is turned on.
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Normal
(default)
Clear
CLS_CMOS
1
2
3
1
2
3
Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
BIOS TBL Jumper: TBL_EN
The system cannot boot, if flash the BIOS fail in
conventional flash BIOS process. You will no such
worry when you use the BIOS TBL function. It is
used to protect BIOS “Top Boot Block”. The system
still can boot by using this function and show some
information to recover the BIOS even if flash BIOS
fail. To utilize this function, you just leave this jumper
as pin 2 and 3 together with the jumper cap.
BIOS TBL
Enable
BIOS TBL
Disable
TBL_EN
3 2 1
3 2 1
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Chapter 2 Installation Instructions
Starting up for the first time
1.After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.
2.Make sure that all switches are turned off.
3.Turn on the devices in the following order.
a. Monitor
b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain)
c. System power
4. After powering on, LED on the system front panel case lights up. For ATX
power supplies, the system LED lights up when you press the ATX power
switch. If your monitor complies with green standards or if it has a power
standby feature, the monitor LED may light up or switch between orange and
green after the system LED turns on. The system then enters the Power-On
Self Test (POST) routines. While the tests are running, the BIOS beeps or
additional messages appear on the screen. If you do not see anything within
30 seconds from the time you turned on the power, the system may have
failed a power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call
your retailer for assistance.
5.After the POST routines are completed, press the <Del> key to access the
BIOS Setup Utility. For detailed instructions, please refer to Chapter 3.
Powering off the computer
1.Using the OS shut down function
If you use windows 98/ME/2000/XP, click Start and select Shut Down, then
click the OK button to shut down the computer. The power supply should
turnoff after Windows shuts down.
2. Using the dual function power switch
While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than 4 sec-
onds puts the system in sleep mode or soft-off mode, depending on the
BIOS setting. Pressing the power switch for more than 4 seconds lets the
system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting.
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NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
Chapter
This chapter tells how to change system settings through the
BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS param-
eters are also provided.
You have to run the Setup Program when the following cases
occur:
1.An error message appears on the screen during the
2.You want to change the default CMOS settings.
3
3
system POST process.
This chapter includes the following information:
v Enter BIOS Setup
v Main Menu
v Standard CMOS Features
v BIOS Features
v Advanced BIOS Features
v Advanced Chipset Features
v Integrated Peripherals
v Power Management Setup
v PnP/PCI Configurations
v PC Health Status
v Load Fail-Safe Defaults
v Load Optimized Defaults
v Set Supervisor/User Password
v Save & Exit Setup
v Exit Without Saving
Chapter 3 BIOS Description
Enter BIOS Setup
The BIOS is the communication bridge between hardware and software,
correctly setting up the BIOS parameters is critical to maintain optimal system
performance. Power on the computer, when the following message briefly
appears at the bottom of the screen during the POST (Power On Self Test),
press the <Del> key to enter the Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility.
Press TAB to show POST screen, DEL to enter SETUP, ESC to enter Boot Menu
Note:
We do not suggest that you change the default parameters in the
BIOS Setup, and we shall not be responsible for any damage that
results from any changes that you make.
Main Menu
The main menu allows you to select from the list of setup functions and two exit
choices. Use the arrow keys to select among the items and press <Enter> to
accept or go to the sub-menu.
Main Menu
The items in the BIOS Setup main menu are explained below:
Standard CMOS Features
The basic system configuration can be set up through this menu.
BIOS Features
The general system features can be set up through this menu.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
Advanced BIOS Features
The advanced system features can be set up through this menu.
Advanced Chipset Features
The values for the chipset can be changed through this menu, and the sys-
tem performance can be optimized.
Integrated Peripherals
All onboard peripherals can be set up through this menu.
Power Management Setup
All the items of Green function features can be set up through this menu.
PnP/PCI Configurations
The system’s PnP/PCI settings and parameters can be modified through
this menu.
PC Health Status
This will display the current status of your PC.
Load Fail-Safe Defaults
The default BIOS settings can be loaded through this menu.
Load Optimized Defaults
The optimal performance settings can be loaded through this menu, however,
the stable default values may be affected.
Set Supervisor/User Password
The supervisor/user password can be set up through this menu.
Save & Exit Setup
Save CMOS value settings to CMOS and exit setup.
Exit Without Saving
Abandon all CMOS value changes and exit setup.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
Standard CMOS Features
This sub-menu is used to set up the standard CMOS features, such as the
date, time, HDD model and so on. Use the arrow keys select the item to set
up, and then use the <PgUp> or <PgDn> key to choose the setting values.
Date
This option allows you to set the desired date (usually as the current date)
with the <day><month><date><year> format.
day weekday from Sun. to Sat., defined by BIOS (read-only).
month month from Jan. to Dec.
date date from 1st to 31st, can be changed by using the keyboard.
year year, set up by users.
Standard CMOS Features Menu
Time
This option allows you to set up the desired time (usually as the current time)
with <hour><minute><second> format.
IDE Channel 0/1 Master/Slave and 2/3 Master
These categories identify the HDD types of 2 IDE channels installed in the
computer system. There are three choices provided for the Enhanced IDE BIOS:
None, Auto, and Manual. “None” means no HDD device is installed or set; “Auto”
indicates the system can automatically detect and configure the hard disk when
booting up; If it fails to find a device, choose “Manual” and change Access Mode
to “CHS”, then manually configure the drive by entering the characteristics of the
drive directly from the keyboard and pressing <Enter>:
Cylindernumber of cylinders Head number of heads
Precompwrite pre-compensation Landing Zone Landing Zone
Sector number of sectors
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
Award (Phoenix) BIOS can support 4 HDD modes: CHS, LBA and Large or
Auto mode.
CHS For HDD<528MB
LBA For HDD>528MB & supporting LBA (Logical Block Addressing)
Large For HDD>528MB but not supporting LBA
Auto Recommended mode
Drive A/B
This option allows you to select the kind of FDD to be installed, including
[None], [360K, 5.25in], [1.2M, 5.25in], [720K, 3.5in], [1.44M, 3.5in] and [2.88
M, 3.5in].
Video
The following table is provided for your reference in setting the display mode for
your system.
EGA/ VGA Enhanced Graphics Adapter / Video Graphic Array. For EGA,
VGA, SEGA, SVGA, or PGA monitor adapters.
CGA 40 Color Graphic Adapter, powering up in 40 column mode.
CGA 80 Color Graphic Adapter, powering up in 80 column mode.
MONO Monochrome adapter, including high resolution monochrome
adapters.
Halt On
This category determines whether or not the computer will stop if an error is
detected during powering up.
All Errors Whenever the BIOS detects a nonfatal error, the
system will stop and you will be prompted.
No Errors The system boot will not stop for any errors that may
be detected.
All, But Keyboard The system boot will not stop for a keyboard error;
but it will stop for all other errors.
All, But Diskette The system boot will not stop for a diskette error; but
it will stop for all other errors.
All, But Disk/Key The system boot will not stop for a keyboard or a
disk error, but it will stop for all other errors.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
Memory
This is a Displays-Only Category, determined by POST (Power On Self Test)
of the BIOS.
Base Memory The BIOS POST will determine the amount of base
(or conventional) memory installed in the system.
Extended Memory The BIOS determines how much extended
memory is present during the POST.
Total Memory Total memory of the system.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
BIOS Features
BIOS Features Menu
v[SuperBoot] SuperBoot (Default: Disabled)
SuperBoot allows system-relevant information to be stored in CMOS upon
the first normal startup of your PC, and the relevant parameters will be
restored tohelp the system start up more quickly on each subsequent startup.
The available setting values are: Disabled and Enabled.
v[SuperBIOS-Protect] SuperBIOS-Protect (Default: Disabled)
SuperBIOS-Protect function protects your PC from being affected by viruses,
e.g. CIH. The available setting values are: Disabled and Enabled.
v[SuperRecovery] SuperRecovery Hotkey (Default: LSHIFT+F12)
SuperRecovery provides the users with an excellent data protection and HDD
recovery function. There are 12 optional hotkey and the default hotkey is
LSHIFT+F12.
v[SuperSpeed] SuperSpeed
Press <Enter> to set the items of SuperSpeed. Setting these items are good
for overlock. Please refer to page 30.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
SuperSpeed Menu
Note: W e suggest you set the following option s as default.
vCPU/AGP OverClock in MHz (Default: Depend on CPU)
This option is used to set CPU/AGP overclock.
vHammer Fid control (Default: StartUp)
This option is used to set hammer fid.
vChipset Vcore Select (Default: Default)
This option is used to set chipset vcore.
vMemory Voltage Select (Default: Default)
This option is used to set memory voltage.
vHyperTransport Vdd Select (Default: Default)
This option is used to set HyperTransport vdd.
vCPU/AGP Voltage Select (Default: Default)
This option is used to set CPU/AGP voltage.
Warning:
Make sure your selection is right. Overclocking CPU/AGP/Memory/
HyperTransprot can adversely affect the reliability of the system
and introduce errors into your system. We will not be responsible
for any damage caused.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
Advanced BIOS Features
Advanced BIOS Features Menu
vHard Disk Boot Priority
This option is used to select the priority for HDD startup. After pressing
<Enter>, you can select the HDD using the <PageUp>/<PageDn> or Up/Down
arrow keys, and change the HDD priority using <+> or <->. To exit this option,
press <Esc>.
vVirus Warning (Default: Disabled)
This option is used to set up the virus warning message for the IDE HDD boot
sector. When enabled, a warning message will appear on the screen if any
program intends to write information to the boot sector. The available setting
values are: Disabled and Enabled.
ote: Such function provides protection to the startup sector only; it does not
N
protect the entire hard disk.
vCPU Internal Cache (Default: Enabled)
This option is used to turn on or off the CPU L1 and L2 cache. The available
setting values are: Disabled and Enabled. Leave this item at the default value
for better performance.
vExternal Cache (Default: Enabled)
This option is used to turn on or off the CPU external cache. The available
setting values are: Disabled and Enabled. Leave this item at the default value
for better performance.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
vQuick Power On Self Test (Default: Enabled)
With this function enabled, the system will skip the normal test while starting
up, therefore shortening the overall startup time. The available setting values
are: Disabled and Enabled.
vFirst/Second/Third Boot Device (Default: Floppy/Hard Disk/CDROM/)
This option allows you to set the boot device sequence. The available setting
values are: Floppy, LS120, Hard Disk, CDROM, ZIP100, USB-FDD, USB-ZIP,
USB-CDROM, Legacy LAN, NVIDIA Boot Age and Disabled.
vBoot Other Device (Default: Enabled)
With this item enabled, the system will search all other possible locations if it
fails to find one in the devices specified under the first, second and third boot
devices.
vSecurity Option (Default: Setup)
When it is set to Setup, a password is required to enter the CMOS Setup
screen; when it is set to System, a password is required not only to enter
CMOS Setup, but also to start up your PC.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
Advanced Chipset Features
Advanced Chipset Features Menu
vDRAM Configuration (Default: Press Enter)
Press <Enter> to set the items about DRAM Configuration. Please refer to
page 34.
vAGP Aperture Size (Default: 128MB)
This option defines the size of the aperture if you use an AGP graphic adapter.
The aperture is a portion of the PCI memory address range dedicated for
graphic memory address space.
vClock Spread Spectrum (Default: Disabled)
This option is used to enable or disable the clock spread spectrum. The
available setting values are: Disabled and Enabled.
vSpecial I/O for PCI Card (Default: Disabled)
This option is used enable or disable the special I/O for PCI card. The
availabled setting values are: Disabled and Enabled.
vSystem BIOS Cacheable (Default: Disabled)
Select “Enabled” to allow catching of the system BIOS which may improve per-
formance. If any other program writes to this memory area, a system error
may result. The available setting values are: Disabled and Enabled.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
DRAM Configuration Menu
vMax Memclock (Default: Auto)
When it is set to Manual in “DDR Timing Setting by”, user can place an Artificial
memory clock limit on the system. Memory is prevented from running faster
than this frequancy. The available setting values are: 100, 133, 166, 200, Auto.
v1T/2T Memory Timing (Default: Auto) (optional)
This setting controls the SDRAM command rate. Selecting [Auto] allows SDRAM
signal controller to run at 1T (T=clock cycles) rate. Selecting [1T] makes SDRAM
signal controller run at 2T rate. 1T is faster than 2T. The available setting values
are: 1T, 2T, Auto.
vCAS# Latency (Default: Auto)
This option controls the CAS latency, which determines the timing delay (in
clock cycles) before SDRAM starts a read command after recerving it. The
available setting values are: Auto, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0.
vRAS# to CAS# delay (Trcd) (Default: Auto)
When DRAM is refreshed, both rows and columns are addressed separately.
This setup item allows you to determine the timing of the transition from RAS
(row address strobe) to CAS (column address strobe). The less the clock
cycles, the faster the DRAM performance. The available setting values are:
Auto, 2-7.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
Integrated Peripherals
Integrated Peripherals Menu
vIDE Function Setup
Press Enter to set the items about IDE Function. Please refer to page 37.
vRAID Config
Press <Enter> to set the items of Raid configuration. Please refer to page
38.
vInit Display First (Default: PCI Slot)
This option is used to set which display device will be used first when your
PC starts up. The available setting values are: PCI Slot and Onboard/AGP.
vUSB KB/Storage Support (Default: Enabled)
This option is used to set USB keyboard/storage support. The available set-
ting values are: Disabled and Enabled.
vIDE HDD Block Mode (Default: Enabled)
This option is used to set whether the IDE HDD Block Mode is allowed. The
available setting values are: Disabled and Enabled.
vPOWER ON Function (Default: BUTTON ONLY)
This option is used to set the power on method for your PC. Setting values
include: Password, Hot KEY, Mouse Move, Mouse Click, Any KEY, BUTTON
ONLY and Keyboard98.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
vKB Power ON Password (Default: Enter)
When the POWER ON Function is set to Password, use this item to set the
password.
vHot Key Power ON (Default: Ctrl-F1)
When the POWER ON Function is set to Hot KEY, use this item to set the hot
key combination that turns on the system. The available setting values are:
Ctrl-F1-F12.
vOnboard Serial Port 1/2 (Default: 3F8/IRQ4/2F8/IRQ3)
This option is used to assign the I/O address and interrupt request (IRQ)
for the onboard serial port 1/2.
ote: Do not try to set the same values for serial port 1 and 2.
N
vUART Mode Select (Default: Normal)
Use this option to select the UART mode. The setting values include Normal,
IrDA, ASKIR and SCR. The setting value is determined by the infrared module
installed on the board.
vUR2 Duplex Mode (Default: Half)
This option is available when UART 2 mode is set to either ASKIR or IRDA. This
option enables you to determine the infrared (IR) function of the onboard infrared chip. The available setting values are: Half and Full.
vOnboard Parallel Port (Default: 378/IRQ7)
This option is used to assign the I/O address and interrupt request (IRQ) for
onboard parallel port controller. The setting values include: Disabled, 378/
IRQ7, 278/IRQ5 and 3BC/IRQ7.
vParallel Port Mode (Default: SPP)
Select an address and corresponding interrupt for the onboard parallel port.
The setting values include SPP, EPP, ECP, ECP+EPP.
vPWRON After PWR-Fail (Default: Off)
This option is used to set what action the PC will take with the power supply
when it resumes after a sudden power failure. The available options are: Off
(remain in turn off status). On (auto power on) and Former-Sts (resume with
the previous status).
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
IDE Function Menu
vOnChip IDE Channel 0/1
This option is used to set the onchip IDE channel 0/1. The available setting
are: Disabled and Enabled.
vIDE Primary/Secondary Master/Slave PIO (Default: Auto)
These four items let you assign which kind of PIO (Programmer Input/Output)
is used by IDE devices. Choose “Auto” to let the system auto detect which PIO
mode is best, or select a PIO mode from 0-4.
vPrimary/Secondary Master/Slave UItraDMA (Default: Auto)
UItraDMA technology provides faster access to IDE devices. If you install a
device that supports UItraDMA, change the appropriate items on this list to
Auto. The available setting values are: Disabled and Auto.
vIDE DMA Prefetch Mode (Default: Enabled)
This option is used to enable or disable IDE DMA Prefetch Mode.
vIDE DMA transfer access (Default: Enabled)
This option is used to enable or disable IDE DMA transfer access.
vSerial-ATA 2 (Internal PHY) (Default: Enabled)
This option is used to enable or disable Serial-ATA 2.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
RAID Config Menu
vIDE RAID (Default: Disabled)
This option is used to disable or enable the RAID function. When enabled,
the following grayed items will be activated.
vIDE Channel 0/1 Master/Slave RAID (Default: Disabled)
This feature allows users to enable or disable the RAID function for each
IDE hard disk drive. The setting values are Enabled and Disabled.
vSATA Primary/Secondary Master RAID (Default: Disabled)
This feature allows users to enable or disable the RAID function for each
SATA hard disk drive. The setting values are Enabled and Disabled.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
Power Management Setup
Power Management Setup Menu
vACPI function (Default: Enabled)
ACPI stands for “Advanced Configuration and Power Interface”. ACPI is a
standard that defines power and configuration management interfaces between an operating system and the BIOS. In other words, it is a standard that
describes how computer components work together to manage system
hardware. In order to use this function the ACPI specification must be supported by the OS (for example, Windows2000 or WindowsXP). The available
setting values are: Enabled and Disabled.
vACPI Suspend Type (Default: S1(POS))
This option is used to set the energy saving mode of the ACPI function.
When you select “S1 (POS)” mode, the power will not shut off and the
supply status will remain as it is, in S1 mode the computer can be resumed
at any time. When you select “S3 (STR)” mode, the power will be cut off after
a delay period. The status of the computer before it enters STR will be saved
in memory, and the computer can quickly return to the previous status when
the STR function wakes. When you select “S1 & S3” mode, the system
will automatically select the delay time.
vPower Management (Default: User Define)
This option is used to set the power management scheme. Available settings
are: User Define, Min Saving and Max Saving.
vVideo Off Method (Default: DPMS Supported)
This option is used to define the video off method. “Blank Screen” mode
means that after the computer enters power saving mode, only the monitor
will close, however, the vertical and horizontal scanning movement of the screen
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
continues. When you select the “V/H SYNC + Blank” mode the vertical and horizontal
scanning movement of screen stops when the computer enters power saving
mode. “DPMS Supported” mode is a new screen power management system,
and it needs to be supported by the monitor you’re using.
vHDD Power Down (Default: Disabled)
This option is used to turn off hard disk power if the hard disk is idle for a given
period of time. The setting values are Disabled and 1Min-15Min.
vHDD Down In Suspend (Default: Disabled)
This option is used to define the continuous HDD idle time before the HDD
enters power saving mode. The setting values are Disabled and Enabled.
vSoft-Off by PBTN (Default: Instant-Off)
This option is used to set the power down method. This function is only valid
for systems using an ATX power supply. When “Instant-Off” is selected, press
the power switch to immediately turn off power. When “Delay 4 Sec.” is
selected, press and hold the power button for four seconds to turn off power.
vPower-On by Alarm (Default: Disabled)
This option is used to enable or disable the feature of booting up the system
on a scheduled time/date. The setting values are Disabled and Enabled.
vDate of Month Alarm
When the Power-On by Alarm set as “Enabled”, this option will be modified. It
is used to set the timing for the start-up date. The setting values contain 0 - 31.
vTime (hh: mm: ss) Alarm
When the Power-On by Alarm set as “Enabled”, this option will be modified. It
is used to set the timing for the start-up date. The setting values contain hh: 023; mm: 0-59; ss: 0-59.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
PnP/PCI Configurations
PnP/PCI Configurations Menu
vReset Configuration Data (Default: Disabled)
This option is used to set whether the system is permitted to automatically
distribute IRQ DMA and I/O addresses each time the machine is turned on.
The setting values are: Disabled and Enabled.
vResources Controlled By (Default: Auto (ESCD))
This option is used to define the system resource control scheme. If all cards
you use support PnP, then select Auto (ESCD) and the BIOS will automatically
distribute interruption resources. If the ISA cards you installed not supporting PnP, you will need to select “Manual” and manually adjust interruption
resources in the event of hardware conflicts. However, since this motherboard
has no ISA slot, this option does not apply.
vIRQ Resources
Press the <Enter> key, then manually set IRQ resources.
vPCI/VGA Palette Snoop (Default: Disabled)
If you use a nonstandard VGA card, use this option to solve graphic acceleration card or MPEG audio card problems (e.g., colors not accurately displayed).
The setting values are: Disabled and Enabled.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
PC Health Status
PC Health Status Menu
vCPU Smart Fan Control (Default: Disabled)
This option is used to enable or disable smart fan function. The setting values
are Disabled and Enabled.
vShutdown Temperature (Default: Disabled)
This option is used to set the system temperature upper limit. When the
temperature exceeds the setting value, the motherboard will automatically
cut off power to the computer. The available setting values are: 60oC/140oF,
65oC/149oF, 70oC/158oF and Disabled.
vCase Open Warning (Default: Disabled)
This optional is used to enable or disable case open warning function. The
setting values are Disabled and Enabled.
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
Load Fail-Safe Defaults
Select this option and press <Enter>, it will pop up a dialogue box to allow you
to install fail-safe defaults for all appropriate items in the Setup Utility. Select
<Y> and press <Enter> to load the defaults. Select <N> and press <Enter> to not
load. The defaults set by BIOS have set the basic functions of system in order to
ensure the stability of system. But if your computer fails to properly work, you
may load the default to make the system recover normal, then carry out failure
testing in next step. If you only want to load the default for a specific option, you
can select this option and press the <F6> key.
Load Optimized Defaults
Select this option and press <Enter>, it will open a dialogue box that lets you
install the optimized defaults for all appropriate items in the Setup Utility. Select
<Y> and press <Enter> to load the optimized defaults. Select <N> and press
<Enter> to not install. The defaults set by BIOS have set the optimized performance parameters of system to improve the performances of system
components. But if the optimized performance parameters to be set cannot be
supported by your hardware devices, you can cause fatal errors or instability. If
you only want to load the optimized defaults for a specific option, you can select
this option and press the <F7> key.
Set Supervisor/User Password
The preferential grade of supervisor password is higher than user password.
You can use supervisor password to start into system or enter into CMOS setting program to amend setting. You can also use user password to start into
system, or enter into CMOS setting menu to check, but if you have set supervisor
password, you cannot amend the setting.
Highlight the item Set Supervisor / User Password on the main menu and press
<Enter>. The following password dialog box appears:
Enter Password:
Enter your password, not exceeding 8 characters, then press <Enter>, you will
be prompted to confirm the password, type in the password again and press
<Enter>.
If you are deleting a password that is already installed, just press <Enter> when
the password dialog box appears, and the screen will show a message that
indicates this password has been disabled. In this case, you can freely enter
into system and CMOS setting program.
PASS WORD DISABLED!!!
Press any key to continue...
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Chapter 3 BIOS Description
Under the menu “Advanced BIOS Features Setup”, if you select “System” in
Security Option, the screen will prompt you to enter password once the system
is started or you want to enter CMOS setting program. If the password is wrong,
it will refuse you to continue.
Under the menu “Advanced BIOS Features Setup”, if you select “Setup” in Security Option, the screen will prompt you to enter password only when you enter
CMOS setting program.
Save & Exit Setup
Select this option and press <Enter>, the following message will appear on the
screen:
SAVE to CMOS and EXIT (Y/N)?
Press <Y> to save the changes that you have made in the Setup Utility and exit
the Setup Utility; press <N>/<ESC> to return to the main menu.
Exit Without Saving
Select this option and press <Enter>, it will show the following message on the
screen:
Quit Without Saving (Y/N)?
Press <Y> to discard any changes that you have made in the Setup Utility and
exit the Setup Utility; press <N>/<ESC> to return to the main menu.
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NF3250K8AA/NF3250GK8AA Series User Manual
Chapter
The utility CD that came with the motherboard contains useful
software and several utility drivers that enhance the mother-
board features.
This chapter includes the following information:
4
4
v Utility CD content
v Start to install drivers
Chapter 4 Driver CD Introduction
Utility CD content
This motherboard comes with one Utility CD. To begin using the CD, simply insert
the CD into your CD-ROM driver. The CD will automatically display the main menu
screen.
1. Install Driver
Using this option to install all the drivers for your motherboard. You should
install the drivers sequentially, from first to last.
A. nVIDIA nForce Chipset System B.Direct X 9.0b
C.Audio Driver D.USB 2.0 Driver
E.Silicon Image RAID Driver (optional)
2. Accessories
Use this option to install additional software programs.
A. SuperUtility
a. SuperStep
Superstep is powerful and easy-to-operate tool for overclocking. You can
quickly increase your CPU’s working frequency through its user-friendly
interface. It will enhance your CPU’s performance and meet all kinds of DIY
requirements.
b. SuperLogo
SuperLogo can display user-designed graphics and pictures, such as a
company logo or personal photos, thus making your PC more personalized
and friendly.
c. SuperUpdate
SuperUpdate function can help to update the BIOS through Internet
B. Adobe Reader
C.Norton Internet Security
D.Word Perfect Office 12
E.nTune (optional)
3. Browse CD
Click to browse the content of manual.
4. Browse CD
Click to browse this CD.
5. Homepage
Click here to visit Foxconn motherboard homepage.
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Start to install drivers
Select <Install Driver> to enter the driver installation menu (as following pic).
Click the relevant button to install nVIDIA nForce Chipset System, DirectX 9.0b,
Audio Driver, USB2.0 Driver, Silicon Image RAID Driver (optional).
Please install the
drives in sequence
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Chapter
NVIDIA brings Redundant Array of Independent Disks
(RAID) technology—which is used by the world’s leading
businesses—to the common PC desktop. This technol-
ogy uses multiple drivers to either increase total disk
space or to offer data protection.
5
5
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48
This chapter includes the following information:
v RAID Arrays
v Basic Configuration Instructions
v Setting up BIOS
v Entering the RAID BIOS Setup
v NVIDIA RAID Utility Installation
v Initializing and Using the Disk Array
v Win2K Limitation with Bootable RAID
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NVIDIA RAID
RAID Arrays
This section describes the following types of RAID arrays that NVIDIA RAID
supports:
• RAID 0
RAID 0 defines a disk striping scheme that improves the disk read and write
times for many applications.
• RAID 1
RAID 1 defines techniques for mirroring data.
• RAID 0+1
RAID 0+1 combines the techniques used in RAID 0 and RAID 1 arrays.
• Spanning (JBOD)
JBOD provides a method for combining drives of different sizes into one large
disk.
Summary of RAID Configurations
Array
RAID 0
RAID 1
RAID
0+1
JBOD
Advantages
High data throughput.
100% data redund-
ancy.
Optimized for both
100% data redun-
dancy and per-
formance. Allows
spare disks.
Combines and uses
the capacity of odd
size drives.
Drawbacks
No fault tolerance.
Requires two drives
for the storage space
of one drive.
Requires two drives
for the storage space
of one drive—the
same as RAID level 1.
Decreases perfor-
mance because of the
difficulty in using drives
concurrently or to op-
timize drives for differ-
ent uses.
# Hard Disks
multiple
2
4+
multiple
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Fault Tolerance
None
Yes
Yes
No
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Chapter 5 NVIDIA RAID Introduction
Basic Configuration Instructions
The following are the basic steps for configuring NVIDIA RAID:
Non-Bootable RAID Array
1. Choose the hard disks that are to be RAID enabled in the system BIOS.
2. Specify the RAID level, either Mirroring (RAID 1), Striping (RAID 0), Stripe Mirroring
(RAID 0+1), or Spanning (JBOD) and create the desired RAID array.
3. Install the operating system on one hard disk, then reboot the computer.
4. Run the Windows nForce Setup application and install the RAID driver.
5. Initialize the NVRAID Array.
Bootable RAID Array
1. Choose the hard disks that are to be RAID enabled in the system BIOS.
2. Specify the RAID level, either Mirroring (RAID 1), Striping (RAID 0), Mirrored Striping
(RAID 0+1), or Spanning (JBOD) and create the desired RAID array.
3. Boot from the Windows CD, then press F6 when the Windows Setup appears.
4. Insert the RAID driver floppy to Install the nForce RAID driver.
5. Initialize the NVRAID Array.
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Setting Up the BIOS
1. Start up the computer, then press Delete to enter the BIOS setup. Use the arrow
keys to select Integrated Peripherals, then press Enter.
2. Use the arrow keys to select the RAID Config, then press Enter.
3. From the RAID Config window, enabled the IDE RAID, the other items would be
light, then you can enable the disk that you want to use as RAID disks.
4. Press F10 to save the configuration and exit.
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Entering the RAID BIOS Setup
1. After rebooting your PC, wait until you see the RAID software prompting you to
press F10. The RAID prompt appears as part of the system POST and boot process
prior to loading OS.
2. Press<N>, and the NVIDIA RAID Utility --- Define a New Array window will appear.
The default RAID Mode is set to Mirroring and the default Striping Block is set to
Optimal.
Understanding the “Define a New Array” Window
Use the Define a New Array window to
• Select the RAID Mode
• Set up the Striping Block
• Specify which disks to use for the RAID Array
Depending on the platform used, the system have one or more adapters. In a typical
system there are usually one channel and multiple adapters, and each adapter
have a slave and a master.
The adapter/channel/master/slave status of each hard disk is given in the Loc
(location) columns of the Free Disks and Array Disks lists.
52
1. 0. M
M: Master
S: Slave
0: Channel
Adapter 0 is used for PATA drives;
Adapter 1 is used for SATA drives.
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In the example above, 1.0.M means the hard drive is attached to Adapter 1, Channel
0, and the drive is set to Master. The following is a list of all possible combinations:
Parallel ATA
0.0.M Adapter 0, Channel 0, Master
0.0.S Adapter 0, Channel 0, Slave
0.1.M Adapter 0, Channel 1, Master
0.1.S Adapter 0, Channel 1, Slave
Serial ATA
1.0.M Adapter 1, Channel 0, Master
1.1.M Adapter 1, Channel 1, Slave
Note: There is no such thing as Slave drive in Serial ATA. All drives are considered to
be Master since there is a one to one connection between the drive and the channel.
Using the Define a New Array Window
If necessary, press the tab key to move from field to field until the appropriate field is
high lighted.
• Selecting the RAID Mode
By default, this is set to [Mirroring]. Change to a different RAID mode, press the
down arrow keys until the mode that you want appears in the RAID Mode box—
either [Mirroring], [Striping], [Spanning], or [Stripe Mirroring].
• Selecting the Striping Block Size
Striping Block size is given in kilobytes, and affects how data is arranged on the
disk. It is recommended to leave this value at the default [Optimal], which is 32KB,
but the values can be between [4 KB] and [128 KB].
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• Assigning the Disks
The disks that you enabled from the RAID Config BIOS setup page appear in the
Free Disks block. These are the drives that are available for use as RAID array.
To designate a free disk to be used as a RAID array:
1. Tab to the Free Disks section. The first disk in the list is selected.
2. Move it from the Free Disks block to the Array Disks block by pressing the right
arrow key (→). The first disk in the list is moved, and the next disk in the list is
selected and ready to be moved.
3. Continue pressing the right-arrow key (→) until all the disks that you want to use
as RAID array appear in the Array Disks block.
It shows that two disks have been assigned as RAID1 array disks in the figure
above.
Completing the RAID BIOS Setup
1. After assigning your RAID array mode, press F7. The Clear disk data windows
prompt appears.
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2. Press Y if you want to wipe out all the data from the RAID array, otherwise press
N. You must choose Yes if the drives were previously used as RAID drives.
The Array List window appears, where you can review the RAID arrays that you
have set up.
3. Use the arrow keys to select the array that you want to set up, then press Enter.
The Array Detail window appears.
4. If you want to mark this disk as empty and wipe out all its contents then press C.
5. At the prompt, press Y to wipe out all the data, otherwise press N.
6. Press Enter again to go back to the previous window and then press Ctrl+X to exit
the RAID setup.
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Chapter 5 NVIDIA RAID Introduction
NVIDIA RAID Utility Installation
Installing the NVIDIA RAID Software Under Windows (for Non-bootable RAID Array)
This section describes how to setup the application and install the RAID software
which will upgrade the Windows IDE driver and install the RAID driver.
1. Start the nForce Setup program to open the NVIDIA Windows nForce Drivers
page.
2. Select the modules that you want to install. Select the relative options that you
have configured.
3. Click Next and then follow the instructions.
4. After the installation is completed, be sure to reboot the PC.
5. After the reboot, initialize the newly created array.
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Installing the RAID Driver (for bootable RAID Array)
1. After you complete the RAID BIOS setup, boot from the Windows CD, and the Windows
Setup program starts.
2. Press F6 and wait for the Windows Setup screen to appear.
3. Specify the NVIDIA drivers:
(1) Insert the floppy that has the RAID driver, press S. The Windows Setup screen appears
as below:
(2) Select “NVIDIA RAID CLASS DRIVER” and then press Enter.
(3) Press S again at the Specify Devices screen, then press Enter.
(4) Select “NVIDIA NForce Storage Controller” and then press Enter. The following Windows
Setup screen appears listing both drivers:
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4. Press Enter to continue with operating system Installation. Be sure to copy the
files from the floppy is complete, then take out the floppy.
5. Follow the instructions on how to install operating system. During the GUI portion
of the installation you might be prompted to click Yes to install the RAID driver. Click
Yes as many times as needed in order to finish the installation. This will not be an
issue with a signed driver.
Note: Each time you add a new hard drive to a RAID array, the RAID driver will have
to be installed under Windows once for that hard drive. After that, the driver will not
have to be installed.
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Initializing and Using the Disk Array
The RAID array is now ready to be initialized under Windows.
1. Launch Computer Management by clicking “Start” —> “Settings” —> “Control
Panel” then open the “Administrative Tools” folder and double click on “Computer
Management”.
2. Follow screen instructions to install. While finished, the “Computer Manage-
ment” window appears.
The actual disks listed will depend on your system, and the unallocated partition is
the total combined storage of two hard disks. You must format the unallocated disk
space in order to use it.
3. Format the unallocated disk space. Right click “Unallocated space”, select “New
Partition…” and follow the wizard. After the drive has been formatted, it is ready for
use.
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Chapter 5 NVIDIA RAID Introduction
Win2K Limitation with Bootable RAID
In Windows 2000 (Service Pack 2 or previous versions), the end user cannot install
this operating system to a bootable RAID volume.
There are two solutions to resolve this issue.
I) Use the NVRAID Tool to convert the boot volume to a RAID array.
Here are the detailed step by step instructions:
1. Install Windows 2000 on a selected hard drive.
2. Download and install Windows 2000 Service Pack 4 from Microsoft’s website.
3. Reboot the system, press the DEL key as the system is rebooting to enter into the
system BIOS.
4. Select Integrated Peripherals →RAID Config.
5. Enable RAID Config for the selected drive (the one containing the Windows 2000
operating system). Then press F10 to exit and save settings in the system BIOS
(This action reboots the System).
6. Press F10 as the system is rebooting to go into the RAID ROM(The system
directs you into the NVIDIA RAID Utility).
7. Select Striping under RAID Mode. Press TAB to go into the Free Disk menu. You
can use the Right Arrow key to add the desired disk.
8. After that, Press F7 to finish. Select N (NO) when asked to Clear Disk Data.
9. Then Press Ctrl-X to exit.The system reboots into Windows 2000.
10. Install the NVIDIA nForce Driver Package while in Windows 2000. Then reboot
the system.
11. Go to START>Programs>Nvidia Corporation and select NVRAID Manager. You
should see the single disk RAID array (in striping mode) that was created from the
boot disk.
12. Select the single boot disk RAID Array by clicking on it.
13. Select Convert Array under the System Tasks. The Convert Array wizard is
displayed. Then Select Next.
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14. Select the desired type of RAID array you want to convert. Then Select Next.
15. You are prompted to select the desired Free Disk(s) to add to the bootable RAID
array. Click Finish.
At this point, NVRAID starts converting the single disk RAID array into a multi-disk
RAID array in a bootable format.
Note: Conversion may take 1-2 hours depending on disk size.
II) The user must create a combination installation CD that includes Windows
2000 and SP3 or SP4 fixes integrated in. To create the combination installation
CD, refer to the following website:
h
ttp://www.micro soft.com/windows2000/downloads/servicepacks/sp4/HFd eploy.
htm
Note: If the end user chooses not to install Windows 2000 Service Pack 3 or 4, RAID
is still supported on Windows 2000. However, the end user will not be able to create
a bootable RAID volume.
Note:
Please follow the steps we have introduced to set RAID array,
and do not use NVRAID tool to set RAID array under win-
dows XP.
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