Asus M3A78 PRO User Manual
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Asus M3A78 PRO User Manual

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  • Page 1 M3A78 PRO...
  • Page 2 Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents Notices ......................vi Safety information ..................vii About this guide ..................viii M3A78 PRO specifications summary ............x Chapter 1: Product introduction Welcome! ..................1-2 Package contents ................. 1-2 Special features ................1-3 1.3.1 Product highlights ............1-3 1.3.2 ASUS unique features ............
  • Page 4 BIOS setup Managing and updating your BIOS ..........2-2 2.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy disk ........2-3 2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ........... 2-4 2.1.3 AFUDOS utility ..............2-5 2.1.4 ASUS Update utility ............2-7 BIOS setup program ..............2-10 2.2.1...
  • Page 5 Boot Device Priority ............2-34 2.6.2 Boot Settings Configuration .......... 2-35 2.6.3 Security ................. 2-36 Tools menu ................. 2-38 2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 ............2-38 2.7.2 Express Gate ..............2-39 2.7.3 ASUS O.C. Profile ............2-40 Exit menu ..................2-41 Chapter 3 Software support Installing an operating system ...........

  • Page 6: 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 7: 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 8: 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 9: 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 10: M3A78 Pro Specifications Summary

    - Supports up to 8 GB system memory �DDR2 1066 is supported by AM2+ CPUs only. Refer to www.asus.com or this user manual for the Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists). �� When installing total memory of 4GB capacity or more, Windows 32-bit operation system may onlyl recognize less than 3GB.
  • Page 11 - Further free features upgradable � File downloading and uploading through USB devices only. ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution: - ASUS 4+1 Phase Power Design - ASUS AI Gear 2 - ASUS AI Nap - ASUS Q-Fan 2 ASUS Crystal Sound...
  • Page 12 1 x 4-pin ATX 12V Power connector 1 x System Panel (Q-Connector) BIOS features 8 Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 2.3, ACPI 2.0a, ASUS EZ Flash 2 Support DVD contents Drivers Express Gate ASUS PC Probe II...

  • Page 13: Chapter 1: Product Introduction

    This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports. Chapter 1: Product introduction...

  • Page 14: 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 15: Special Features

    Green ASUS This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Union’s Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packaging to safeguard consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment.
  • Page 16 3D graphics and other memory demanding applications. See page 1-15 for details. DDR2 1066 is supported by some of the AM2+ CPUs only. Refer to www.asus. com for the supported CPU models. Hybrid CrossFireX Technology ®...

  • Page 17: Asus Unique Features

    See page 1-29 for details. 1.3.2 ASUS unique features ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the overclocking capability. AI Gear 2 AI Gear 2 allows you to choose from profiles to adjust CPU frequency and vCore voltage, minimizing system noise and saving CPU power consumption at most.

  • Page 18: Asus Ez Diy

    BIOS or back up your favorite settings. ASUS Express Gate Just 5 seconds to boot up, the ASUS Express Gate allows you to instantly surf the Internet without entering Windows. You can now enjoy Skype, IM, YouTube, webmail and Internet file downloads and sharing whenever and wherever you want! See page 2-39 and 3-10 for details .

  • Page 19: Asus Intelligent Performance And Overclocking Features

    Smart Support DVD This feature provides a checklist that allows the user to know which drivers are already installed, as well as those that are not. When using ASUS PC Probe II, you can easily monitor the critical components of the computer.

  • Page 20: Before You Proceed

    Before you proceed Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. • Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. • Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity •...

  • Page 21: Motherboard Overview

    Motherboard overview 1.5.1 Motherboard layout Refer to 1.10 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. ASUS M3A78 PRO...

  • Page 22: Placement Direction

    1.5.2 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, make sure that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the chassis as indicated in the image below. 1.5.3 Screw holes Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis.

  • Page 23: Central Processing Unit (Cpu)

    Unlock the socket by pressing the lever sideways, then lift it up to a 90°-100° angle. Socket lever Make sure that the socket lever is lifted up to 90°-100° angle, otherwise the CPU does not fit in completely. ASUS M3A78 PRO 1-11...
  • Page 24 Position the CPU above the socket such that the CPU corner with the gold triangle matches the socket corner with a small triangle. Carefully insert the CPU into the socket until it fits in place. Small triangle Gold triangle The CPU fits only in one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the pins and damaging the CPU! When the CPU is in place, push down the socket lever to secure the...

  • Page 25: Installing The Heatsink And Fan

    Retention bracket lock Your boxed CPU heatsink and fan assembly should come with installation instructions for the CPU, heatsink, and the retention mechanism. If the instructions in this section do not match the CPU documentation, follow the latter. ASUS M3A78 PRO 1-13...
  • Page 26 Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base. Align the other end of the retention bracket (near the retention bracket lock) to the retention module base. A clicking sound denotes that the retention bracket is in place. Make sure that the fan and heatsink assembly perfectly fits the retention mechanism module...

  • Page 27: System Memory

    You may install 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB unbuffered ECC/non-ECC DDR2 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets. Recommended memory configurations Sockets Mode DIMM_A1 DIMM_A2 DIMM_B1 DIMM_B2 Populated — — — Single-Channel — — Populated — Dual-channel (1) Populated — Populated — Dual-channel (2) Populated Populated Populated Populated ASUS M3A78 PRO 1-15...
  • Page 28 You may install a maximum of 2 GB DIMMs on each slot. 64-bit Windows ® XP Professional x64 Edition Vista x64 Edition Windows ® M3A78 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-1066 MHz capability for AM2+ CPU DIMM socket support (Optional) Chip Size Vendor Chip No. Part No.
  • Page 29 M3A78 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-800 MHz capability for AM2+ CPU DIMM socket support (Optional) Size •endor Chip No. Chip Brand Part No. 512MB A-DATA AD29608A8A-25EG M2OAD6G3H3160G1E53 • • A-DATA AD26908A8A-25EG M2OAD6G3I4170I1E58 • • • A-DATA AD20908A8A-25EG A-DATA M2OAD6H3J4171Q1E52 •...
  • Page 30 M3A78 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-800 MHz capability for AM2+ CPU (continued) DIMM socket support (Optional) Size •endor Chip No. Chip Brand Part No. NANYA NT5TU128M8CE-AC NANYA NT2GT64U8HC0BY-AC • • • Heat-Sink Package OCZ2T8002GK • • Heat-Sink Package...
  • Page 31 M3A78 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-667 MHz capability for AM2+ CPU DIMM socket support (Optional) Chip Size •endor Chip No. Part No. Brand 512MB A-DATA AD29608A8A-3EG A-DATA M2OAD5G3H3166I1C52 • A-DATA AD29608A8A-3EG A-DATA M2OAD5G3I4176I1C52 • • A-DATA NT5TU128M8BJ-3C M2ONY5H3J4170I1C5Z •...
  • Page 32 M3A78 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-667 MHz capability for AM2+ CPU (continued) DIMM socket support (Optional) Chip Size •endor Chip No. Part No. Brand Kingbox D9HNL MICRON • • 512MB 18D51280D-30648 M512-667-8 • • • 1851200D-30646D M924-667-16A •...
  • Page 33 M3A78 PRO Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL) DDR2-800 MHz capability for AM2 CPU (continued) DIMM socket support (Optional) Chip Size Vendor Chip No. Part No. Brand NANYA NT5TU64M8BE-25C NANYA NT1GT64U8HB0BY-25C • • NANYA NT5TU64M8CE-25D NANYA NT1GT64U8HCOBY-25D • • NANYA NT5TU128M8CE-AC...
  • Page 34 Dual-channel memory configuration. • C*: Supports four modules inserted into both the yellow slots and the black slots as two pairs of Dual-channel memory configuration. Visit the ASUS website for the latest DDR2 QVL. 1-22 Chapter 1: Product introduction...

  • Page 35: Installing A Dimm

    DIMM. DDR2 DIMM notch Support the DIMM lightly with your fingers when pressing the retaining clips. The DIMM might get damaged when it flips out with extra force. Remove the DIMM from the socket. ASUS M3A78 PRO 1-23...

  • Page 36: Expansion Slots

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

  • Page 37: Interrupt Assignments

    – – – – shared – USB 2.0 controller 2 – shared – – – – – SATA controller – – shared – – – – – Azalia – – – – – shared – – ASUS M3A78 PRO 1-25...

  • Page 38: Pci Slots

    1.8.3 PCI slots The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI specifications. Refer to the figure below for the location of the slots. 1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slots This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other cards that comply with PCI Express specifications.

  • Page 39: Jumpers

    • Due to the chipset limitation, AC power off is required prior using C.P.R. function. You must turn off and on the power supply or unplug and plug the power cord before reboot the system. ASUS M3A78 PRO 1-27...
  • Page 40 USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW1-4, USBPW5-8, USBPW9-12) Set these jumpers to +5V to wake up the computer from S1 sleep mode (CPU stopped, DRAM refreshed, system running in low power mode) using the connected USB devices. Set to +5VSB to wake up from S3 and S4 sleep modes.

  • Page 41: 1.10 Connectors

    Side Speaker Out port (gray). This port connects the side speakers in an 8-channel audio configuration. Refer to the audio configuration table on the next page for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration. ASUS M3A78 PRO 1-29...
  • Page 42 Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration Headset Port 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel 2-channel Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Line In Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Pink Mic In Mic In Mic In Mic In Orange...

  • Page 43: Troubleshooting On Hdtv Overscaling Or Underscaling

    DFP resolution check box. The Scaling Options function of the DTV (HDMI™) 1 item in the ATI CATALYST Control Center is adjustable only when you are using an HDTV compliance resolution such as 480i, 720i, or 1080i. ASUS M3A78 PRO 1-31...

  • Page 44: Internal Connectors

    1.10.2 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 an FDD cable with a covered Pin 5.
  • Page 45 Ultra DMA cable connector. This prevents incorrect insertion when you connect the IDE cable. • Use the 80-conductor IDE cable for Ultra DMA 133/100/66 IDE devices. If any device jumper is set as “Cable-Select,” make sure all other device jumpers have the same setting. ASUS M3A78 PRO 1-33...
  • Page 46 Serial ATA connectors (7-pin SATA1-6) These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA 3Gb/s hard disk and optical disk drives. The Serial ATA 3Gb/s is backward compatible with Serial ATA 1.5Gb/s specification. The data transfer rate of the Serial ATA 3Gb/s is faster than the standard parallel ATA with 133 MB/s (Ultra DMA133).
  • Page 47 These are not jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on the fan connectors. Only the CPU_FAN and CHA_FAN1 connectors support the ASUS Q FAN 2 feature. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT) This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s).

  • Page 48: Usb Connectors

    These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 specification that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed. You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) first, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard if your chassis supports front panel USB ports.
  • Page 49 Front Panel Support Type item in the BIOS is set to [HD Audio]; if you want to connect an AC`97 front panel audio module to this connector, set the item to [AC97]. See page 2-27 for details. ASUS M3A78 PRO 1-37...
  • Page 50 • If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your system, refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator at http://support.asus.com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator. aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details. 1-38 Chapter 1: Product introduction...

  • Page 51: System Panel Connector

    BIOS settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON turns the system OFF. • Reset button This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without turning off the system power. ASUS M3A78 PRO 1-39...
  • Page 52 13. 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 53: Chapter 2 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 2 BIOS setup...

  • Page 54: Managing And Updating Your Bios

    The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk, USB Flash, or the motherboard support DVD during POST.) ASUS AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable floppy disk.)

  • Page 55: Creating A Bootable Floppy Disk

    Right-click Floppy Disk Drive then click Format to display the Format 3 1/2 Floppy dialog box . d. Select the Create an MS-DOS startup disk check box. e. Click Start. Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS file to the bootable floppy disk. ASUS M3A78 PRO...

  • Page 56: Asus Ez Flash 2 Utility

    2.1.2 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 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 57: Afudos Utility

    Extension name Press <Enter>. The utility copies the current BIOS file to the floppy disk. A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB)) Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved. Reading flash ..done Write to file..ok A:\>...

  • Page 58: Updating The Bios File

    Updating the BIOS file To update the BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility: Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) and download the latest BIOS file for the motherboard. Save the BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk. Write the BIOS filename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS filename at the DOS prompt.

  • Page 59: Asus Update Utility

    2.1.4 ASUS Update utility The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you ® • Save the current BIOS file • Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet •...
  • Page 60 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 Select the ASUS FTP site nearest...
  • Page 61 To update the BIOS through a BIOS file: Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows desktop by clicking Start ® > 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 62: 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. 2-10...

  • Page 63: 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. 2.2.3 Navigation keys At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that particular menu.

  • Page 64: Menu Items

    Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another. 2.2.4 Menu items Use [ENTER], [TAB], System Time [06:22:54] or [SHIFT-TAB] to The highlighted item on the menu System Date [Fri 01/18/2008] select a field. Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in] Use [+] or [-] to bar displays the specific items for Primary IDE Master...

  • Page 65: Main Menu

    2.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx] Allows you to set the system date. 2.3.3 Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.] Sets the type of floppy drive installed. Configuration options: [Disabled] [720K , 3.5 in.] [1.44M, 3.5 in.] ASUS M3A78 PRO 2-13...

  • Page 66: Primary Ide Master/Slave

    2.3.4 Primary IDE Master/Slave While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of IDE devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each IDE device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to display the IDE device information. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Primary IDE Master Select the type...

  • Page 67: Sata1/2/3/4/5/6

    LBA/Large Mode [Auto] Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting to [Auto] enables the LBA mode if the device supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA mode disabled. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Auto] ASUS M3A78 PRO 2-15...

  • Page 68: Storage Configuration

    Block (Multi-sector Transfer) M [Auto] Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When set to [Auto], the data transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device supports multi-sector transfer feature. When set to [Disabled], the data transfer from and to the device occurs one sector at a time.

  • Page 69: System Information

    Installed Size: 1024MB Save and Exit Usable Size : 896MB Exit v02.61 (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc. AMI BIOS Displays the auto-detected BIOS information. Processor Displays the auto-detected CPU specification. System Memory Displays the auto-detected system memory. ASUS M3A78 PRO 2-17...

  • Page 70: Advanced Menu

    Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect field values can cause the system to malfunction. The configuration options for this chapter vary depending on the CPU and DIMM model you install on the motherboard.
  • Page 71 Processor Voltage [Auto] Allows selection of the Processor Voltage. CPU-NB HT Link Speed [Auto] Allows you to set the CPU-Northbridge HyperTransport link speed. Configuration options: [Auto] [200 MHz] [400 MHz] [600 MHz] [800 MHz] [1 GHz] ASUS M3A78 PRO 2-19...

  • Page 72: Dram Timing Configuration

    The following three items appears only when you set the Ai Overclocking item to [Manual], [Standard], or [Overclock Profile] and are adjusted by typing the desired values using the numeric keypad and press the <Enter> key. You can also use the <+> and <-> keys to adjust the value. To restore the default setting, type [auto] using the keyboard and press the <Enter>...
  • Page 73 Specifies the write to read delay when accessing the same DIMM. Configuration options: [Auto] [1 CLK] [2 CLK] [3 CLK] tRTP [Auto] Specifies the read CAS# to precharge time. Configuration options: [Auto] [2-4 CLK] [3-5 CLK] ASUS M3A78 PRO 2-21...

  • Page 74: Ai Net 2

    tRWTTO [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [2 CLK] [3 CLK] ~ [8 CLK] [9 CLK] tWRRD [Auto] Specifies the write to read delay when accessing different DIMMs. Configuration options: [Auto] [0 CLK] [1 CLK] [2 CLK] [3 CLK] tWRWR [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [1 CLK] [2 CLK] [3 CLK] tRDRD [Auto] Configuration options: [Auto] [2 CLk] [3 CLK] [4 CLK] [5 CLK] PLL1/2 Spread Spectrum [Disabled]...

  • Page 75: Cpu Configuration

    2.4.4 Chipset The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced PCI Express Configuration PCI Express Configuration Internal Graphics Configuration ASUS M3A78 PRO 2-23...

  • Page 76: Pci Express Configuration

    PCI Express Configuration This menu allows you to change the PCI Express Configuration settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. Advanced PCI Express Configuration GPP Slots Power Limit, W [25] Port #02 Features Port #04 Features Port #05 Features Port #06 Features Port #07 Features...

  • Page 77: Ecc Configuration

    [Disabled] DRAM scrub rate so 4-Bit ECC Mode [Disabled] all of memory is DRAM BG Scrub [Disabled] scrubbed in 8 hours. Data Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] L2 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] L3 Cache BG Scrub [Disabled] ASUS M3A78 PRO 2-25...
  • Page 78 ECC Mode [Disabled] Disables or sets the DRAM ECC mode that allows the hardware to report and correct memory errors. Set this item to [Basic] [Good] or [Max] to allow ECC mode auto-adjustment. Set this item to [Super] to adjust the DRAM BG Scrub sub-item manually.

  • Page 79: Onboard Devices Configuration

    This item appears only when you enable the previous item. Configuration options: [Enable] [Disabled] Primary Display Adapter [PCI-E] Allows you to select which graphics controller to use as the primary boot device. Configuration options: [PCI-E] [PCI] [Onboard] ASUS M3A78 PRO 2-27...

  • Page 80: Pci Pnp

    2.4.7 PCI PnP The PCI PnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices. The menu includes setting IRQ and DMA channel resources for either PCI/PnP or legacy ISA devices, and setting the memory size block for legacy ISA devices.

  • Page 81: Usb Configuration

    [Auto] allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto] ASUS M3A78 PRO 2-29...

  • Page 82: Power Menu

    Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) and the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Advanced Power...

  • Page 83: Apm Configuration

    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] [Power Key] [Ctrl-Esc] ASUS M3A78 PRO 2-31...
  • Page 84 Power On By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled] When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to use the PS/2 mouse to turn on the system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Restore On AC Power Loss [Power Off] When set to Power Off, the system goes into off state after an AC power loss.

  • Page 85: Hardware Monitor

    Select [Ignored] if you do not want to detect this item. Smart Q-Fan Function [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Q-Fan feature that smartly adjusts the fan speeds for more efficient system operation. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] The following items appear only if you set the Smart Q-Fan Function to [Enabled].

  • Page 86: 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. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Specifies the Boot Boot Settings Device Priority Boot Device Priority sequence.

  • Page 87: Boot Settings Configuration

    This allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo 2™ feature. Add On ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS] Sets the display mode for option ROM.

  • Page 88: Security

    2.6.3 Security The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the configuration options. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot Security Settings <Enter> to change password. Supervisor Password : Not Installed <Enter>...

  • Page 89: Change User Password

    Password Check [Setup] When set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup utility. When set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both when accessing Setup and booting the system. Configuration options: [Setup] [Always] ASUS M3A78 PRO 2-37...

  • Page 90: Tools Menu

    (C)Copyright 1985-2008, American Megatrends, Inc. 2.7.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Ok>, a confirmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No], then press <Ok> to confirm your choice.

  • Page 91: Express Gate

    Enabled Reset User Data [No] You have to install the ASUS Express Gate application from the support DVD first before you can enable this feature. See page 3-5 for details. Express Gate [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Express Gate feature. ASUS Express Gate is a unique instant-on environment that provides quick access to the Internet browser and Skype.

  • Page 92: Asus O.c. Profile

    2.7.3 ASUS O.C. Profile This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Tools O.C. PROFILE Configuration Save BIOS settings to Profile 1 O.C. Profile 1 Status : Not Installed O.C. Profile 2 Status : Not Installed...

  • Page 93: Exit Menu

    Setup menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a confirmation window appears. Select OK to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes or make other changes before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM. ASUS M3A78 PRO 2-41...
  • Page 94 2-42 Chapter 2: BIOS setup...

  • Page 95: Chapter 3 Software Support

    This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package. Chapter 3 Software support...

  • Page 96: 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. 3.2.1 Running the support DVD Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer.

  • Page 97: Drivers Menu

    Realtek RTL8111C 10/100/1000M LAN Driver Installs the Realtek RTL8111C Gigabit LAN driver. USB 2.0 Driver (For Windows XP only) Installs the USB 2.0 driver. The screen display and drivers option may not be the same for different operating system versions. ASUS M3A78 PRO...

  • Page 98: Utilities Menu

    ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet Utility This item installs the ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet utility. ASUS Update The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in a Windows environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a ®...
  • Page 99 This utility helps you keep your computer in healthy operating condition. ASUS AI Suite Installs the ASUS AI Suite. ASUS Express Gate Installer Installs the ASUS Express Gate application. Adobe Acrobat Reader 8 Installs the Adobe Acrobat Reader that allows you to open, view, and print ®...

  • Page 100: Make Disk Menu

    Anti-Virus Utility Download Installs to update your anti-virus utility version. 3.2.4 Make Disk menu The Make Disk menu allows you to make a RAID driver disk. ATI RAID/AHCI 32/64bit WinXP Driver Allows you to create an ATI RAID/AHCI driver disk for 32/64bit Windows ®...

  • Page 101: Manual Menu

    Reader from the Utilities menu before opening a user manual ® ® file. 3.2.6 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. ASUS M3A78 PRO...

  • Page 102: Other Information

    3.2.7 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. Click an icon to display the specified information. Motherboard Info Displays the general specifications of the motherboard. Browse this DVD Displays the support DVD contents in graphical format.

  • Page 103: 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 DVD and a brief description of each in text format. ASUS M3A78 PRO...

  • Page 104: Asus Express Gate

    ASUS Express Gate ASUS Express Gate is an instant-on environment that gives you quick access to the Internet. Within a few seconds of powering on your computer, you will be at the Express Gate menu where you can start the web browser, Skype, or other Express Gate softwares.
  • Page 105 The red triangle on an software icon in the LaunchBar denotes that the software is already running. This means that you can switch to it without any delay. In the rare case where an software stops responding, right-click on its icon to force close it. ASUS M3A78 PRO 3-11...

  • Page 106: Using The Configuration Panel

    Knowing the Express Gate hot-keys Here is a list of common-used hot-keys for Express Gate. In the First Screen: Function PAUSE/BREAK Power-off Continue to boot OS Enter BIOS setup Enter Boot selection pop-up In the Express Gate Environment: Function <Alt> + <Tab> Switch between softwares <Ctrl>...

  • Page 107: Using The Launchbar

    Start the Skype software, which lets you call other people on Skype for free, as well as offering affordable, high quality voice communications to phones all over the world. Opens the Configuration Panel, which lets you specify network settings and other preferences. ASUS M3A78 PRO 3-13...
  • Page 108 USB drive. If a USB device is detected, the icon contains a green arrow. ASUS Express Gate supports file uploading and downloading on USB drives in FAT16/32 format only. Shows network status; click to configure network.
  • Page 109 If Internet doesn’t seem to be working in the Express Gate environment, check the following: Open the Configuration Panel. Open Configuration Panel Open Network. Network Make the proper network configurations. Each network interface is enabled immediately when you check the box next to it. ASUS M3A78 PRO 3-15...
  • Page 110 • If you use a network cable connected to a home router (which is then connected to your DSL/cable modem), enable both LAN1 and LAN2. Express Gate will automatically use whichever port (LAN1 or LAN2) is connected. If you plug the network cable into a different port while Express Gate is running (e.g.

  • Page 111: Updating Express Gate

    Express Gate software will be released regularly, adding refinements or new applications. You can find original version of the software on the support DVD or download new versions from the ASUS support website. To update Express Gate: Double-click the Express Gate setup file to start software update.

  • Page 112: Ati ® Hybrid Crossfirex

    Hybrid CrossFireX™ ® The motherboard supports the ATI Hybrid CrossFire™ technology that allows you ® to install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) CrossFireX cards. 3.4.1 System requirements Before using ATI Hybrid CrossFireX, ensure that your system meets the following basic requirements: •...

  • Page 113: Installing Amd Chipset Driver

    Click Graphics Settings > CrossFire™, then select the Enable CrossFire™ check box. When a confirmation message pops up, click Yes. The screen blacks out for about one minute. Click OK. The add-on graphics card is set to be the main monitor. ASUS M3A78 PRO 3-19...
  • Page 114 Using the onboard graphics card desktop, and then click ATI CATALYST(R) Right-click on the Windows ® Control Center from the shortcut menu. The ATI CATALYST Control Center screen appears. Click Graphics Settings > CrossFire™, then clear the Enable CrossFire™ check box. When a confirmation message pops up, click Yes.
  • Page 115 Click OK, and then Yes from the confirmation window. Follow steps 6 to step 8 on Using the onboard graphics card to complete the process of setting up the onboard graphics card as your main monitor. ASUS M3A78 PRO 3-21...
  • Page 116 3-22 Chapter 3: Software support...

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