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Asus VISTA EDITION M2N-PLUS SLI User Manual

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Summary of Contents for Asus VISTA EDITION M2N-PLUS SLI

  • Page 1 M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition...
  • 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

    Product highlights ... 1-2 1.3.2 ASUS AI Lifestyle features ... 1-4 1.3.3 ASUS Special features ... 1-5 1.3.4 ASUS features and the supporting OS ... 1-6 Chapter 2: Hardware information Before you proceed ... 2-1 Motherboard overview ... 2-2 2.2.1 Placement direction ...
  • Page 4 Managing and updating your BIOS ... 4-1 4.1.1 ASUS Update utility ... 4-1 4.1.2 Creating a bootable floppy disk ... 4-4 4.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ... 4-5 4.1.4 Updating the BIOS ... 4-6 4.1.5 Saving the current BIOS file ... 4-8 4.1.6 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ...
  • Page 5 4.6.5 Boot Settings Configuration ... 4-36 4.6.6 Security ... 4-37 Tools menu ... 4-39 4.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ... 4-39 Exit menu ... 4-40 Chapter 5: Software support Installing an operating system ... 5-1 Support CD information ... 5-1 5.2.1...
  • Page 6 Contents 5.3.4 ASUS PC Probe II ... 5-16 5.3.5 ASUS AI Gear ... 5-22 5.3.6 ASUS AI Nap ... 5-23 5.3.7 AI Remote ... 5-24 Windows 5.4.1 ASAP RAID configurations ... 5-33 5.5.1 Installing hard disks ... 5-34 5.5.2 NVIDIA Creating a RAID driver disk ...

  • Page 7: 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 8: 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. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device.

  • Page 9: 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 10: 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 11: M2N-Plus Sli Vista Editionspecifications Summary

    ™ at x8, x8 speed 2 x PCI Express x1 slots ™ 2 x PCI 2.2 slots Supports two identical NVIDIA cards, both at x8 mode ASUS two-slot thermal design NVIDIA nForce 500 SLI MCP supports: ® ® ™ - 2 x IDE connectors for four Ultra DMA133/100/66/33 devices - 4 x Serial ATA 3.0 Gb/s connectors support four...
  • Page 12 ASUS AI Lifestyle Vista Edition features: - AI Remote - ASAP (ASUS Accelerated Propeller) - TPM Support (the module is purchased separately) - AP Trigger *ASUS AI Remote, AP Trigger, and TPM run with both Windows Vista and XP ® ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:...
  • Page 13 1 x UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable 2 x SATA cables 1 x SATA power cable for 2 devices 1 x I/O shield 1 x ASUS Q-Connector kit (USB, system panel; Retail version only) AI Remote (Retail version only) User’s manual Drivers...

  • Page 15: Chapter 1: Product Introduction

    This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports. Product introduction...
  • Page 16 Chapter summary Welcome! ... 1-1 Package contents ... 1-1 Special features ... 1-2 ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition...

  • Page 17: Welcome

    Thank you for buying an ASUS The motherboard delivers a host of new features and the 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 Latest processor technology The motherboard comes with a 940-pin AM2 socket that supports AMD Athlon 64 X2/Athlon 64/Athlon ™ latency high-bandwidth memory controller and a highly scalable HyperTransport technology-based system bus, the motherboard provides a powerful platform for your diverse computing needs, increased office productivity, and enhanced digital media experience.

  • Page 19: Pci Express Interface

    The S/PDIF technology turns your computer into a high-end entertainment system with digital connectivity to powerful audio and speaker systems. See page 2-23 and 2-30 for details. This function can only work under C-Media official driver. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition ®...

  • Page 20: Asus Ai Lifestyle Features

    Encryption hardware requirement for a more secure working environment. See page 2-30 and 4-38 for details. The TPM module is purchased separately. Use the ASUS TPM module ONLY. AI Gear AI Gear allows users to choose from four modes to adjust CPU and Vcore voltage, minimizing noise and power consumption.

  • Page 21: Asus Special Features

    ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 allows users to restore corrupted BIOS data from a USB flash disk containing the BIOS file. This utility saves users the cost and hassle of buying a replacement BIOS chip. See page 4-9 for details.

  • Page 22: Asus Features And The Supporting Os

    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 23: 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. Hardware information...
  • Page 24 Chapter summary Before you proceed ... 2-1 Motherboard overview ... 2-2 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ... 2-6 System memory ... 2-11 Expansion slots ... 2-17 Jumper ... 2-20 Connectors ... 2-22 ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition...

  • Page 25: Before You Proceed

    The illustration below shows the location of the onboard LED. M2N-PLUS SLI ® M2N-PLUS SLI Onboard LED ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition SB_PWR Standby Powered Power...

  • Page 26: 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 27: Motherboard Layout

    PCIEX1_1 SPDIF_OUT PCIEX1_2 PCIEX16_2 PCI1 PCI2 IE1394_2 Refer to 2.7 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition 24.5cm (9.6in) M2N-PLUS SLI ® nForce CLRTC CR2032 3V Lithium Cell CMOS Power SB_PWR...

  • Page 28: Layout Contents

    2.2.4 Layout contents Slots DDR2 DIMM slots PCI slots PCI Express x 1 slot PCI Express x16 slots Jumper Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW12, USBPW34, USBPW56, USBPW78) Keyboard power (3-pin KBPWR) Rear panel connectors PS/2 mouse port (green) Parallel port IEEE 1394a port LAN (RJ-45) port.
  • Page 29 Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED) • System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER) • ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW) • Reset button (2-pin RESET) ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition 500 SLI Southbridge Serial ATA connectors ® Page 2-24 2-24 2-25...

  • Page 30: Central Processing Unit (Cpu)

    Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with a 940-pin AM2 socket designed for the Athlon X2/Athlon 64/Athlon ™ The AM2 socket has a different pinout from the 940-pin socket designed for the AMD Opteron processor. Make sure you use a CPU designed for the AM2 socket.
  • Page 31 CPU. The lever clicks on the side tab to indicate that it is locked. Install a CPU heatsink and fan following the instructions that came with the heatsink package. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition Gold triangle Small triangle...

  • Page 32: Installing The Heatsink And Fan

    2.3.2 Installing the heatsink and fan The AMD Athlon 64FX/Athlon ™ specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance. Make sure that you use only AMD-certified heatsink and fan assembly. To install the CPU heatsink and fan: Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, making sure that the heatsink fits properly on the retention module base.
  • Page 33 Push down the retention bracket lock on the retention mechanism to secure the heatsink and fan to the module base. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition...
  • Page 34 When the fan and heatsink assembly is in place, connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN. M2N-PLUS SLI ® M2N-PLUS SLI 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 35: System Memory

    You may install 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2GB unbuffered ECC/non-ECC DDR2 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. Recommended Memory Configurations Mode DIMM_A1 Single-Channel Populated Dual-channel (1) Populated Dual-channel (2) Populated ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition Sockets DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2 DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2 Sockets DIMM_B1 DIMM_A2 Populated Populated Populated Populated...
  • Page 36 Always use identical DDR2 DIMM pairs for dual channel mode. For optimum compatibility, it is recommended that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for the latest Qualified Vendors list. Important notice on installing Windows...

  • Page 37: Installing A Dimm

    The DIMM might get damaged when it flips out with extra force. Remove the DIMM from the socket. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition DDR2 DIMM notch Unlocked retaining clip DDR2 DIMM notch 2-13...
  • Page 38 M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-800 MHz capability Size Vendor 512MB KINGSTON 1024MB KINGSTON 1024MB KINGSTON 512MB Qimonda 256MB Qimonda 512MB Qimonda 1024MB Qimonda 512MB SAMSUNG 256MB SAMSUNG 512MB SAMSUNG 512MB Hynix 1024MB Hynix 1024MB Hynix 512MB MICRON 1024MB...
  • Page 39 1024MB Transcend J12Q3AB-6 512MB Super Talent Heat-Sink Package 1024MB Super Talent Heat-Sink Package 512MB SMART G64M8XB3ITIX4TUE 512MB SMART G64M8XB3ITIX4TUE ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition Part No. KVR667D2N5/256 KVR667D2N5/512 KVR667D2N5/1G KVR667D2N5/256 HYS64T32000HU-3S-A HYS64T64000HU-3S-A HYS72T32000HU-3S-A HYS72T64000HU-3S-A HYS72T128020HU-3S-A HYS72T128020HU-3S-B HYS64T32000HU-3S-B HYS64T64000HU-3S-B HYS64T128020HU-3S-B M378T6553CZ0-CE6...
  • Page 40 Dual-channel memory configuration. • C*: Supports 4 modules inserted into both the yellow and black slots as two pairs of Dual-channel memory configuration. Visit the ASUS website for the latest DDR2-800/667/533 MHz QVL. 2-16 Chip No. E5116AF-5C-E...

  • Page 41: Expansion Slots

    When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments; otherwise, conflicts will arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition 2-17...

  • Page 42: Interrupt Assignments

    2.5.3 Interrupt assignments Standard interrupt assignments Priority – * These IRQs are usually available for ISA or PCI devices. IRQ assignments for this motherboard PCI 1 PCI 2 Onboard 1394 PCIE x16_1 PCIE x16_2 PCIE x 1_1 PCIE x 1_2 2.5.4 PCI slots The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other...

  • Page 43: Pci Express X16 Slots

    PCIe x16 graphics card Non-SLI mode PCIe x16 graphics card Dual-graphics Two identical NVIDIA card in SLI mode ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition -ready PCI Express x16 graphic ® ™ PCI slot PCI Express x1 slot PCI Express x16_2 slot (black) ™...

  • Page 44: Jumper

    Jumper Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC) This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setup information such as system passwords.
  • Page 45 ATX power supply that can supply at least 1A on the +5VSB lead, and a corresponding setting in the BIOS. See section 4.5.3 APM Configuration. M2N-PLUS SLI ® M2N-PLUS SLI Keyboard power setting ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition USBPW12 +5VSB (Default) USBPW56 USBPW78...

  • Page 46: Connectors

    Connectors 2.7.1 Rear panel connectors PS/2 mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse. Parallel port. This 25-pin port connects a parallel printer, a scanner, or other devices. IEEE 1394a port. This 6-pin IEEE 1394a port provides high-speed connectivity for audio/video devices, storage peripherals, PCs, or portable devices.
  • Page 47 13. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device via a coaxial S/PDIF cable. 14. PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition 6-channel 8-channel Line In...

  • Page 48: Internal Connectors

    2.7.2 Internal connectors Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) This connector is for the provided floppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert one end of the cable to this connector, then connect the other end to the signal connector at the back of the floppy disk drive. Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when using a FDD cable with a covered Pin 5.
  • Page 49 4.4.4 Onboard Device Configuration for details. M2N-PLUS SLI M2N-PLUS SLI ® ® M2N-PLUS SLI SATA connectors M2N-PLUS SLI SATA connectors ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition NOTE: Orient the red markings (usually zigzag) on the IDE ribbon cable to PIN 1. PIN 1 SATA1 SATA3...
  • Page 50 M2N-PLUS SLI ® M2N-PLUS SLI Fan connectors • Only the CPU_FAN and CHA_FAN connectors support the ASUS Q FAN2 feature. • If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the rear chassis fan cable to the motherboard connector labled CHA_FAN for better themal environment.
  • Page 51 M2N-PLUS SLI ® M2N-PLUS SLI IEEE 1394a connector The IEEE 1394a module is purchased separately. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition ASAP USB56 USB78 PIN1 PIN1...
  • Page 52 Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch. Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced.
  • Page 53 These connectors allow you to receive stereo audio input from sound sources such as a CD-ROM, TV-tuner, or MPEG card. M2N-PLUS SLI ® M2N-PLUS SLI Internal audio connector ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition FP_AUDIO (black) Right Audio Channel Ground Ground...
  • Page 54 See section “4.6.6 Security” for details. M2N-PLUS SLI ® M2N-PLUS SLI TPM connector The TPM module is purchased separately. Use the ASUS TPM module ONLY. 2-30 SPDIF_OUT SPDIFOUT Chapter 2: Hardware information...

  • Page 55: System Panel Connector

    ON turns the system OFF. • Reset button (2-pin RESET) This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without turning off the system power. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition PANEL Speaker Ground SPEAKER...
  • Page 56 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 57: Chapter 3: Powering Up

    This chapter describes the power up sequence, the vocal POST messages, and ways of shutting down the system. Powering up...
  • Page 58 Chapter summary Starting up for the first time ... 3-1 Turning off the computer ... 3-2 ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition...

  • Page 59: Starting Up For The First Time

    Check the jumper settings and connections or call your retailer for assistance. At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the instructions in Chapter 4. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition...

  • Page 60: 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 click Shut Down. Make sure that the Shut Down option button is selected, then click the OK button to shut down the computer. The power supply should turn off after Windows If you are using Windows Click the Start button then select Turn Off Computer.

  • Page 61: 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 62 Managing and updating your BIOS ... 4-1 BIOS setup program ... 4-10 Main menu ... 4-14 Advanced menu ... 4-19 Power menu ... 4-29 Boot menu ... 4-34 Tools menu ... 4-39 Exit menu ... 4-40 ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition...

  • Page 63: 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 floppy disk / USB flash disk, or the motherboard support CD.) Award BIOS Flash Utility (Updates the BIOS using a bootable floppy disk / USB flash disk or a CD ROM.)
  • Page 64 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 65 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 66: Creating A Bootable Floppy Disk

    4.1.2 Creating a bootable floppy disk Do either one of the following to create a bootable floppy disk. DOS environment a. Insert a 1.44MB floppy disk into the drive. b. At the DOS prompt, type format A:/S then press <Enter>. Windows XP environment ®...

  • Page 67: Asus Ez Flash 2 Utility

    4.1.3 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 booting from a floppy disk and using a DOS-based utility. The EZ Flash 2 utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing <Alt>...

  • Page 68: 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 M2NPLUSSLI.BIN and save it to a floppy disk, CD ROM or a USB flash disk in FAT 16/12 format.
  • Page 69 Remove the disk then press <F1> to restart the system. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.14 (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved For NF590-SLI-M2N-PLUS SLI Flash Type - PMC Pm49FL004T LPC/FWH File Name to Program: M2NPLUSV.bin...

  • Page 70: Saving The Current Bios File

    The utility saves the current BIOS file to the disk, then returns to the BIOS flashing process. AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.14 (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved For NF590-SLI-M2N-PLUS SLI Flash Type - PMC Pm49FL004T LPC/FWH File Name to Program: 0112.bin...

  • Page 71: Asus Crashfree Bios 3 Utility

    4.1.6 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 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, the floppy disk, or the USB flash disk that contains the updated BIOS file.

  • Page 72: 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. • Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for this motherboard. 4-10...

  • Page 73: 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. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition...

  • Page 74: 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 75: Pop-Up Window

    ESC: Exit →←: Select Menu 4.2.8 General help At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition Boot Tools Exit 15 : 30 : 36 Thu, Apr 6 2006 [1.44M, 3.5 in.]...

  • Page 76: 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. Main Advanced Power...

  • Page 77: Primary/Secondary Ide Master/Slave

    Before attempting to configure a hard disk drive, make sure you have the correct configuration information supplied by the drive manufacturer. Incorrect settings may cause the system to fail to recognize the installed hard disk. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition [Auto] Item Specific Help...
  • Page 78 Capacity Displays the auto-detected hard disk capacity. This item is not configurable. Cylinder Shows the number of the hard disk cylinders. This item is not configurable. Head Shows the number of the hard disk read/write heads. This item is not configurable. Sector Shows the number of sectors per track.

  • Page 79: Sata1~4

    Capacity Displays the auto-detected hard disk capacity. This item is not configurable. Cylinder Shows the number of the hard disk cylinders. This item is not configurable. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition [Auto] Item Specific Help [Auto] Selects the type of...

  • Page 80: Hdd Smart Monitoring [Disabled]

    Head Shows the number of the hard disk read/write heads. This item is not configurable. Landing Zone Shows the number of landing zone per track. This item is not configurable. 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.

  • Page 81: Advanced Menu

    N.O.S. Option CPU Frequency PCI Express Clock DDR2 Voltage Control PCI Clock Synchronization Mode F1:Help ↑↓ : Select Item ESC: Exit →←: Select Menu ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition Boot Tools Exit -/+: Change Value Enter: Select SubMenu [Auto] Disabled Disabled...
  • Page 82 AI Tuning [Auto] Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal frequency. Selct either one of the preset overclocking configuration options: Manual Auto Standard AI Overclock The following item becomes user-configurable when you set AI Tuning to AI Overclock Overclock Options [Disabled] Allows you to set the overclocking options.

  • Page 83: Cpu Configuration

    ESC: Exit →← : Select Menu Memory Clock Frequency [Auto] Sets the memory clock frequency. Configuration options: [Auto] [DDR2 400] [DDR2 533] [DDR2 667] [DDR2 800] ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition Item Specific Help DRAM timing and control. [Auto] [Disabled]...
  • Page 84 DRAM Timing Control Advanced DRAM Timing Control Load Fail-Safe Defaults Precomp Landing Zone Precomp Landing Zone Precomp Landing Zone Precomp Landing Zone USB Keyboard Support USB Mouse Support Precomp x Power On By Button Onboard FDC controller CKE Fine Delay CKE Setup Time CS/ODT Fine Delay F1:Help...
  • Page 85 Sets the memory timing. Configuration options: [Auto] [1T] [2T] Hyper Transport Frequency [Auto] Configuration options: [1x] [2x] [3x] [4x] [5x] [Auto] AMD Live! [Disabled] Enables or disables the AMD Live! technology. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition 4-23...

  • Page 86: Pcipnp

    Onboard Device Configuration IDE Function Setup NVRAID Configuration USB Configuration Onboard nVidia LAN Onboard LAN Boot ROM Onboard USB Audio ASUS ASAP Onboard 1394 Serial Port1 Address Parallel Port Address Parallel Port Mode ECP Mode Use DMA F1:Help ↑↓ : Select Item ESC: Exit →←: Select Menu...

  • Page 87: Ide Function Setup

    Allows to disable or enable OnChip SATA2(Port 3, Port 4) Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] SATA2 DMA transfer [Enabled] Allows to disable or enable to switch to support SATA2 DMA tranfer Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition [Enabled] Item Specific Help [Enabled] [Enabled]...
  • Page 88 IDE Prefetch Mode [Enabled] Allows to disable or enable IDE PIO read prefetch mode. When prefetch is enabled, either 16-bit or 32-bit are allowed on IDE bus. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] NVRAID Configuration This item in this sub-menu allows you to set up RAID feature. Advanced NVRAID Configuration RAID Enable...

  • Page 89: Usb Configuration

    Enable or Disable Onboard USB Audio. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] ASUS ASAP [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the onboard USB flash module for the ASUS ASAP feature that supports Windows Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition...

  • Page 90: Sli Configuration

    Onboard 1394 [Enabled] Enable or Disable Onboard 1394. Configuration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4] Allows you to select the Serial Port1 base address. Configuration options: [Disabled] [3F8/IRQ4] [2F8/IRQ3] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3] [Auto] Parallel Port Address [378/IRQ7] Allows you to select the Parallel Port base addresses. Configuration options: [Disabled] [378/IRQ7] [278/IRQ5] [3BC/IRQ7] Parallel Port Mode [EPP] Allows you to select the Parallel Port mode.

  • Page 91: Power Menu

    Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) support in the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). When set to Enabled, the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition Boot Tools Exit [S1&S3]...

  • Page 92: Apm Configuration

    4.5.3 APM Configuration Power APM Configuration Restore on AC Power Loss PWR Button < 4 secs Power Up On PCI/PCIE Devices Power On By External Modems Power On by RTC Alarm Date(of Month) Alarm Alarm Time(hh:mm:ss) HPET Support Power Up By PS/2 Mouse Power Up By PS/2 Keyboard F1:Help ↑↓...
  • Page 93 Allows you to disable the Power On by PS/2 keyboard function or set specific keys on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Ctrl-ESC] [Power Key] ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition 4-31...

  • Page 94: Hardware Monitor

    4.5.4 Hardware Monitor The items in this sub-menu displays the hardware monitor values automatically detected by the BIOS. It also allows you to change CPU Q-Fan feature-related parameters. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options. Power CPU Q-Fan Control CPU Q-Fan Profile Chassis Q-Fan Control...
  • Page 95 0. These items are not user- configurable. CPU Fan Speed warning [ 800 RPM] Allows you to disable or set the CPU fan warning speed. Configuration options: [Disabled] [800 RPM] [1200 RPM] [1600 RPM] ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition 4-33...

  • Page 96: Boot Menu

    Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. Main Advanced Power Boot Device Priority Removable Drives Hard Disk Drives CDROM Drives Boot Settings Configuration Security F1:Help ↑↓...

  • Page 97: Removable Drives

    CDROM Drives Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility CDROM Drives 1. 1st Slave: XXXXXXXXX 1. 1st Slave: XXXXXXXXX Allows you to assign optical drives attached to the system. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition Boot Boot Boot Select Menu Item Specific Help...

  • Page 98: Boot Settings Configuration

    4.6.5 Boot Settings Configuration Boot Settings Configuration Case Open Warning Quick Boot Boot Up Floppy Seek Bootup Num-Lock Typematic Rate Setting Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec) Typematic Delay (Msec) OS Select For DRAM > 64MB Full Screen LOGO Halt On F1:Help ↑↓ : Select Item ESC: Exit →←: Select Menu Case Open Warning [Enabled]...

  • Page 99: 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 MyLogo2 feature. ™...
  • Page 100 When prompted, confirm the password by typing the exact characters again, then press <Enter>. The password field setting is changed to Set. To clear the password: Select the password field and press <Enter> twice. The following message appears: PASSWORD DISABLED !!! Press any key to continue...

  • Page 101: Tools Menu

    4.7.1 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. Please see page 4-5, section 4.1.3 for details.

  • Page 102: 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. Main Advanced Power Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Load Setup Default Discard Changes Pressing <Esc>...

  • Page 103: Chapter 5: Software Support

    This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes with the motherboard package. Software support...
  • Page 104 Chapter summary Installing an operating system ... 5-1 Support CD information ... 5-1 Software informtion ... 5-9 Windows Vista feature ... 5-32 ® RAID configurations ... 5-33 Creating a RAID driver disk ... 5-42 ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition...

  • Page 105: 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 Running the support CD Place the support CD to the optical drive. The CD automatically displays the Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer.

  • Page 106: Drivers Menu

    AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Driver Installs the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet! driver and application. ASUS AI Remote Installs the ASUS AI Remote driver and application. USB 2.0 Driver Installs the Universal Serial Bus 2.0 (USB 2.0) driver. Chapter 5: Software support...

  • Page 107: Utilities Menu

    ASUS Update Allows you to download the latest version of the BIOS from the ASUS website. Before using the ASUS Update, make sure that you have an Internet connection so you can connect to the ASUS website.
  • Page 108 You can also install the following utilities from the ASUS Superb Software Library CD. ADOBE Acrobat Reader V7.0 Installs the Adobe Acrobat ® documents in Portable Document Format (PDF). Microsoft DirectX 9.0c Installs the Microsoft technology that enhances computer graphics and sound. DirectX multimedia features of you computer so you can enjoy watching TV and movies, capturing videos, or playing games in your computer.

  • Page 109: Make Disk Menu

    The Make Disk menu contains items to create the NVIDIA nForce 500-SLI SATA ® ™ RAID driver disk. NVIDIA 32/64bit 2000/XP/Vista SATA RAID Driver Allows you to create an NVIDIA Serial ATA RAID driver disk for a 32/64-bit 2000/ ® XP/Vista system. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition...

  • Page 110: Manual Menu

    5.2.6 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. Reader from the ASUS Superb Software Library CD before ®...

  • Page 111: Other Information

    CD. Click an icon to display the specified information. Motherboard Info Displays the general specifications of the motherboard. Browse this CD Displays the support CD contents in graphical format. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition...

  • Page 112: Technical Support Form

    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 CD and a brief description of each in text format. Chapter 5: Software support...

  • Page 113: Software Information

    You can create your own boot logo image in GIF, JPG, or BMP file formats. To launch the ASUS MyLogo2 Launch the ASUS Update utility. Refer to section “4.1.1 ASUS Update utility” for details. Select Options from the drop down menu, then click Next.
  • Page 114 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 115: Cool 'N' Quiet!™ Technology

    Double-click the Display icon in the Control Panel then select the Screen Saver tab. Click the Power button. The following dialogue box appears. From the Power schemes combo list box, select Minimal Power Management. Click OK to effect settings. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition Technology ™ Technology that dynamically ™ Technology ™...
  • Page 116 The AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet! heatsink and fan assembly with monitor chip • If you purchased a separate heatsink and fan package, use the ASUS Q-Fan technology feature to automatically adjust the CPU fan speed according to your system loading.

  • Page 117: C-Media Cm6501 Audio Utility

    Click Advanced settings. Click select S/PDIF Output. Click the drop- down menu for digital and analog options. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition ® Windows ® 2000/XP/Vista version. Make sure Click to Click to stop perform the the speaker speaker test.
  • Page 118 7.1 Virtual Speaker Shifter Click Mixer The Mixer option allows you to configure audio output/input (record) volume. Click the control tab and turn the volume button to adjust the output volume. Make adjustments to Wave, SW Synth, Microphone, CD Player, Line Lin, and Stereo Mix by clicking the control tabs and dragging the sliders up and down to get the desired volume levels.
  • Page 119 Click OK to effect the settings and exit. Information Click the Information tab to diplay information about the 3D audio engine, audio codec, audio driver version, audio controller, and DirectX version. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition 5-15...

  • Page 120: 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 121 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. Click the box before each preference to activate or deactivate. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition 5-17...
  • Page 122 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 123 DMI browser Click to display the DMI (Desktop Management Interface) browser. This browser displays various desktop and system information. Click the plus sign (+) before DMI Information to display the available information. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition Small display 5-19...
  • Page 124 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 125 The Preference tab allows you to customize sensor alerts, or change the temperature scale. Loads the default threshold values for each sensor Applies your changes ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition Loads your saved Cancels or configuration ignores your changes Saves your...

  • Page 126: Asus Ai Gear

    5.3.5 ASUS AI Gear ASUS AI Gear provides four system performance options that allows you to select the best performance setting for your computing needs. This easy-to-use utility adjusts the processor frequency and vCore voltage to minimize system noise and power consumption.

  • Page 127: Asus Ai Nap

    AI Nap icon on the OS taskbar and click Use power button. Unclick the item to switch the function back. • Refer to page 1-6 for the OS that supports this utility. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition 5-23...

  • Page 128: Ai Remote

    5.3.7 AI Remote With the ASUS AI Remote, you can play, pause, or adjust the volume on any songs desired without leaving your sofa. Have AI Remote in your hand and do more with your PC at a distance away.

  • Page 129: Software Installation

    USB receiver • The valid IR function distance is 6m depending on the environment. Suggest you to aim at the IR receiver when using the ASUS AI Remote to ensure a smooth and successful operation. • These two USB ports support USB wake-up capability. So when the computer is not turned on, removing USB devices such as the ASUS IR receiver from these two ports will start up the PC.
  • Page 130 Activating HID-Compliant Devices Due to the limitation of the operating system, if you remove the IR receiver from the previous port and have it reinstall into the other USB port, the IR receiver will not function. To activate the HID-compliant devices again, go to Device Manager/ Power Manager and check the box of Allow this device to bring the computer out of standby.
  • Page 131 ASUS AI Remote Settings After the installation of the ASUS AI Remote software, the utility screen will show up and allows you to configure the ASUS AI Remote settings. Set up the function keys following the instructions below. 1. Power On / Off Key Enable power key Click this box to enable this power button.
  • Page 132 • Save after the .exe file path is directed. • If the executable file is relocated or the application is re-installed, you have to redirect the file path for a correct ASUS AI Remote operation. 5-28 Chapter 5: Software support...
  • Page 133 Back/OK/Cancel and then press to confirm. • For music listening, making playlists beforehand is suggested. • Press again to close the application and again to re-launch the profile menu ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition upward rightward enter to choose 5-29...
  • Page 134 If you want to use the Media Control Zone to control non-default applications, such as ACDSee, you can select User Define from the drop-down menu and rename it by pressing Rename. The ASUS AI Remote software has correctly set up nine popular applications and defined the funtion buttons for your convenient operation.
  • Page 135 The Function Buttons and AP Profile The ASUS AI Remote software helps you set up the correspondence between the function buttons on the remote to the function hotkeys of nine popular applications in advance and leaves five sets for User Define.

  • Page 136: Windows ® Vista Feature

    Windows 5.4.1 ASAP (ASUS Accelerated Propeller) This motherboard is equipped with the ASUS Accelerated Propeller (ASAP) feature. ASAP supports the Windows system performance under Windows supports ASAP. Before activating ASAP, install the ASAP utility from the bundled support CD. To activate ASAP: From the Windows click Start >...

  • Page 137: Raid Configurations

    Spanning does not deliver any advantage over using separate disks independently and does not provide fault tolerance or other RAID performance benefits. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition 5-33...

  • Page 138: Installing Hard Disks

    If you want to boot the system from a hard disk drive included in a RAID set, copy first the RAID driver from the support CD to a floppy disk before you install an operating system to a selected hard disk drive. Refer to section 5.6 Creating a RAID driver disk for details.

  • Page 139: Nvidia ® Raid Configurations

    RAID User’s Guide” found in your motherboard support CD. • When using Windows 2000 operating system, make sure to install the Windows 2000 Service Pack 4 or later versions. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition RAID configuration, refer to the ® 5-35...

  • Page 140: Creating A Raid Volume

    Entering the NVIDIA To enter the NVIDIA ® Boot up your computer. During POST, press <F10> to display the main menu of the utility. The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only, and may not exactly match the items on your screen. RAID Mode: Free Disks Disk Model Name...
  • Page 141 Press <Y> to clear the selected disks or <N> to proceed without clearing the disks. The following screen appears. Take caution in using this option. All data on the RAID drives will be lost! ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition ↑ 128K Optim ↓...

  • Page 142: Rebuilding A Raid Array

    [Ctrl-X]Exit 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 143 <F7>. The following confirmation message appears. Press <Enter> to start rebuilding array or press <Esc> to cancel. After the rebuild process, the Array list menu appears. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG - Select Disk Inside Array -...

  • Page 144: 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 145 Press <C> to clear disk. The following confirmation message appears. Press <Y> to clear the disk data or press <N> to cancel. Take caution in using this option. All data on the RAID drives will be lost! ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG...

  • Page 146: Creating A Raid Driver Disk

    Creating a RAID driver disk A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows Vista operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. To create a RAID driver disk: Place the motherboard support CD into the CD-ROM drive. Select Make Disk tab.

  • Page 147: Nvidia

    This chapter tells how to install SLI-ready PCI Express graphics cards. ® ™ NVIDIA technology support...
  • Page 148 Chapter summary Overview ... 6-1 Dual graphics cards setup ... 6-2 ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition...

  • Page 149: Overview

    Visit the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com) for the NVIDIA technology under Windows • Visit the NVIDIA zone website (http://www.nzone.com) for the latest certified graphics card and supported 3D application list. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition (Scalable Link Interface)-Intel ® ™ ™...

  • Page 150: Dual Graphics Card Setup

    Dual graphics card setup 6.2.1 Installing 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 two graphics cards. Each graphics card should have goldfingers for the SLI connector.
  • Page 151 Insert the second graphics card into the other slot. Make sure that the card is properly seated on the slot. If required, connect an auxiliary power source to the PCI Express graphics cards. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition...
  • Page 152 Align and insert the SLI connector to the goldfingers on each graphics card. Make sure that the connector is firmly in place. When installing two VGA cards using a 20-pin ATX PSU with sufficient+12v capability, we recommend that you connect the auxillary power source from the power supply to the graphics card.

  • Page 153: Installing The Device Drivers

    From the pop-up menu, select nView Desktop Manager then click nView Properties. From the nView Desktop Manager window, select the Desktop Management tab. Click Properties to display the Display Properties dialog box. ASUS M2N-Plus SLI Vista Edition ® NVIDIA Settings icon...
  • Page 154 From the Display Properties dialog box, select the Settings tab then click Advanced. Select the NVIDIA GeForce tab. Click the slider to display the following screen, then select the SLI multi-GPU item. Click the Enable SLI multi-GPU check box. Click OK when done. Slider Chapter 6: NVIDIA ®...

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