Asus A8R-MVP User Manual

Asus A8R-MVP User Manual

Asus computer hardware - motherboard user manual
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Summary of Contents for Asus A8R-MVP

  • Page 1 A8R-MVP...
  • 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 Notices ... vii Safety information ... viii About this guide ... ix A8R-MVP specifications summary ... xi Chapter 1: Chapter 1: Chapter 1: Product introduction Product introduction Product introduction Chapter 1: Chapter 1: Product introduction Product introduction Welcome! ... 1-1 Package contents ...
  • Page 4 Creating a bootable floppy disk ... 4-4 4.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash utility ... 4-5 4.1.4 AFUDOS utility ... 4-6 4.1.5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility ... 4-9 BIOS setup program ... 4-11 4.2.1 BIOS menu screen ... 4-12 4.2.2 Menu bar ... 4-12 4.2.3...
  • Page 5 Running the support CD ... 5-1 5.2.2 Drivers menu ... 5-2 5.2.3 Utilities menu ... 5-3 5.2.4 Make Disk menu ... 5-4 5.2.5 Manuals menu ... 5-5 5.2.6 ASUS Contact information ... 5-6 5.2.7 Other information ... 5-6 v v v v v...
  • Page 6 5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo™ ... 5-8 5.3.2 AI Net 2 ... 5-10 Using the Virtual Cable Tester™ ... 5-10 5.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II ... 5-11 5.3.4 Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology ... 5-17 5.3.5 SoundMAX Audio Setup Wizard ... 5-20 RAID configurations ... 5-24 5.4.1...
  • Page 7: Notices

    Notices Federal Communications Commission Statement Federal Communications Commission Statement Federal Communications Commission Statement Federal Communications Commission Statement 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 •...
  • Page 8: Safety Information

    Safety information Electrical safety Electrical safety Electrical safety Electrical safety 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 9: About This Guide

    A S U S w e b s i t e s A S U S w e b s i t e s The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.
  • Page 10 Conventions used in this guide Conventions used in this guide Conventions used in this guide 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. D A N G E R / W A R N I N G : D A N G E R / W A R N I N G : Information to prevent injury to yourself D A N G E R / W A R N I N G :...
  • Page 11: A8R-Mvp Specifications Summary

    A8R-MVP specifications summary C P U C P U C P U Socket 939 for AMD Athlon™ 64FX/Athlon™ 64 X2/ C P U C P U AMD64 architecture enables simultaneous 32- and Supports AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology Supports AMD HyperTransport™ Technology...
  • Page 12 - vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.025 increment - Stepless Frequency Selection (SFS) allows FSB tuning from 200 MHz up to 400 MHz at 1 MHz increment ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) 1 x PS/2 mouse port 1 x PS/2 keyboard port 1 x Parallel port 1 x LAN (RJ-45) port 4 x USB 2.0 ports...
  • Page 13 This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports Product information...
  • Page 14 Chapter summary Welcome! ... 1-1 Package contents ... 1-1 Special features ... 1-2 A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P...
  • Page 15: Welcome

    T h a n k y o u f o r b u y i n g a n A S U S 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 16: Special Features

    Special features 1.3.1 1.3.1 1.3.1 1.3.1 1.3.1 Product highlights Product highlights Product highlights Product highlights Product highlights Latest processor technology Latest processor technology Latest processor technology Latest processor technology Latest processor technology The motherboard comes with a 939-pin surface mount, Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) socket that supports AMD Athlon™...
  • Page 17 Serial ATA I/II technology Serial ATA I/II technology Serial ATA I/II technology Serial ATA I/II technology Serial ATA I/II technology The motherboard supports the Serial ATA II 3 Gb/s technology through the Serial ATA interfaces and the ULI M1575 Southbridge. The Serial ATA II 3 Gb/s specification provides twice the bandwidth of the current Serial ATA products with a host of new features, including Native Command Queueing (NCQ), and Power Management (PM) Implementation Algorithm.
  • Page 18: Innovative Asus Features

    ASUS Q-Fan 2 technology ASUS Q-Fan 2 technology ASUS Q-Fan 2 technology The ASUS Q-Fan 2 technology smartly adjusts the CPU fan speed according to the system loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efficient operation. See page 4-35 for details.
  • Page 19 ASUS EZ Flash BIOS ASUS EZ Flash BIOS With the ASUS EZ Flash, you can easily update the system BIOS even before loading the operating system. No need to use a DOS-based utility or boot from a floppy disk. See page 4-5 for details.
  • Page 20 1 - 6 1 - 6 1 - 6 1 - 6 1 - 6 C h a p t e r 1 : P r o d u c t i n t r o d u c t i o n C h a p t e r 1 : P r o d u c t i n t r o d u c t i o n C h a p t e r 1 : P r o d u c t i n t r o d u c t i o n C h a p t e r 1 : P r o d u c t i n t r o d u c t i o n...
  • Page 21 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. Hardware information...
  • Page 22 Chapter summary Before you proceed ... 2-1 Motherboard overview ... 2-2 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ... 2-5 System memory ... 2-10 Expansion slots ... 2-14 Jumper ... 2-18 Connectors ... 2-19 A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P...
  • Page 23: Before You Proceed

    LED. A8R-MVP ® A8R-MVP Onboard LED Make sure to connect the EZPlug when using two PCI Express graphics cards and a 20-pin ATX power supply unit, or if the graphics cards do not have auxiliary power plugs. See page 2-24 for the location of the EZPlug connector.
  • Page 24: Motherboard Overview

    2 - 2 2 - 2 2 - 2 A8R-MVP ® C h a p t e r 2 : H a r d w a r e i n f o r m a t i o n C h a p t e r 2 : H a r d w a r e i n f o r m a t i o n...
  • Page 25: Motherboard Layout

    Center:Line Out CHA_FAN Below:Mic In USB78_WFG EZ_PLUG AAFP PCIEX16_2 PCIEX1_1 AD1986A A8R-MVP PCIEX16_1 PCI1 88E8001 PCI2 PCI3 TI 1394 IE1394_1 A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P...
  • Page 26: Layout Contents

    2.2.4 2.2.4 2.2.4 Layout Contents Layout Contents Layout Contents 2.2.4 2.2.4 Layout Contents Layout Contents S l o t s S l o t s S l o t s S l o t s S l o t s DDR DIMM slots PCI slots PCI Express x1 slot...
  • Page 27: Central Processing Unit (Cpu)

    To install a CPU. Locate the 939-pin ZIF socket on the motherboard. A8R-MVP ® A8R-MVP CPU Socket 939 Unlock the socket by pressing the lever sideways, then lift it up to a 90°-100° angle. Make sure that the socket lever is lifted up to 90°-100° angle, otherwise the CPU does not fit in completely.
  • Page 28 Position the CPU above the socket such that the CPU corner with the gold triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place. The CPU fits only in one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the pins and damaging the CPU! When the CPU is in place, push down the socket lever to secure...
  • Page 29: Installing The Heatsink And Fan

    2.3.2 2.3.2 2.3.2 Installing the heatsink and fan Installing the heatsink and fan Installing the heatsink and fan 2.3.2 2.3.2 Installing the heatsink and fan Installing the heatsink and fan The AMD Athlon™ 64FX/Athlon™ 64/Athlon™ 64 X2/Sempron™ processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance.
  • Page 30 Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. Align the other end of the retention bracket (near the retention bracket lock) to the retention module base. A clicking sound denotes that the retention bracket is in place. Make sure that the fan and heatsink assembly perfectly fits the retention mechanism module...
  • Page 31 CPU_FAN. A8R-MVP ® A8R-MVP CPU fan connector Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector. A S U S A 8 R - M V P...
  • Page 32: System Memory

    Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. The following figure illustrates the location of the sockets: A8R-MVP ® A8R-MVP 184-pin DDR DIMM sockets C h a n n e l C h a n n e l C h a n n e l...
  • Page 33: Memory Configurations

    2.4.2 2.4.2 2.4.2 Memory Configurations Memory Configurations Memory Configurations 2.4.2 2.4.2 Memory Configurations Memory Configurations You may install 256 MB, 512 MB, and 1 GB unbuffered ECC/non-ECC DDR DIMMs into the DIMM sockets using the memory configurations in this section. •...
  • Page 34 C C C C C - Supports 4 modules inserted into both the blue and black slots as two pairs of Dual-channel memory configuration S S - Single-sided D S - Double-sided Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for the latest Qualified Vendors List. 2 - 1 2 2 - 1 2...
  • Page 35: Installing A Ddr Dimm

    2.4.3 2.4.3 2.4.3 Installing a DDR DIMM Installing a DDR DIMM Installing a DDR DIMM 2.4.3 2.4.3 Installing a DDR DIMM Installing a DDR DIMM Make sure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components.
  • Page 36: 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 37: Interrupt Assignments

    2.5.3 2.5.3 2.5.3 2.5.3 2.5.3 Interrupt assignments Interrupt assignments Interrupt assignments Interrupt assignments Interrupt assignments Standard interrupt assignments Standard interrupt assignments Standard interrupt assignments Standard interrupt assignments Standard interrupt assignments I R Q I R Q I R Q I R Q I R Q P r i o r i t y P r i o r i t y...
  • Page 38: Pci Slots

    2.5.4 2.5.4 2.5.4 2.5.4 2.5.4 PCI slots PCI slots PCI slots PCI slots PCI slots The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI specifications. The figure shows a LAN card installed on a PCI slot.
  • Page 39 • We recommend that you install a VGA card on the primary (blue) PCI Express slot and install any other PCI Express device on the secondary (black) PCI Express slot. • In CrossFire™ mode, each PCI Express x16 slot works at x8 bandwidth.
  • Page 40: Jumper

    Removing the cap will cause system boot failure! A8R-MVP ® A8R-MVP Clear RTC RAM You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking. For system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature.
  • Page 41: Connectors

    Connectors 2.7.1 2.7.1 2.7.1 2.7.1 2.7.1 Rear panel connectors Rear panel connectors Rear panel connectors Rear panel connectors Rear panel connectors 1 . 1 . P S / 2 m o u s e p o r t ( g r e e n ) . P S / 2 m o u s e p o r t ( g r e e n ) .
  • Page 42 Audio 2, 4, or 6-channel configuration Audio 2, 4, or 6-channel configuration Audio 2, 4, or 6-channel configuration Audio 2, 4, or 6-channel configuration Audio 2, 4, or 6-channel configuration P o r t P o r t H e a d s e t H e a d s e t P o r t P o r t...
  • Page 43: Internal Connectors

    A8R-MVP ® A8R-MVP Floppy disk drive connector 2 . 2 . I D E c o n n e c t o r s ( 4 0 - 1 p i n P R I _ I D E , 4 0 - 1 p i n S E C _ I D E )
  • Page 44: Hard Disk Drives

    A8R-MVP ® A8R-MVP IDE connectors 3 . 3 . S e r i a l A T A c o n n e c t o r s S e r i a l A T A c o n n e c t o r s...
  • Page 45 These are not jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on the fan connectors. A8R-MVP ® A8R-MVP Fan connectors Only the CPU_FAN and CHA_FAN connectors support the ASUS Q-Fan 2 feature. For some chassis models with short 3-pin chassis fan cable, connect the cable to the PWR_FAN connector.
  • Page 46 USB 2.0 specification that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed. A8R-MVP ® A8R-MVP USB 2.0 connectors Never connect a 1 3 9 4 c a b l e damage the motherboard! 6 . 6 . P o w e r c o n n e c t o r s ( 2 4 - p i n E A T X P W R , 4 - p i n A T X 1 2 V , 4 - p i n...
  • Page 47 A8R-MVP ® A8R-MVP Game connector A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P...
  • Page 48 A8R-MVP ® A8R-MVP IEEE 1394 connector NEVER connect a U S B c a b l e will damage the motherboard! 9 . 9 .
  • Page 49 Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector. A8R-MVP ® A8R-MVP Analog front panel connector • We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audio module to this connector to avail of the motherboard’s high-definition audio capability.
  • Page 50: System Panel Connector

    This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. A8R-MVP ® A8R-MVP System Panel connector The sytem panel connector is color-coded for easy connection. Refer to the connector description below for details. S y s t e m p o w e r L E D ( G r e e n 3 - p i n P L E D ) S y s t e m p o w e r L E D ( G r e e n 3 - p i n P L E D ) •...
  • Page 51 This chapter describes the power up sequence, the vocal POST messages, and ways of shutting down the system. Powering up...
  • Page 52 Chapter summary Starting up for the first time ... 3-1 Powering off the computer ... 3-2 A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P...
  • Page 53: 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 54: Powering Off The Computer

    Powering off the computer 3.2.1 3.2.1 3.2.1 3.2.1 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function Using the OS shut down function Using the OS shut down function Using the OS shut down function Using the OS shut down function If you are using Windows S t a r t S t a r t Click the S t a r t...
  • Page 55: 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. BIOS setup...
  • Page 56 Chapter summary Managing and updating your BIOS ... 4-1 BIOS setup program ... 4-11 Main menu ... 4-14 Advanced menu ... 4-18 Power menu ... 4-32 Boot menu ... 4-37 Exit menu ... 4-42 A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P...
  • Page 57: Managing And Updating Your Bios

    4.1.1 ASUS Update utility ASUS Update utility ASUS Update utility The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows allows you to: • Save the current BIOS file • Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet •...
  • Page 58 A S U S U p d a t e A S U S U p d a t e A S U S U p d a t e. The ASUS Update main window appears. A S U S U p d a t e...
  • Page 59 P r o g r a m s > A S U S P r o g r a m s A S U S U p d a t e. The ASUS Update main window appears. A S U S U p d a t e...
  • Page 60: Creating A Bootable Floppy Disk

    4.1.2 4.1.2 4.1.2 Creating a bootable floppy disk Creating a bootable floppy disk Creating a bootable floppy disk 4.1.2 4.1.2 Creating a bootable floppy disk Creating a bootable floppy disk Do either one of the following to create a bootable floppy disk. DOS environment a.
  • Page 61: Asus Ez Flash Utility

    ASUS EZ Flash utility ASUS EZ Flash utility The ASUS EZ Flash feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go through the long process of booting from a floppy disk and using a DOS-based utility. The EZ Flash utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing <Alt>...
  • Page 62: Afudos Utility

    4.1.4 4.1.4 4.1.4 AFUDOS utility AFUDOS utility AFUDOS utility 4.1.4 4.1.4 AFUDOS utility AFUDOS utility The AFUDOS utility allows you to update the BIOS file in DOS environment using a bootable floppy disk with the updated BIOS file. This utility also allows you to copy the current BIOS file that you can use as backup when the BIOS fails or gets corrupted during the updating process.
  • Page 63 Updating the BIOS file To update the BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility: Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) and download the latest BIOS file for the motherboard. Save the BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk. Write the BIOS filename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS filename at the DOS prompt.
  • Page 64 The utility returns to the DOS prompt after the BIOS update process is completed. Reboot the system from the hard disk drive. A:\>afudos /iA8R-MVP.ROM AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB)) Copyright (C) 2003 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved. WARNING!! Do not turn off power during flash BIOS Reading file ...
  • Page 65: Asus Crashfree Bios 2 Utility

    ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 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 the motherboard support CD or the floppy disk that contains the updated BIOS file.
  • Page 66 Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process. The recovered BIOS may not be the latest BIOS version for this motherboard. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file. 4 - 1 0...
  • Page 67: Bios Setup Program

    • Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for this motherboard. A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P...
  • Page 68: Bios Menu Screen

    BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power Boot Exit [10:55:25] [Mon 10/25/2005] [1.44M, 3.5 in] [ST320410A] [ASUS CD-S520/A] [Not Detected] [Not Detected] [Not Detected] [Not Detected] [Not Detected] [Not Detected] G e n e r a l h e l p G e n e r a l h e l p...
  • Page 69: Menu Items

    System Date [Wed 10/25/2005] Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.] Primary IDE Master [ST320410A] Primary IDE Slave [ASUS CD-S520/A] Secondary IDE Master[Not Detected] Secondary IDE Slave [Not Detected] Third IDE Master [Not Detected] Third IDE Slave [Not Detected] Fourth IDE Master...
  • Page 70: Main Menu

    M a i n menu screen appears, BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power Boot Exit [10:55:25] [Mon 10/25/2005] [1.44M, 3.5 in] [ST320410A] [ASUS CD-S520/A] [Not Detected] [Not Detected] [Not Detected] [Not Detected] [Not Detected] [Not Detected] Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a field.
  • Page 71: Primary, Secondary, Third, And Fourth Ide Master/Slave

    4.3.4 4.3.4 4.3.4 Primary, Secondary, Third, and Fourth Primary, Secondary, Third, and Fourth Primary, Secondary, Third, and Fourth 4.3.4 4.3.4 Primary, Secondary, Third, and Fourth Primary, Secondary, Third, and Fourth IDE Master/Slave IDE Master/Slave IDE Master/Slave IDE Master/Slave IDE Master/Slave The BIOS automatically detects the connected IDE devices.
  • Page 72: Storage Configuration

    PIO Mode [Auto] PIO Mode [Auto] PIO Mode [Auto] PIO Mode [Auto] PIO Mode [Auto] Selects the PIO mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4] DMA Mode [Auto] DMA Mode [Auto] DMA Mode [Auto] DMA Mode [Auto] DMA Mode [Auto] Selects the DMA mode.
  • Page 73: System Information

    The succeeding items appear only if the S e r i a l A T A C o n t r o l l e r is set to [Enabled]. Onboard SATA Boot ROM [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the onboard Serial ATA Boot ROM. Set this item to [Enabled] to configure Serial ATA RAID.
  • Page 74: Advanced Menu

    Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. Main Advanced Jumperfree Configuration CPU Configuration...
  • Page 75 AI Overclocking [Auto] AI Overclocking [Auto] AI Overclocking [Auto] AI Overclocking [Auto] AI Overclocking [Auto] Allows you to select the overclocking options to achieve the desired CPU internal frequency. Select either one of the preset overclocking configiuration options. S e t t i n g S e t t i n g S e t t i n g S e t t i n g...
  • Page 76 DDR Voltage [Auto] DDR Voltage [Auto] DDR Voltage [Auto] DDR Voltage [Auto] DDR Voltage [Auto] Allows you to set the DDR memory voltage. Configuration options: [Auto] [2.65 V] [2.70 V] [2.80 V] [2.85 V] [2.90 V] [3.00 V] [3.10 V] [3.20 V] Setting a very high voltage may damage the component permanently.
  • Page 77 The following item appears only when you set the A I O v e r c l o c k i n g item to [Manual]. CPU Frequency [XXX] CPU Frequency [XXX] CPU Frequency [XXX] CPU Frequency [XXX] CPU Frequency [XXX] Allows you to adjust the CPU frequency.
  • Page 78: Cpu Configuration

    4.4.2 4.4.2 4.4.2 CPU Configuration CPU Configuration CPU Configuration 4.4.2 4.4.2 CPU Configuration CPU Configuration The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically detects. Advanced CPU Configuration Module Version: 14.08 Physical Count: 1 Logical Count: 2 AMD Athlon(tm) 64 X2 Dual Core Processor 4600+ Revision: E6 Cache L1: 128*2 KB...
  • Page 79 Memory Configuration Memory Configuration Memory Configuration Memory Configuration Memory Configuration Advanced Memory Configuration Memory Timing Configuration ECC Configuration Memory CLK CAS Latency (Tcl) RAS/CAS Delay (Trcd) Min Active RAS (Tras) Row Precharge Time (Trp) RAS/RAS Delay (Trrd) Row Cycle (Trc) Row Refresh Cycle (Trfc) Read Write Delay (Trwt) Read Preamble...
  • Page 80 MCT Timing Mode [Auto] [Auto] allows the BIOS to set the MCT timing mode automatically. [Manual] allows you to set the values by yourself. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual] The following items appear when the M C T T i m i n g M o d e to [Manual].
  • Page 81 Hardware Memory Hole [Disabled] Enables or disables the software memory remapping around the memory hole. Only REV E0 processors and above support this feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ECC Configuration ECC Configuration ECC Configuration ECC Configuration ECC Configuration Advanced ECC Configuration DRAM ECC Enable MCA DRAM ECC Logging ECC Chip Kill...
  • Page 82: Chipset Configuration

    L2 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] Allows the L2 Data Cache RAM to be corrected while idle. Configuration options: [Disabled] [40ns] [80ns] [160ns] [320ns] [640ns] [1.28us] [2.56us] [5.12us] [10.2us] [20.5 us] [41.0us] [81.9us] [163.8us] [327.7us] [655.4us] [1.31ms] [2.62ms] [5.24ms] [10.49ms] [20.97ms] [42.00ms] [84.00ms] Data Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] Allows the L1 Data Cache RAM to be corrected while idle.
  • Page 83: Onboard Devices Configuration

    4.4.4 4.4.4 4.4.4 Onboard Devices Configuration Onboard Devices Configuration Onboard Devices Configuration 4.4.4 4.4.4 Onboard Devices Configuration Onboard Devices Configuration Advanced Onboard Devices HD Audio Onboard LAN Onboard LAN Boot ROM Onboard IEEE1394 Configure ITE8712 Super IO Chipset Serial Port1 Address Parallel Port Address Parallel Port Mode EPP Version...
  • Page 84 E P P V e r s i o n [ 1 . 9 ] E P P V e r s i o n [ 1 . 9 ] E P P V e r s i o n [ 1 . 9 ] E P P V e r s i o n [ 1 .
  • Page 85: Pci Pnp

    4.4.5 4.4.5 4.4.5 PCI PnP PCI PnP PCI PnP 4.4.5 4.4.5 PCI PnP PCI PnP The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices. The menu includes setting IRQ and DMA channel resources for either PCI/PnP or legacy ISA devices, and setting the memory size block for legacy ISA devices.
  • Page 86: Lan Cable Status

    4.4.6 4.4.6 4.4.6 LAN Cable Status LAN Cable Status LAN Cable Status 4.4.6 4.4.6 LAN Cable Status LAN Cable Status This menu displays the status of the Local Area Network (LAN) cable connected to the LAN (RJ-45) port. Advanced POST Check LAN Cable LAN2 Cable Status Pair Status...
  • Page 87 USB Controller [USB1.1+2.0] USB Controller [USB1.1+2.0] USB Controller [USB1.1+2.0] USB Controller [USB1.1+2.0] USB Controller [USB1.1+2.0] Allows you to disable the USB controllers, or choose which controller to enable. Configuration options: [Disabled ] [USB1.1+2.0] [USB1.1 Only] Legacy USB Support [Auto] Legacy USB Support [Auto] Legacy USB Support [Auto] Legacy USB Support [Auto] Legacy USB Support [Auto]...
  • Page 88: Power Menu

    Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the ACPI and Advanced Power Management (APM) features. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options. Main Advanced Suspend Mode Repost Video on S3 Resume ACPI 2.0 Support ACPI APIC Support APM Configuration...
  • Page 89: Apm Configuration

    4.5.5 4.5.5 4.5.5 APM Configuration APM Configuration APM Configuration 4.5.5 4.5.5 APM Configuration APM Configuration Power Power Button Mode Restore on AC Power Loss Power On By PS/2 Keyboard Power On By PS/2 Mouse Power On By RTC Alarm Power On By External Modems Power On By PCI Devices v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2004, American Megatrends, Inc.
  • Page 90 The succeeding items appear when the P o w e r O n B y R T C A l a r m item is set to Enabled. RTC Alarm Date (Days) [Everyday] RTC Alarm Date (Days) [Everyday] RTC Alarm Date (Days) [Everyday] RTC Alarm Date (Days) [Everyday] RTC Alarm Date (Days) [Everyday] To set the alarm date, highlight this item and press the <+>...
  • Page 91: Hardware Monitor

    4.5.6 4.5.6 4.5.6 Hardware Monitor Hardware Monitor Hardware Monitor 4.5.6 4.5.6 Hardware Monitor Hardware Monitor Power Hardware Monitor CPU Temperature MB Temperature CPU Fan Speed Chassis Fan Speed Power Fan Speed VCORE Voltage 3.3V Voltage 5V Voltage 12V Voltage CPU QFan Control Chassis QFan Control v02.53 (C)Copyright 1985-2004, American Megatrends, Inc.
  • Page 92 CPU QFan Control [Disabled] CPU QFan Control [Disabled] CPU QFan Control [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Q-Fan feature that smartly adjusts the fan speeds for more efficient system operation. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] The following items appear when the C P U Q F a n C o n t r o l to [Enabled].
  • Page 93: Boot Menu

    ChassisFan Start Temperature[XXX] ChassisFan Start Temperature[XXX] ChassisFan Start Temperature[XXX] ChassisFan Start Temperature[XXX] ChassisFan Start Temperature[XXX] Allows you to set the chassis temperature at which the CPU fan starts. Use the <+>/<-> key or use the numeric keypad to set the value. Valid values range from [0] to [100].
  • Page 94: Boot Device Priority

    Specifies the boot sequence from the [1st FLOPPY DRIVE] availabe devices. [PM-ST320410A] [PS-ASUS CD-S520/A] A device enclosed in parenthesis has been disabled in the corresponding menu. C h a p t e r 4 : B I O S s e t u p...
  • Page 95: Boot Settings Configuration

    Allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo™ feature. Add On ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS] Add On ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]...
  • Page 96: Security

    Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled] Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled] Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled] Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled] Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled] When set to Enabled, the system displays the message “Press DEL to run Setup” during POST. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled] Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled] Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled]...
  • Page 97 To clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then press <Enter>. The message “Password Uninstalled” appears. If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM. See section “2.6 Jumpers” for information on how to erase the RTC RAM.
  • Page 98: Exit Menu

    To set a User Password: Select the Change User Password item and press <Enter>. On the password box that appears, type a password composed of at least six letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>. Confirm the password when prompted. The message “Password Installed” appears after you set your password successfully.
  • Page 99 Exit & Save Changes Exit & Save Changes Exit & Save Changes Exit & Save Changes Exit & Save Changes Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard backup battery sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turned off.
  • Page 100 4 - 4 4 4 - 4 4 4 - 4 4 4 - 4 4 4 - 4 4 C h a p t e r 4 : B I O S s e t u p C h a p t e r 4 : B I O S s e t u p C h a p t e r 4 : B I O S s e t u p C h a p t e r 4 : B I O S s e t u p C h a p t e r 4 : B I O S s e t u p...
  • Page 101 This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes with the motherboard package. Software support...
  • Page 102 Chapter summary Installing an operating system ... 5-1 Support CD information ... 5-1 Software information ... 5-8 RAID configurations ... 5-24 Creating a RAID driver disk ... 5-33 A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P...
  • Page 103: Installing An Operating System

    The contents of the support CD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the ASUS website(www.asus.com) for updates. 5.2.1 5.2.1 Running the support CD Running the support CD 5.2.1...
  • Page 104: Drivers Menu

    5.2.2 5.2.2 5.2.2 Drivers menu Drivers menu Drivers menu 5.2.2 5.2.2 Drivers menu Drivers menu The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices. AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Driver AMD Cool ‘n’...
  • Page 105: Utilities Menu

    ASUS Update ASUS Update ASUS Update ASUS Update The ASUS Update utility that 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). See section “4.1.1 ASUS Update utility”...
  • Page 106: Make Disk Menu

    TV and movies, capturing videos, or playing games on your computer. Visit the Microsoft ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet Utility ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet Utility ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet Utility ASUS Cool ‘n’...
  • Page 107: Manuals Menu

    5.2.5 5.2.5 Manuals menu Manuals menu 5.2.5 5.2.5 5.2.5 Manuals menu Manuals menu Manuals 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 ®...
  • Page 108: Asus Contact Information

    ASUS Contact information Click the C o n t a c t C o n t a c t tab to display the ASUS contact information. You can C o n t a c t C o n t a c t C o n t a c t also find this information on the inside front cover of this user guide.
  • Page 109 Displays the support CD contents in graphical format. Technical support Form Technical support Form Technical support Form Technical support Form Technical support Form Displays the ASUS Technical Support Request Form that you have to fill out when requesting technical support. Filelist Filelist Filelist Filelist...
  • Page 110: Software Information

    5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo™ ASUS MyLogo™ The ASUS MyLogo™ 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 MyLogo™ is automatically installed when you install the A S U S U p d a t e...
  • Page 111 R a t i o R a t i o 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 112: Ai Net 2

    5.3.2 5.3.2 5.3.2 AI Net 2 AI Net 2 AI Net 2 5.3.2 5.3.2 AI Net 2 AI Net 2 The Marvell ® Virtual Cable Tester™ (VCT) is a cable diagnostic utility that reports LAN cable faults and shorts using the Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) technology.
  • Page 113: Asus Pc Probe Ii

    Autorun feature. If Autorun is not enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support CD to locate the setup.exe file from the ASUS PC Probe II folder. Double-click the setup.exe file to start installation.
  • Page 114 B u t t o n B u t t o n B u t t o n B u t t o n B u t t o n F u n c t i o n F u n c t i o n F u n c t i o n F u n c t i o n F u n c t i o n...
  • Page 115 Hardware monitor panels Hardware monitor panels Hardware monitor panels Hardware monitor panels 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).
  • Page 116 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. L a r g e d i s p l a y L a r g e d i s p l a y L a r g e d i s p l a y L a r g e d i s p l a y L a r g e d i s p l a y...
  • Page 117 PCI browser PCI browser PCI browser PCI browser 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 P C I I n f o r m a t i o n P C I I n f o r m a t i o n P C I I n f o r m a t i o n P C I I n f o r m a t i o n...
  • Page 118: Memory Usage

    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 physical memory. Configuring PC Probe II Configuring PC Probe II Configuring PC Probe II Configuring PC Probe II Configuring PC Probe II Click...
  • Page 119: Cool 'N' Quiet™ Technology

    5.3.4 5.3.4 5.3.4 Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology 5.3.4 5.3.4 Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology The motherboard supports the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology that dynamically and automatically change the CPU speed, voltage, and amount of power depending on the task the CPU performs.
  • Page 120 Launching the Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ software Launching the Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ software Launching the Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ software Launching the Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ software Launching the Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ software The motherboard support CD includes the Cool ‘n’ Quie!™ software that enables you to view your system’s real-time CPU Frequency and voltage.
  • Page 121: Soundmax High Definition Audio Utility

    5.3.5 5.3.5 SoundMAX SoundMAX 5.3.5 5.3.5 5.3.5 SoundMAX SoundMAX SoundMAX ® ® ® ® ® The ADI AD1986 High Definition Audio CODEC provides 6-channel audio capability through the SoundMAX ® audio utility with AudioESP™ software to deliver the ultimate audio experience on your PC.
  • Page 122: Audio Setup Wizard

    From the taskbar, double-click on the S o u n d M A X S o u n d M A X S o u n d M A X S o u n d M A X ® ® ® ® ® C o n t r o l P a n e l C o n t r o l P a n e l.
  • Page 123 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.
  • Page 124 Audio preferences Audio preferences Audio preferences Audio preferences Audio preferences Click the icon to go to the P r e f e r e n c e s to change various audio settings. General options General options General options General options General options Click the G e n e r a l G e n e r a l tab to choose your playback and recording devices,...
  • Page 125 Microphone options Microphone options Microphone options Microphone options Microphone options L i s t e n i n g E n v i r o n m e n t L i s t e n i n g E n v i r o n m e n t Click the L i s t e n i n g E n v i r o n m e n t L i s t e n i n g E n v i r o n m e n t tab allows you to optimize your L i s t e n i n g E n v i r o n m e n t...
  • Page 126: Raid Configurations

    RAID configurations The motherboard comes with a RAID controller integrated in the ULI M1575 Southbridge that allows you to configure Serial ATA hard disk drives as RAID sets. The motherboard supports the following RAID configurations. R A I D 0 R A I D 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and R A I D 0 R A I D 0...
  • Page 127: Installing Hard Disks

    5.4.1 5.4.1 5.4.1 Installing hard disks Installing hard disks Installing hard disks 5.4.1 5.4.1 Installing hard disks Installing hard disks The motherboard supports Ultra DMA 133/100/66 and Serial ATA hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array.
  • Page 128 RAID BIOS Setup Utility (c) 2005 ULi Electronics Inc. Create RAID 0 Striping x2 for Performance Create RAID 1 Mirroring for Reliability Create RAID 0+1 Striping, Mirroring Create JBOD for integrated Capacity Stripe Size Delete RAID Settings & Partition Delete All RAID Settings & Partition Rebuild RAID Array Create RAID 5 for Reliability Channel 0 Master: XXXXXXXXXXX...
  • Page 129 Creating a RAID 0 configuration Creating a RAID 0 configuration Creating a RAID 0 configuration Creating a RAID 0 configuration Creating a RAID 0 configuration To create a RAID 0 set: From the ULI RAID BIOS Setup utility menu, move the cursor to C r e a t e R A I D 0 S t r i p i n g f o r P e r f o r m a n c e C r e a t e R A I D 0 S t r i p i n g f o r P e r f o r m a n c e C r e a t e R A I D 0 S t r i p i n g f o r P e r f o r m a n c e...
  • Page 130 Creating a RAID 1 configuration Creating a RAID 1 configuration Creating a RAID 1 configuration Creating a RAID 1 configuration Creating a RAID 1 configuration To create a RAID 1 set: From the ULI RAID BIOS Setup utility menu, move the cursor to C r e a t e R A I D 1 M i r r o r i n g f o r R e l i a b i l i t y C r e a t e R A I D 1 M i r r o r i n g f o r R e l i a b i l i t y C r e a t e R A I D 1 M i r r o r i n g f o r R e l i a b i l i t y then press <Enter>.
  • Page 131 Creating a RAID 0+1 configuration Creating a RAID 0+1 configuration Creating a RAID 0+1 configuration Creating a RAID 0+1 configuration Creating a RAID 0+1 configuration To create a RAID 0+1 set: From the ULI RAID BIOS Setup utility menu, move the cursor to C r e a t e R A I D 0 + 1 S t r i p i n g , M i r r o r i n g C r e a t e R A I D 0 + 1 S t r i p i n g , M i r r o r i n g C r e a t e R A I D 0 + 1 S t r i p i n g , M i r r o r i n g...
  • Page 132 Key in a RAID name with a maximum of eight (8) alphanumeric characters then press <Enter>. Do not use special characters or symbols. The utility displays the RAID Array settings at the bottom of the screen. Channel 0 Master: XXXXXXXXXXX Channel 1 Master: XXXXXXXXXXX Channel 2 Master: XXXXXXXXXXX Channel 3 Master: XXXXXXXXXXX...
  • Page 133 Deleting a RAID configuration Deleting a RAID configuration Deleting a RAID configuration Deleting a RAID configuration Deleting a RAID configuration To delete a RAID set: From the ULI RAID BIOS Setup utility menu, move the cursor to D e l e t e R A I D S e t t i n g s & P a r t i t i o n D e l e t e R A I D S e t t i n g s &...
  • Page 134 Rebuilding a RAID array Rebuilding a RAID array Rebuilding a RAID array Rebuilding a RAID array Rebuilding a RAID array This option allows you to rebuild an existing RAID array. To rebuild a RAID array: From the ULI RAID BIOS Setup utility menu, move the cursor to R e b u i l d R A I D A r r a y then press <Enter>.
  • Page 135: Creating A Raid Driver Disk

    Creating a RAID driver disk A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows 2000/XP operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. To create a RAID driver disk: Boot your computer. Press <Del>...
  • Page 136 5 - 3 4 5 - 3 4 5 - 3 4 5 - 3 4 5 - 3 4 C h a p t e r 5 : S o f t w a r e s u p p o r t C h a p t e r 5 : S o f t w a r e s u p p o r t C h a p t e r 5 : S o f t w a r e s u p p o r t C h a p t e r 5 : S o f t w a r e s u p p o r t...
  • Page 137: Ati

    This chapter tells how to install CrossFire™ graphics cards to avail of ATI’s Multi-Video Processing technology. ® technology support...
  • Page 138 Chapter summary Overview ... 6-1 Hardware installation ... 6-2 Software information ... 6-6 A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P A S U S A 8 R - M V P...
  • Page 139: Overview

    CrossFire™ Edition graphics card (Master) • CrossFire™-ready graphics card (Slave) • CrossFire™-ready motherboard, such as the ASUS A8R-MVP motherboard. • Make sure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power required by your system. See “6. Power connectors”...
  • Page 140: Hardware Installation

    Installing a single graphics card Install a PCI Express x16 graphics card on the blue slot. To avail of the card full x16 bandwidth, install the ASUS MVP Switch Card on the black slot; otherwise, the card will run only at x8 speed.
  • Page 141: Installing Crossfire™ Graphics Cards

    6.2.2 6.2.2 6.2.2 Installing CrossFire™ graphics cards Installing CrossFire™ graphics cards Installing CrossFire™ graphics cards 6.2.2 6.2.2 Installing CrossFire™ graphics cards Installing CrossFire™ graphics cards Before ins talling a CrossFire™ system, refer to the user guide that came with the ATI CrossFire™ Edition graphics card. To install the graphics cards: Remove the MVP Switch Card if one is installed.
  • Page 142 Insert the CrossFire™ Edition (Master) graphics card into the blue slot. Make sure that the card is properly seated on the slot. Connect one end of the external cable to the Slave graphics card. 6 - 4 6 - 4 6 - 4 6 - 4 6 - 4...
  • Page 143 Connect the other end of the external cable to the Master graphics card. Connect the loose end to the corresponding port on your monitor. Connect an auxiliary power source from the power supply to the graphics cards. 6 6 6 6 6 7 7 7 7 7 Boot up your computer, and press <Del>...
  • Page 144: Software Information

    ® auto-detects the ASUS TV/FM card and siplays the F o u n d N e w H a r d w a r e F o u n d N e w H a r d w a r e...
  • Page 145 Select the components that you want to install, then click N e x t N e x t. N e x t N e x t N e x t E x p r e s s E x p r e s s •...
  • Page 146: Using The Catalyst™ Control Center

    6.3.2 6.3.2 6.3.2 Using the Catalyst™ Control Center Using the Catalyst™ Control Center Using the Catalyst™ Control Center 6.3.2 6.3.2 Using the Catalyst™ Control Center Using the Catalyst™ Control Center The Catalyst™ Control Center allows you to access display features of the ATI hardware and software you installed.
  • Page 147 The Catalyst™ Control Center Dialog Box The Catalyst™ Control Center Dialog Box The Catalyst™ Control Center Dialog Box The Catalyst™ Control Center Dialog Box The Catalyst™ Control Center Dialog Box View The Catalyst™ Control Center provides two views: Standard Standard •...
  • Page 148 To enable CrossFire™: Set the view to A d v a n c e C r o s s f i r e ™ C r o s s f i r e ™ Click the C r o s s f i r e ™ C r o s s f i r e ™...
  • Page 149 Profiles Click the P r o f i l e s P r o f i l e s tab on the Catalyst™ Control Center to access the P r o f i l e s P r o f i l e s P r o f i l e s Profiles Manager, which allows you to create customized environments for your desktop, video, and 3D applications.
  • Page 150 Help Click the H e l p H e l p H e l p H e l p tab on the Catalyst™ Control Center to access the online H e l p help system, generate a Problem Report, and get the Catalyst™ Control Center version information.

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