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Asus Crosshair II Formula - Republic of Gamers Series Motherboard User Manual

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Summary of Contents for Asus Crosshair II Formula - Republic of Gamers Series Motherboard

  • Page 1 Crosshair II Formula...
  • 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 Crosshair II Formula specifications summary ........xii Chapter 1: Product introduction Welcome! ..................1-1 Package contents ................. 1-1 Special features ................1-2 1.3.1 ROG Intelligent Performance & Overclocking features ... 1-2 1.3.2 ROG unique features ............

  • Page 4: Contents

    Chapter 4: BIOS setup 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 2 utility ........
  • Page 5 Hard Disk Drives ............4-41 4.7.4 CDROM Drives ............. 4-41 4.7.5 Boot Settings Configuration ......... 4-42 4.7.6 Security ................. 4-43 Tools menu ................. 4-45 4.8.1 ASUS O.C. Profile ............4-45 4.8.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ............4-47 Exit menu ..................4-48...
  • Page 6 AI NET 2.................5-11 5.3.3 AI Audio 2 (SoundMAX High Definition Audio utility) ... 5-12 ® 5.3.4 ASUS PC Probe II ............5-21 5.3.5 ASUS AI Suite ............... 5-27 5.3.6 ASUS AI Gear 2 ............5-29 5.3.7 ASUS AI Nap ..............5-30 5.3.8...
  • Page 7 Contents NVIDIA Hybrid SLI Technology ..........6-9 ® ® 6.2.1 System requirements ............. 6-9 6.2.2 Enabling GeForce Boost and HybridPower™ ..... 6-10 ® Appendix: Debug code table Debug code table .................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: Crosshair Ii Formula Specifications Summary

    *DDR2 1066 is supported by some of the AM2+ CPUs DDR2 1066 is supported by some of the AM2+ CPUs only. Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists).
  • Page 13 - AI Booster Utility � O.C. Profile Overclocking protection: - COP EX (Component Overheat Protection -EX) - Voltiminder LED - ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall) ASUS ROG Special LCD Poster Features ROG BIOS Wallpaper Onboard Switches: Power / Reset / Clr CMOS (at rear)
  • Page 14 ASUS SLI bridge LCD Poster ASUS Optional Fan SupremeFX II Audio Card HDMI/DVI adapter 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 ASUS Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 17: Welcome

    ® 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

    See page 4-13 for details. 8+2 Phase Power Design ASUS 8+2 Phase Power Design, with independent power to vital components, ultimately enhances memory performance and ensures quick response and stability of CPU under heavy loading or overclocking modes.

  • Page 19: Rog Unique Features

    LCD during POST. Unlike other competing 2 digit displays, users do not need to read “gibberish” to find out what is wrong. See page 2�25 for details. ASUS Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 20: Onboard Switches

    See pages 2-13 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 4-43 for details.
  • Page 21 See pages 5-12 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 22: Product Highlights

    1.3.3 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 23 3D graphics and other memory demanding applications. See page 2-14 for details. DDR2 1066 is supported by some of the AM2+ CPUs only. Refer to www.asus. com for the supported CPU models. Hybrid SLI™...

  • Page 24: High Definition Audio

    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 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 Before you proceed ..............2-1 Motherboard overview ..............2-4 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ........... 2-8 System memory ................. 2-14 Expansion slots ................2-19 Slide switch ................2-23 Aduio card, I/O shield, and LCD Poster Installation ....2-24 Connectors ................. 2-26 ASUS Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 27: Before You Proceed

    Refer to the illustration below for the LED location and the table below for L�D definition. CPU_CRAZY CPU_HIGH CPU_NORMAL CROSSHAIR II FORMULA ® RESET CROSSHAIR II FORMULA CPU LED Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red) Vcore Voltage 0.775–1.3625 1.375–1.4875 1.5000– ASUS Crosshair II Formula...
  • Page 28 Memory LED Refer to the illustration below for the LED location and the table below for L�D definition. DDR_CRAZY DDR_HIGH DDR_NORMAL CROSSHAIR II FORMULA ® RESET CROSSHAIR II FORMULA DDR LED Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red) DDR2 Voltage 1.80–2.10 2.12–2.50 2.52–...
  • Page 29 The illustration below shows the location of the onboard power-on switch. CROSSHAIR II FORMULA ® RESET CROSSHAIR II FORMULA Power on switch ASUS Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 30: 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 31: Motherboard Layout

    Super CHASSIS CHA_FAN3 BIOS PANEL IE1394_2 USB1112 FLOPPY USB78 USB910 RESET Refer to 2.8 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. 2.2.4 Audio card layout FX II UPREME Listen with Absolute HD ASUS Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 32: Layout Contents

    2.2.5 Layout contents Slots Page DDR2 DIMM slots 2-14 PCI slots 2-21 PCI Express x 1 slots 2-21 PCI Express x 16 slots 2-21 Slide switch Page Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC_SW) 2-23 Rear panel connectors Page PS/2 keyboard port (purple) 2-26 Coaxial S/PDIF Out port 2-26...
  • Page 33 (4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1–3, 3-pin PWR_FAN, 2- 33 3-pin OPT_FAN1–3) Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) 2- 34 Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT, for ASUS HDMI 2- 34 VGA card) ATX power connectors (24�pin �ATXPWR; 8�pin �ATX12V) 2- 35...

  • Page 34: Central Processing Unit (Cpu)

    Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with an AM2+/AM2 socket designed for AMD AM2+/AM2 socket designed for AMD socket designed for AMD Socket ® AM2+ Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processor or for Socket Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processor or for Socket AM2 Athlon 64 X2 / Athlon 64 FX / Athlon 64 / Sempron processor.
  • Page 35 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 Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 36: Installing The Heatsink And Fan

    2.3.2 Installing the heatsink and fan The AMD Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™ 64 X2 / Athlon 64 FX / Athlon 64 / Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™ 64 X2 / Athlon 64 FX / Athlon 64 / ®...
  • Page 37 Push down the retention bracket lock on the retention mechanism to secure the heatsink and fan to the module base. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 2-11...
  • Page 38 When the fan and heatsink assembly is in place, connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN. CPU_FAN CPU_FAN CROSSHAIR II FORMULA ® RESET CROSSHAIR II FORMULA CPU fan • Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector.

  • Page 39: Installing The Optional Fans

    • Plug the optional fan cable to the CHA_FAN1/2 connector on the motherboard. • Make sure the optional fan is installed correctly to prevent damage to the fan and motherboard components. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 2-13...

  • Page 40: System Memory

    System memory 2.4.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. The figure illustrates the location of the DDR2 DIMM sockets: CROSSHAIR II FORMULA ® RESET CROSSHAIR II FORMULA 240-pin DDR2 DIMM sockets Channel Sockets Channel A...

  • Page 41: Memory Configurations

    Due to chipset limitation, this motherboard can only support up to 8 GB on the operating systems listed below. You may install a maximum of 2 GB DIMMs on each slot. 64-bit Windows ® XP Professional x64 Edition Windows Vista x64 Edition ® ASUS Crosshair II Formula 2-15...

  • Page 42: Memory Configuration

    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 DDR2�1066/800/667MHz QVL. 800/667MHz QVL. 667MHz QVL. 2-16...
  • Page 43 T6UB1GC5 • • • 512MB TwinMOS TMM6208G8M30C 8D-23JK5M2ETP • • 2048MB NANYA NT5TU128M8BJ-3C NT2GT64U8HB0JY-3C • • • 512MB NANYA NT5TU64M8BE-3C NT512T64U88B0BY-3C • • 512MB A3R12E3GEF637BLC5N AL6E8E63B-6E1K • • • 1024MB A3R12E3GEF637BLC5N AL7E8E63B-6E1K • • • ASUS Crosshair II Formula 2-17...

  • Page 44: 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: DDR2 DIMM notch Unlock a DIMM socket by pressing the retaining clips outward.

  • Page 45: Expansion Slots

    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. Refer to the table on the next page for details. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 2-19...

  • Page 46: Interrupt Assignments

    2.5.3 Interrupt assignments Priority Standard function System Timer Keyboard Controller – Redirect to IRQ#9 Reserved IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* Floppy Disk Controller NVIDIA nForce 780a SLI System CMOS/Real Time Clock IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* IRQ Holder for PCI Steering* Reserved Numeric Data Processor...

  • Page 47: Pci Slots

    This motherboard supports 3 SLI-ready Express x16 graphics cards that comply with the PCI �xpress specifications. Audio/PCI Express x1 slot PCI slot PCI Express x 16 slot PCI Express x 16 slot PCI Express x 1 slot PCI slot PCI Express x16 slot ASUS Crosshair II Formula 2-21...
  • Page 48 Primary PCI Express x16 slots The primary PCI Express x16 slots support PCI Express x16 graphics cards that comply with the PCI �xpress specifications. Universal PCI Express x16 slots (max. x8 mode) This motherboard also supports universal PCI Express x16 slots with a maximum speed of 8 GB/s.

  • Page 49: Slide Switch

    If the system hangs due to overclocking of memory timing or chipset voltage and the power button fails to function, pressing down the clr CMOS switch will shut down the system and clear CMOS simultaneously. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 2-23...

  • Page 50: Audio Card, I/O Shield, And Lcd Poster Installation

    Audio card, I/O shield, and LCD Poster installation 2.7.1 Audio card Installation Take out the Audio card from the Locate the audio slot on the package. motherboard. Align the card connector with the The photo below shows the slot and press firmly until the card audio card installed on the sits on the slot completely.

  • Page 51: I/O Shield And Lcd Poster Installation

    Thread the LCD Poster cable Plug the LCD Poster cable into through the opening until its the onboard connector labeled LCD_CON. stopper snaps into place. Place the LCD Poster on the chassis or to wherever you like. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 2-25...

  • Page 52: 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. VGA por VGA port. This port is for a VGA monitor or other VGA-compatible devices. LAN 1/2 (RJ-45) port.
  • Page 53 12. IEEE 1394a port. This 6-pin IEEE 1394a port provides high-speed connectivity for audio/video devices, storage peripherals, PCs, or portable devices. 13. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 2-27...
  • Page 54 14. HDMI port. This port is for a high- definition multimedia interface (HDMI) connector. • This motherboard comes with dual-VGA outputs through the onboard VGA and HDMI ports. You can simultaneously connect two displays to these ports. • With the bundled HDMI-to-DVI adapter, this motherboard also supports DVI output.

  • Page 55: Internal Connectors

    If any device jumper is set as “Cable-Select,” make sure all other device jumpers have the same setting. PRI_IDE NOTE:Orient the red markings on the IDE ribbon cable to PIN 1. CROSSHAIR II FORMULA ® PIN1 RESET CROSSHAIR II FORMULA IDE connector ASUS Crosshair II Formula 2-29...
  • Page 56 NVIDIA NVIDIA nForce 780a SLI Serial ATA connectors ® (7-pin SATA1–4 [blue]; 7-pin SATA5–6 [black]) These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk and optical disk drives. If you install Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, or JBOD configuration through the onboard NVIDIA through the onboard NVIDIA ®...
  • Page 57 Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! You can connect the USB cable to ASUS Q�Connector (USB, blue) first, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard. ASUS Crosshair II Formula...
  • Page 58 Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector. Doing so will damage the motherboard! You can connect the 1394 cable to ASUS Q�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 59 CROSSHAIR II FORMULA 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 OPT_FAN1/2 for better thermal environment.
  • Page 60 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 61 If you want to use two or more high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with 1000 W power or above to ensure the system stability. • If you want to use 3�Way SLI™ configuration, visit the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com) for the qualified PSU vendor list. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 2-35...

  • Page 62: Power Supply Requirements

    Power supply requirements Heavy Loading Phenom 9600 Memory 1 GB*4 8800 Ultra*3 SATA-HDD IDE-CDROM IDE-HDD +12V_8Pin +12V_24pin +5V_24pin +3V_24pin +12V_VGA1 +12V_VGA2 +12V_VGA3 Voltage (V) 12.14 12.21 5.22 3.456 12.2 12.2 12.2 Current (A) 11.32 13.71 6.41 6.98 6.51 6.59 Power (W) 137.425 167.399 33.460...
  • Page 63 This connector is for the box labeled as Republic of Gamers on the heatpipe assembly. Connect the cable of the box to this connector, and the box lights up when the system is on. CROSSHAIR II FORMULA ® RESET CROSSHAIR II FORMULA ROG connector ASUS Crosshair II Formula 2-37...

  • Page 64: System Panel Connector

    12. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. PLED SPEAKER PANEL PIN 1 CROSSHAIR II FORMULA ® IDE_LED PWRSW RESET * Requires an ATX power supply RESET CROSSHAIR II FORMULA System panel connector • System power LED (2-pin PLED) This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED.
  • Page 65 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 66: 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. CROSSHAIR II FORMULA ®...

  • Page 67: 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 68 Chapter summary Starting up for the first time ............3-1 Turning off the computer ............. 3-2 ASUS Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 69: 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 Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 70: Turning Off The Computer

    Turning off the computer 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function If you are using Windows ® Vista™: Click the Start button then select Shut Down. The power supply should turn off after Windows ® shuts down. If you are using Windows ®...

  • Page 71: 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 72 Managing and updating your BIOS ..........4-1 BIOS setup program ..............4-9 Extreme Tweaker menu ............. 4-13 Main menu .................. 4-22 Advanced menu ................. 4-27 Power menu ................4-34 Boot menu .................. 4-40 Tools menu ................. 4-45 Exit menu ..................4-48 ASUS Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 73: Managing And Updating Your Bios

    ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows environment.) ® ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk or USB flash disk.) Award BIOS Flash Utility (Updates the BIOS using a bootable USB flash disk or a DVD ROM.) ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 (Updates the BIOS using a USB flash disk or the motherboard support DVD when the BIOS file fails or gets corrupted.)
  • Page 74 To update the BIOS through the Internet: desktop by clicking Start Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows ® > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears. Select Update BIOS from the Select the ASUS FTP site nearest...
  • Page 75 To update the BIOS through a BIOS file: desktop by clicking Start 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 76: 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 77: 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 and save it to a CD ROM or a USB flash disk in FAT 16/12 format.
  • Page 78 Press <N> when the utility prompts you to save the current BIOS file. The following screen appears. The utility verifies the AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.18 BIOS file in the CD ROM (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved...

  • Page 79: Saving The Current Bios File

    To save the current BIOS file using the AwardBIOS Flash Utility: Follow steps 1 to 6 of the AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.18 previous section. (C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved Press <Y> when the utility...

  • Page 80: Asus Crashfree Bios 2 Utility

    4.1.5 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 DVD that contains the updated BIOS file.

  • Page 81: 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. ASUS Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 82: 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 Chapter 4: BIOS setup...

  • Page 83: Legend Bar

    A configurable field is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. To change the value of a field, select it then press <�nter> to display a list of options. Refer to “4.2.7 Pop-up window.” ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-11...

  • Page 84: 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. Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit System Time 15 : 30 : 36 Select Menu System Date Thu, Feb 21 2008...

  • Page 85: Extreme Tweaker Menu

    Configuration options: [Auto] [Athlon64 3800+] [Athlon64 4000+] [Crazy] • The configuration options vary with your CPU model. • The option [Crazy] appears when you use an Athlon64 4000+ / Athlon LE-1620 / AthlonX2 BE2400 / AthlonX2 6000+ CPU. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-13...
  • Page 86 Loads the standard settings for the system. Loads overclocking profiles with optimal parameters for stability when AI Overclock overclocking. ASUS Non-delay Overclocking System feature intelligently AI N.O.S. determines the system load and automatically boosts the performance for the most demanding tasks.

  • Page 87: Dram Configuration

    �3�� �4�� �5�� �6�� Trp �Auto�� Configuration options: [Auto] [3] [4] [5] [6] �Auto�� �3�� �4�� �5�� �6�� Tras �Auto�� Configuration options: [Auto] [5] [6]–[18] –�18�� 1T/2T Memory Timing �Auto�� Configuration options: [Auto] [1T] [2T] ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-15...
  • Page 88 Memory DCT Mode �Unganged Mode�� This item appears only when you use an AM2+ CPU. Configuration options: [Ganged Mode] [Unganged Mode] Memory Hole Remapping �Enabled�� Allows you to enable or disable the remapping of the overlapped PCI memory above the total physical memory. Enable this option only when you install 64- bit operating system.
  • Page 89 Address/Command Setup Time [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1/2 M�MCLK] [1 M�MCLK] Read DQS Timing Control [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [No Delay] [1/96 M�MCLK delay] [2/96 M�MCLK delay�� �3/96 MEMCLK delay��–�46/96 MEMCLK delay�� �47/96 MEMCLK delay�� ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-17...
  • Page 90 Write Data Timing Control [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [No Delay] [1/96 M�MCLK delay] [2/96 M�MCLK delay�� �3/96 MEMCLK delay��–�46/96 MEMCLK delay�� �47/96 MEMCLK delay�� DQS Receiver Enable Timing [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [0 ps] [50 ps] [100 ps] [150 ps]–[8650 ps] [8700 ps] Output Driver Control CKE Drive Strength [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1.00x] [1.25x] [1.50x] [2.00x]...
  • Page 91 Allows you to select the Bridge (PCIe) voltage. The text color in the configuration field corresponds to the onboard Bridge (PCIe) L�D color, both of which indicate voltage condition. Refer to page 2�2 for Bridge (PCIe) L�D definition. Configuration options: [Auto] [1.20V] [1.22V] [1.24V] [1.26V]–[2.98V] [3.00V] ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-19...

  • Page 92: Cpu Configuration

    DDR2 Controller Ref Voltage [Auto] Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to �Auto�� for the safe mode. Configuration options: [Auto] [DDR2_R�F] [DDR2_R�F�30mv] [DDR2_R�F�20mv] �DDR2_REF-10mv�� �DDR2_REF+10mv�� �DDR2_REF+20mv�� �DDR2_REF+30mv�� DDR2 Channel A/Channel B Ref Voltage [Auto] Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to �Auto��...

  • Page 93: Spread Spectrum Control

    PCIE Spread Spectrum [Disabled] SATA Spread Spectrum [Down Spread] CPU Spread Spectrum �Disabled�� Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled] PCIE Spread Spectrum �Disabled�� Configuration options: [Disabled] [Down Spread] SATA Spread Spectrum �Down Spread�� Configuration options: [Disabled] [Down Spread] ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-21...

  • Page 94: 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. Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Main...

  • Page 95: Primary Ide Master/Slave

    If the hard disk was already formatted on a previous system, the setup BIOS may detect incorrect parameters. Select �Manual�� to manually enter the IDE hard disk drive parameters. If no drive is installed select [None]. Configuration options: [None] [Auto] [Manual] ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-23...
  • Page 96 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] [LBA] [Large] [Auto] Before attempting to configure a hard disk drive, make sure you have the correct configuration information supplied by the drive manufacturer.

  • Page 97: Sata 1-4

    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. Landing Zone Shows the number of landing zone per track. This item is not configurable. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-25...

  • Page 98: 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 99: Advanced Menu

    F5: Setup Defaults ESC: Exit →←: Select Menu Enter: Select SubMenu F10: Save and Exit POST Check LAN Cable [Disabled] Enables or disables checking of the LAN cable during the Power-On Self-Test (POST). Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled] ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-27...

  • Page 100: Pcipnp

    4.5.2 PCIPnP Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Advanced PCIPnP Select Menu Plug & Play O/S [No] Item Specific Help Select Yes if you are Resources Controlled By Resources Controlled By [Auto] [Auto] using a Plug and Play IRQ Resources capable operating system.

  • Page 101: Onboard Device 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] ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-29...

  • Page 102: Usb Configuration

    HDMI Audio [Auto] Allows you to enable or disable the HDMI audio function. Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] Intergade HDA Codec [HDMI] Configuration options: [HDMI] [SPDIF] Onboard LAN/LAN2 Device [Enabled] Enables or disables the onboard NVIDIA LAN controller. ® Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled] Onboard LAN/LAN2 Boot ROM [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the onboard LAN boot ROM.

  • Page 103: Ide Function Setup

    Configuration options: [ID�] [RAID] [AHCI] The AHCI allows the onboard storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features that increases storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to internally optimize the order of commands. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-31...

  • Page 104: Lcd Poster And Onboard Led Control

    If you want to create a RAID 0, 1, 0+1, 5 or JBOD configuration from the Serial ATA hard disk drives, set this item to �RAID��. If you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as Parallel ATA physical storage devices, keep the default setting �IDE��.
  • Page 105 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. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-33...

  • Page 106: 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 <�nter> to display the configuration options. Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Extreme Tweaker Main Main...

  • Page 107: Apm Configuration

    To set the date of alarm, highlight this item and press <Enter> to display the Date of Month Alarm pop�up menu. Key�in a value within the specified range then press <�nter>. Value ‘0’ means everyday. Configuration options: [Min=0] [Max=31] ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-35...

  • Page 108: 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 <�nter>. Key-in a minute value (Min=0, Max=59), then press <Enter>.
  • Page 109 SB Overheat Protection; BR Overheat Protection [90] The system automatically shuts down when the southbridge or PCIe bridge chipset is heated over the set temperature to protect it from damage. Configuration optitons: [Disabled] [70] [80] [90] ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-37...

  • Page 110: 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 Power...
  • Page 111 Allows you to set the fan duty cycle. Configuration options: [60%] [70%] [80%] [90%] [100%] CPU Fan Connector Type [3-pin Fan] Allows you to select the CPU fan connector type. Configuration options: [4�pin Fan] [3�pin Fan] ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-39...

  • Page 112: Boot Menu

    CPU Fan Speed warning [800 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] [800 RPM] [1200 RPM] [1600 RPM] Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options.

  • Page 113: Removable Drives

    <+> to move it up, or <-> to move it down the list. Press <ESC> to exit this menu. 1. SATA 2: XXXXXXXXX Allows you to assign optical drives attached to the system. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 4-41...

  • Page 114: Boot Settings Configuration

    4.7.5 Boot Settings Configuration Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Boot Settings Configuration Select Menu Case Open Warning [Enabled] Item Specific Help Quick Boot [Enabled] Press [Enter] to Boot Up Floppy Seek [Disabled] enable or disable. Bootup Num-Lock [On] Typematic Rate Setting...

  • Page 115: Security

    Full Screen LOGO [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled] Make sure that the above item is set to �Enabled�� if you want to use the ASUS MyLogo 3™ feature. BIOS Wallpaper [00%] Allows you to select the transparency of the BIOS wallpaper.

  • Page 116: 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 <�nter>.

  • Page 117: Tools Menu

    Extreme Tweaker Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Select Menu ASUS O.C. Profile ASUS EZ Flash 2 Item Specific Help Press [Enter] to select F1:Help ↑↓ : Select Item -/+: Change Value F5: Setup Defaults ESC: Exit →←: Select Menu...

  • Page 118: Save Bios Profile

    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 119: 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 �Z Flash 2. When you press <�nter>, a confirmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between �Yes�� or �No��, then press <�nter> to confirm your choice.

  • Page 120: 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 Advanced Advanced Advanced Power Power...

  • Page 121: Chapter 5: Software Support

    This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package. Chapter 5: Software support...
  • Page 122 Chapter summary Installing an operating system ........... 5-1 Support DVD information ............5-1 Software information ..............5-9 RAID configurations ..............5-34 Creating a RAID driver disk ............5-42 ASUS Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 123: 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 124: Drivers Menu

    The drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices. ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Drivers Launches the ASUS InstAll driver installation wizard. AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Driver Installs the AMD Cool ‘n’...

  • Page 125: Utilities Menu

    Click to display the next screen Click to display the previous screen ASUS InstAll-Installation Wizard for Utilities Installs all of the utilities through the Installation Wizard. Marvell Yukon VCT Application Installs the Marvell Yukon VCT application. ® ASUS PC Probe II This smart utility monitors the fan speed, CPU temperature, and system voltages, and alerts you of any detected problems.
  • Page 126 ASUS AI Suite Installs the ASUS AI Suite. 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).

  • Page 127: Make Disk Menu

    ® ® SATA/RAID/AHCI driver disk. Click to display the next screen Click to display the previous screen NVIDIA 32/64 bit XP/Vista SATA/RAID/AHCI Driver Allows you to create a NVIDIA 32/64 bit XP/Vista™ SATA/RAID/AHCI driver disk. ® ASUS Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 128: Manuals Menu

    5.2.5 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 Acrobat Reader from the Utilities menu before opening a user manual ®...

  • Page 129: 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 130: 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 131: Software Information

    5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3™ The ASUS MyLogo3™ 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 132 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 133: Ai Net 2

    LAN cable(s) connected to the LAN port(s). • If you want the system to check the status of the LAN cable before entering the OS, enable the item Post Check LAN Cable in the BIOS Setup. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 5-11...

  • Page 134: Ai Audio 2 (Soundmax ® High Definition Audio Utility)

    5.3.3 AI Audio 2 (SoundMAX High Definition Audio utility) ® The ADI AD1988 High Definition Audio COD�C provides 8�channel audio capability through the SoundMAX audio utility with AudioESP™ software to ® 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 135 Surround Virtualization Activating this function virtualizes surround sound with the vocal clarity added for use with stereo speakers or headphones. SoundMAX BlackHawk (AI Audio2) is available only under the Windows ® Vista™ operating system. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 5-13...
  • Page 136 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 137 Allows you to select an enhanced microphone input features, including No Filtering, Speakerphone, Voice Recording, and Directional Beam. More Settings Click for the further configurations. Equalizer Allows you to configure and customize all the DSP presets frequencies. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 5-15...
  • Page 138 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 139 Control Panel. ® ® Audio Setup Wizard By clicking the icon from the SoundMAX control panel, you can ® easily configure your audio settings. Simply follow the succeeding screen instructions and begin enjoying High Definition Audio. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 5-17...
  • Page 140 Jack configuration Adjust speaker volume This screen helps you configure This screen helps you adjust speaker volume. Click the Test your computer’s audio ports, depending on the audio devices button to hear the changes you you have installed. have made. Adjust microphone volume This screen helps you adjust microphone volume.
  • Page 141 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. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 5-19...
  • Page 142 Microphone options Click the Microphone tab allows you to optimize your microphone input settings. 5-20 Chapter 5: Software support...

  • Page 143: 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 ®...
  • Page 144 Button Function Opens the Configuration window Opens the Report window Opens the Desktop Management Interface window Opens the Peripheral Component Interconnect window Opens the Windows Management Instrumentation window Opens the hard disk drive, memory, CPU usage window Shows/Hides the Preference section Minimizes the application Closes the application Sensor alert...
  • Page 145 Click to clicking the or buttons. You can increase also adjust the threshold values value using the Config window. Click to You cannot adjust the sensor decrease threshold values in a small value monitoring panel. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 5-23...
  • Page 146 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. Small display Large display WMI browser Click to display the WMI (Windows Management Instrumentation) browser. This browser displays various Windows®...
  • Page 147 Click a hard disk drive to display the information on the right panel. The pie chart at the bottom of the window represents the used (blue) and the available HDD ASUS Crosshair II Formula 5-25...
  • Page 148 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 Click to view and adjust the sensor threshold values. The Config window has two tabs: Sensor/Threshold and Preference.

  • Page 149: Asus Ai Suite

    5.3.5 ASUS AI Suite ASUS AI Suite allows you to launch AI Gear 2, AI Booster 2, CPU Level Up, Q-Fan Plus, AI N.O.S., and AI Nap utilities easily. Installing AI Suite To install AI Suite on your computer: Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature.
  • Page 150 Other feature buttons Click on right corner of the main window to open the monitor window. Displays the CPU/ system temperature, CPU/memory/PCIE voltage, and CPU/ chassis fan speed Displays the FSB/CPU frequency Click on right corner of the expanded window to switch the temperature from degrees Centigrade to degrees Fahrenheit.

  • Page 151: Asus Ai Gear 2

    5.3.6 ASUS AI Gear 2 ASUS AI Gear 2 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 152: 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, launch the utility by double-...

  • Page 153: 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-...

  • Page 154: Asus Ai Booster 2

    5.3.9 ASUS AI Booster 2 The ASUS AI Booster 2 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, launch the utility by double-...

  • Page 155: Cpu Level Up

    The options on the taskbar allow you to select the CPU level and adjust CPU frequency/ratio. You can also create an overclocking profile. The items you are allowed to adjust in the may vary, depending on your motherboard features. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 5-33...

  • Page 156: Raid Configurations

    RAID configurations The motherboard comes with the NVIDIA nForce 780a SLI™ Southbridge RAID ® ® controller that allows you to configure ID� 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 157: Nvidia ® Raid Configurations

    Boot the system and press <Del> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to enter the BIOS Setup Utility. Go to Advanced > MCP Storage Config. Set the SATA Operation Mode item to �RAID��. See section “4.5.6 MCP Storage Config” for details. Save your changes and Exit Setup. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 5-35...

  • Page 158: Entering The Nvidia Raid Utility

    Make sure to re�enter your NVRAID settings after the CMOS is cleared; otherwise, the system will not recognize your RAID setup. For detailed descriptions on the NVIDIA RAID configuration, refer to the ® NVIDIA RAID User Guide found in your motherboard support DVD. Entering the NVIDIA RAID utility ®...

  • Page 159: Creating A Raid Volume

    [N] NO 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 Crosshair II Formula 5-37...

  • Page 160: Rebuilding A Raid Array

    NVIDIA RAID Utility Oct 5 2004 - Array List - Boot Status Vendor Array Model Name Healthy NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG [Ctrl-X]Exit [↑↓]Select [B]Set Boot [N]New Array [ENTER]Detail A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen. Press <Ctrl+X>...
  • Page 161 Press <Enter> to start rebuilding array or press <Esc> to cancel. After the rebuild process, the Array list menu appears. You will need to enter Window XP and run the NVIDIA utility in order to ® complete the rebuilt process. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 5-39...

  • Page 162: 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. Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG - Array Detail - RAID Mode: Mirroring Striping Width: 1...

  • Page 163: Clearing A Disk Data

    Press <C> to clear disk. The following confirmation message appears. Clear disk data? [Y] YES 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 Crosshair II Formula 5-41...

  • Page 164: 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 ® Vista™ operating system, use either a floppy disk or a USB device with the RAID driver.
  • Page 165 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. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 5-43...
  • Page 166 5-44 Chapter 5: Software support...
  • Page 167 This chapter tells how to install SLI-ready PCI Express graphics cards and how to use the SLI™ and Hybrid SLI features. ® ® pter 6: NVIDIA technology support...
  • Page 168 Chapter summary NVIDIA technology............. 6-1 ® ™ NVIDIA Hybrid SLI technology ..........6-9 ® ® ASUS Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 169: Nvidia ® Sli™ Technology

    See page 2-35 for details. • The NVIDIA 3-way SLI technology is supported by Windows Vista™ ® operating system only. • Visit the NVIDIA zone website (http://www.nzone.com) for the latest certified graphics card and the supported 3D application list. ASUS Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 170: Graphics Card Setup

    6.1.2 Graphics card setup Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards • Install only identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA ® �certified. Different types of graphics cards will not work together properly. • The following pictures are for reference only. The graphics cards and the motherboard layout may vary with models, but the installation steps remain the same.
  • Page 171 Make sure that the cards are properly seated on the slots. Align and firmly insert the 3�way SLI bridge connector to the goldfingers on each graphics card. Make sure that the connector is firmly in place. 3-way SLI bridge connector ASUS Crosshair II Formula...
  • Page 172 Connect auxiliary power source from the power supply to the three graphics cards separately. Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the graphics card/s. We recommend that you install an additional chassis fan for better thermal environment. Chapter 6: NVIDIA ®...
  • Page 173 Connect auxiliary power source from the power supply to the two graphics cards separately. Connect a VGA or a DVI cable to the graphics card/s. We recommend that you install an additional chassis fan for better thermal environment. ASUS Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 174: Installing The Device Drivers

    6.1.3 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 175 B2. From the Personalization window, select Display Settings. B3. From the Display Settings dialog box, click Advanced Settings. B4. Select the NVIDIA GeForce tab, and then click Start the NVIDIA Control Panel. ASUS Crosshair II Formula...
  • Page 176 B5. 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,...

  • Page 177: Nvidia Hybrid Sli Technology

    AMD Athlon X2 3800+ CPU (operating at 1800Mhz or higher) • 2 x 1024MB of DDR2-667 DRAM • Discrete GPU recommended for HybridPower • At least 256MB of Frame Buffer carve out for the motherboard GPU ASUS Crosshair II Formula...

  • Page 178: Enabling Geforce

    6.2.2 Enabling GeForce Boost and HybridPower™ ® • Before enabling GeForce Boost and HybridPower, make sure that you have installed a dGPU recommended for GeForce Boost on your motherboard. • Make sure that you have connected your display to the dGPU. Otherwise, the motherboard cannot detect your display and no image appears.
  • Page 179 When the Power Saving mode is enabled, the dGPU does not show in the Windows Device Manager. ® Power Saving mode is disabled. When the Power Saving mode is enabled, the dGPU is turned off and does not appear in the Device Manager. ASUS Crosshair II Formula 6-11...
  • Page 180 6-12 Chapter 6: NVIDIA ® SLI™ technology support...

  • Page 181: Appendix: Debug Code Table

    The Appendix includes the debug code table for the LCD Poster. Appendix: Debug code table...
  • Page 182 Chapter summary Debug Code Table ................A-1 ASUS Crosshair II Formula...
  • Page 183 4. Measure CPU speed. 5. Invoke video BIOS. VGA BIOS Initialize VGA BIOS 1. Initialize multi�language TESTVRAM 2. Put information on screen display, including BIOS logo, CPU type, CPU speed . RESET KB Reset keyboard. ASUS Crosshair II Formula...
  • Page 184 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 185 1. Build MP table 2. Build & update ESCD UPDT DMI 3. Set CMOS century to 20h or 19h 4. Load CMOS time into DOS timer tick 5. Build MSIRQ routing table. INT 19H Boot attempt (INT 19h) ASUS Crosshair II Formula...
  • Page 186 Appendix: Debug Code Table...

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