Asus E3746 Hardware User Manual
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Asus E3746 Hardware User Manual

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Striker II
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Striker II
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Summary of Contents for Asus E3746

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

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents Contents ... iii Notices ... viii Safety information ... ix About this guide ... x Striker II Extreme / Striker II NSE specifications summary ... xii Chapter 1: Product introduction Welcome! ... 1-1 Package contents ... 1-1 Special features ... 1-2 1.3.1 Product highlights ...

  • Page 4: Contents

    Using the dual function power switch ... 3-2 Chapter 4: Managing and updating your BIOS ... 4-1 4.1.1 ASUS Update utility ... 4-1 4.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ... 4-4 4.1.3 Updating the BIOS ... 4-5 4.1.4 Saving the current BIOS file ... 4-7 4.1.5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS utility ...
  • Page 5 Boot Device Priority ... 4-37 4.7.2 Removable Drives ... 4-38 4.7.3 Hard Disk Drives ... 4-38 4.7.4 CDROM Drives ... 4-38 4.7.5 Boot Settings Configuration ... 4-39 4.7.6 Security ... 4-40 Tools menu ... 4-42 4.8.1 ASUS O.C. Profile ... 4-42...
  • Page 6 Contents 4.8.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ... 4-44 Exit menu ... 4-45 Chapter 5: Installing an operating system ... 5-1 Support DVD information ... 5-1 5.2.1 Running the support DVD ... 5-1 5.2.2 Drivers menu ... 5-2 5.2.3 Utilities menu ... 5-3 5.2.4...
  • Page 7 Contents Graphics card setup ... 6-2 6.2.1 Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards ... 6-2 6.2.2 Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards ... 6-5 6.2.3 Installing the device drivers ... 6-6 6.2.4 Enabling the NVIDIA Appendix: CPU features Intel EM64T ...A-1 ® Enhanced Intel SpeedStep A.2.1 System requirements ...A-1...

  • Page 8: Notices

    Notices Federal Communications Commission Statement This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: • This device may not cause harmful interference, and • This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation.

  • Page 9: Safety Information

    Safety information Electrical safety • To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system. • When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected.

  • Page 10: About This Guide

    Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates. ASUS websites The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information. Optional documentation Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty flyers, that may have been added by your dealer.

  • Page 11: Conventions Used In This Guide

    Conventions used in this guide To make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task. CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task.

  • Page 12: Specifications Summary

    Supports Intel next-generation 45nm multi-core CPUs ® Compatible with Intel 06/05B/05A processors 06/05B/05A processors 05B/05A processors ® * Refer to www.asus.com for Intel CPU support list Striker II Extreme: NVIDIA nForce ® Striker II NSE: NVIDIA nForce ® 1600/1333/1066/800 MHz Dual-channel memory architecture supports NVIDIA SLI™-ready memory technology...

  • Page 13: Striker Ii Extreme / Striker Ii Nse Specifications Summary

    Extreme Tweaker 2-Phase DDR3 Loadline Calibration Intelligent overclocking tools: - CPU Level Up - ASUS EPU (Energy Processing Unit) - AI Gear 3 - AI Overclocking (intelligent CPU frequency tuner) - AI Booster Utility - O.C. Profile Overclocking protection:...
  • Page 14 Fusion Block System Accessory DIY Pedestal LCD Poster ASUS Optional Fan SupremeFX II Audio Card 3-Way SLI bridge / ASUS SLI bridge 3 in 1 ASUS Q-connector kit UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable Floppy disk drive cable Serial ATA cables Serial ATA power cables 2-port USB2.0 + IEEE 1394a module...

  • Page 15: Chapter 1: Product Introduction

    This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports. Chapter 1: Product introduction...
  • Page 16 Chapter summary Welcome! ... 1-1 Package contents ... 1-1 Special features ... 1-2 ROG Striker II Extreme / Striker II NSE...

  • Page 17: Welcome

    Thank you for buying an ASUS The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards! Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in your package with the list below.

  • Page 18: Special Features

    Special features 1.3.1 Product highlights Republic of Gamers The Republic of Gamers consists only the best of the best. We offer the best hardware engineering, the fastest performance, the most innovating ideas, and we welcome the best gamers to join in. In the Republic of Gamers, mercy rules are only for the weak, and bragging rights means everything.
  • Page 19 Dual-channel DDR3 1333 memory support The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of 1333/1066/800 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR3 architecture doubles the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance.

  • Page 20: Rog Intelligent Performance & Overclocking Features

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

  • Page 21: Loadline Calibration

    The COP EX allows more freedom and less constraint for maximum performance achievement. AI Booster The ASUS AI Booster allows you to overclock the CPU speed in Windows environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. See page 5-33 for details. ASUS O.C. Profile The motherboard features the ASUS O.C.

  • Page 22: Rog Unique Features

    ASUS EPU The ASUS EPU utilizes innovative technology to digitally monitor and tune the CPU power supply with improved VR responses in heavy or light loadings. It automatically provides power for higher performance or improve efficiency by 7% when the PC is running low intensity applications.

  • Page 23: Asus Special Features

    See pages 2-16 and 2-17 for details. ASUS MyLogo 3 ASUS MyLogo 3 is a new feature present in the motherboard that allows you to personalize and add style to your system with customizable and animated boot logos. See page 4-40 for details.
  • Page 24 The localized BIOS menus allow easier and faster configuration. See page 4-20 for details. ASUS EZ DIY ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings. ASUS Q-Connector The ASUS Q-Connector allows you to connect or disconnect chassis front panel cables in one easy step with one complete module.

  • Page 25: Chapter 2: Hardware Information

    This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It includes description of the jumpers and connectors on the motherboard. Chapter 2: Hardware information...
  • Page 26 Chapter summary Before you proceed ... 2-1 Motherboard overview ... 2-5 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ... 2-9 System memory ... 2-18 Expansion slots ... 2-22 Slide switch ... 2-26 Aduio card, EL I/O shield, and LCD Poster Installation ... 2-27 Connectors ...

  • Page 27: Before You Proceed

    Before you proceed Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. • Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. • Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity.
  • Page 28 Memory LED Refer to the illustration below for the location of the memory LED and the table below for ��ED definition. STRIKER II EXTREME STRIKER II EXTREME/ STRIKER II NSE DDR LED Memory Voltage Northbridge/Southbridge LEDs The northbridge LED displays either the NB Core Voltage or the CPU VTT �oltage;...
  • Page 29 FSB frenquency LED There are five ��EDs that light up to indicate the level of FSB frequency. One lit yellow ��ED suggests that the frequency is low (default), while five lit yellow LEDs shows that the frequency is high (fast). Refer to the illustration below for the location of the FSB frenquency LEDs and the table below for LED definition.
  • Page 30 Hard Disk LED The hard disk LED is designed to indicate the hard disk activity. It blinks when data is being written into or read from the hard disk drive. The LED does not light up when there is no hard disk drive connected to the motherboard or when the hard disk drive does not function.

  • Page 31: Motherboard Overview

    Motherboard overview Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard fits into it. Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

  • Page 32: Motherboard Layout

    2.2.3 Motherboard layout CHA_FAN1 EL_CON LCD_CON KB_USB56 SPDIF_O12 CLR_CMOS E1394 ESATA12 LAN2_USB34 LAN1_USB12 CHA_FAN2 JMB363 88E1116 OPT_FAN2 OPT_TEMP2 88E1116 VT6308P IE1394_2 OPT_TEMP3 • *The model name shows Striker II NSE if you purchase a Striker II NSE motherboard. Refer to 2.8 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors •...

  • Page 33: Layout Contents

    2.2.5 Layout contents Slots DDR3 DIMM slots PCI slots PCI Express x 1 slots PCI Express x 16 slots Slide switch Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC_SW) Rear panel connectors PS/2 keyboard port (purple) Coaxial S/PDIF Out port LAN 2 (RJ-45) port LAN 1 (RJ-45) port Line In port (light blue) Line Out port (lime)
  • Page 34 CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1–3, 3-pin PWR_FAN, 3-pin OPT_FAN1–3) Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT, for ASUS HDMI VGA card) ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 8-pin EATX12V) ROG connector (2-pin ROG)

  • Page 35: Central Processing Unit (Cpu)

    ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is shipment/transit-related. • Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the LGA775 socket.

  • Page 36: Installing The Cpu

    2.3.1 Installing the CPU To install a CPU: Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard. STRIKER II EXTREME STRIKER II EXTREME/ STRIKER II NSE CPU socket 775 Before installing the CPU, make sure that the cam box is facing towards you and the load lever is on your left.
  • Page 37 Lift the load plate with your thumb and forefinger to a 100º angle (A), then push the PnP cap from the load plate window to remove (B). Position the CPU over the socket, making sure that the gold triangle is on the bottom-left corner of the socket then fit the socket alignment key into the...

  • Page 38: Installing The Cpu Heatsink And Fan

    2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan The Intel ® LGA775 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance. • When you buy a boxed Intel and heatsink assembly. If you buy a CPU separately, make sure that you use only Intel •...
  • Page 39 Push down two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to secure the heatsink and fan assembly in place. Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN. STRIKER II EXTREME STRIKER II EXTREME/ STRIKER II NSE CPU fan connector DO NOT forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector.

  • Page 40: Uninstalling The Cpu Heatsink And Fan

    2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan To uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan: Disconnect the CPU fan cable from the connector on the motherboard. Rotate each fastener counterclockwise. Pull up two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to disengage the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard.
  • Page 41 Rotate each fastener clockwise to ensure correct orientation when reinstalling. The narrow end of the groove should point outward after resetting. (The photo shows the groove shaded for emphasis.) Refer to the documentation in the boxed or stand-alone CPU fan package for detailed information on CPU fan installation.

  • Page 42: Installing The Optional Fans

    2.3.4 Installing the optional fans Install TWO optional fans when you are using a water cooler to obtain better heat dissipation. Installing the optional fans with an active CPU cooler will interfere with the airflow and destabilize the system. Optional fan on one side fins Position the fan above the pipe and heatsink assembly.
  • Page 43 Follow Step 1 to 4 to install the other optional fan. The photo shows that two fans are installed to the motherboard. Plug the optional fan cable in the PWR_FAN connector on the motherboard. ROG Striker II Extreme / Striker II NSE 2-17...

  • Page 44: System Memory

    System memory 2.4.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR3 DIMM but is notched differently. DDR3 modules are developed for better performance with less power consumption.

  • Page 45: Memory Configurations

    2.4.2 Memory configurations You may install 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. Recommended Memory Configurations Mode DIMM_A1 Populated Single-Channel – Dual-channel (1) Populated Dual-channel (2) Populated • You may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel configuration.
  • Page 46 Dual-channel memory configuration. • C*: Supports four modules inserted into both the blue and white slots as two pairs of Dual-channel memory configuration. Visit the ASUS website for the latest DDR3 QVL. 2-20 Chip No. IDSH51-03A1F1C-10F...

  • Page 47: Installing A Dimm

    2.4.3 Installing a DIMM Unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so can cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components. To install a DIMM: Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clips outward.

  • Page 48: Expansion Slots

    Expansion slots In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support. Make sure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components.

  • Page 49: Interrupt Assignments

    2.5.3 Interrupt assignments Standard function System timer Keyboard controller Floppy disk controller System CMOS/Real Time Clock IRQ holder for PCI steering NVIDIA nForce PCI system management IRQ holder for PCI steering PS/2 compatible mouse port Numeric data processor Primary IDE channel VIA OHCI compliant IEEE 1394 host controller NVIDIA network bus enumerator NVIDIA nForce Serial ATA controller...

  • Page 50: Pci Slots

    2.5.4 PCI slots The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI specifications. Refer to the figure below for the location of the slots. 2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slots This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other cards that comply with the PCI Express specifications.
  • Page 51 • We recommend that you install a VGA card to the primary (blue) PCI Express x16 slots, and install any other PCI Express device to the universal (white) PCI Express x16 slot. • Connect a rear chassis fan to the motherboard connector labeled CHA_FAN2 or OPT_FAN1/2/3 when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment.

  • Page 52: Slide Switch

    Slide switch Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC_SW) This onboard slide switch allows you to enable the clr CMOS switch on the back I/O. You can clear the CMOS memory and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The clr CMOS switch on the back I/O helps you easily to clear the system setup information such as system passwords.

  • Page 53: Audio Card, El I/O Shield, And Lcd Poster Installation

    Audio card, EL I/O shield, and LCD Poster installation 2.7.1 Audio card Installation Take out the Audio card from the package. Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card sits on the slot completely. ROG Striker II Extreme / Striker II NSE Locate the audio slot on the motherboard.

  • Page 54: El I/O Shield And Lcd Poster Installation

    2.7.2 EL I/O shield and LCD Poster Installation Install the EL I/O shield to the chassis by snaping it in place from inside. Locate the EL_CON connector and connect the shield cable to the connector in a correct orientation. Locate and connect the LCD Poster cable to the LCD_CON connector.

  • Page 55: Connectors

    Connectors 2.8.1 Rear panel connectors PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device via a coaxial S/PDIF cable. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub.
  • Page 56 Line In port (light blue). This port connects the tape, CD, DVD player, or other audio sources. Line Out port (lime). This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In 4-channel, 6-channel, and 8-channel configuration, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out.
  • Page 57 • Before creating a RAID set using Serial ATA hard disks, make sure that you have connected the Serial ATA signal cable and installed Serial ATA hard disk drives; otherwise, you cannot enter the �Micron RAID utility and SATA BIOS setup during POST. •...

  • Page 58: Internal Connectors

    2.8.2 Internal connectors IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE) The onboard IDE connector is for the Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable. There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable: blue, black, and gray. Connect the blue connector to the motherboard’s IDE connector, then select one of the following modes to configure your device.
  • Page 59 Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1–6) These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk drives. If you installed Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0�1, RAID 5, or �BOD configuration with the N�IDIA RAID controller.

  • Page 60: Floppy Disk Drive Connector (34-1 Pin Floppy)

    STRIKER II NSE USB2.0 connectors Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! You can connect the USB cable to ASUS �-Connector (USB, blue) first, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard. 2-34...
  • Page 61 Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector. Doing so will damage the motherboard! You can connect the 1394 cable to ASUS �-Connector (1394, red) first, and then install the Q-Connector (1394) to the 1394 connector onboard. Thermal sensor cable connectors (2-pin OPT_TEMP1/2/3) These connectors are for temperature monitoring.

  • Page 62: Cpu, Chassis, And Optional Fan Connectors

    STRIKER II NSE Fan connectors • Only the CPU_FAN, CHA_FAN1–3, and OPT_FAN1–3 connectors support the ASUS Q-Fan Plus feature. • If you install multiple VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the chassis fan cable to the motherboard connector labled CHA_FAN2 or OPT_FAN2/3 for better thermal environment.
  • Page 63 Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT for ASUS HDMI VGA card) This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s). If you are using an ASUS HDMI-equipped graphics card, connect the HDMI card to this connector with a S/PDIF Out cable.

  • Page 64: Atx Power Connectors (24-Pin Eatxpwr, 8-Pin Eatx12V)

    • If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system, refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator. aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details. • If you want to use two high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with 500W to 600W power or above to ensure the system stability.

  • Page 65: Power Supply Requirements

    SATA-HDD eSATA-HDD IDE-CDROM IDE-HDD Voltage (V) 6 Current (A) 10.45 10.45 Power (W) 62.7 10.45 Normal Loading KFD 2.93G Memory DDR3-1333*2 PCIEX16-ASUS EN8800GT-512MX16-0004*1 SATA-HDD eSATA-HDD IDE-CDROM IDE-HDD +12V_8Pin +12V_24pin +5V_24pin Voltage (V) 12.14 12.21 Current (A) 7.18 Power (W) 87.1652 75.702...

  • Page 66: Rog Connector (2-Pin Rog)

    Light Loading Conroe 3.0+EM64T Memory DDR3-800 1 GB*2 PCIEX16-ASUS EN8600GT-256MX16-0004*1 SATA-HDD eSATA-HDD IDE-CDROM IDE-HDD +12V_8Pin +12V_24pin +5V_24pin Voltage (V) 12.19 Current (A) 3.32 Power (W) 40.4708 SATA-HDD eSATA-HDD IDE-CDROM IDE-HDD Voltage (V) 1 Current (A) 10.45 Power (W) 10.45 11. ROG connector (2-pin ROG) This connector is for the box labeled as Republic of Gamers on the heatpipe assembly.
  • Page 67 12. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. STRIKER II EXTREME STRIKER II EXTREME/ STRIKER II NSE System panel connector • System power LED (2-pin PLED) This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector.
  • Page 68 ASUS Q-Connector (system panel) You can use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect chassis front panel cables in a few steps. Refer to the instructions below to install the ASUS Q- Connector. Connect the front panel cables to the ASUS Q-Connector.

  • Page 69: Onboard Switches

    2.8.3 Onboard switches Onboard switches allow you to fine-tune performance when working on a bare or open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. Power-on switch Press the power-on switch to wake/power up the system. STRIKER II EXTREME STRIKER II EXTREME/ STRIKER II NSE Power on switch...

  • Page 70: Installing Fusion Block System Accessory

    2.8.4 Installing Fusion Block System accessory Install your watercooling system to the motherboard using the bundled accessories to obtain the best thermal solution. Package contents 3/8” ID tubes x 2 3/4” ID tube clamps x 2 For watercooling system with 3/8” ID tubes ��oosen the screw of a 1/2”...
  • Page 71 For watercooling system with 1/2” or 10mm ID tubes Insert a fitting (1/2” to 3/8” ID or 10mm to 3/8” ID) into the tube. Your watercooling system may come with tube clamps. Use a clamp to fasten the fitting and the tube together. Connect a supplied 3/8”...

  • Page 72: Installing The Diy Pedestal

    2.8.5 Installing the DIY Pedestal Take out the DIY Pedestal from the motherboard package. Arrange and stick the DIY Pedestal to the back of your motherboard. Place the motherboard with the DIY Pedestal as desired to get more efficient heat dissipation. •...

  • Page 73: Chapter 3: Powering Up

    This chapter describes the power up sequence, the vocal POST messages, and ways of shutting down the system. Chapter 3: Powering up...
  • Page 74 Chapter summary Starting up for the first time ... 3-1 Turning off the computer ... 3-2 ROG Striker II Extreme / Striker II NSE...

  • Page 75: Starting Up For The First Time

    Starting up for the first time After making all the connections, replace the system case cover. Be sure that all switches are off. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector.

  • Page 76: Turning Off The Computer

    Turning off the computer 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function If you are using Windows Click the Start button then select ShutDown. The power supply should turn off after Windows If you are using Windows Click the Start button then select Turn Off Computer. Click the Turn Off button to shut down the computer.

  • Page 77: Chapter 4: Bios Setup

    This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided. Chapter 4: BIOS setup...
  • Page 78 Chapter summary Managing and updating your BIOS ... 4-1 BIOS setup program ... 4-9 Extreme Tweaker menu ... 4-13 Main menu ... 4-20 Advanced menu ... 4-25 Power menu ... 4-31 Boot menu ... 4-37 Tools menu ... 4-42 Exit menu ... 4-45 ROG Striker II Extreme / Striker II NSE...

  • Page 79: Managing And Updating Your Bios

    Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS in DOS using a USB flash disk or the motherboard support DVD.) Award BIOS Flash Utility (Updates the BIOS using a bootable USB flash disk or a CD ROM.)
  • Page 80 Updating the BIOS through the Internet To update the BIOS through the Internet: Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears. Select Update BIOS from the Internet option from the drop-down menu, then click Next.
  • Page 81 Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file To update the BIOS through a BIOS file: Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears. Select Update BIOS from a file option from the drop-down menu, then click Next.

  • Page 82: Asus Ez Flash 2 Utility

    4.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go through the long process of using a DOS-based utility. The EZ Flash 2 utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing <Alt> + <F2> during the Power-On Self Tests (POST).

  • Page 83: Updating The Bios

    Flash Utility. Follow these instructions to update the BIOS using this utility. Download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS web site. Rename the file to StrikerII.BIN and save it to a CD ROM or a USB flash disk in FAT 16/12 format.
  • Page 84 BIOS file. Remove the disk then press <F1> to restart the system. AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.18 (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved For C55XEMCP55PXE-StrikerII-00 Flash Type - PMC Pm49FL004T LPC/FWH File Name to Program: StrikerII.bin...

  • Page 85: Saving The Current Bios File

    BIOS file to the disk, then returns to the BIOS flashing process. ROG Striker II Extreme / Striker II NSE AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.18 (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved For C55XEMCP55PXE-StrikerII-00 Flash Type - PMC Pm49FL004T LPC/FWH File Name to Program: 0106.bin...

  • Page 86: Asus Crashfree Bios Utility

    4.1.5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can update a corrupted BIOS file using a floppy disk that contains the updated BIOS file.

  • Page 87: Bios Setup Program

    The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen. • �isit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for this motherboard. ROG Striker II Extreme / Striker II NSE...

  • Page 88: Bios Menu Screen

    • The BIOS setup screens shown in this chapter are for reference purposes only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen. • Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS information. 4-10 Configuration fields...

  • Page 89: Legend Bar

    4.2.3 Legend bar At the bottom of the Setup screen is a legend bar. The keys in the legend bar allow you to navigate through the various setup menus. The following table lists the keys found in the legend bar with their corresponding functions. Navigation Key <F1>...

  • Page 90: Pop-Up Window

    4.2.7 Pop-up window Select a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the configuration options for that item. Extreme Tweaker Main System Time System Date Language Legacy Diskette A: Primary IDE Master Primary IDE Slave SATA 1 SATA 2 SATA 3 SATA 4...

  • Page 91: Configuring System Performance Settings

    Extreme Tweaker menu The Extreme Tweaker menu items allow you to configure overclocking-related items. Take caution when changing the settings of the Extreme Tweaker menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Main CPU Level Up AI Overclock Tuner...
  • Page 92 AI Overclock Tuner [Auto] Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal frequency. Select either one of the preset overclocking configuration options: Manual Auto Standard AI Overclock CPU Level Up The following item becomes configurable when you set AI Overclock Tuner to AI Overclock Overclock Options [Disabled] Allows you to set the overclocking options.

  • Page 93: Memory Timing Setting

    →←: Select Menu The currently detected values are shown under the “Current” field. tCL (CAS Latency) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [5] [6]–[18] ROG Striker II Extreme / Striker II NSE chipset features, ASUS BIOS will automatically adjust your Setting Current [Auto] [Auto]...
  • Page 94 tRCD [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2]–[15] tRP [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2]–[15] tRAS [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2]–[63] Command Per Clock (CMD) [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 clock] [2 clock] tRRD [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2]–[15] tRC [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2]–[63] tWR [Auto]...
  • Page 95 CPU PLL Voltage [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU P���� voltage. The text color in the configuration field corresponds to the onboard CPU ��ED color, both of which indicate voltage condition. When you set the CPU LED item to [PLL Volt], the onboard CPU LED displays CPU P����...

  • Page 96: Cpu Configuration

    CPU GTL_REF0 Ratio [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [Default] [�14m�] [�28m�] [�42m�]~[�210m�] [+224mV] [-07mV] [-14mV] [-21mV]~[-212mV] [-219mV] [-226mV] CPU GTL_REF1 Ratio [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [Default] [�13m�] [�26m�] [�39m�]~[�195m�] [+208mV] [-08mV] [-16mV] [-24mV]~[-232mV] [-240mV] [-248mV] CPU GTL_REF2 Ratio [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [Default] [�13m�] [�26m�] [�39m�]~[�195m�] [+208mV] [-08mV] [-16mV] [-24mV]~[-232mV] [-240mV] [-248mV] CPU GTL_REF3 Ratio [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [Default] [�14m�] [�28m�] [�42m�]~[�210m�]...

  • Page 97: Spread Spectrum Control

    CPU Internal Thermal Control [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] Limit CPUID MaxVal [Disabled] Setting this item to [Enabled] allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs with extended CPUID functions. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Enhanced C1 (CIE) [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable C1E Support.

  • Page 98: Main Menu

    Main menu When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an overview of the basic system information. Refer to section 4.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them. Extreme Tweaker Main System Time...

  • Page 99: Primary Ide Master/Slave

    4.4.5 Primary IDE Master/Slave While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of IDE devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each IDE device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to display the device information. Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Main Primary IDE Master PIO Mode...
  • Page 100 Access Mode [Auto] The default [Auto] allows automatic detection of an IDE hard disk drive. Select [CHS] for this item if you set the IDE Primary Master/Slave to [Manual]. Configuration options: [CHS] [��BA] [��arge] [Auto] Before attempting to configure a hard disk drive, make sure you have the correct configuration information supplied by the drive manufacturer.

  • Page 101: Sata 1-6

    4.4.6 SATA 1–6 While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of Serial ATA devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SATA device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to display the SATA device information. Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Main SATA 1 Extended IDE Drive...

  • Page 102: Hdd Smart Monitoring

    Sector Shows the number of sectors per track. This item is not configurable. After entering the IDE hard disk drive information into BIOS, use a disk utility, such as FDISK, to partition and format new IDE hard disk drives. This is necessary so that you can write or read data from the hard disk.

  • Page 103: Advanced Menu

    Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Main Main AI NET2 PCIPnP Onboard Device Configuration USB Configuration IDE Function Setup Serial-ATA Configuration LCD Poster and Onboard LED Control F1:Help ↑↓...

  • Page 104: Pcipnp

    4.5.2 PCIPnP Plug & Play O/S Primary Display Adapter Plug & Play O/S [No] When set to [No], the BIOS configures all the devices in the system. When set to [Yes] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system configures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot.

  • Page 105: Usb Configuration

    Front Panel Support Type [HD Audio] Allows you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC`97 or high-definition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio module supports. Configuration options: [AC97] [HD Audio] Onboard 1st/2nd Nvidia LAN [Enabled] Enables or disables the onboard NVIDIA Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]...

  • Page 106: Ide Function Setup

    4.5.5 IDE Function Setup This sub-menu contains IDE function-related items. Select an item then press <Enter> to edit. IDE Function Setup OnChip IDE Channel0 IDE DMA transfer access IDE Prefetch Mode OnChip IDE Channel0 [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the onchip IDE channel 0 controller. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] IDE DMA transfer access [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the IDE DMA transfer access.

  • Page 107: Lcd Poster And Onboard Led Control

    RAID Enabled [Disabled] Enables or disables the onboard RAID controller. When set to [Enabled], the succeeding items become user-configurable. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] SATA1/2/3 Primary/Secondary RAID [Disabled] Enables or disables the RAID function of the SATA drives. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 4.5.7 LCD Poster and Onboard LED Control Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility...
  • Page 108 The following item becomes configurable when you set LCD Poster Mode to [User String]. LCD Poster String Allows you to enter a string that will be displayed on the LCD Poster. Highlight this item and press <Enter> to enter your string with the keypad. Voltiminder LED [ON] Allows you to turn on/off the onboard Voltiminder LED.

  • Page 109: Power Menu

    Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) and the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options. Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Main Main...

  • Page 110: Apm Configuration

    4.6.3 APM Configuration APM Configuration Restore on AC Power Loss PWR Button < 4 secs Power Up On PCI/PCIE Devices USB Resume from S5 Power On by RTC Alarm Date (of Month) Alarm Alarm Time (hh:mm) HPET Support Power Up By PS/2 Keyboard F1:Help ↑↓...

  • Page 111: Hardware Monitor

    Alarm Time (hh:mm) [ X: X: X] To set the time of alarm: Highlight this item and press <Enter> to display a pop-up menu for the hour field. Key-in a value (Min=0, Max=23), then press <Enter>. Press <TAB> to move to the minutes field then press <Enter>. Key-in a minute value (Min=0, Max=59), then press <Enter>.
  • Page 112 Voltage Monitor Voltage Monitor Vcore Voltage CPU PLL Voltage CPU PLL Voltage CPU VTT Voltage Memory Voltage NB Core Voltage SB Core Voltage DDR3 Termination Voltage 3.3V Voltage 5V Voltage 12V Voltage F1:Help ↑↓ : Select Item ESC: Exit →←: Select Menu Vcore, CPU PLL, CPU VTT, Memory, NB Core , SB Core, DDR3 Termination, 3.3V, 5V, 12V Voltage The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output...

  • Page 113: Fan Speed Control

    OPT1/2/3 Cable Overheat Protection [90] Allows you to set the temperature over which the system automatically shuts down when any of the thermal sensor cables connected to the motherboard detects device overheat to protect the device from damage. Configuration optitons: [Disabled] [50] [60] [70] [80] [90] Fan Speed Monitor Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Fan Speed Monitor...
  • Page 114 CPU FAN Control [Duty Cycle Mode] Allows you to select the fan control mode. Configuration options: [Duty Cycle Mode] [�-FAN Mode] CPU FAN Duty Cycle [100%] Allows you to set the fan duty cycle. This item becomes configurable when you set the CPU FAN Control item to [Duty Cycle Mode]. Configuration options: [60%] [70%] [80%] [90%] [100%] CHASSIS FAN Control [Duty Cycle Mode] Allows you to select the fan control mode.

  • Page 115: Boot Menu

    CPU Fan Speed warning [600 RPM] Allows you to set the CPU fan warning speed function, which gives off a warning when the CPU fan speed is too low. If you set this item to [Disabled], the system will not warn you even if no fan is installed or if the fan is not functioning properly. Configuration options: [Disabled] [600 RPM] [1200 RPM] [1600 RPM] Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options.

  • Page 116: Removable Drives

    4.7.2 Removable Drives Main Extreme Tweaker Removable Drives 1. Floppy Disks 1. Floppy Disks Allows you to assign a removable drive attached to the system. 4.7.3 Hard Disk Drives Main Extreme Tweaker Hard Disk Drives 1. SATA 1: XXXXXXXXX 1. SATA 1: XXXXXXXXX Allows you to assign hard disk drives attached to the system.

  • Page 117: Boot Settings Configuration

    4.7.5 Boot Settings Configuration Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Main Extreme Tweaker Boot Settings Configuration Case Open Warning Quick Boot Boot Up Floppy Seek Bootup Num-Lock Typematic Rate Setting Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec) 6 Typematic Delay (Msec) OS Select For DRAM > 64MB [Non-OS2] Full Screen LOGO BIOS Wallpaper Halt On...

  • Page 118: Security

    Full Screen LOGO [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Make sure that the above item is set to [Enabled] if you want to use the ASUS MyLogo3™ feature. BIOS Wallpaper [00%] Allows you to select the transparency of the BIOS wallpaper.

  • Page 119: Supervisor Password

    Supervisor Password User Password These fields allow you to set passwords: To set a password: Select an item then press <Enter>. Type in a password using a combination of a maximum of eight (8) alpha-numeric characters, then press <Enter>. When prompted, confirm the password by typing the exact characters again, then press <Enter>.

  • Page 120: Tools Menu

    The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. Extreme Tweaker Main ASUS O.C. Profile ASUS EZ Flash 2 F1:Help ↑↓ : Select Item ESC: Exit →←: Select Menu 4.8.1...
  • Page 121 Load from File Allows you to load the previous BIOS file saved in the hard disk/floppy disk/ USB flash disk with the FAT32/16/12 format. Follow the instructions below to load the BIOS file. 1. Insert the storage devices that contains the “xxx.CMO” file. 2.

  • Page 122: Asus Ez Flash 2

    The BIOS file will be saved as “xxx.CMO“. 4.8.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a confirmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Enter> to confirm your choice.

  • Page 123: Exit Menu

    Exit menu The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Main Main Exit & Save Changes Exit &...
  • Page 124 4-46 Chapter 4: BIOS setup...

  • Page 125: Software Support

    This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package. Chapter 5: Software support...
  • Page 126 Chapter summary Installing an operating system ... 5-1 Support DVD information ... 5-1 Software information ... 5-9 RAID configurations ... 5-35 Creating a RAID driver disk ... 5-51 ROG Striker II Extreme / Striker II NSE...

  • Page 127: Installing An Operating System

    The contents of the support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for updates. 5.2.1 Running the support DVD Place the support DVD to the optical drive.

  • Page 128: Drivers Menu

    ASUS EPU Driver + AI Gear 3 Utility Installs the ASUS EPU Driver + AI Gear 3 Utility. Install the ASUS EPU Driver + AI Gear 3 Utility before installing ASUS AI Suite. USB 2.0 Driver Installs the Universal Serial Bus 2.0 (USB 2.0) driver.

  • Page 129: Utilities Menu

    Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. ASUS InstAll-Installation Wizard for Utilities Installs all of the utilities through the Installation Wizard. ASUS PC Probe II This smart utility monitors the fan speed, CPU temperature, and system voltages, and alerts you of any detected problems.
  • Page 130 ASUS Update The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in Windows ® environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP). ASUS AI Suite Installs the ASUS AI Suite.

  • Page 131: Make Disk Menu

    5.2.4 Make Disk menu The Make Disk menu contains items to create the NVIDIA nForce 790i (Ultra) ® ® SLI™ or JMicron JMB363 SATA RAID driver disk. ® NVIDIA 32/64 bit XP/Vista SATA RAID Driver Allows you to create a NVIDIA 32/64 bit XP/Vista™...

  • Page 132: Manual Menu

    5.2.5 Manual menu The Manuals menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to open the folder of the user manual. Most user manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the Adobe Acrobat ® file. 5.2.6 Video menu Click the Video tab to display a list of video clips.

  • Page 133: Asus Contact Information

    5.2.7 ASUS Contact information Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. You can also find this information on the inside front cover of this user guide. 5.2.8 Other information The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on the motherboard and the contents of the support DVD.

  • Page 134: Technical Support Form

    Browse this DVD Displays the support DVD contents in graphical format. Technical support form Displays the ASUS Technical Support Request Form that you have to fill out when requesting technical support. Filelist Displays the contents of the support DVD and a brief description of each in text format.

  • Page 135: Software Information

    5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3™ The ASUS My��ogo3™ utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the image that appears on screen during the Power-On Self-Tests (POST). The ASUS MyLogo3™ is automatically installed when you install the ASUS Update utility from the support DVD.
  • Page 136 Ratio box. When the screen returns to the ASUS Update utility, flash the original BIOS to load the new boot logo. 10. After flashing the BIOS, restart the computer to display the new boot logo during POST.

  • Page 137: Ai Net 2

    5.3.2 AI NET 2 The AI NET 2 features the Marvell diagnostic utility that reports LAN cable faults and shorts using the Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) technology. The �CT detects and reports open and shorted cables, impedance mismatches, pair swaps, pair polarity problems, and pair skew problems of up to 64 ns at one meter accuracy.

  • Page 138: Ai Audio 2 (Soundmax ® High Definition Audio Utility)

    5.3.3 AI Audio 2 (SoundMAX The ADI AD1988 High Definition Audio CODEC provides 8-channel audio capability through the SoundMAX deliver the ultimate audio experience on your PC. The software implements high quality audio synthesis/rendering, 3D sound positioning, and advanced voice-input technologies.
  • Page 139 SoundMAX BlackHawk (AI Audio 2) If you are using Windows Vista™ operating system, from the taskbar, double-click on the SoundMAX BlackHawk icon to display the SoundMAX ® Enabling AI Audio 2 Click the power button with the new SoundMAX media enjoyment. Fidelity Compensation After you click the power button, the utility will compensate for the fidelity lost in the compression process and make the audio output quasi-original when reverting the...
  • Page 140 Playback Settings To configure the playback settings, click the Playback button on the control panel. You can adjust the volume of the Speakers and SPDIF Interface or mute the audio. Preset settings Click and expand the drop-down menu to select your preferred Digital Signal Processing (DSP) preset.
  • Page 141 Recording Settings To change the recording settings, click the Recording button on the control panel. You can adjust the speaker delay of Microphone or Line In by moving the slider rightward or leftward. Record testing Click the tab to perform test recording and play the test sample through the speakers or the SPDIF interface.
  • Page 142 Speakers Allows you to adjust the Speaker Trim and Speaker Delay. Bass Allows you to do the Bass management. Preferences Displays the preference options for this utility, version information, AudioESP, etc. 5-16 Chapter 5: Software support...
  • Page 143 SoundMAX If you are using Windows XP operating system, from the taskbar, double-click on the SoundMAX icon to display the SoundMAX ® Audio Setup Wizard By clicking the icon from the SoundMAX easily configure your audio settings. Simply follow the succeeding screen instructions and begin enjoying High Definition Audio.
  • Page 144 Jack configuration This screen helps you configure your computer’s audio ports, depending on the audio devices you have installed. Adjust microphone volume This screen helps you adjust microphone volume. You will be asked to read pre-written text to allow the AudioWizard to adjust the volume as you speak. 5-18 Adjust speaker volume This screen helps you adjust...
  • Page 145 Audio preferences Click the icon to go to the Preferences page. This page allows you to change various audio settings. General options Click the General tab to choose your playback and recording devices, enable/ disable the AudioESP™ feature, and enable/disable digital output. Listening Environment options Click the Listening Environment tab to set up your speaker, acoustic environment, and enable/disable the Virtual Theater Surround function.
  • Page 146 Microphone options Click the Microphone tab allows you to optimize your microphone input settings. 5-20 Chapter 5: Software support...

  • Page 147: Asus Pc Probe Ii

    ® To launch the PC Probe II from the Windows > ASUS > PC Probe II > PC Probe II v1.xx.xx. The PC Probe II main window appears. After launching the application, the PC Probe II icon appears in the Windows taskbar.
  • Page 148 Button Sensor alert When a system sensor detects a problem, the main window right handle turns red, as the illustrations below show. When displayed, the monitor panel for that sensor also turns red. Refer to the Monitor panels section for details. Preferences You can customize the application using the Preference section in the main window.
  • Page 149 Hardware monitor panels The hardware monitor panels display the current value of a system sensor such as fan rotation, CPU temperature, and voltages. The hardware monitor panels come in two display modes: hexagonal (large) and rectangular (small). When you check the Enable Monitoring Panel option from the Preference section, the monitor panels appear on your computer’s desktop.
  • Page 150 Monitoring sensor alert The monitor panel turns red when a component value exceeds or is lower than the threshold value. Refer to the illustrations below. Large display WMI browser Click to display the WMI (Windows Management Instrumentation) browser. This browser displays various Windows® management information.
  • Page 151 PCI browser Click to display the PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) browser. This browser provides information on the PCI devices installed on your system. Click the plus sign (+) before the PCI Information item to display available information. Usage The Usage browser displays real-time information on the CPU, hard disk drive space, and memory usage.
  • Page 152 Memory usage The Memory tab shows both used and available physical memory. The pie chart at the bottom of the window represents the used (blue) and the available Configuring PC Probe II Click to view and adjust the sensor threshold values. The Config window has two tabs: Sensor/Threshold and Preference.

  • Page 153: Asus Ai Suite

    ASUS AI Suite allows you to launch AI Gear 3 Plus utilities easily. Install the ASUS EPU Driver + AI Gear 3 Utility before the ASUS AI Suite utility. Otherwise, ASUS AI Suite will not function properly. Installing AI Suite To install AI Suite on your computer: Place the support DVD to the optical drive.
  • Page 154 Other feature buttons Click on right corner of the main window to open the monitor window. Click on right corner of the expanded window to switch the temperature from degrees Centigrade to degrees Fahrenheit. 5-28 Displays the CPU/ system temperature, CPU/memory/PCIE voltage, and CPU/ chassis fan speed...

  • Page 155: Asus Epu Utility—Ai Gear 3 +

    After installing ASUS AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch ASUS AI Gear 3 by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on your Windows OS taskbar...
  • Page 156 Energy Saving Status Displays the current CPU power Displays the time/date the calculator starts counting Click to switch to the “Total Electricity Savings” window to open the Electricity Savings Calculator window. You may reset the Click time for the calculator to start counting. 5-30 Click to switch to the “Electricity Savings...

  • Page 157: Asus Ai Nap

    5.3.7 ASUS AI Nap This feature allows you to minimize the power consumption of your computer whenever you are away. Enable this feature for minimum power consumption and a quieter system operation. After installing AI Suite from the bundled Support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows OS taskbar and click the AI Nap button on the AI Suite main window.

  • Page 158: Asus Q-Fan Plus

    5.3.8 ASUS Q-Fan Plus The ASUS Q-Fan Plus feature allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU/chassis/optional/power fans for more efficient system operation. After installing AI Suite from the bundled Support DVD, launch the utility by double- clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows on the AI Suite main window.

  • Page 159: Asus Ai Booster

    5.3.9 ASUS AI Booster The ASUS AI Booster application allows you to overclock the CPU speed in WIndows environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. ® After installing AI Suite from the bundled Support DVD, you can launch the utility...

  • Page 160: Cpu Level Up

    5.3.10 CPU Level Up The CPU ��evel Up application allows you to overclock immediately with OC profile presets in WIndows environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. This ® application provides comprehensive and detailed tuning to frequencies, voltagies, and even timings to create a real professional level of overclocking configuration. After installing AI Suite from the bundled Support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows OS taskbar and click the CPU...

  • Page 161: Raid Configurations

    RAID configurations The motherboard comes with the NVIDIA RAID controller that allows you to configure IDE and Serial ATA hard disk drives as RAID sets. 5.4.1 RAID definitions RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in parallel, interleaved stacks.

  • Page 162: Nvidia ® Raid Configurations

    5.4.2 NVIDIA The motherboard includes a high performance SATA RAID controller integrated in the NVIDIA southbridge chipset. It supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5 ® and JBOD for six independent Serial ATA channels. Installing Serial ATA (SATA) hard disks The motherboard supports Ultra DMA 133/100/66 and Serial ATA hard disk drives.
  • Page 163 Make sure to re-enter your N�RAID settings after the CMOS is cleared; otherwise, the system will not recognize your RAID setup. For detailed descriptions on the NVIDIA NVIDIA RAID User Guide found in your motherboard support DVD. Entering the NVIDIA RAID utility ®...

  • Page 164: Creating A Raid Volume

    Creating a RAID Volume To create a RAID volume: From the NVIDIA then press <Enter>. The following submenu appears. Use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID mode then press <Enter>. Press <TAB> select the Striping Block then press <Enter>. The following submenu appears: If you selected Striping or Stripe Mirroring, use the up or down arrow keys to select the stripe size for your RAID 0 array then press <Enter>.The available...

  • Page 165: Rebuilding A Raid Array

    Boot [Ctrl-X]Exit [↑↓]Select A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen. Press <Ctrl+X> to save settings and exit. Rebuilding a RAID array To rebuild a RAID array: From the Array List menu, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array then press <Enter>.
  • Page 166 A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen. Press <R> to rebuild a RAID array. The following screen appears. RAID Mode: Mirroring Striping Width: 1 Adapt Channel Use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array to rebuild, then press <F7>.

  • Page 167: Deleting A Raid Array

    Deleting a RAID array To delete a RAID array: From the Array List menu, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array then press <Enter>. The RAID Array details appear. RAID Mode: Mirroring Striping Width: 1 Adapt Channel [R] Rebuild...
  • Page 168 Clearing a disk data To clear disk data: From the Array List menu, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array then press <Enter>. The RAID Array details appear. RAID Mode: Mirroring Striping Width: 1 Adapt Channel [R] Rebuild A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen.

  • Page 169: Jmicron ® Raid Configuration

    5.4.4 JMicron RAID Configuration ® The JMicron Serial ATA controller allows you to configure RAID 0, RAID 1 and ® JBOD sets on the external Serial ATA hard disk drives. Before creating a RAID set Prepare the following items: Two SATA HDDs, preferably with the same model and capacity. A write-enabled floppy disk (Windows XP).

  • Page 170: Creating A Raid Set

    Entering the JMB363 RAID BIOS utility During POST, press <Ctrl-J> to enter the JBM363 RAID BIOS menu. JMicron Technology Corp. PCI-to-SATA II/IDE RAID Controller BIOS v0.97 Copyright (C) 2004-2005 JMicron Technology HDD0 : HDS722516VLSA80 HDD1 : HDS722516DLA380 Press <Ctrl-J> to enter RAID Setup Utility... The main JMB363 RAID BIOS menu appears.
  • Page 171 When the Level item is highlighted, use the up/down arrow key to select the RAID set that you want to create. [Create New RAID] Name : JRAID Level: 0-Stripe Disks: Select Disk Block: 128 KB Size : 319 GB Confirm Creation When the Disks item is highlighted, use the up/down arrow key to highlight an HDD that you want to belong to the RAID set, then press the space bar to confirm selection.
  • Page 172 When done, press <Enter> to confirm the creation of the RAID set. A dialogue box appears to confirm the action. Press <Y> to confirm; otherwise, press <N>. JMicron Technology Corp. PCI-to-SATA II/IDE RAID Controller BIOS v0.97 [Create New RAID] Name: JRAID Level: 0-Stripe Disks: Select Disk Block: 128 KB...

  • Page 173: Deleting A Raid Set

    Deleting a RAID set In the main JMB363 RAID BIOS menu, highlight Delete RAID Disk Drive using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter>. Use the space bar to select the RAID set you want to delete. A selected set shows a set.
  • Page 174 Resetting disks to non-RAID • An HDD that has been previously configured as part of another RAID set in another platform is called a broken RAID HDD. When you install a broken RAID HDD, you cannot select this HDD when configuring a RAID set through the JMB363 utility.
  • Page 175 Solving a Mirror conflict A Mirror conflict occurs when both disks in a RAID 1 (Mirror) configuration are unplugged from the system in turn, then plugged in again. Since both disks contain exactly the same data, the system will be unable to determine which of the two is the source drive.
  • Page 176 Rebuilding a Mirror Drive When one of the disks in a RAID 1 (Mirror) configuration is unplugged from the system, then plugged in again, a dialogue box appears to ask you to rebuild the Mirror drive. Press <Y> to confirm; otherwise, press <N>. This option allows you to rebuild the Mirror drive later and synchronize the data between two hard disks.

  • Page 177: Creating A Raid Driver Disk

    Creating a RAID driver disk A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. For Windows �ista™ operating system, use either a floppy disk or a USB device with the RAID driver.
  • Page 178 To install the RAID driver in Windows Insert the floppy disk/USB device with RAID driver into the floppy disk drive/USB port. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation. Due to chipset limitation, the Serial ATA ports supported by the NVIDIA chipset does not support Serial Optical Disk Drives (Serial ODD) under DOS.

  • Page 179: Nvidia Sli™ Technology Support

    This chapter tells how to install SLI-ready PCI Express graphics cards. ® Chapter 6: NVIDIA SLI™ technology support...
  • Page 180 Chapter summary Overview ... 6-1 Graphics card setup ... 6-2 ROG Striker II Extreme / Striker II NSE...

  • Page 181: Overview

    Overview The motherboard supports the NVIDIA that allows you to install up to three identical PCI Express™ x16 graphics cards. Follow the installation procedures in this section. Requirements • In Dual SLI mode, you should have two identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA certified.

  • Page 182: Graphics Card Setup

    Graphics card setup 6.2.1 Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards Install only identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA Different types of graphics cards will not work together properly. To install the graphics cards: Prepare three graphics cards. Each graphics card should have goldfingers for the 3-way SLI connector.
  • Page 183 Insert the first graphics card into the PCIEX16�1 slot (blue), the second into the PCIEX16_3 slot (white), and the third into the PCIEX16_2 slot (blue). Make sure that the cards are properly seated on the slots. Align and firmly insert the 3-way S��I bridge connector to the goldfingers on each graphics card.
  • Page 184 Connect auxiliary power source from the power supply to the three graphics cards separately. Connect a VGA or a DVI-I cable to the graphics card/s. We recommend that you install an additional chassis fan for better thermal environment. Chapter 6: NVIDIA ®...

  • Page 185: Installing Two Sli-Ready Graphics Cards

    6.2.2 Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards Insert one graphics card into the PCIEX16_1 slot (blue) and the other into the PCIEX16_2 slot (blue). Make sure that the cards are properly seated on the slots. Align and insert the S��I connector to the goldfingers on each graphics card. Make sure that the connector is firmly in place.

  • Page 186: Installing The Device Drivers

    6.2.3 Installing the device drivers Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device drivers. • Make sure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA ® SLI™ technology. Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com).
  • Page 187 From the Personalization window, select Display Settings. From the Display Settings dialog box, click Advanced Settings. Select the NVIDIA GeForce tab, and then click Start the NVIDIA Control Panel. ROG Striker II Extreme / Striker II NSE...
  • Page 188 The NVIDIA Control Panel window appears. Enabling SLI configuration When installing two graphics gards: From the NVIDIA Control Panel window, select Set SLI Configuration. Click Enable SLI and set the display for viewing SLI rendered content. When done, click Apply. When installing three graphics gards: From the NVIDIA Control Panel window, select Set SLI Configuration, and then...

  • Page 189: Appendix: Cpu Features

    The Appendix describes the CPU features and technologies that the motherboard supports as well as the debug code table for the LCD Poster. Appendix: CPU features...

  • Page 190: A.1 Intel ® Em64T

    Chapter summary Intel ® EM64T ...A-1 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Intel Hyper-Threading Technology ...A-3 ® Debug Code Table ...A-4 ROG Striker II Extreme / Striker II NSE Technology (EIST) ...A-1 ®...

  • Page 191: Intel ® Em64T

    32-bit operating systems. • The motherboard comes with a BIOS file that supports EM64T. You can download the latest BIOS file from the ASUS website (www.asus.com/ support/download/) if you need to update the BIOS file. See Chapter 4 for details.

  • Page 192: Using The Eist

    A.2.2 Using the EIST To use the EIST feature: Turn on the computer, then enter the BIOS Setup. Go to the Advanced Menu, highlight CPU Configuration, then press <Enter>. Set the Enhanced Intel SpeedStep (tm) Tech. item to [Enabled], then press <Enter>.

  • Page 193: Intel ® Hyper-Threading Technology

    ® Intel Hyper-Threading Technology • The motherboard supports Intel Hyper-Threading Technology. • Hyper-Threading Technology is supported under Windows Linux 2.4.x (kernel) and later versions only. Under Linux, use the Hyper- Threading compiler to compile the code. If you are using any other operating systems, disable the Hyper-Threading Technology item in the BIOS to ensure system stability and performance.

  • Page 194: Debug Code Table

    Debug code table Code Description CPU INIT CPU Initiation DET CPU Test CMOS R/W functionality. Early chipset initialization: -Disable shadow RAM CHIPINIT -Disable L2 cache -Program basic chipset registers Detect memory DET DRAM -Auto-detection of DRAM size, type and ECC. -Auto-detection of L2 cache DC FCODE Expand compressed BIOS code to DRAM...
  • Page 195 8254TEST Test 8254 8259MSK1 Test 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 1. 8259MSK2 Test 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 2. 8259TEST Test 8259 functionality. COUNTMEM Calculate total memory by testing the last double word of each 64K page. 1. Program MTRR of M1 CPU 2.
  • Page 196 Initialize PnP boot devices 1. USB final Initialization 2. NET PC: Build SYSID structure 3. Switch screen back to text mode USB FINAL 4. Set up ACPI table at top of memory. 5. Invoke ISA adapter ROMs 6. Assign IRQs to PCI devices 7.

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