MSI 946GZ Neo, MS-7279 User Manual

946GZ Neo Series

MS-7279 (V1.X) Mainboard

G52-72791X1

i

Copyright Notice

The material in this document is the intellectual property of MICRO-STAR
INTERNATIONAL. We take every care in the preparation of this document, but no

guarantee is given as to the correctness of its contents. Our products are under
continual improvement and we reserve the right to make changes without notice.

Trademarks

All trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.
NVIDIA, the NVIDIA logo, DualNet, and nForce are registered trademarks or trade-

marks of NVIDIA Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
AMD, Athlon™ , Athlon™ XP, Thoroughbred™, and Duron™ are registered trade­marks of AMD Corporation.
Intel® and Pentium® are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.
PS/2 and OS®/2 are registered trademarks of International Business Machines
Corporation.
Windows® 95/98/2000/NT/XP are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Netware® is a registered trademark of Novell, Inc.
Award® is a registered trademark of Phoenix Technologies Ltd.
AMI® is a registered trademark of American Megatrends Inc.

Revision History

Revision Revision History Date

V1.0 First release December 2006

Technical Support

If a problem arises with your system and no solution can be obtained from the user’s
manual, please contact your place of purchase or local distributor. Alternatively,
please try the following help resources for further guidance.

Visit the MSI website for FAQ, technical guide, BIOS updates, driver updates,
and other information: http://www.msi.com.tw/program/service/faq/

faq/esc_faq_list.php

Contact our technical staff at: http://support.msi.com.tw

ii

Safety Instructions

1. Always read the safety instructions carefully.

2. Keep this User’s Manual for future reference.

3. Keep this equipment away from humidity.

4. Lay this equipment on a reliable flat surface before setting it up.

5. The openings on the enclosure are for air convection hence protects the equip­ment from overheating. DO NOT COVER THE OPENINGS.

6. Make sure the voltage of the power source and adjust properly 110/220V be­fore connecting the equipment to the power inlet.

7. Place the power cord such a way that people can not step on it. Do not place
anything over the power cord.

8. Always Unplug the Power Cord before inserting any add-on card or module.

9. All cautions and warnings on the equipment should be noted.

10. Never pour any liquid into the opening that could damage or cause electrical
shock.

11. If any of the following situations arises, get the equipment checked by service
personnel:

† The power cord or plug is damaged.
† Liquid has penetrated into the equipment.
† The equipment has been exposed to moisture.
† The equipment does not work well or you can not get it work according to

User’s Manual.

† The equipment has dropped and damaged.
† The equipment has obvious sign of breakage.

12. DO NOT LEAVE THIS EQUIPMENT IN AN ENVIRONMENT UNCONDITIONED, STOR­AGE TEMPERATURE ABOVE 600 C (1400F), IT MAY DAMAGE THE EQUIPMENT.

CAUTION: Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced.
Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the
manufacturer.

iii

FCC-B Radio Frequency Interference Statement

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 measures listed
below.

† Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
† Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
† Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to

which the receiver is connected.

† Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help.

Notice 1

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

Notice 2

Shielded interface cables and A.C. power cord, if any, must be used in order to
comply with the emission limits.

VOIR LA NOTICE D’ INSTALLATION AVANT DE RACCORDER AU RESEAU.

Micro-Star International

MS-7279

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.

iv

WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Statement

v

vi

vii

CONTENTS

Copyright Notice..............................................................................................................ii

Trademarks.......................................................................................................................ii

Revision History..............................................................................................................ii

Technical Support...........................................................................................................ii

Safety Instructions.........................................................................................................iii

FCC-B Radio Frequency Interference Statement........................................................iv

WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Statement....................................v

Chapter 1. Getting Started....................................................................................1-1

Mainboard Specifications...................................................................................1-2

Mainboard Layout................................................................................................1-4

Packing Checklist.................................................................................................1-5

MSI Special Feature............................................................................................1-6

Chapter 2. Hardware Setup..................................................................................2-1

Quick Components Guide....................................................................................2-2

CPU (Central Processing Unit)............................................................................2-3

Introduction to LGA 775 CPU......................................................................2-3

CPU & Cooler Installation.............................................................................2-4

Memory.................................................................................................................2-7

Installing DDRII Modules...............................................................................2-8

Power Supply......................................................................................................2-9

ATX 24-Pin System Power Connector: ATX1............................................2-9

ATX 12V Power Connector: JPW1............................................................2-9

Back Panel..........................................................................................................2-10

Connectors........................................................................................................2-12

Floppy Disk Drive Connector: FDD1..........................................................2-12

Hard Disk Connectors: IDE1......................................................................2-12

Serial ATAII Connectors: SATA1~SATA4.................................................2-13

Fan Power Connectors: CPUFAN1/SYSFAN1/SYSFAN2......................2-14

Serial Port Connector: JCOM2..................................................................2-14

CD-In Connector: JCD_IN1........................................................................2-15

Front Panel Audio Connector: JAUDIO1..................................................2-15

Front Panel Connectors: JFP1/JFP2........................................................2-16

Front USB Connectors: JUSB1/JUSB2....................................................2-17

IrDA Infrared Module Header: JIR1...........................................................2-18

SPDIF-Out Connector: JSP1(Optional, for HDMI graphics card only)...2-18

SPI Debugging Pin Header: JSPI1.............................................................2-18

Chassis Intrusion Switch Connector: JCASE1.......................................2-18

viii

Jumpers..............................................................................................................2-19

Clear CMOS Jumper: JBAT1.....................................................................2-19

Slots....................................................................................................................2-20

PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) Express Slots.......................2-20

PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) Slots......................................2-20

PCI Interrupt Request Routing...................................................................2-21

Chapter 3. BIOS Setup............................................................................................3-1

Entering Setup.....................................................................................................3-2

Control Keys................................................................................................3-3

Getting Help..................................................................................................3-3

The Main Menu.....................................................................................................3-4

Standard CMOS Features...................................................................................3-6

Advanced BIOS Features...................................................................................3-9

Integrated Peripherals.......................................................................................3-13

Power Management Setup...............................................................................3-16

PNP/PCI Configurations.....................................................................................3-19

H/W Monitor........................................................................................................3-22

Cell Menu............................................................................................................3-24

CPU and Memory Clock Overclocking.............................................................3-27

Load Fail-Safe/Optimized Defaults..................................................................3-28

BIOS Setting Password.....................................................................................3-29

Appendix A: Realtek ALC888 Audio...................................................................A-1

Installing the Realtek HD Audio Driver................................................................A-2

Installation for Windows 2000/XP..............................................................A-2

Software Configuration......................................................................................A-4

Sound Effect................................................................................................A-5

Mixer.............................................................................................................A-8

Audio I/O.....................................................................................................A-12

Microphone................................................................................................A-16

3D Audio Demo...........................................................................................A-17

Information..................................................................................................A-18

Hardware Setup................................................................................................A-19

ix

x

Getting Started

Chapter 1

Getting Started

Thank you for choosing the 946GZ Neo Series (MS­7279 v2.X) ATX mainboard. The 946GZ Neo Series
mainboards are based on Intel® 946GZ & ICH7 chipsets
for optimal system efficiency. Designed to fit the ad­vanced Intel® Pentium 4, Pentium D & Core 2 Duo

series processors, the 946GZ Neo Series deliver a high

performance and professional desktop platform
solution.

1-1

MS-7279 Mainboard

Mainboard Specifications

Processor Support*

- Intel® Core 2 Duo, Pentium 4, Pentium D and Celeron D processors
in the LGA775 package.

- Supports 4 pin CPU Fan Pin-Header with Fan Speed Control.

- Supports EIST Technology.

- Supports Hyper-Threading (HT) Technology.

Supported FSB

- 533/800 MHz
*For overclocking spec, please visit http://www.msi.com.tw for more

information.

Chipset

- North Bridge: Intel® 946GZ chipset

- South Bridge: Intel® ICH7 chipset

Memory Support**

- DDRII 667/533 SDRAM (2GB Max)

- 2 DIMMs DDRII (240pin / 1.8V)

LAN

- Supports PCI-E LAN 10/100/1000 Fast Ethernet by Realtek 8111B

Audio

- Chip integrated by Realtek® ALC888

- Flexible 8-channel audio with jack sensing

- Compliant with Azalia spec

SATA

- 4 SATA II ports by ICH7

- Supports storage and data transfers at up to 3.0 Gb/s

Floppy

- 1 floppy port

- Supports 1 FDD with 360K, 720K, 1.2M, 1.44M and 2.88Mbytes

1-2

Connectors

Back Panel

- 1 PS/2 mouse port

- 1 PS/2 keyboard port.

- 1 serial port (JCOM1)

- 1 VGA port

- 1 parallel port supporting SPP/EPP/ECP mode

- 4 USB 2.0 Ports.

- 1 LAN jack (10/100/1000)

- 6 flexible audio jacks.

On-Board Pinheaders

- 2 USB 2.0 pinheaders

- 1 serial port (JCOM2)

- 1 chassis-intrusion pinheader

- 1 IrDA pinheader

Slots

- 1 PCI Express x16 slot

- 2 PCI Express x1 slots

- 3 PCI slots.

- Support 3.3V/ 5V PCI bus Interface

Getting Started

Form Factor

- ATX (30.5cm X 22.0cm)

Mounting

- 6 mounting holes

* For the latest information about CPU, please visit http://www.msi.

com.tw/program/products/mainboard/mbd/pro_mbd_cpu_support.
php

** For the updated supporting memory modules, please visit http://

www.msi.com.tw/program/products/mainboard/mbd/
pro_mbd_trp_list.php

1-3

MS-7279 Mainboard

ATX1

SYSFAN2

Intel

946GZ

BATT

D

IMM

1DIMM

2

CPUFAN1

IDE

1

JFP2

JFP1

JAUDIO1

Intel

LAN Chip

Mainboard Layout

Top : mouse
Bottom: keyboard

Top : Parallel Port
Bottom:

COM A
VGA Port

USB ports

T: LAN jack
B: USB ports

1
W

P
J

T:

Line-In

M:

Line-Out

B:

Mic
T:RS-Out
M:CS

-Out

B:SS-Out

JCOM2

1
N
A
F
S
Y
S

+

PCIE1

PCIE2

1
R

I
J

Winbond

W83627DHG

1
E
S
C

J

Codec

JCD_IN1

PCIE3

PCI 1

PCI 2

PCI 3

JSP1(Optional)

FDD 1

1
S
O

I
B
J

1

I
P
S
J

JUSB2 JUSB1

ICH7

2
A
T

A

S
4
A

T
A
S

3

1

A

A

T

T

A

A

S

S

1
T
A
B
J

946GZ Neo Series (MS-7279 v2.X) ATX Mainboard

1-4

Packing Checklist

Getting Started

MSI motherboard

Power Cable

MSI Driver/Utility CD

Standard Cable for

Floppy Disk (Optional)

SATA Cable

Standard Cable for

IDE Devices

Back IO Shield

* The pictures are for reference only. Your packing contents may vary
depending on the model you purchased.

User’s Guide

1-5

MS-7279 Mainboard

MSI Special Feature

The Core Center is a new utility you can find in the CD-ROM disk. The utility is just like
your PC doctor that can detect, view and adjust the PC hardware and system status
during real time operation. In the left side it shows the current system status, includ­ing the Vcore, 3.3V, +5V and 12V. In the right side it shows the current PC hardware
status such as the CPU & system temperatures and all fans speeds.

When you click the red triangles in the left and right sides, two sub-menus will open
for users to adjust the thresholds of system to send out the warning messages.

1-6

Getting Started

Left-wing: Current system status

In the left sub-menu, you can configure the settings of FSB, Vcore, Memory Voltage
and AGP Voltage by clicking the radio button next to each item and make it available
(the radio button will be lighted as yellow when selected), use the “+” and “-” buttons
to adjust, then click “OK” to apply the changes. Then you can click “Save” to save
the values you just configured.
Also you may click “Auto” to start testing the maximum CPU overclocking value. The
CPU FSB will automatically increase the testing value until the PC reboots. Or you may
click “Default” to restore the default values.

Right-wing: PC hardware status during real time operation

In the right sub-menu, here you can configure the PC hardware status such as CPU
& system temperatures and fan speeds. You may use the scroll bars to adjust each
item, then click “OK” to apply the changes. The values you set for the temperatures
are the maximum thresholds for the system for warnings, and the value for fan
speeds are the minimum thresholds.

Important

Items shown on Core Center vary depending on your system status.

1-7

MS-7279 Mainboard

1-8

Hardware Setup

Chapter 2

Hardware Setup

This chapter provides you with the information about
hardware setup procedures. While doing the installation,
be careful in holding the components and follow the
installation procedures. For some components, if you
install in the wrong orientation, the components will not
work properly.

Use a grounded wrist strap before handling computer
components. Static electricity may damage the
components.

2-1

MS-7279 Mainboard

ATX1

SYSFAN2

Intel

946GZ

BATT

DIMM1

DIMM2

CPUFAN1

IDE 1

JFP2

JFP1

JAUDIO1

Intel

LAN Chip

Quick Components Guide

Back Panel
I/O, p.2-10

JCOM2, p.2-14

SYSFAN1,

p.2-14

Top : mouse
Bottom: keyboard

Top : Parallel Port
Bottom:

COM A
VGA Port

USB ports

T: LAN jack
B: USB ports

T:

Line-In

M:

Line-Out

B:

Mic
T:RS-Out
M:CS

-Out

B:SS-Out

ATX1,

p.2-9

JCOM2

PCIE1

CPU, p.2-3

JPW1,

p.2-9

1
W

P

J

1
N
A

F
S
Y
S

CPUFAN1,

p.2-14

DDRII DIMMs, p.2-7

+

PCIE Slots,

p.2-20

JIR1, p.2-18

JCASE1, p.2-18

PCI Slots,

p.2-20

JAUDIO1,

p.2-15

2-2

1
R

I

J

Winbond

W83627DHG

1
E
S
C

J

Codec

JSP1(Optional)

JCD_IN1

JCD_IN1,
p.2-15

JSP1(Optional),

p.2-18

PCIE2

PCIE3

PCI 1

PCI 2

PCI 3

FDD1,
p.2-12

FDD 1

SYSFAN2,

p.2-14

1
S
O

I
B

J

JUSB2

JUSB1/
JUSB2,

p.2-17

ICH7

1

I
P
S

J

JUSB1

JBAT1,

p.2-19

JSPI1,

p.2-18

1

T
A
B

J

JFP2, p.2-16

2
A
T
A

S
4
A
T
A
S

3

1

A

A

T

T

A

A

S

S

JFP1, p.2-16

IDE1, p.2-12

SATA1~4,

p.2-13

Hardware Setup

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

This mainboard supports Intel® Pentium 4, Pentium D & Core 2 Duo series processor in
LGA 775 package. When you are installing the CPU, make sure to install the
cooler to prevent overheating. If you do not have the CPU cooler, contact your
dealer to purchase and install them before turning on the computer.
For the latest information about CPU, please visit http://www.msi.com.tw/program/
products/mainboard/mbd/pro_mbd_cpu_support.php.

Important

1. Overheating will seriously damage the CPU and system. Always make
sure the cooling fan can work properly to protect the CPU from overheating.

2. Make sure that you apply an even layer of heat sink paste (or thermal tape)
between the CPU and the heatsink to enhance heat dissipation.

3. While replacing the CPU, always turn off the ATX power supply or unplug
the power supply’s power cord from the grounded outlet first to ensure the
safety of CPU.

Introduction to LGA 775 CPU

The pin-pad side of LGA 775
CPU.

Alignment Key Alignment Key

Yellow triangle is the Pin 1 indicator

The surface of LGA 775 CPU.
Remember to apply some silicone
heat transfer compound on it for
better heat dispersion.

Yellow triangle is the Pin 1 indicator

2-3

MS-7279 Mainboard

CPU & Cooler Installation

When you are installing the CPU, make sure the CPU has a cooler at-

tached on the top to prevent overheating. If you do not have the cooler, contact

your dealer to purchase and install them before turning on the computer. Meanwhile,
do not forget to apply some silicon heat transfer compound on CPU before installing
the heat sink/cooler fan for better heat dispersion.

Follow the steps below to install the CPU & cooler correctly. Wrong installation

will cause the damage of your CPU & mainboard.

1.The CPU has a plastic cap on it to
protect the contact from damage.
Before you install the CPU, always
cover it to protect the socket pin.

3.The pins of socket reveal.

2.Remove the cap from lever hinge
side (as the arrow shows).

4.Open the load lever.

2-4

Hardware Setup

Important

1.Confirm if your CPU cooler is firmly installed before turning on your system.

2. Do not touch the CPU socket pins to avoid damaging.

3. The availability of the CPU land side cover depends on your CPU packing.

5.Lift the load lever up and open the
load plate.

7.Visually inspect if the CPU is
seated well into the socket. If not,
take out the CPU with pure vertical
motion and reinstall.

6.After confirming the CPU direction
for correct mating, put down the
CPU in the socket housing frame.
Be sure to grasp on the edge of
the CPU base. Note that the align­ment keys are matched.

alignment

key

8.Cover the load plate onto the
package.

2-5

MS-7279 Mainboard

9.Press down the load lever lightly
onto the load plate, and then se­cure the lever with the hook under
retention tab.

11.Press the four hooks down to fas-

ten the cooler. Then rotate the lock­ing switch (refer to the correct di­rection marked on it) to lock the
hooks.

10. Align the holes on the mainboard
with the heatsink. Push down the
cooler until its four clips get
wedged into the holes of the
mainboard.

12.Turn over the mainboard to con­firm that the clip-ends are cor­rectly inserted.

locking

switch

Important

1.Check the information in PC Health Status of H/W Monitor in BIOS
(Chapter 3) for the CPU temperature.

2. Whenever CPU is not installed, always protect your CPU socket pin with the
plastic cap covered (shown in Figure 1) to avoid damaging.

2-6

Hardware Setup

Memory

The mainboard provides two 240-pin DDRII 667/533 DIMM slots and supports up to
2GB system memory.

For more information on compatible components, please visit http://www.msi.com.tw/
program/products/mainboard/mbd/pro_mbd_trp_list.php.

DDRII

240-pin, 1.8V

64x2=128 pin 56x2=112 pin

Memory Speed/ CPU FSB Support Matrix

Memory

CPU FSB

533MHz

800MHz

DDRII 533

OK OK

DDRII 667

OK

2-7

MS-7279 Mainboard

Installing DDRII Modules

1. The memory module has only one notch on the center and will only fit in the right
orientation.

2. Insert the DIMM memory module vertically into the DIMM slot. Then push it in until the
golden finger on the memory module is deeply inserted in the DIMM slot.

Important

You can barely see the golden finger if the module is properly inserted in the
DIMM slot.

3. The plastic clip at each side of the DIMM slot will automatically close.

Volt

Notch

Important

-DDRII modules are not interchangeable with DDR and the DDRII standard is
not backwards compatible. You should always install DDRII memory mod­ules in the DDRII DIMMs and DDR memory modules in the DDR DIMMs.

-In dual-channel mode, make sure that you install memory modules of the
same type and density in differentchannel DDR DIMMs.

-To enable successful system boot-up, always insert the memory modules
into the DIMM1 first.

2-8

Hardware Setup

Power Supply

ATX 24-Pin Power Connector: ATX1

This connector allows you to connect an ATX 24-pin power supply.
To connect the ATX 24-pin power supply, make sure the plug of the
power supply is inserted in the proper orientation and the pins are
aligned. Then push down the power supply firmly into the connector.

You may use the 20-pin ATX power supply as you like. If you’d like
to use the 20-pin ATX power supply, please plug your power sup­ply along with pin 1 & pin 13 (refer to the image at the right hand).
There is also a foolproof design on pin 11, 12, 23 & 24 to avoid
wrong installation.

Pin Definition

13

ATX1

24

1

12

PIN SIGNAL

1 +3.3V
2 +3.3V
3 GND
4 +5V
5 GND
6 +5V
7 GND
8 PWR OK
9 5VSB
10 +12V
11 +12V
12 +3.3V

PIN SIGNAL

13 +3.3V
14 -12V
15 GND
16 PS-ON#
17 GND
18 GND
19 GND
20 Res
21 +5V
22 +5V
23 +5V
24 GND

pin 13

pin 12

ATX 12V Power Connector: JPW1

This 12V power connector is used to provide power to the CPU.

Pin Definition

JPW1

2
4

1
3

PIN SIGNAL

1 GND
2 GND
3 12V
4 12V

Important

1. Maker sure that all the connectors are connected to proper ATX power sup­plies to ensure stable operation of the mainboard.

2. Power supply of 350 watts (and above) is highly recommended for system
stability.

3. ATX 12V power connection should be greater than 18A.

2-9

MS-7279 Mainboard

Back Panel

Mouse

Parallel

Keyboard USB Ports

Serial Port

Serial Port

LAN

L-In
L-Out

Mic

RS-Out
CS-Out

SS-Out

Mouse/Keyboard Connector

The standard PS/2® mouse/keyboard DIN connector is for a PS/2® mouse/keyboard.

Parallel Port Connector
A parallel port is a standard printer port that supports Enhanced Parallel Port (EPP)
and Extended Capabilities Parallel Port (ECP) mode.

Serial Port Connector
The serial port is a 16550A high speed communications port that sends/ receives 16
bytes FIFOs. You can attach a serial mouse or other serial devices directly to the
connector.

VGA Connector
The DB15-pin female connector is provided for VGA monitors.

USB Connectors
The OHCI (Open Host Controller Interface) Universal Serial Bus root is for attaching
USB devices such as keyboard, mouse, or other USB-compatible devices.

LAN (RJ-45) Jack
The standard RJ-45 jack is for connection
to single Local Area Network (LAN). You

Link IndicatorActivity Indicator

can connect a network cable to it.

LED Color LED State Condition

Off LAN link is not established.

Left Orange On (steady state) LAN link is established.

On (brighter & pulsing)The computer is communicating with another computer on the LAN.

Green Off 10 Mbit/sec data rate is selected.

Right On 100 Mbit/sec data rate is selected.

Orange On 1000 Mbit/sec data rate is selected.

2-10

Hardware Setup

Audio Port Connectors
These audio connectors are used for audio devices. You can differentiate the color
of the audio jacks for different audio sound effects.

Green audio jack - Line Out, is a connector for speakers or headphones.
Blue audio jack - Line In, is used for external CD player, tapeplayer or

other audio devices.

Pink audio jack - Mic In, is a connector for microphones.
Orange audio jack - Center/ Subwoofer Out in 5.1/ 7.1 channel mode.
Black audio jack - Rear-Surround Out in 5.1/ 7.1 channel mode.
Gray audio jack - Side-Surround Out in 7.1 channel mode.

2-11

MS-7279 Mainboard

Connectors

Floppy Disk Drive Connector: FDD1

This standard FDD connector supports 360K, 720K, 1.2M, 1.44M and 2.88M floppy
disk types.

FDD1

Hard Disk Connector: IDE1

The mainboard provides a one-channel Ultra ATA 100 bus Master IDE controller that
supports PIO mode 0~4, Bus Master, and Ultra DMA 33/66/100 function. You can
connect hard disk drives, CD-ROM drives and other IDE devices.

IDE1

IDE1 (Primary IDE Connector)

IDE1 can connect a Master and a Slave drive. You must configure the second
hard drive to Slave mode by setting the jumper accordingly.

Important

If you install two hard disks on cable, you must configure the second drive to
Slave mode by setting its jumper. Refer to the hard disk documentation
supplied by hard disk vendors for jumper setting instructions.

2-12

Hardware Setup

Serial ATAII Connectors: SATA1~SATA4

SATA1~SATA4 are high-speed Serial ATAII interface ports. Each supports 2nd genera­tion serial ATA data rates of 300MB/s and is fully compliant with Serial ATA 2.0
specifications. Each Serial ATAII connector can connect to 1 hard disk device.

SATA4SATA2

SATA1~ SATA4 Pin Definition

PIN SIGNAL PIN SIGNAL

1 GND 2 RXN
3 RXP 4 GND

5 TXN 6 TXP
7 GND

SATA1SATA3

Serial ATA cable

Connect to SATAII Ports

Take out the dust cover
and connect to the hard
disk devices

Important

Please do not fold the Serial ATA cable into 90-degree angle. Otherwise,
data loss may occur during transmission.

2-13

MS-7279 Mainboard

Fan Power Connectors: CPUFAN1/SYSFAN1/SYSFAN2

The fan power connectors support system cooling fan with +12V. When connecting
the wire to the connectors, always take note that the red wire is the positive and
should be connected to the +12V, the black wire is Ground and should be connected
to GND. If the mainboard has a System Hardware Monitor chipset on-board, you must
use a specially designed fan with speed sensor to take advantage of the CPU fan
control.

CONTROL

SENSOR

+12V

GND

GND

+12V

SENSOR

SYSFAN1

SENSOR

+12V

GND

SYSFAN2

CPUFAN1

Important

1.Please refer to the recommended CPU fans at Intel® official website or
consult the vendors for proper CPU cooling fan.

2.CPUFAN1 supports fan control. You can install Core Center utility (refer to
Appendix for details) that will automatically control the CPU fan speed
according to the actual CPU temperature.

Serial Port Connector: JCOM2

The mainboard provides one 9-pin header as serial port JCOM2. The port is a 16550A
high speed communication port that sends/receives 16 bytes FIFOs. You can attach
a serial mouse or other serial devices directly to it.

JCOM2

1

2

9

2-14

Pin Definition

PIN SIGNAL DESCRIPTION

1 DCD Data Carry Detect
2 SIN Serial In or Receive Data
3 SOUT Serial Out or Transmit Data
4 DTR Data Terminal Ready
5 GND Ground
6 DSR Data Set Ready
7 RTS Request To Send
8 CTS Clear To Send
9 RI Ring Indicate

CD-In Connector: JCD_IN1

This connector is provided for CD-ROM audio.

JCD_IN1

Hardware Setup

R

GND

L

Front Panel Audio Connector: JAUDIO1

The JAUD1 front panel audio connector allows you to connect to the front

panel audio and is compliant with Intel® Front Panel I/O Connectivity Design Guide.

JAUDIO1

2

1

Pin Definition

PIN SIGNAL DESCRIPTION

1 PORT 1L Analog Port 1 - Left channel
2 GND Ground
3 PORT 1R Analog Port 1 - Right channel
4 PRESENCE# Active low signal - signals BIOS that a High Definition Audio

dongle is connected to the analog header. PRESENCE# = 0

when a High Definition Audio dongle is connected.
5 PORT 2R Analog Port 2 - Right channel
6 SENSE1_RETIRN Jack detection return from front panel JACK1
7 SENSE_SEND Jack detection sense line from the High Definition Audio CODEC

jack detection resistor network
8 KEY Connector Key
9 PORT 2L Analog Port 2 - Left channel
10 SENSE2_RETIRN Jack detection return from front panel JACK2

10

9

2-15

MS-7279 Mainboard

Front Panel Connectors: JFP1/JFP2

The mainboard provides two front panel connectors for electrical connection to the
front panel switches and LEDs. The JFP1 is compliant with Intel® Front Panel I/O
Connectivity Design Guide.

10

9

JFP1

Reset
Switch

+

-

Power
Switch

+

HDD
LED

--

+

Power
LED

1
2

JFP2

Power LED

7
8

-

+

Speaker

1
2

+

-

JFP1 Pin Definition

PIN SIGNAL DESCRIPTION

1 HD_LED + Hard disk LED pull-up
2 FP PWR/SLP Power LED+/ Suspend LED
3 HD_LED - Hard disk active LED
4 FP PWR/SLP Power LED+/ Suspend LED
5 RST_SW - Reset Switch low reference pull-down to GND
6 PWR_SW + Power Switch high reference pull-up
7 RST_SW + Reset Switch high reference pull-up
8 PWR_SW - Power Switch low reference pull-down to GND
9 RSVD_DNU Reserved. Do not use.

PIN SIGNAL DESCRIPTION

1 GND Ground
2 SPK- Speaker­3 SLED Suspend LED
4 NC NC
5 PLED Power LED
6 NC NC
7 Key Key (no pin)
8 SPK+ Speaker+

2-16

JFP2 Pin Definition

Hardware Setup

Front USB Connectors: JUSB1/JUSB2

The mainboard provides two USB 2.0 pinheaders (optional USB 2.0 bracket available)
that are compliant with Intel® I/O Connectivity Design Guide. USB 2.0 technology
increases data transfer rate up to a maximum throughput of 480Mbps, which is 40
times faster than USB 1.1, and is ideal for connecting high-speed USB interface
peripherals such as USB HDD, digital cameras, MP3 players, printers, mo-

dems and the like.

JUSB1/2

2
1

Pin Definition

PIN SIGNAL PIN SIGNAL

1 VCC 2 VCC
3 USB0- 4 USB1­5 USB0+ 6 USB1+
7 GND 8 GND
9 Key (no pin) 10 USBOC

10

9

USB 2.0 Bracket

(Optional)

Connected to USB connector

Important

Note that the pins of VCC and GND must be connected correctly to avoid
possible damage.

2-17

MS-7279 Mainboard

IrDA Infrared Module Header: JIR1

The connector allows you to connect to IrDA Infrared module. You must configure the
setting through the BIOS setup to use the IR function. JIR1 is compliant with Intel
Front Panel I/O Connectivity Design Guide.

JIR1

5
6

1
2

Pin Definition

Pin Signal

1 NC
2 KEY
3 VCC5
4 GND
5 IRTX
6 IRRX

SPDIF-Out Connector: JSP1 (Optional, for HDMI graphics card only)

This connector is used to connect SPDIF (Sony & Philips Digital Interconnect Format)
interface for digital audio transmission to the HDMI graphics card.

®

JSP1

SPDF0

GND

SPI Debugging Pin Header: JSPI1

The pin header is for internal debugging only.

1

2

JSPI1

10

9

Chassis Intrusion Switch Connector: JCASE1

This connector connects to a 2-pin chassis switch. If the chassis is opened, the
switch will be short. The system will record this status and show a warning mes­sage on the screen. To clear the warning, you must enter the BIOS utility and clear the
record.

JCASE1

GND

CINTRU

2
1

2-18

Hardware Setup

Jumpers

Clear CMOS Jumper: JBAT1

There is a CMOS RAM onboard that has a power supply from external battery to keep
the data of system configuration. With the CMOS RAM, the system can automatically
boot OS every time it is turned on. If you want to clear the system configuration, set
the JBAT1 (Clear CMOS Jumper ) to clear data.

1

1

3

1

3

JBAT1

Keep Data

Clear Data

Important

You can clear CMOS by shorting 2-3 pin while the system is off. Then return
to 1-2 pin position. Avoid clearing the CMOS while the system is on; it will
damage the mainboard.

2-19

MS-7279 Mainboard

Slots

PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) Express Slots

PCI Express architecture provides a high performance I/O infrastructure for Desktop
Platforms with transfer rates starting at 2.5 Giga transfers per second over a PCI
Express x1 lane for Gigabit Ethernet, TV Tuners, 1394 controllers, and general pur­pose I/O. Also, desktop platforms with PCI Express Architecture will be designed to
deliver highest performance in video, graphics, multimedia and other sophisticated
applications. Moreover, PCI Express architecture provides a high performance graphics
infrastructure for Desktop Platforms doubling the capability of existing AGP 8x de­signs with transfer rates of 4.0 GB/s over a PCI Express x16 lane for graphics
controllers, while PCI Express x1 supports transfer rate of 250 MB/s.

PCI Express x16 Slot

PCI Express x1 Slot

PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) Slots

The PCI slots support LAN cards, SCSI cards, USB cards, and other add-on cards
that comply with PCI specifications. At 32 bits and 33 MHz, it yields a throughput rate
of 133 MBps.

32-bit PCI Slot

Important

When adding or removing expansion cards, make sure that you unplug the
power supply first. Meanwhile, read the documentation for the expansion card
to configure any necessary hardware or software settings for the expansion
card, such as jumpers, switches or BIOS configuration.

2-20

Hardware Setup

PCI Interrupt Request Routing

The IRQ, acronym of interrupt request line and pronounced I-R-Q, are hardware lines
over which devices can send interrupt signals to the microprocessor. The PCI IRQ
pins are typically connected to the PCI bus pins as follows:

Order 1 Order 2 Order 3 Order 4
PCI Slot 1 INT B# INT C# INT D# INT A#
PCI Slot 2 INT C# INT D# INT A# INT B#
PCI Slot 3 INT D# INT A# INT B# INT C#

2-21

MS-7279 Mainboard

2-22

BIOS Setup

Chapter 3

BIOS Setup

This chapter provides information on the BIOS Setup
program and allows you to configure the system for
optimum use.
You may need to run the Setup program when:

² An error message appears on the screen during the

system booting up, and requests you to run SETUP.

² You want to change the default settings for cus-

tomized features.

3-1

MS-7279 Mainboard

Entering Setup

Power on the computer and the system will start POST (Power On Self Test) process.
When the message below appears on the screen, press <DEL> key to enter Setup.

Press DEL to enter SETUP

If the message disappears before you respond and you still wish to enter Setup,
restart the system by turning it OFF and On or pressing the RESET button. You may
also restart the system by simultaneously pressing <Ctrl>, <Alt>, and <Delete> keys.

Important

1.The items under each BIOS category described in this chapter are under
continuous update for better system performance. Therefore, the descrip­tion may be slightly different from the latest BIOS and should be held for
reference only.

2.Upon boot-up, the 1st line appearing after the memory count is the BIOS
version. It is usually in the format:

A7279IMS V1.0 031506 where:

1st digit refers to BIOS maker as A = AMI, W = AWARD, and P =
PHOENIX.
2nd - 5th digit refers to the model number.
6th digit refers to the chipset as I = Intel, N = nVidia, and V = VIA.
7th - 8th digit refers to the customer as MS = all standard customers.
V1.0 refers to the BIOS version.
031506 refers to the date this BIOS was released.

3-2

Control Keys

<↑> Move to the previous item
<↓> Move to the next item
<←> Move to the item in the left hand
<→> Move to the item in the right hand

<Enter> Select the item
<Esc> Jumps to the Exit menu or returns to the main menu from a

<+/PU> Increase the numeric value or make changes
<-/PD> Decrease the numeric value or make changes
<F6> Load Optimized Defaults
<F7> Load Fail-Safe Defaults
<F10> Save all the CMOS changes and exit

BIOS Setup

submenu

Getting Help

After entering the Setup menu, the first menu you will see is the Main Menu.

Main Menu

The main menu lists the setup functions you can make changes to. You can use the
arrow keys ( ↑↓ ) to select the item. The on-line description of the highlighted setup
function is displayed at the bottom of the screen.

Sub-Menu

If you find a right pointer symbol (as shown in the
right view) appears to the left of certain fields that
means a sub-menu can be launched from this field.
A sub-menu contains additional options for a field
parameter. You can use arrow keys ( ↑↓ ) to
highlight the field and press <Enter> to call up the sub-menu. Then you can use the
control keys to enter values and move from field to field within a sub-menu. If you
want to return to the main menu, just press the <Esc >.

General Help <F1>

The BIOS setup program provides a General Help screen. You can call up this screen
from any menu by simply pressing <F1>. The Help screen lists the appropriate keys
to use and the possible selections for the highlighted item. Press <Esc> to exit the
Help screen.

3-3

MS-7279 Mainboard

The Main Menu

Standard CMOS Features

Use this menu for basic system configurations, such as time, date etc.

Advanced BIOS Features

Use this menu to setup the items of AMI® special enhanced features.

Integrated Peripherals

Use this menu to specify your settings for integrated peripherals.

Power Management Setup

Use this menu to specify your settings for power management.

PNP/PCI Configurations

This entry appears if your system supports PnP/PCI.

H/W Monitor

This entry shows your PC health status.

Cell Menu

Use this menu to specify your settings for frequency/voltage control and overclocking.

Load Fail-Safe Defaults

Use this menu to load the default values set by the BIOS vendor for stable system
performance.

3-4

BIOS Setup

Load Optimized Defaults

Use this menu to load the default values set by the mainboard manufacturer specifi­cally for optimal performance of the mainboard.

BIOS Setting Password

Use this menu to set the password for BIOS.

Save & Exit Setup

Save changes to CMOS and exit setup.

Exit Without Saving

Abandon all changes and exit setup.

3-5

MS-7279 Mainboard

Standard CMOS Features

The items in Standard CMOS Features Menu includes some basic setup items. Use
the arrow keys to highlight the item and then use the <PgUp> or <PgDn> keys to select
the value you want in each item.

Date (MM:DD:YY)

This allows you to set the system to the date that you want (usually the current date).
The format is <day><month> <date> <year>.

day Day of the week, from Sun to Sat, determined by

BIOS. Read-only.

month The month from Jan. through Dec.
date The date from 1 to 31 can be keyed by numeric function keys.
year The year can be adjusted by users.

Time (HH:MM:SS)

This allows you to set the system time that you want (usually the current time). The
time format is <hour> <minute> <second>.

3-6

BIOS Setup

Primary/Secondary/Third IDE Master/ Slave

Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu, and the following screen appears.

Device/ Vender/ Size

It will showing the device information that you connected to the IDE/SATA
connector.

LBA/Large Mode

This allows you to enable or disable the LBA Mode. Setting to Auto enables LBA
mode if the device supports it and the devices is not already formatted with LBA
mode disabled.

DMA Mode

Select DMA Mode.

Hard Disk S.M.A.R.T.

This allows you to activate the S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring Analysis & Reporting
Technology) capability for the hard disks. S.M.A.R.T is a utility that monitors your
disk status to predict hard disk failure. This gives you an opportunity to move
data from a hard disk that is going to fail to a safe place before the hard disk
becomes offline.

Important

Primary/Secondary/Third IDE Master/Slave are appearing when you
connect the HD devices to the IDE/ SATA connector on the mainboard.

Floppy A

This item allows you to set the type of floppy drives installed.

Halt On

The setting determines whether the system will stop if an error is detected at boot.
Available options are:

[No Errors] The system doesn’t stop for any detected error.
[All, But Keyboard] The system doesn’t stop for a keyboard error.

3-7

MS-7279 Mainboard

System Information

Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu, and the following screen appears.

Total Memory/ BIOS Version

These items show the CPU information, BIOS version and memory status of your
system (read only).

3-8

Advanced BIOS Features

BIOS Setup

Boot Sector Protection

This function protects the BIOS from accidental corruption by unauthorized users or
computer viruses. When enabled, the BIOS’ data cannot be changed when attempt­ing to update the BIOS with a Flash utility. To successfully update the BIOS, you’ll
need to disable this Flash BIOS Protection function.
You should enable this function at all times. The only time when you need to disable
it is when you want to update the BIOS. After updating the BIOS, you should immedi­ately re-enable it to protect it against viruses.

Full Screen LOGO Display

This item enables you to show the company logo on the bootup screen. Settings are:

[Enabled] Shows a still image (logo) on the full screen at boot.
[Disabled] Shows the POST messages at boot.

Quick Boot

Setting the item to [Enabled] allows the system to boot within 5 seconds since it will
skip some check items.

Boot Up NumLock LED

This setting is to set the Num Lock status when the system is powered on. Setting to
[On] will turn on the Num Lock key when the system is powered on. Setting to [Off]
will allow users to use the arrow keys on the numeric keypad.

3-9

MS-7279 Mainboard

IOAPIC Function

This field is used to enable or disable the APIC (Advanced Programmable Interrupt
Controller). Due to compliance with PC2001 design guide, the system is able to run in
APIC mode. Enabling APIC mode will expand available IRQ resources for the system.

MPS Table Version

This field allows you to select which MPS (Multi-Processor Specification) version to
be used for the operating system. You need to select the MPS version supported by
your operating system. To find out which version to use, consult the vendor of your
operating system.

CPU Features

Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu and the following screen appears:

Max CPUID Value Limit:

The Max CPUID Value Limit is designed to limit the listed speed of the

processor to older operating systems.

Execute Disable Bit

Intel's Execute Disable Bit functionality can prevent certain classes of mali
cious "buffer overflow" attacks when combined with a supporting operating
system. This functionality allows the processor to classify areas in memory
by where application code can execute and where it cannot. When a mali
cious worm attempts to insert code in the buffer, the processor disables
code execution, preventing damage or worm propagation.

Hyper-Threading Function

The processor uses Hyper-Threading technology to increase transaction
ratesand reduces end-user response times. The technology treats the two
cores inside the processor as two logical processors that can execute in
structions simultaneously. In this way, the system performance is highly
improved. If you disable the function, the processor will use only one core to
execute the instructions. Please disable this item if your operating

system doesn’tsupport HT Function, or unreliability and instability
may occur.

3-10

BIOS Setup

Important

Enabling the functionality of Hyper-Threading Technology for your computer
system requires ALL of the following platform Components:

* CPU: An Intel® Pentium® 4 Processor with HT Technology;
* Chipset: An Intel® Chipset that supports HT Technology;
* BIOS: A BIOS that supports HT Technology and has it enabled;
* OS: An operating system that supports HT Technology.

For more information on Hyper-threading Technology, go to:
www.intel.com/info/hyperthreading

Chipset Features

Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu and the following screen appears:

Memory Hole

In order to improve performance, certain space in memory can be reserved
for ISA peripherals. This memory must be mapped into the memory space
below 16MB. When this area is reserved, it cannot be cached. Setting options:
[Disabled], [15MB-16MB].

Internal Graphics Mode Select

The field specifies the size of system memory allocated for video memory.

3-11

MS-7279 Mainboard

Boot Sequence

Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu and the following screen appears:

1st/2nd Boot Device

The items allow you to set the sequence of boot devices where BIOS at
tempts to load the disk operating system.

Boot From Other Device

Setting the option to [Yes] allows the system to try to boot from other device
if the system fails to boot from the 1st/2nd/3rd boot device.

3-12

Integrated Peripherals

BIOS Setup

USB Functions

This setting allows you to set USB functions.

USB Device Legacy Support

Select [Enabled] if you need to use a USB-interfaced device in the operating system.

Onboard LAN Controller

These items are used to enable/disable the onboard LAN controller.

Onboard LAN Option ROM

The item enables or disables the initialization of the onboard LAN Boot ROMs during
bootup. Selecting [Disabled] will speed up the boot process. Setting options: [Enabled],
[Disabled].

Onboard Audio Controller

This setting is used to enable/disable the onboard audio controller.

3-13

MS-7279 Mainboard

On-Chip ATA Device

Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu and the following screen appears:

On-Chip IDE Controller

The chipset contains a PCI IDE interface with support for two IDE channels.
Select [Primary] to activate only the primary IDE interface, if you install an add-in
secondary interface. Select [Both] to activate both interfaces, or [Disabled] to
deactivate both interfaces, if you install both a primary and a secondary add-in
IDE interface.

PCI IDE BusMaster

This item allows you to enable/ disable BIOS to used PCI busmastering for
reading/ writing to IDE drives.

On-Chip ATA/IDE Configuration

This item is used to specify the SATA & IDE devices. The setting options are:
[Compatible] SATA and PATA drives are auto-detected and placed in Legacy

mode.

[Enhanced] SATA and PATA drives are auto-detected and placed in (non-

AHCI) Native IDE mode.

[Disabled] Disable all IDE and SATA devices.

Legacy IDE Channels

This setting will appear when you set On-Chip ATA/IDE Configuration as
[Compatible]. You can use the two IDE channels with SATA devices and IDE
devices at your desire. And each channel supports up to 2 devices.

ATA/IDE Configuration

(Compatible)

SATA Only [SATA 1/3/2/4]
PATA Pri, SATA Sec [IDE1, SATA2/4]
SATA Pri, PATA Sec [SATA1/3, IDE1]
PATA Only [IDE1]

3-14

BIOS Setup

Configure SATA as

This setting will appear when you set On-Chip ATA/IDE Configuration as
[Enhanced]. SATA and PATA drives will be auto-detected and placed in (non­AHCI) Native IDE mode.

I/O Devices

Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu and the following screen appears:

Onboard Floppy Controller

Select [Enabled] if your system has a floppy disk controller (FDD) installed on the
system board and you wish to use it. If you install add-on FDC or the system has
no floppy drive, select [Disabled] in this field.

COM Port 1/2

Select an address and corresponding interrupt for the first/second serial port.

COM Port 2 Mode

This setting allows you to specify the operation mode for serial port 2. Settings
are:

[IrDA] IrDA-compliant Serial Infrared Port
[ASKIR] Amplitude Shift Keyed Infrared Port

Parallel Port

There is a built-in parallel port on the on-board Super I/O chipset that provides
Standard, ECP, and EPP features. It has the following options:

[Disabled]
[3BC] Line Printer port 0
[278] Line Printer port 2
[378] Line Printer port 1

Parallel Port Mode

[SPP] Standard Parallel Port
[EPP] Enhanced Parallel Port
[ECP] Extended Capability Port

[ECP + EPP] Extended Capability Port + Enhanced Parallel Port
To operate the onboard parallel port as Standard Parallel Port only, choose [SPP].
To operate the onboard parallel port in the EPP mode simultaneously, choose
[EPP]. By choosing [ECP], the onboard parallel port will operate in ECP mode only.
Choosing [ECP + EPP] will allow the onboard parallel port to support both the ECP
and EPP modes simultaneously.

Parallel Port IRQ

This item allows you to set parallel port IRQ.

3-15

MS-7279 Mainboard

Power Management Setup

Important

S3-related functions described in this section are available only when your
BIOS supports S3 sleep mode.

ACPI Function

This item is to activate the ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Management
Interface) Function. If your operating system is ACPI-aware, such as Windows 98SE/
2000/ME, select [Enabled].

ACPI Standby State

This item specifies the power saving modes for ACPI function. If your operating
system supports ACPI, such as Windows 98SE/ ME/ 2000 , you can choose to enter
the Standby mode in S1(POS) or S3(STR) fashion through the setting of this field.
Settings are:

[S1/POS] The S1 sleep mode is a low power state. In this state, no

system context is lost (CPU or chipset) and hardware main­tains all system context.

[S3/STR] The S3 sleep mode is a lower power state where the in

formation of system configuration and open applications/files
is saved to main memory that remains powered while most
other hardware components turn off to save energy. The
information stored in memory will be used to restore the sys­tem when a “wake up” event occurs.

3-16

BIOS Setup

Suspend Time Out (Minute)

If system activity is not detected for the length of time specified in this field, all
devices except CPU will be shut off. Settings: [Disabled], [1], [2], [4], [8], [10], [20],
[30], [40], [50], [60].

Power Button Function

This feature sets the function of the power button. Settings are:

[On/ Off] The power button functions as normal power off button.
[Suspend] When you press the power button, the computer enters the

suspend/sleep mode, but if the button is pressed for more
than four seconds, the computer is turned off.

Restore On AC Power Loss

This item specifies whether your system will reboot after a power failure or interrupt
occurs. Settings are:

[Off] Always leaves the computer in the power off state.
[On] Always leaves the computer in the power on state.
[Last State] Restores the system to the status before power failure

or interrupt occurred.

Wakeup Event Setup

Press <Enter> and the following sub-menu appears.

Resume From S3 By USB Device

The item allows the activity of the USB device to wake up the system from S3
(Suspend to RAM) sleep state.

Resume From S3 By PS/2 KB
The item specifies how the system will be awakened from power saving
mode when input signal of the PS2 keyboard is detected. Use the <PageUp>
& <PageDown> keys to select the options. When selecting [Password], enter
the desired password.

Resume From S3 By PS/2 Mouse
This setting only works Resume From S3 By PS/2 KB is set to [Hot Key].
This setting determines whether the system will be awakened from what
power saving modes when input signal of the PS/2 mouse is detected.

3-17

MS-7279 Mainboard

Resume by PCI Device (PME#)

When set to [Enabled], the feature allows your system to be awakened from
the power saving modes through any event on PME (Power Management
Event).

Resume by RTC Alarm

The field is used to enable or disable the feature of booting up the system on
a scheduled time/date.

3-18

BIOS Setup

PNP/PCI Configurations

This section describes configuring the PCI bus system and PnP (Plug & Play) feature.
PCI, or Peripheral Component Interconnect, is a system which allows I/O devices to
operate at speeds nearing the speed the CPU itself uses when communicating with
its special components. This section covers some very technical items and it is
strongly recommended that only experienced users should make any changes to the
default settings.

Initate Graphics Adapter

This setting specifies which graphics card is your primary graphics adapter.
The options are [IGD], [PCI/IGD], [PCI/PEG], [PEG/IGD], and [PEG/PCI].

PCI Latency Timer

This item controls how long each PCI device can hold the bus before another takes
over. When set to higher values, every PCI device can conduct transactions for a
longer time and thus improve the effective PCI bandwidth. For better PCI performance,
you should set the item to higher values.

PCI Slot 1/2/3/4 IRQ

These items specify the IRQ line for each PCI slot.

3-19

MS-7279 Mainboard

IRQ Resource Setup

Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu and the following screen appears.

IRQ 3/4/5/7/9/10/11/14/15

These items specify the bus where the specified IRQ line is used.
The settings determine if AMIBIOS should remove an IRQ from the pool of avail­able IRQs passed to devices that are configurable by the system BIOS. The
available IRQ pool is determined by reading the ESCD NVRAM. If more IRQs must
be removed from the IRQ pool, the end user can use these settings to reserve
the IRQ by assigning an [Reserved] setting to it. Onboard I/O is configured by
AMIBIOS. All IRQs used by onboard I/O are configured as [Available]. If all IRQs
are set to [Reserved], and IRQ 14/15 are allocated to the onboard PCI IDE, IRQ 9
will still be available for PCI and PnP devices.

Important

IRQ (Interrupt Request) lines are system resources allocated to I/O devices.
When an I/O device needs to gain attention of the operating system, it sig­nals this by causing an IRQ to occur. After receiving the signal, when the
operating system is ready, the system will interrupt itself and perform the
service required by the I/O device.

3-20

BIOS Setup

DMA Resource Setup

Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu and the following screen appears.

DMA Channel 0/1/3/5/6/7

The settings determine if AMIBIOS should remove a DMA (Direct Memory Access)
from the available DMAs passed to devices that are configurable by the system
BIOS. The available DMA pool is determined by reading the ESCD NVRAM. If more
DMAs must be removed from the pool, the end user can reserve the DMA.

3-21

MS-7279 Mainboard

H/W Monitor

Chassis Intrusion

The field enables or disables the feature of recording the chassis intrusion status
and issuing a warning message if the chassis is once opened. To clear the warning
message, set the field to [Reset]. The setting of the field will automatically return to
[Enabled] later. specific step. In these items you can set the low and high tempertures,
and the values between are the range of the steps.

Smart Fan Target

W83627DHF provides the Smart Fan system which can control the fan speed auto­matically depending on the current temperature to keep it with in a specific range.

Smart Fan Tolerance

Before using this function, please [Enabled] Smart Fan Target this item.
You can select a fan tolerance value here for the specific range for the “Smart Fan
Target Temp. (oC)” item. If the current temperature of the fan reaches to the maximum
threshold (the temperatures set in the “Smart Fan Target Temp. (oC)” plus the toler­ance values you set here), the fan will speed up for cooling down. On the contrary,
if the current temperature reaches to the minimum threshold (the set temperatures
minus the tolerance value), the fan will slow down to keep the temperature stable.

Min Fan Speed (%)

Before using this function, please [Enabled] Smart Fan Target this item. This item
allows you to adjust the minimum fan speed.

Smart Fan Step

Before using this function, please [Enabled] Smart Fan Target this item. This item
shows how many steps between the low and high temperatures.

3-22

BIOS Setup

System/ CPU Temperature, CPU FAN Speed, CPU Vcore, 3.3V, 5V, 12V,,

3V SB

These items display the current status of all of the monitored hardware devices/
components such as CPU voltage, temperatures and fan’s speeds.

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MS-7279 Mainboard

Cell Menu

Important

Change these settings only if you are familiar with the chipset.

Current CPU Frequency/Current DRAM Frequency.

This setting shows the current clocks of CPU & memory speed, read only.

Adjust CPU FSB Frequency

This item allows you to select the CPU Front Side Bus clock frequency (in MHz).

Adjust CPU Ratio

This item allows you to adjust the CPU ratio. Setting to [Startup] enables the CPU
running at the fastest speed which is detected by system.

Advanced DRAM Configuration

Press <Enter> to enter the sub-menu and the following screen appears.

3-24

BIOS Setup

Configure DRAM Timing by SPD

Selects whether DRAM timing is controlled by the SPD (Serial Presence Detect)
EEPROM on the DRAM module. Setting to [Auto] enables DRAM timings and the
following related items to be determined by BIOS based on the configurations on
the SPD. Selecting [Manual] allows users to configure the DRAM timings and the
following related items manually. Setting options: [Manual], [Auto].

DRAM CAS# Latency

The field controls the CAS latency, which determines the timing delay before
SDRAM starts a read command after receiving it. Setting options: [By SPD], [2.
5T], [2T]. [2T] increases system performance while 2.5T provides more stable
system performance. Setting to By SPD enables DRAM CAS# Latency
automatically to be determined by BIOS based on the configurations on the SPD
(Serial Presence Detect) EEPROM on the DRAM module.

DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay

This field allows you to set the number of cycles for a timing delay between the
CAS and RAS strobe signals, used when DRAM is written to, read from or
refreshed. Fast speed offers faster performance while slow speed offers
more stable performance. Setting options: [6 DRAM Clocks], [5 DRAM Clocks], [4
DRAM Clocks].

DRAM RAS# Precharge

This item controls the number of cycles for Row Address Strobe (RAS) to be
allowed to precharge. If insufficient time is allowed for the RAS to accumulate
its charge before DRAM refresh, refresh may be incomplete and DRAM may fail
to retain data. This item applies only when synchronous DRAM is installed in the
system. Setting options: [6 DRAM Clocks], [5 DRAM Clocks], [4 DRAM Clocks].

DRAM RAS Activate to Prec

This setting determines the time RAS takes to read from and write to a memory
cell. Setting options: [8~15 DRAM Clocks].

Adjusted DRAM Frequency

This read-only item shows the DDR Memory Frequency you like to use, which will
automatically change in accordance with the setting of Adjust DDR Memory
Frequency. Please note you must reboot the system to let the change take effect.

CPU Vcore

This item allows you to see the CPU vcore. Read only.

Adjust CPU Voltage

This item allows you to set the CPU voltage.

Adjust DDR Voltage (V)

Adjusting the DDR voltage can increase the DDR speed. Any changes made to this
setting may cause a stability issue, so changing the DDR voltage for long-term
purpose is NOT recommended.

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MS-7279 Mainboard

Adjust NB Voltage (V)

NorthBridge voltage is adjustable in the field, allowing you to increase the perfor­mance of your NorthBridge when overclocking, but stability may be affected.

Important

Any changes for the voltage may cause a stability issue, so changing the
voltage for long-term purpose is NOT recommended.

Adjust PCI Express Frequency

These items allow you to select the PCI Express frequency and overclock the proc­essor by adjusting the PCI Express frequency to a higher frequency.

Auto Disable DIMM/PCI Clock

This item is used to auto detect the DIMM/PCI slots. When set to [Enabled], the system
will remove (turn off) clocks from empty DIMM/PCI slots to minimize the electromag­netic interference (EMI).

Spread Spectrum

This setting is used to enable or disable the Spread Spectrum feature. When
overclocking, always set it to [Disabled].

Important

1.If you do not have any EMI problem, leave the setting at [Disabled] for
optimal system stability and performance. But if you are plagued by EMI,
select Enabled for EMI reduction.

2.The greater the Spread Spectrum value is, the greater the EMI is reduced,
and the system will become less stable. For the most suitable Spread
Spectrum value, please consult your local EMI regulation.

3.Remember to disable Spread Spectrum if you are overclocking because
even a slight jitter can introduce a temporary boost in clock speed which
may just cause your overclocked processor to lock up.

3-26

BIOS Setup

CPU and Memory Clock Overclocking

The Adjust CPU FSB Frequency / Dynamic OverClocking Mode/ Adjust DRAM
Frequency are the items for you to overclock the CPU and the Memory. Please refer

to the descriptions of these fields for more information.

Important

1.CPU Speed = CPU FSB Frequency * CPU Ratio

2.This motherboard supports overclocking greatly. However, please make
sure your peripherals and components are bearable for some special
settings. Any operation that exceeds product specification is not
recommended. Any risk or damge resulting from improper operation will
not be under our product warranty.

Two ways to save your system from failed overclocking...

Reboot

1. Press the Power button to reboot the system three times. Please note that, to

avoid electric current to affect other devices or components, we suggest an
interval of more than 10 seconds among the reboot actions.

2. At the fourth reboot, BIOS will determine that the previous overclocking is failed

and restore the default settings automatically. Please press any key to boot the
system normally when the following message appears on screen.

Warning !!! The previous performance of overclocking is failed,
and the system is restored to the defaults setting.
Please press any key to continue...

Clear CMOS

- Please refer to “chapter 2” for more information about how to clear CMOS data.

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MS-7279 Mainboard

Load Fail-Safe/ Optimized Defaults

The two options on the main menu allow users to restore all of the BIOS settings to
the default Fail-Safe or Optimized values. The Optimized Defaults are the default
values set by the mainboard manufacturer specifically for optimal performance of the
mainboard. The Fail-Safe Defaults are the default values set by the BIOS vendor for
stable system performance.

When you select Load Fail-Safe Defaults, a message as below appears:

Pressing Y loads the BIOS default values for the most stable, minimal system
performance.

When you select Load Optimized Defaults, a message as below appears:

Pressing Y loads the default factory settings for optimal system performance.

3-28

BIOS Setup

BIOS Setting Password

When you select this function, a message as below will appear on the screen:

Type the password, up to six characters in length, and press <Enter>. The password
typed now will replace any previously set password from CMOS memory. You will
be prompted to confirm the password. Retype the password and press <Enter>. You
may also press <Esc> to abort the selection and not enter a password.
To clear a set password, just press <Enter> when you are prompted to enter the
password. A message will show up confirming the password will be disabled. Once
the password is disabled, the system will boot and you can enter Setup without
entering any password.
When a password has been set, you will be prompted to enter it every time you try
to enter Setup. This prevents an unauthorized person from changing any part of your
system configuration.

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MS-7279 Mainboard

3-30

Realtek ALC888 Audio

Appendix A

Realtek ALC888 Audio

The Realtek ALC888 provides 10-channel DAC that si­multaneously supports 7.1 sound playback and 2 chan­nels of independent stereo sound output (multiple
streaming) through the Front-Out-Left and Front-Out­Right channels.

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MS-7279 Mainboard

Installing the Realtek HD Audio Driver

You need to install the driver for Realtek ALC888 codec to function properly before
you can get access to 2-, 4-, 6-, 8- channel or 7.1+2 channel audio operations.
Follow the procedures described below to install the drivers for different operating
systems.

Installation for Windows 2000/XP

For Windows® 2000, you must install Windows® 2000 Service Pack4 or later before
installing the driver. For Windows® XP, you must install Windows® XP Service Pack1
or later before installing the driver.
The following illustrations are based on Windows® XP environment and could look
slightly different if you install the drivers in different operating systems.

1. Insert the application CD into the CD-ROM drive. The setup screen will auto­matically appear.

2. Click Realtek HD Audio Driver .

a

Click here

Important

The HD Audio Configuration software utility is under continuous update
to enhance audio applications. Hence, the program screens shown here in

this section may be slightly different from the latest software utility and shall
be held for reference only.

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Realtek ALC888 Audio

3. Click Next to install the Realtek High Definition Audio Driver.

4. Click Finish to restart the system.

Click here

Select this
option

Click here

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MS-7279 Mainboard

Software Configuration

After installing the audio driver, you are able to use the 2-, 4-, 6- or 8- channel audio
feature now. Click the audio icon from the system tray at the lower-right corner of
the screen to activate the HD Audio Configuration. It is also available to enable the

audio driver by clicking the Realtek HD Audio Manager from the Control Panel.

Double click

a

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Realtek ALC888 Audio

Sound Effect

Here you can select a sound effect you like from the Environment list.

Environment Simulation

You will be able to enjoy different sound experience by pulling down the arrow,
totally 23 kinds of sound effect will be shown for selection. Realtek HD Audio Sound
Manager also provides five popular settings “Stone Corridor”, “Bathroom”, “Sewer
pipe”, “Arena” and “Audio Corridor” for quick enjoyment.

You may choose the provided sound effects, and the equalizer will adjust automatically.
If you like, you may also load an equalizer setting or make an new equalizer setting to
save as an new one by using the “Load EQ Setting” and “Save Preset ” button,
click “Reset EQ Setting” button to use the default value, or click “Delete EQ Set-
ting” button to remove a preset EQ setting.

There are also other pre-set equalizer models for you to choose by clicking “Others”
under the Equalizer part.

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MS-7279 Mainboard

Equalizer Selection

Equalizer frees users from default settings; users may create their owned preferred
settings by utilizing this tool.

10 bands of equalizer, ranging from 100Hz to 16KHz.

Save

The settings are saved
permanently for future
use

Enable / Disable

To disable, you can tem­porarily stop the sound
effect without losing the
settings

Delete

To delete the pre-saved settings which are created from previous steps.

Reset

10 bands of equalizer
would go back to the de­fault setting

Load

Whenever you would like to
use preload settings, simply
click this, the whole list will
be shown for your selection.

a

A-6

Realtek ALC888 Audio

Frequently Used Equalizer Setting

Realtek recognizes the needs that you might have. By leveraging our long experience
at audio field, Realtek HD Audio Sound Manager provides you certain optimized equal­izer settings that are frequently used for your quick enjoyment.

[How to Use It]
Other than the buttons “Pop” “Live” “Club” & “Rock” shown on the page, to pull down

the arrow in “Others”, you will find more optimized settings available to you.

Karaoke Mode

Karaoke mode brings Karaoke fun back home. Simply using the music you usually
play, Karaoke mode can help you eliminate the vocal of the song or adjust the key to
accommodate your range.

1.Vocal Cancellation: Single click on “Voice Cancellation”, the vocal of the song would
be eliminated, while the background music is still in place, and you can be that
singer!

2.Key Adjustment: Using “Up / Down Arrow” to find a key which better fits your vocal
range.

Remove the
human voice

Raise the key

Lower the key

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MS-7279 Mainboard

Mixer

In the Mixer part, you may adjust the volumes of the rear and front panels individually.

1. Adjust Volume

You can adjust the volume of the speakers that you pluged in front or rear panel by
select the Realtek HD Audio rear output or Realtek HD Audio front output
items.

Important

Before set up, please make sure the playback devices are well plugged in the
jacks on the rear or front panel. The Realtek HD Audio front output item
will appear after you pluging the speakers into the jacks on the front panel.

2. Multi-Stream Function

ALC888 supports an outstanding feature called Multi-Stream, which means you may
play different audio sources simultaneously and let them output respectively from the
indicated real panel or front panel. This feature is very helpful when 2 people are
using the same computer together for different purposes.

Click the button and the Mixer ToolBox menu will appear. Then check the Enable

playback multi-streaming and click OK to save the setup.

Important

You have to plug audio device into the jacks on the rear and front panel first
before enable the multi-stream function.

a

A-8

Realtek ALC888 Audio

When you are playing the first audio source (for example: use Windows Media
Player to play DVD/VCD), the output will be played from the rear panel, which is the
default setting.

Then you must to select the Realtek HD Audio front output from the scroll list
first, and use a different program to play the second audio source (for example: use
Winamp to play MP3 files). You will find that the second audio source (MP3 music) will
come out from the Line-Out audio jack of Front Panel.

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MS-7279 Mainboard

3. Playback control

Tool Mute

Playback device

This function is to let you freely decide which ports to
output the sound. And this is essential when multi­streaming playback enabled.

- Realtek HD Audio Rear Output

- Realtek HD Audio Front Output

Mute

You may choose to mute single or multiple volume controls or to completely mute
sound output.

Tool

- Show the following volume controls

This is to let you freely decide which volume control items to be displayed.

- Advanced controls

- Enable playback multi-streaming
With this function, you will be able to have an audio chat with your friends via
headphone (stream 1 from front panel) while still have music (stream 2 from back
panel) in play. At any given period, you can have maximum 2 streams operating
simultaneously.

a

A-10

4. Recording control

Realtek ALC888 Audio

Tool Mute

Recording device

-Back Line in/Mic, Front Lin in

-Realtek HD Audio Input

Mute

You may choose to mute single or multiple volume controls or to completely mute
sound input.

Tool

- Show the following volume controls

This is to let you freely decide which volume control items to be displayed.

- Enable recording multi-streaming

Important

ALC888 allows you to record the CD, Line, Mic and Stereo Mix channels
simultaneously, frees you from mixing efforts. At any given period, you may
choose 1 of the following 4 channels to record.

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MS-7279 Mainboard

Audio I/O

Speaker Configuration

In this tab, you can easily configure your multi-channel audio function and speakers.

1. First you have to select the audio configuration below which is identical to
the audio jack on your mainboard. In this model it uses Realtek ALC850
codec which supports 8-channel, therefore you should choose 8CH audio

out.

2

3

2. Select a desired multi-channel operation here.

a. Headphone for the common headphone
b. 2CH Speaker for Stereo-Speaker Output
c. 4CH Speaker for 4-Speaker Output
d. 6CH Speaker for 5.1-Speaker Output
e. 8CH Speaker for 8-Speaker Output

1

a

A-12

Realtek ALC888 Audio

Connector Settings

Click to access connector settings.

Disable front panel jack detection (option)

Find no function on front panel jacks? Please check if front jacks on your system are
so-called AC’97 jacks. If so, please check this item to disable front panel jack detection.

Mute rear panel output when front headphone plugged in.

Enable auto popup dialogue, when device has been plugged in

Once this item checked, the dialog “Connected device” would automatically pop up
when device plugged in.

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MS-7279 Mainboard

S/PDIF(Optional)

Short for Sony/Philips Digital Interface, a standard audio file transfer format. S/PDIF
allows the transfer of digital audio signals from one device to another without having
to be converted first to an analog format. Maintaining the viability of a digital signal
prevents the quality of the signal from degrading when it is converted to analog.

a

Output Sampling Rate

44.1KHz: This is recommend while playing CD.
48KHz: This is recommended while playing DVD or Dolby.
96KHz: This is recommended while playing DVD-Audio.
192KHz: This is recommended while playing High quality Audio.

Output Source

Output digital audio source: The digital audio format (such as .wav, .mp3,.midi etc)
will come out through S/PDIF-Out.
S/PDIF-in to S/PDIF -out pass though mode: The data from S/PDIF-In can be real­ time played from S/PDIF-Out.

A-14

Realtek ALC888 Audio

Test Speakers

You can select the speaker by clicking it to test its functionality. The one you select
will light up and make testing sound. If any speaker fails to make sound, then check
whether the cable is inserted firmly to the connector or replace the bad speakers

with good ones. Or you may click the auto test button to test the sounds of
each speaker automatically.

Center

Front Left

Side Left

Rear Left

Front Right

Side Right

Subwoofer

Rear Right

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MS-7279 Mainboard

Microphone

In this tab you may set the function of the microphone. Select the Noise Suppres­sion to remove the possible noise during recording, or select Acoustic Echo
Cancelltion to cancel the acoustic echo druing recording.

Acoustic Echo Cancelltion prevents playback sound from being recorded by mi-

crophone together with your sound. For example, you might have chance to use
VOIP function through Internet with your friends. The voice of your friend will come
out from speakers (playback). However, the voice of your friend might also be
recorded into your microphone then go back to your friend through Internet. In that
case, your friend will hear his/her own voice again. With AEC(Acoustic Echo
Cancellation) enabled at your side, your friend can enjoy the benefit with less echo.

a

A-16

Realtek ALC888 Audio

3D Audio Demo

In this tab you may adjust your 3D positional audio before playing 3D audio applica­tions like gaming. You may also select different environment to choose the most
suitable environment you like.

A-17

MS-7279 Mainboard

Information

In this tab it provides some information about this HD Audio Configuration utility,
including Audio Driver Version, DirectX Version, Audio Controller & Audio Codec. You
may also select the language of this utility by choosing from the Language list.

Also there is a selection Show icon in system tray . Switch it on and an icon
will show in the system tray. Right-click on the icon and the Audio Accessories

dialogue box will appear which provides several multimedia features for you to take
advantage of.

a

A-18

Realtek ALC888 Audio

Hardware Setup

Connecting the Speakers

When you have set the Multi-Channel Audio Function mode properly in the software
utility, connect your speakers to the correct phone jacks in accordance with the
setting in software utility.

n 2-Channel Mode for Stereo-Speaker Output

Refer to the following diagram and caption for the function of each phone jack on the
back panel when 2-Channel Mode is selected.

Back Panel

1

2

3

1 Line In
2 Line Out (Front channels)
3 MIC
4 Line Out (Rear surround channels, but no functioning in this mode)
5 Line Out (Center and Subwoofer channel, but no functioning in this mode)
6 Line Out (Side surround channels, but no functioning in this mode)

4

5

6

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MS-7279 Mainboard

n 4-Channel Mode for 4-Speaker Output

Back Panel

4-Channel Analog Audio Output

1

2

3

Description:
Connect two speakers to back
panel’s front-channel Line Out
connector and two speakers to
the real-channel Line Out
connector.

4

5

6

a

1 Line In
2 Line Out (Front channels)
3 MIC
4 Line Out (Rear surround channels)
5 Line Out (Center and Subwoofer channel, but no functioning in this mode)
6 Line Out (Side surround channels, but no functioning in this mode)

A-20

n 6-Channel Mode for 6-Speaker Output

Back Panel

Realtek ALC888 Audio

6-Channel Analog Audio Output

1

2

4

5

3

6

Description:
Connect two speakers to back
panel’ s Line Out connector, two
speakers to the rear-channel
Line out connector and two
speakers to the center/
subwoofer-channel Line Out
connector.

1 Line In
2 Line Out (Front channels)
3 MIC
4 Line Out (Rear surround channels)
5 Line Out (Center and Subwoofer channel)
6 Line Out (Side surround channels, but no functioning in this mode)

A-21

MS-7279 Mainboard

n 8-Channel Mode for 8-Speaker Output

1

2

3

8-Channel Analog Audio Output

1 Line In
2 Line Out (Front channels)
3 MIC
4 Line Out (Rear surround channels)
5 Line Out (Center and Subwoofer channel)
6 Line Out (Side surround channels)

4

5

6

Description:
Connect two speakers to back
panel’s Line Out connector, two
speakers to the rear-channel
Line out connector, two speak­ers to the center/subwoofer­channel Line Out connector and
two speakers to the side-chan­nel Line Out connector.

a

A-22