e3548 M2N-MX

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http://slidepdf.com/reader/full/e3548-m2n-mx 1/86

M o t h e r b

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Copyright © 2006 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced,transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by anymeans, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express writtenpermission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modi ed or altered, unlesssuch repair, modi cation of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of theproduct is defaced or missing.ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESSOR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OFMERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITSDIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL,INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE),EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANYDEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FORINFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE,AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NORESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THISMANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks orcopyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identi cation or explanation and to theowners’ bene t, without intent to infringe.

E3458

Revised Edition V2September 2007

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Contents

Notices ......................................................................................................... viSafety information ..................................................................................... viiM2N-MX speci cations summary ............................................................ viii

Chapter 1: Product introduction1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-21.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-21.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-2

1.3.1 Product highlights ........................................................... 1-21.3.2 Innovative ASUS features .............................................. 1-5

1.4 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 1-61.5 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 1-7

1.5.1 Motherboard layout ......................................................... 1-71.5.2 Placement direction ........................................................ 1-81.5.3 Screw holes .................................................................... 1-8

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 1-91.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fan .......................................1-11

1.7 System memory ......................................................................... 1-131.7.1 Overview ....................................................................... 1-131.7.2 Memory con gurations .................................................. 1-131.7.3 Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 1-151.7.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 1-15

1.8 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 1-161.8.1 Installing an expansion card ......................................... 1-16

1.8.2 Con guring an expansion card ..................................... 1-161.8.3 PCI slots ........................................................................ 1-181.8.4 PCI Express x1 slot ....................................................... 1-181.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot ..................................................... 1-18

1.9 Jumpers ...................................................................................... 1-191.10 Connectors ................................................................................. 1-21

1.10.1 Rear panel connectors .................................................. 1-21

1.10.2 Internal connectors ....................................................... 1-22

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Contents

Chapter 2: BIOS setup2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 2-2

2.1.1 Creating a bootable oppy disk ....................................... 2-22.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash utility ...................................................... 2-32.1.3 AFUDOS utility ................................................................ 2-42.1.4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utility ...................................... 2-62.1.5 ASUS Update utility ........................................................ 2-8

2.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................. 2-112.2.1 BIOS menu screen ........................................................ 2-12

2.2.2 Menu bar ....................................................................... 2-122.2.3 Navigation keys ............................................................. 2-122.2.4 Menu items ................................................................... 2-132.2.5 Sub-menu items ............................................................ 2-132.2.6 Con guration elds ....................................................... 2-132.2.7 Pop-up window ............................................................. 2-132.2.8 Scroll bar ....................................................................... 2-13

2.2.9 General help ................................................................. 2-132.3 Main menu .................................................................................. 2-14

2.3.1 System Time ................................................................ 2-142.3.2 System Date ................................................................. 2-142.3.3 Legacy Diskette A ........................................................ 2-142.3.4 IDE Con guration .......................................................... 2-152.3.5 Primary IDE Master/Slave ............................................. 2-152.3.6 SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, and SATA4 .............................. 2-172.3.7 System Information ....................................................... 2-18

2.4 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 2-192.4.1 CPU Con guration ........................................................ 2-192.4.2 Chipset .......................................................................... 2-202.4.3 Onboard Devices Con guration .................................... 2-232.4.4 PCI PnP ........................................................................ 2-242.4.5 USB Con guration ........................................................ 2-252.4.6 Jumperfree Con guration ............................................. 2-26

2.5 Power menu ................................................................................ 2-282.5.1 Suspend Mode [Auto] ................................................... 2-28

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Contents

2.5.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume ........................................ 2-282.5.3 ACPI Support ............................................................... 2-282.5.4 ACPI APIC Support ....................................................... 2-282.5.5 APM Con guration ........................................................ 2-292.5.6 Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 2-30

2.6 Boot menu .................................................................................. 2-312.6.1 Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 2-312.6.2 Boot Settings Con guration .......................................... 2-322.6.3 Security ......................................................................... 2-33

2.8 Exit menu .................................................................................... 2-36

Chapter 3: Software support3.1 Installing an operating system ................................................... 3-23.2 Support CD information .............................................................. 3-2

3.2.1 Running the support CD ................................................. 3-23.2.2 Drivers menu ................................................................... 3-33.2.3 Utilities menu .................................................................. 3-43.2.4 Make Disk menu ............................................................. 3-53.2.5 Manual menu .................................................................. 3-63.2.6 ASUS Contact information .............................................. 3-73.2.7 Other information ............................................................ 3-7

3.3 Creating a RAID driver disk ......................................................... 3-9

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Notices

Federal Communications Commission Statement

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to thefollowing two conditions:• This device may not cause harmful interference, and• This device must accept any interference received including interference that

may cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for aClass B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits aredesigned to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a

residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radiofrequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with manufacturer’sinstructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. Ifthis equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user isencouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the followingmeasures:• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the

receiver is connected.• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Canadian Department of Communications Statement

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissionsfrom digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of theCanadian Department of Communications.

This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian

ICES-003.

The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card isrequired to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modi cationsto this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliancecould void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

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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. Ifpossible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you adda device.

• Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensurethat all power cables are unplugged.

• Seek professional assistance before using an adapter or extension cord.

These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.• Make sure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in your area. If

you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using, contactyour local power company.

• If the power supply is broken, do not try to x it by yourself. Contact a quali edservice technician or your retailer.

Operation safety• Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully read all

the manuals that came with the package.• Before using the product, make sure all cables are correctly connected and the

power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage, contact your dealerimmediately.

• To avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away fromconnectors, slots, sockets and circuitry.

•

Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place the product inany area where it may become wet.• Place the product on a stable surface.• If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a quali ed

service technician or your retailer.

The symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electricaland electronic equipment) should not be placed in municipal waste. Check localregulations for disposal of electronic products.

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M2N-MX specifcations summary

(continued on the next page)

CPU Supports AMD socket AM2 for AMD Athlon™ 64/Athlon™ FX/Athlon™ X2/Sempron processors

AMD64 architecture enables simultaneous 32-bit and64-bit computing

Supports AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology

Chipset NVIDIA® nForce 430/GeForce 6100

Front Side Bus 2000/1600 MT/s

Memory Dual-channel memory architecture4 x 240-pin DIMM sockets support up to 4 GB of

unbufferred/non-ECC 800/667/533 MHz DDR2 memorymodules

Expansion slots 1 x PCI Express™ x16 slot1 x PCI Express™ x1 slot2 x PCI slots

Graphics Integrated in the NVIDIA® GeForce™ 6100 GraphicsProcessing Unit (GPU)

High de nition video processing with maximumresolution of 1920 x 1440 x 32bpp pixels (@75Hz)

Storage NVIDIA® nForce™430 media and communicationsprocessor (MCP) supports:- 1 x Ultra DMA 133/100 interfaces for two (2) hard

disk drives- 4 x Serial ATA 3 Gb/s hard disk drives Supports

RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, JBOD

High-De nitionAudio

SoundMAX® ADI AD1986A 6-channel CODECSupports Jack-Sensing & Enumeration technologyS/PDIF OUT interface

LAN ATTANSIC Gigabit LAN PHY

USB Supports up to 10 USB 2.0/1.1 ports

Special features ASUS Q-FanASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2ASUS EZ FlashASUS MyLogo2™Stepless Frequency Selection (SFS) allows FSB tuning

from 200 MHz to 230 MHz at 1 MHz incrementNote:ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 and ASUS EZ Flash only support VGA/RGB output.

BIOS features 4 Mb Flash ROM, Award BIOS,Green, PnP, DMI, Wfm2.0,ACPI v 2.0a, SM BIOS v 2.3

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M2N-MX specifcations summary

*Speci cations are subject to change without notice.

Rear panel 1 x Parallel port1 x LAN (RJ-45) port

4 x USB 2.0 ports1 x VGA port1 x COM1 port1 x PS/2 keyboard port1 x PS/2 mouse port6-channel audio ports

Internal connectors 1 x 10-pin Azalia/Analog Front panel connector 1 x CD audio in connector1 x CPU fan connector1 x Chassis fan connectors1 x Floppy disk drive connector1 x S/PDIF Out connector1 x PRI_IDE connectors4 x Serial ATA connectors3 x USB 2.0 connectors for 6 additional USB 2.0 ports1 x 24-pin ATX power connector1 x 4-pin x ATX 12V power connector1 x System panel connector

Power Requirement ATX power supply (with 24-pin and 4-pin 12 V plugs)ATX 12 V 2.0 compliant

Form factor Micro-ATX: 9.6 in. x 8.8 in.

Support CDcontents

Device driversASUS PC Probe IIAMD Cool ‘n’Quiet™ utilityASUS Live Update utilityAnti-virus software (OEM version)

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1Productintroduction

This chapter describes the motherboardfeatures and the new technologiesit supports.

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1-2 Chapter 1: Product introduction

1.1 Welcome!T h a n k y o u f o r b u y i n g a n A S U S ® M 2 N - M X m o t h e r b o a r d !

The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making itanother standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards!

Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check theitems in your package with the list below.

If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.

1.2 Package contentsCheck your motherboard package for the following items.

Motherboard ASUS M2N-MX motherboard

Cables 1 x Serial ATA signal cables1 x Serial ATA power cable1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable1 x Floppy disk drive cable

Accessories I/O shield

Application CD ASUS motherboard support CD

Documentation User guide

1.3 Special features

1.3.1 Product highlights

Latest processor technologyThe motherboard supports AMD socket AM2 single-core Athlon 64/ Sempron anddual-core Athlon 64 X2/Athlon 64 FX processors with 2MB/1MB/512KB L2 cache,which is based on 64-bit architecture. It features 2000/1600 MT/s HyperTransportBus, dual-channel un-buffered DDR2 800 memory support and AMD Cool ‘n’ QuietTechnology. See page 1-9 for details.

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ASUS M2N-MX 1-3

NVIDIA® GeForce™ 6100 GPUand NVIDIA® nForce™ 430 MCP chipsetsThe NVIDIA® GeForce™ 6100 graphics processing unit (GPU) Northbridgesupports Microsoft® DirectX 9.0 Shader Model 3.0, and PCI Express interface.

The NVIDIA® nForce™ 430 media and communications processor (MCP)Southbridge delivers NVIDIA® Gigabit and NVIDIA® MediaShield storagemanagement technology allowing easy RAID con guration (RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID0+1, RAID 5, and JBOD) for Serial ATA 3Gb/s.

DDR2 memory supportThe motherboard supports DDR2 memory which features data transfer rates of

800MHz/667 MHz/533 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of thelatest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR2architecture doubles the bandwidth of your system memory to boost systemperformance, eliminating bottlenecks with peak bandwidths of up to 12.8 GB/s.See pages 1-13 to 1-16 for details.

PCI Express™ interfaceThe motherboard fully supports PCI Express, the latest I/O interconnect technologythat speeds up the PCI bus. PCI Express features point-to-point serial

interconnections between devices and allows higher clockspeeds by carrying datain packets. This high speed interface is software compatible with existing PCIspeci cations. See page 1-20 for details.

AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet TechnologyThe motherboard supports the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Technology, which monitorssystem operation and automatically adjusts CPU voltage and frequency for a cooland quiet operating environment.

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Serial ATA 3Gb/s technology

The motherboard supports next-generation SATA hard drives based on thenew SATA 3Gb/s storage speci cation. The onboard NVIDIA ® nForce 430 MCPsouthbridge allows RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, and JBOD con gurationsfor four SATA connectors.

Gigabit LAN solutionGb LAN controller delivers transfer speeds up to ten times faster than conventional10/100 Ethernet connections. Gigabit LAN is the networking standard for the earlyfuture and is ideal for handling large amounts of data such as video, audio, andvoice.

USB 2.0 technologyThe motherboard implements the Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 speci cation,dramatically increasing the connection speed from the 12 Mbps bandwidth on USB1.1 to a fast 480 Mbps on USB 2.0. USB 2.0 is backward compatible with USB 1.1.See pages 1-28 for details.

High Defnition AudioSoundMAX is the highest performing, most reliable and user-friendly PC audiosolution for business professionals, audiophiles, musicians, and gamers. Hearcrystal-clear quality from all your audio - MP3 playback, home theatre, advancedgaming, VOIP and more, and never worry - SoundMAX high-de nition audio isthere to enhance your experience!

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ASUS M2N-MX 1-5

1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2This feature allows you to restore the original BIOS data from the support CD in casewhen the BIOS codes and data are corrupted. This protection eliminates the need tobuy a replacement BIOS chip. See page 2-6 for details.

ASUS EZ FlashWith the ASUS EZ Flash, you can easily update the system BIOS even beforeloading the operating system. No need to use a DOS-based utility or boot from a

oppy disk. See page 2-3 for details.

ASUS Q-Fan technologyThe ASUS Q-Fan technology smartly adjusts the fan speeds according to thesystem loading to ensure quiet, cool, and ef cient operation. See page 2-31 for details.

C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)The C.P.R. feature of the motherboard BIOS allows automatic re-setting to theBIOS default settings in case the system hangs due to overclocking. When thesystem hangs due to overclocking, C.P.R. eliminates the need to open the systemchassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut down and reboot the system, and theBIOS automatically restores the CPU default setting for each parameter.

ASUS MyLogo2™

This feature allows you to personalize and add style to your system withcustomizable boot logos.

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Onboard LEDThe motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up to indicate

that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminderthat you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable beforeremoving or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration belowshows the location of the onboard LED.

1.4 Before you proceedTake note of the following precautions before you install motherboard componentsor change any motherboard settings.

• Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching anycomponent.

• Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metalobject, such as the power supply case, before handling components toavoid damaging them due to static electricity

• Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them.

• Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistaticpad or in the bag that came with the component.

• Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the ATX powersupply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the powersupply. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard,peripherals, and/or components.

M2N-MX

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M2N-MX Onboard LED

SB_PWR

ON

StandbyPower

OFF

PoweredOff

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ASUS M2N-MX 1-7

1.5.1 Motherboard layout

1.5 Motherboard overview

22.4cm (8.8in)

D D R 2 D I M M

_ A 1 ( 1 2 8 b i t , 2 4 0 - p

i n m o

d u

l e )

D D R 2 D I M M

_ B 1 ( 1 2 8 b i t , 2 4 0 - p

i n m o

d u

l e )

D D R 2 D I M M

_ A 2 ( 1 2 8 b i t , 2 4 0 - p

i n m o

d u

l e )

D D R 2 D I M M

_ B 2 ( 1 2 8 b i t , 2 4 0 - p

i n m o

d u

l e )

E A T X P W R

P R I_ I D E

FLOPPY

S o c

k e t

M 2

P W R

_ F A N

S A T A 3

S A T A 1

S A T A 4

S A T A 2

NVIDIA MCP61G

M2N-MX

2 4

. 5 c m

( 9 . 6

i n )

PANEL

USB78USB910

USB56

PCI2

PCI1

PCIEX1_1

PCIEX16

CR2032 3VLithium Cell

CMOS Power

R

SB_PWR

SPDIF_OAAFP

CPU_FAN

4Mb BIOS

Super I/O

AD1986A

ATTANSICF001

C D

PS2_USB_PWR

ATX12V

PS/2KBMST: MouseB: Keyboard

P A R A L L E L P O R T

AUDIO

LAN_USB34

USB12

V G A

C O M 1

CLRTC

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M2N-MX

R

Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.

1.5.2 Placement directionWhen installing the motherboard, make sure that you place it into the chassis inthe correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of thechassis as indicated in the image below.

Place this side towardsthe rear of the chassis

1.5.3 Screw holes

Place six (6) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure themotherboard to the chassis.

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ASUS M2N-MX 1-9

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)The motherboard comes with a 940-pin AM2 socket designed for the AMDAthlon™ 64 X2/Athlon™ 64/Athlon™ FX/Sempron™ processor.

The AM2 socket has a different pinout from the 940-pin socket designed for theAMD Opteron™ processor. Make sure you use a CPU is designed for the AM2socket. The CPU ts in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU intothe socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging theCPU!

1.6.1 Installing the CPU

To install a CPU.1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.

2. Unlock the socket by pressing thelever sideways, then lift it up to a90°-100° angle.

Make sure that the socket lever is lifted up to 90°-100° angle, otherwise theCPU does not t in completely.

Socket lever

M2N-MX

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M2N-MX CPU Socket M2

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ASUS M2N-MX 1-11

1.6.2 Installing the heatsink and fanThe AMD Athlon™ 64 X2/Athlon™ 64/Athlon™ FX/Sempron™ processor require aspecially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition

and performance.

Follow these steps to install the CPU heatsink and fan.

1. Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, making sure that the heatsinkts properly on the retention module base.

Retention Module Base

CPU Heatsink

CPU Fan

Retention bracket lockRetention bracket

Make sure that you use only quali ed heatsink and fan assembly.

• The retention module base is already installed on the motherboardupon purchase.

• You do not have to remove the retention module base wheninstalling the CPU or installing other motherboard components.

• If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, makesure that a Thermal Interface Material is properly applied to the CPUheatsink or CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly.

Your boxed CPU heatsink and fan assembly should come with installationinstructions for the CPU, heatsink, and the retention mechanism. If theinstructions in this section do not match the CPU documentation, follow thelatter.

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2. Attach one end of the retention bracket to the retention module base.

3. Align the other end of the retention bracket (near the retention bracket lock)to the retention module base. A clicking sound denotes that the retentionbracket is in place.

4. Push down the retention bracket lock on the retention mechanism to securethe heatsink and fan to the module base.

Make sure that the fan andheatsink assembly perfectly tsthe retention mechanism module

base; otherwise, you cannot snapthe retention bracket in place.

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ASUS M2N-MX 1-13

1.7.2 Memory confgurationsYou may install 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB unbuffered/non-ECC DDR2DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.

1.7 System memory

1.7.1 OverviewThe motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory

Modules (DIMM) sockets.A DDR2 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR DIMM but has a240-pin footprint compared to the 184-pin DDR DIMM. DDR2 DIMMs are notcheddifferently to prevent installation on a DDR DIMM socket.

The gure illustrates the location of the DDR2 DIMM sockets:

Recommended Memory Confgurations

Sockets

DIMM_A1 DIMM_A2 DIMM_B1 DIMM_B2Populated - - - - Populated - - - - Populated - - - - PopulatedPopulated - Populated - - Populated - PopulatedPopulated Populated Populated Populated

Mode

Single Channel

Dual-channel (1)

Dual-channel (2)

Channel Sockets

Channel A DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2Channel B DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2

M2N-MX

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M2N-MX 240-pin DDR2 DIMM Sockets

D I M M

_ B 1

D I M M

_ A 2

D I M M

_ B 2

D I M M

_ A 1

1 1 2 P i n

s

1 2 8 P i n

s

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* For dual-channel memory con guration (2), you may: • install identical DIMMs in all four sockets OR• install an identical DIMM pair in DIMM_A1 and DIMM_B1 (yellow

sockets) and another identical DIMM pair in DIMM_A2 andDIMM_B2 (black sockets)

* Always use identical DDR2 DIMM pairs for dual-channel model. Foroptimum compatibility, we recommend that you obtain memory modulesfrom the same vendor. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for thelatest Quali ed Vendors List.

Important notice on installing Windows ® XP 32-bit version

If you install Windows®

XP 32-bit version Operating System (OS), the limitationof this OS version is that it may reserve a certain amount of memory space forsystem devices. We recommend that you install less than 3 GB system memoryif you would like to work under Windows® XP 32-bit version OS. The excessmemory installation will not cause any usage problem, but it will not give usersthe bene t of manipulating this excess memory space.

Visit the ASUS FAQ site for further explanation: http://support.asus.com/faq/faq.aspx?SLanguage=en-usUnder General Search, make theselections as shown, then click Search.Click the article titled “4GB memoryinstalled but less memory size detected.”

You also may check the URLs below for third party comments on this issue:http://dlsvr01.asus.com/pub/ASUS/mb/4GB_Rev1.pdf http://www.intel.com/support/motherboards/server/sb/cs-016594.htm

Windows® 2000 Advanced ServerWindows® Server 2003 EnterpriseEdition

Windows® Server 2003 Standardx64 EditionWindows® XP Professtional x64EditionWindows® Server 2003 Enterprisex64 Edition

32-bit 64-bit

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ASUS M2N-MX 1-15

1.7.3 Installing a DIMM

1. Unlock a DIMM socket by pressingthe retaining clips outward.

2. Align a DIMM on the socket suchthat the notch on the DIMM matchesthe break on the socket.

3. Firmly insert the DIMM into thesocket until the retaining clips snapback in place and the DIMM isproperly seated.

Make sure to unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs orother system components. Failure to do so may cause severe damage to both

the motherboard and the components.

Unlocked retaining clip

DDR2 DIMM notch

1.7.4 Removing a DIMMTo remove a DIMM:

1. Simultaneously press the retainingclips outward to unlock the DIMM.

2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.

Support the DIMM lightly with your ngers when pressing the retaining clips.The DIMM might get damaged when it ips out with extra force.

DDR2 DIMM notch

1

• A DDR2 DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it ts in only onedirection. DO NOT force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the

DIMM.• The DDR2 DIMM sockets do not support DDR DIMMs. Do not installDDR DIMMs to the DDR2 DIMM sockets.

3

2

1

1

2

1

1

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1.8 Expansion slotsIn the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sectionsdescribe the slots and the expansion cards that they support.

1.8.1 Installing an expansion cardTo install an expansion card:

1. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with

it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card.2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a

chassis).3. Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw

for later use.4. Align the card connector with the slot and press rmly until the card is

completely seated on the slot.5. Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.

6. Replace the system cover.

1.8.2 Confguring an expansion cardAfter installing the expansion card, con gure it by adjusting the software settings.

1. Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. SeeChapter 2 for information on BIOS setup.

2. Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the next page.

3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.

Make sure to unplug the power cord before adding or removing expansioncards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboardcomponents.

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ASUS M2N-MX 1-17

Standard interrupt assignmentsIRQ Priority Standard Function

0 1 System Timer1 2 Keyboard Controller2 – Re-direct to IRQ#93 11 IRQ holder for PCI steering*4 12 Communications Port (COM1)*5 13 IRQ holder for PCI steering*6 14 Floppy Disk Controller7 15 Printer Port (LPT1)*8 3 System CMOS/Real Time Clock

9 4 IRQ holder for PCI steering*10 5 IRQ holder for PCI steering*11 6 IRQ holder for PCI steering*12 7 PS/2 Compatible Mouse Port*13 8 Numeric Data Processor14 9 Primary IDE Channel15 10 Secondary IDE Channel

* These IRQs are usually available for ISA or PCI devices.

When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share

IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments; otherwise, con icts willarise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the cardinoperable.

IRQ assignments for this motherboard A B C DPCI slot 1 used — — —PCI slot 2 — used — —

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1.8.3 PCI slotsThe PCI slots support cards such asa LAN card, SCSI card, USB card,

and other cards that comply with PCIspeci cations. The gure shows a LANcard installed on a PCI slot.

1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slotThis motherboard supports PCI Expressx1 network cards, SCSI cards and othercards that comply with the PCI Expressspeci cations. The following gureshows a network card installed on thePCI Express x1 slot.

1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slotThis motherboard has supports PCIExpress x16 graphic cards that complywith PCI Express speci cations. Thegure shows a graphics card installed onthe PCI Express x16 slot.

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ASUS M2N-MX 1-19

1.9 Jumpers1. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC)

This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM inCMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup

parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard buttoncell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system setupinformation such as system passwords.

To erase the RTC RAM:

1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.2. Remove the onboard battery.3. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep the cap on pins

2-3 for about 5~10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.4. Reinstall the battery.5. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.6. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to

re-enter data.

Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumperdefault position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!

You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to overclocking.For system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)feature. Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically resetparameter settings to default values.

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M2N-MX Clear RTC RAM

CLRTC

Normal Clear RTC(Default)

2 31 2

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2. USB device wake-up (3-pin PS2_USB_PWR)This jumper allows you to enable or disable the keyboard wake-up feature.Set this jumper to pins 2-3 (+5VSB) to wake up the computer when you pressa key on the keyboard (the default is the Space Bar). This feature requires anATX power supply that can supply at least 500 mA on the +5VSB lead, and acorresponding setting in the BIOS.

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M2N-MX USB Device Wake Up

3221

PS2_USB_PWR

(Default)+5V +5VS B

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ASUS M2N-MX 1-21

Refer to the audio con guration table for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4,or 6,-channel con guration.

1.10 Connectors

1.10.1 Rear panel connectors

1. PS/2 mouse port (green). This port is for a PS/2 mouse.2. Parallel port. This 25-pin port connects a parallel printer, a scanner, or other

devices.3. LAN (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area

Network (LAN) through a network hub.

LAN port LED indications

LAN port

SPEEDLED

ACT/LINKLED

4. Line In port (light blue). This port connects a tape, CD, DVD player, or otheraudio sources.

5. Line Out port (lime). This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In 4-channel/ 6-channel con guration, the function of this port becomes FrontSpeaker Out.

6. Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone.

ACT/LINK LEDSPEED LED

Status Description Status Description

OFF No link OFF 10 Mbps connectionOrange Linked ORANGE 100 Mbps connectionBLINKING Data activity GREEN 1 Gbps connection

1

11

4

5

6

7

2 3

810 9

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7. USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports areavailable for connecting USB 2.0 devices.

8. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are

available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.9. Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port. This 15-pin port is for a VGA monitor orother VGA-compatible devices.

10. COM port. This port is for pointing devices or other serial devices.11. PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.

Audio 2, 4, or 6-channel confguration

Light Blue Line In Surround Out Surround OutLime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker OutPink Mic In Mic Center/Bass

Port Headset 4-speaker 6-speaker2-speaker

1.10.2 Internal connectors

1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY)This connector is for the provided oppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insertone end of the cable to this connector, then connect the other end to thesignal connector at the back of the oppy disk drive.

Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection whenusing an FDD cable with a covered Pin 5.

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M2N-MX Floppy Disk Drive Connector

P I N

1

NOTE: Orient the red markings onthe floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.

FLOPPY

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ASUS M2N-MX 1-23

2. IDE connectors (40-1 pin PRI_IDE)The onboard IDE connectors are for Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable(s).There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable: blue,black, and gray. Connect the blue connector to the motherboard’s IDEconnector, then select one of the following modes to con gure your device(s).

• Pin 20 on the IDE connector is removed to match the covered hole on theUltra DMA cable connector. This prevents incorrect insertion when youconnect 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.

Black or gray

Drive jumper Mode Cablesetting of device(s) connector

Single device Cable-Select or Master - BlackTwo devices Cable-Select Master Black

Slave Gray

Master MasterSlave Slave

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M2N-MX IDE Connector

NOTE: Orient the red markings(usually zigzag) on the IDribbon cable to PIN 1.

PRI_IDE

P I N 1

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3. Serial ATA connectors(7-pin SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, SATA4)These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA 3.0Gb/s hard disk and optical disk drives. The Serial ATA 3 Gb/s is backwardcompatible with Serial ATA 1.5Gb/s speci cation.

The current Serial ATA I interface allows up to 150 MB/s data transfer ratewhile Serial ATA II allows up to 300 MB/s data transfer rate, faster than thestandard parallel ATA with 133 MB/s (Ultra DMA133).

If you install Serial ATA hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1,RAID 0+1, RAID 5, and JBOD con guration through the onboard NVIDIA® MediaShield™ controller.

Important note on Serial ATA

Install the Windows ® 2000 Service Pack 4 or the Windows ® XP Service Pack1

before using Serial ATA.

• For detailed instructions on how to con gure RAID 0, 1, 0+1, 5,andJBOD, refer to the RAID manual in the support CD.

• The RAID function of these connectors is set to [Disabled] bydefault. If you intend to create a Serial ATA RAID set using theseconnectors, enable the RAID Enabled item in the NVRAID

Con guration sub-menu in the BIOS. See section “2.4.3 Onboard

Device Con guration” for details.

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M2N-MX SATA Connectors

GNDRSATA_TXP3RSATA_TXN3

GNDRSATA_RXP3RSATA_RXN3

GND GNDRSATA_TXP4RSATA_TXN4GNDRSATA_RXP4RSATA_RXN4GND

SATA3

GNDRSATA_TXP1RSATA_TXN1

GNDRSATA_RXP1RSATA_RXN1

GND

SATA1

SATA4

GNDRSATA_TXP2RSATA_TXN2GNDRSATA_RXP2RSATA_RXN2GND

SATA2

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ASUS M2N-MX 1-25

4. CPU, Chassis, and Power Fan connectors(4-pin CPU_FAN, 3-pin CHA_FAN1)The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350mA~740mA (8.88W max.) ora total of 1A~2.22A (26.64W max.) at +12V. Connect the fan cables to the fanconnectors on the motherboard, making sure that the black wire of each cablematches the ground pin of the connector.

Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insuf cient airow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These arenot jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on the fan connectors.

5. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF)port(s). Connect the S/PDIF module cable to this connector, then install themodule to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.

The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.

Only CPU Fan connector supports Q-Fan function.

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M2N-MX CPU Fan Connector

CPU_FAN

G N D

C P U F A N P W R

C P U F A N I N

C P U F A N P W M

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M2N-MX Digital Audio Connector

+ 5 V

S P D I F O

U T

G N D

SPDIF_O

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Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage themotherboard!

6. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78, USB 910)These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cableto any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at theback of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0speci cation that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed.

7. Optical drive audio in connector (4-pin CD)These connectors allow you to receive stereo audio input from sound sourcessuch as a CD-ROM, TV tuner, or MPEG card.

The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.

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M2N-MX USB 2.0 Connectors

USB56

U S B + 5 V

U S B

_ P 6

-

U S B

_ P 6 +

G N D

N C

U S B + 5 V

U S B

_ P 5 -

U S B

_ P 5 +

G N D

1

USB7USB910

U S B + 5 V

U S B

_ P 1 0

-

U S B

_ P 1 0 +

G N D

N C

U S B + 5 V

U S B

_ P 9

-

U S B

_ P 9 +

G N D

1

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M2N-MX Internal Audio Connector

CD(black)

Right Audio Channel

Left Audio ChannelGroundGround

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ASUS M2N-MX 1-27

8. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module thatsupports either High De nition Audio or AC`97 audio standard. Connect oneend of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector.

• We recommend that you connect a high-de nition front panel audio module

to this connector to avail of the motherboard high-de nition audio capability.• If you want to connect a high-de nition front panel audio module to

this connector, make sure that the HD Audio item in the BIOS is set to[Enabled].

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M2N-MX Azalia Analog Front Panel Connector

H P

_ H D

M I C 2

_ L

H P

_ R

H P

_ L

M I C 2

_ J D

J a c k_ S e n s e

M I C 2

_ R

P R E S E N S E #

A G N D

AAFP

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9. ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-pin ATX12V)These connectors are for an ATX power supply. The plugs from the powersupply are designed to t these connectors in only one orientation. Find theproper orientation and push down rmly until the connectors completely t.

• We recommend that you use an ATX 12 V Speci cation 2.0-compliantpower supply unit (PSU) with a minimum of 300 W power rating. This PSUtype has 24-pin and 4-pin power plugs.

• If you intend to use a PSU with 20-pin and 4-pin power plugs, make surethat the 20-pin power plug can provide at least 15 A on +12 V and thatthe PSU has a minimum power rating of 300 W. The system may becomeunstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.

• Do not forget to connect the 4-pin ATX +12 V power plug; otherwise, thesystem will not boot up.

• We recommend that you use a PSU with higher power output whencon guring a system with more power-consuming devices. The systemmay become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.

• You must install a PSU with a higher power rating if you intend to installadditional devices.

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M2N-MX A TX Power Connector

EATXPWR

+3 Volts+3 VoltsGround

+5 Volts

+5 VoltsGround

GroundPower OK

+5V Standby+12 Volts

-5 Volts

+5 Volts

+3 Volts-12 VoltsGround

GroundGroundPSON#

Ground

+5 Volts

+12 Volts+3 Volts

+5 VoltsGround

EATX12V

GND+12V DC

GND+12V DC

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ASUS M2N-MX 1-29

10. System panel connector (20-1 pin PANEL)

This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.

• System power LED This 3-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassispower LED cable to this connector. The system power LED lights up whenyou turn on the system power, and blinks when the system is in sleep mode.

• Hard disk drive activity LED This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD ActivityLED cable to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or ashes when data isread from or written to the HDD.

• System warning speaker This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker. Thespeaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.

• Power/Soft-off button This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power buttonturns the system ON or puts the system in SLEEP or SOFT-OFF mode

depending on the BIOS settings. Pressing the power switch for more thanfour seconds while the system is ON turns the system OFF.• Reset button

This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for systemreboot without turning off the system power.

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M2N-MX System Panel Connector

PANEL

P L E D

-

+ 5 V S p e a k e r

SPEAKERPLED

G r o u n d

Reset

R e s e t

G r o u n d

G r o u n d

P L E D +

I D E

_ L E D -

I D E

_ L E D +

IDE_LED

P W R

G r o u n d

PWRSW

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2BIOS setup

This chapter tells how to changethe system settings through the BIOSSetup menus. Detailed descriptionsof the BIOS parameters are alsoprovided.

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2-2 Chapter 2: BIOS setup

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOSThe following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard BasicInput/Output System (BIOS) setup.

1. ASUS EZ Flash (Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a oppy disk or themotherboard support CD.)

2. ASUS AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable oppydisk.)

3. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 (Updates the BIOS using a bootable oppy disk, orthe motherboard support CD when the BIOS le fails or gets corrupted.)

4. ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows ® environment.)

Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.

2.1.1 Creating a bootable oppy disk

1. Do either one of the following to create a bootable oppy disk.DOS environment

a. Insert a 1.44MB oppy disk into the drive.b. At the DOS prompt, type format A:/S then press <Enter>.Windows ® XP environment

a. Insert a 1.44 MB oppy disk to the oppy disk drive.b. Click Start from the Windows® desktop, then select My Computer .c. Select the 3 1/2 Floppy Drive icon.d. Click File from the menu, then select Format . A Format 3 1/2 Floppy

Disk window appears.e. Select Create an MS-DOS startup disk from the format options eld,

then click Start .Windows ® 2000 environment

To create a set of boot disks for Windows ® 2000:a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44 MB oppy disk into the drive.b. Insert the Windows ® 2000 CD to the optical drive.c. Click Start , then select Run .d. From the Open eld, type D:\bootdisk\makeboot a:

assuming that D: is your optical drive.e. Press <Enter>, then follow screen instructions to continue.

2. Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS le to the bootable oppy disk.

Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS le to a bootable oppy disk ora USB ash disk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy theoriginal motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update or AFUDOS utilities.

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ASUS M2N-MX 2-3

2.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash utilityThe ASUS EZ Flash feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to gothrough the long process of booting from a oppy disk and using a DOS‑based

utility. The EZ Flash utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing<Alt> + <F2> during the Power-On Self Tests (POST).

To update the BIOS using EZ Flash:

1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS le forthe motherboard and rename the same to M2N-MX.ROM.

2. Save the BIOS le to a oppy disk, then restart the system.3. Press <Alt> + <F2> during POST to display the following.

EZFlash starting BIOS updateChecking for oppy...

4. Insert the oppy disk that contains the BIOS le to the oppy disk drive.When the correct BIOS le is found, EZ Flash performs the BIOS updateprocess and automatically reboots the system when done.

EZFlash starting BIOS updateChecking for oppy...Floppy found!Reading le “M2N-MX.rom”. Completed.Start erasing.......|Start programming...|Flashed successfully. Rebooting.

• Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent

system boot failure!• A “Floppy not found!” error message appears if there is no oppy disk in the

drive. A “M2N-MX.ROM not found!” error message appears if the correctBIOS le is not found in the oppy disk. Make sure that you rename theBIOS le to M2N‑MX.ROM.

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2.1.3 AFUDOS utilityThe AFUDOS utility allows you to update the BIOS le in DOS environment usinga bootable oppy disk with the updated BIOS le. This utility also allows you to

copy the current BIOS le that you can use as backup when the BIOS fails or getscorrupted during the updating process.

Copying the current BIOSTo copy the current BIOS le using the AFUDOS utility:

Main lename Extension name

1. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support CD tothe bootable oppy disk you created earlier.

2. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type:afudos /o[ lename]

where the [ lename] is any user‑assigned lename not more than eightalphanumeric characters for the main lename and three alphanumericcharacters for the extension name.

A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom

• Make sure that the oppy disk is not write‑protected and has at least1024KB free space to save the le.

• The succeeding BIOS screens are for reference only. The actual BIOSscreen displays may not be same as shown.

The utility returns to the DOS prompt after copying the current BIOS le.

3. Press <Enter>. The utility copies the current BIOS le to the oppy 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 ash ..... done Write to le...... ok

A:\>

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ASUS M2N-MX 2-5

Updating the BIOS leTo update the BIOS le using the AFUDOS utility:

1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) and download the latest BIOS le for

the motherboard. Save the BIOS le to a bootable oppy disk.

2. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support CD tothe bootable oppy disk you created earlier.

3. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type: afudos /i[ lename]

where [ lename] is the latest or the original BIOS le on the bootable oppy disk.

A:\>afudos /iM2N-MX.ROM

Write the BIOS lename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOSlename at the DOS prompt.

5. The utility returns to the DOS prompt after the BIOS update process iscompleted. Reboot the system from the hard disk drive.

A:\>afudos /iM2N-MX.ROM AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))

Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.

WARNING!! Do not turn off power during ash BIOS Reading le ....... done Reading ash ...... done

Advance Check ......

Erasing ash ...... done Writing ash ...... done Verifying ash .... done

Please restart your computer

A:\>

A:\>afudos /iM2N-MX.ROM AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.19(ASUS V2.07(03.11.24BB))

Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.

WARNING!! Do not turn off power during ash BIOS Reading le ....... done Reading ash ...... done

Advance Check ...... Erasing ash ...... done

4. The utility veri es the le and starts updating the BIOS.

Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to preventsystem boot failure!

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2.1.4 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 utilityThe ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restorethe BIOS le when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can

update a corrupted BIOS le using the motherboard support CD or the oppy diskthat contains the updated BIOS le.

• Prepare the motherboard support CD, or the oppy disk containing theupdated motherboard BIOS before using this utility.

• Make sure that you rename the original or updated BIOS le in the oppydisk or the USB ash disk to M2N-MX.ROM.

Recovering the BIOS from a oppy diskTo recover the BIOS from a oppy disk:

1. Turn on the system.2. Insert the oppy disk with the original or updated BIOS le to the oppy disk

drive.3. The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the

oppy disk for the original or updated BIOS le.

Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...Checking for oppy...

4. Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.

When found, the utility reads the BIOS le and starts ashing the corruptedBIOS le.

Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...Checking for oppy...Floppy found!Reading le “M2N-MX.ROM”. Completed.Start ashing...

DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing

so can cause system boot failure!

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ASUS M2N-MX 2-7

Recovering the BIOS from the support CDTo recover the BIOS from the support CD:

1. Remove any oppy disk from the oppy disk drive, then turn on the system.2. Insert the support CD to the optical drive.3. The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the

oppy disk for the original or updated BIOS le.

Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...Checking for oppy...Floppy not found!Checking for CD-ROM...

CD-ROM found!Reading le “M2N-MX.ROM”. Completed.Start ashing...

When no oppy disk is found, the utility automatically checks the optical drivefor the original or updated BIOS le. The utility then updates the corruptedBIOS le.

Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery...Checking for oppy...

The recovered BIOS may not be the latest BIOS version for this motherboard.Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS le.

4. Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process.

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Installing ASUS UpdateTo install ASUS Update:

1. Place the support CD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears.2. Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update . See page 5-3 for the

Utilities screen menu.3. The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system.

2.1.5 ASUS Update utilityThe ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update themotherboard BIOS in Windows ® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you

to: • Save the current BIOS le • Download the latest BIOS le from the Internet • Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS le • Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and • View the BIOS version information.

This utility is available in the support CD that comes with the motherboard

package.

ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or anInternet Service Provider (ISP).

Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.

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ASUS M2N-MX 2-9

3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearestyou to avoid network traf c, orclick Auto Select . Click Next .

Updating the BIOS through the InternetTo update the BIOS through the Internet:

1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows ® desktop by clicking Start

> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate . The ASUS Updatemain window appears.

2. Select Update BIOS fromthe Internet option from thedrop‑down menu, then click Next .

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Updating the BIOS through a BIOS leTo update the BIOS through a BIOS le:

1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows ® desktop by clicking Start> Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update mainwindow appears.

2. Select Update BIOS from a leoption from the drop‑down menu,

then click Next.

4. From the FTP site, select the BIOSversion that you wish to download.Click Next.

5. Follow the screen instructions tocomplete the update process.

The ASUS Update utility iscapable of updating itselfthrough the Internet. Alwaysupdate the utility to avail all itsfeatures.

3. Locate the BIOS le from the Openwindow, then click Open.

4. Follow the screen instructions tocomplete the update process.

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2.2.2 Menu barThe menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:

Main For changing the basic system con gurationAdvanced For changing the advanced system settingsPower For changing the advanced power management (APM)

con gurationBoot For changing the system boot con gurationTools For setting EZ Flash 2 and O.C. Pro le.

Exit For selecting the exit options and loading defaultsettings

2.2.1 BIOS menu screen

To select an item on the menu bar, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboarduntil the desired item is highlighted.

Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another.

Navigation keysSub-menu items

2.2.3 Navigation keysAt the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for thatparticular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and changethe settings.

General helpMenu bar Con guration eldsMenu items

Use [ENTER], [TAB]or [SHIFT-TAB] toselect a eld.Use [+] or [-] tocon gure system time.

System Time [00: 38 : 56]System Date [Tue01/01/2002]Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5in.]

IDE Con guration

Primary IDE Master : [Not Detected]Primary IDE Slave : [Not Detected]

SATA1 : [Not Detected]SATA2 : [Not Detected]SATA3 : [Not Detected]SATA4 : [Not Detected] System Information

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2.2.4 Menu itemsThe highlighted item on the menu bardisplays the speci c items for that menu.

For example, selecting Main shows the Mainmenu items.

The other items (Advanced, Power, Boot,Tool, and Exit) on the menu bar have theirrespective menu items.

2.2.5 Sub-menu itemsA solid triangle before each item on any menu screen means that the iteam has asub‑menu. To display the sub‑menu, select the item and press <Enter>.

2.2.6 Con guration eldsThese elds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user‑ con gurable,you can change the value of the eld opposite the item. You cannot select an itemthat is not user‑con gurable.

A con gurable eld is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. Tochange the value of a eld, select it then press <Enter> to display a list of options.Refer to “4.2.7 Pop-up window.”

2.2.7 Pop-up windowSelect a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with thecon guration options for that item.

2.2.8 Scroll barA scroll bar appears on the right side of amenu screen when there are items that donot t on the screen. Press theUp/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> /<PageDown> keys to display the other items on thescreen.

2.2.9 General helpAt the top right corner of the menu screen isa brief description of the selected item.

System Time [11:10:19]System Date [Thu 03/27/2003]Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in]Legacy Diskette B [Disabled]

Primary IDE Master :[Not Detected] Primary IDE Slave :[Not Detected]

Secondary IDE Master :[Not Detected] Secondary IDE Slave :[Not Detected] Third IDE Master :[Not Detected] Fourth IDE Master :[Not Detected] IDE Configuration

System Information

Use [ENTER], [TAB]or [SHIFT-TAB] toselect a field.

Use [+] or [-] toconfigure system time.

Select Screen Select Item +- Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General HelpF10 Save and ExitESC Exit

Main menu items

Scroll bar

Select Screen Select Item +- Change OptionF1 General HelpF10 Save and ExitESC Exit

Advanc ed Chip set set tings

WARNIN G: Sett ing wro ng valu es in the sec tions b elow may cause system to malfunction.

Configure DRAM Timing by SPD [Enabled] Memory Accele ration Mode [Auto]

DRAM Idle Timer [Auto]DRAm Refresh Rate [Auto]

Graphic Adapter Priority [AGP/PCI]Graphics Aperture Size [ 64 MB]Spread Spectrum [Enabled]

ICH Delayed Transaction [Enabled]

MPS Re vision [1.4]

Pop-up window

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2.3 Main menuWhen you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, givingyou an overview of the basic system information.

2.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx]Allows you to set the system time.

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 oppy drive installed. Con guration options: [Disabled] [360K, 5.25in.] [1.2M , 5.25 in.] [720K , 3.5 in.] [1.44M, 3.5 in.] [2.88M, 3.5 in.]

Refer to section “2.2.1 BIOS menu screen” for information on the menu screenitems and how to navigate through them.

System Time [03:59:16]System Date [Tue 01/08/2002]Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in]

IDE Con guration

Primary IDE Master :[Not Detected] Primary IDE Slave :[Not Detected] SATA 1 :[Not Detected]

SATA 2 :[Not Detected] SATA 3 :[Not Detected] SATA 4 :[Not Detected]

System Information

Use [ENTER], [TAB]or [SHIFT-TAB] toselect a eld.Use [+] or [-] tocon gure system time.

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2.3.4 IDE Con gurationThe items in this menu allow you to set or change the con gurations for the IDEdevices installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you wish tocon gure the item.

IDE Con guration

Onboard IDE Controller [Enabled]Serial-ATA Devices [Device 0/1]

nVidia RAID Function [Disabled]

Onboard IDE Controller [Enabled]Allows you to enable or disable the onboard IDE controller.Con guration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Serial-ATA Devices [Device 0/1]Allows you to disable or set the Serial-ATA devices.Con guration options: [Disabled] [Device 0] [Device 0/1]

nVidia RAID Function [Disabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the NVIDIA RAID function.Con guration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

2.3.5 Primary IDE Master/SlaveWhile 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 thenpress <Enter> to display the IDE device information.

Third IDE Master

Device : Not Detected

Type [Auto]LBA/Large Mode [Auto]Block(Multi-sector Transfer) M [Auto]PIO Mode [Auto]DMA Mode [Auto]SMART Monitoring [Auto]

32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]

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The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device,Vendor, Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, andSMART monitoring). These values are not user‑con gurable. These items showN/A if no IDE device is installed in the system.

Type [Auto]Selects the type of IDE drive. Setting to Auto allows automatic selection of theappropriate IDE device type. Select CDROM if you are speci cally con guring aCD-ROM drive. Select ARMD (ATAPI Removable Media Device) if your deviceis either a ZIP, LS‑120, or MO drive. Con guration options: [Not Installed] [Auto][CDROM] [ARMD]

LBA/Large Mode [Auto]

Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting to Auto enables the LBA mode if thedevice supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBAmode disabled. Con guration options: [Disabled] [Auto]

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

[Disabled] [Auto]

PIO Mode [Auto]Selects the PIO mode.Con guration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]

DMA Mode [Auto]Selects the DMA mode. Con guration options: [Auto] [SWDMA0] [SWDMA1][SWDMA2] [MWDMA0] [MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2][UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5]

SMART Monitoring [Auto]Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology. Con gurationoptions: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer.Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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2.3.6 SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, and SATA4While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of SATAdevices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SATA device. Select a device item

then press <Enter> to display the SATA device information.

The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device,Vendor, Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and

SMART monitoring). These values are not user‑con gurable. These items showN/A if no IDE device is installed in the system.

Type [Auto]Selects the type of IDE drive. Setting to Auto allows automatic selection of theappropriate IDE device type. Select CDROM if you are speci cally con guring aCD-ROM drive. Select ARMD (ATAPI Removable Media Device) if your deviceis either a ZIP, LS‑120, or MO drive. Con guration options: [Not Installed] [Auto][CDROM] [ARMD]

LBA/Large Mode [Auto]Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting to Auto enables the LBA mode if thedevice supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBAmode disabled. Con guration options: [Disabled] [Auto]

Block (Multi-sector Transfer) M [Auto]Enables or disables data multi‑sectors transfers. When set to Auto, the datatransfer 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 transferfrom and to the device occurs one sector at a time. Con guration options:[Disabled] [Auto]

Third IDE Master

Device : Not Detected

LBA/Large Mode [Auto]Block(Multi-sector Transfer) M [Auto]PIO Mode [Auto]DMA Mode [Auto]

SMART Monitoring [Auto]32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]

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PIO Mode [Auto]Selects the PIO mode.Con guration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4]

DMA Mode [Auto]Selects the DMA mode. Con guration options: [Auto] [SWDMA0] [SWDMA1][SWDMA2] [MWDMA0] [MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2][UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5]

SMART Monitoring [Auto]Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology. Con gurationoptions: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled]

32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled]Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer.Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.3.7 System InformationThis menu gives you an overview of the general system speci cations. The BIOSautomatically detects the items in this menu.

AMIBIOS

Version : 0103 Build Date : 07/04/06

Processor

Type : AMD Sempron(tm) Processor 3200+ Speed : 1800MHz Count : 1

System Memory Usable Size: 256MB

AMI BIOSDisplays the auto-detected BIOS information

Processor

Displays the auto‑detected CPU speci cationSystem MemoryDisplays the auto-detected system memory

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2.4 Advanced menuThe Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and othersystem devices.

Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrecteld values can cause the system to malfunction.

CPU Con guration Chipset

Onboard Devices Con gurationPCIPnP

USB Con guration

Jumperfree Con guration

2.4.1 CPU Con gurationThe items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOSautomatically detects.

Unlock locked CPUand let it run atlower multipliersetting.

CPU Con guration Module Version: 13.01 AGESA Version: 02.06.07

Physical Count: 1Logical Count: 1

AMD Sempron(tm) Processor 3000+Revision: F2Cache L1: 64KBCache L2: 128KBSpeed : 1800MHzCurrent FSB Multiplier: 9x

Maximum FSB Multiplier: 9x Able to Change Freq. : Yes

uCode Patch Level : None Required GART Error Reporting [Disabled]

MTRR Mapping [Continuous] Runtime Legacy PSB [Disabled]

ACPI 2.0 Objects [Enabled]

GART Error Reporting [Disabled]This option should remain disabled for the normal operation. The driver developermay enable it for testing purpose.Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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North Bridge chipset Con guration

Memory Con guration

Memclock Mode [Auto] MCT Timing Mode [Auto]

Enable Clock to ALL DIMMs [Disabled] MemCLK Tristate C3/ATLVID [Disabled] Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled]

Power Down Control [Auto]

NorthBridge Con guration

2.4.2 ChipsetThe Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select anitem then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.

Advanced Chipset Settings WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections

may cause the system to malfunction.

NorthBridge Con guration Southbridge Hyper Transport Con guration

MTRR Mapping [Continuous]This option determines the method used for programming CPU MTRRs when4GB or more of memory is present. Discrete leaves the PCI hole below the 4GBboundary undescribed. Continuous explicitly describes the PCI hole as non-caheable. Con guration options: [Continuous] [Discrete]

Runtime Legacy PSB [Disabled]Enables or disables the generation of Power State Block for use of PowerNow(tm)driver in a single core system.Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

ACPI 2.0 Objects [Enabled]Enables or disables the generation of ACPI_PPC, _PSS, and _PCT objects. Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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Con gure DRAM Timing by SPD [Enabled]When this item is enabled, the DRAM timing parameters are set according to theDRAM SPD (Serial Presence Detect). When disabled, you can manually set theDRAM timing parameters through the DRAM sub-items. The following sub-itemsappear when this item is Disabled. Con guration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

DRAM CAS# Latency [5] Controls the latency between the SDRAM read command and the time thedata actually becomes available. Con guration options: [3] [4] [5] [6]

DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay [6 DRAM Clocks] Controls the latency between the DDR SDRAM active command and theread/write command. Con guration options: [2 DRAM Clocks] [3 DRAMClocks] [4 DRAM Clocks] [5 DRAM Clocks] [6 DRAM Clocks]

DRAM RAS# Precharge [6 DRAM Clocks] Controls the idle clocks after issuing a precharge command to the DDRSDRAM. Con guration options: [2 DRAM Clocks] [3 DRAM Clocks] [4 DRAMClocks] [5 DRAM Clocks] [6 DRAM Clocks]

DRAM RAS# Activate to Precha [15 DRAM Clocks] Con guration options: [4 DRAM Clocks] [5 DRAM Clocks]...[18 DRAM Clocks]

DRAM Write Recovery Time [4 Clocks] Set the write recovery timing.

DRAM TRFC [30 DRAM Clocks] Con guration options: [20 DRAM Clocks] [25 DRAM Clocks] [30 DRAMClocks] [35 DRAM Clocks] [42 DRAM Clocks]

DRAM TRRD [10] Con guration options: [10]

Initiate Graphic Adapter [PEG/PCI]Allows you to select the graphics controller as the primary boot device.

Con guration options: [PCI/PEG] [PEG/PCI]

Initiate Graphic Mode Select [Enabled, 8MB]Allows you to select the amount of system memory used by the Internal graphicsdevice. Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled,1MB] [Enabled, 8MB]

PEG Force x1 [Disabled] Con guration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

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SouthBridge MCP61 chipset Con guration

Primary Graphics Adapter [PCIE-> PCI -> IGP] AZALIA Audio [Auto]

OnBoard LAN [Auto] OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]

Primary Graphics Adapter [PCIE-> PCI -> IGP]Display Device Priority, from high to low. Con guration options: [PCIE‑> PCI‑> IGP] [IGP ‑>PCI ‑> PCIE]

AZALIA AUDIO [Auto]Allows you to set or disable the AZALIA AUDIO.Con guration options: [Auto] [Disabled]

OnBoard LAN [Auto]Allows you to set or disable the OnBoard LAN.Con guration options: [Auto] [Disabled]

OnBoard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]Allows you to enable or disable the OnBoard LAN Boot ROM. Con guration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

SouthBridge Con guration

SouthBridge MCP61 chipset Con guration

MCP61(SB) to K8(CPU) Freq Auto [Disabled] MCP61(SB) to K8(CPU) Frequency [1000 MHz] MCP61(SB) to K8(CPU) Linkwidth [16 16]

Hyper Transport Con guration

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2.4.3 Onboard Devices Con guration

Con gure ITE8712 Super IO Chipset

Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]Parallel Port Address [378]Parallel Port Mode [Normal] Parallel Port IRQ [IRQ7]

Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]Allows you to select the Serial Port1 base address. Con guration options:[Disabled] [3F8/IRQ4][2F8/IRQ3] [3E8/IRQ4] [2E8/IRQ3]

Parallel Port Address [378]Allows you to select the Parallel Port base addresses.Con guration options: [Disabled] [378] [278] [3BC]

Parallel Port Mode [Normal]Allows you to select the Parallel Port mode.Con guration options: [Normal] [EPP] [ECP] [EPP+ECP]

ECP Mode DMA Channel [DMA3] Appears only when the Parallel Port Mode is set to [ECP]. This itemallows you to set the Parallel Port ECP DMA.Con guration options: [DMA0] [DMA1] [DMA3]

Parallel Port IRQ [IRQ7] Con guration options: [IRQ5] [IRQ7]

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

Take caution when changing the settings of the PCI PnP menu items. Incorrecteld values can cause the system to malfunction.

Advanced PCI/PnP Settings

WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction.

Plug And Play O/S [No]PCI Latency Timer [64]

Allocate IRQ to PCI VGA [Yes]Palette Snooping [Disabled]

IRQ-3 assigned to [PCI Device]IRQ-4 assigned to [PCI Device]IRQ-5 assigned to [PCI Device]IRQ-7 assigned to [PCI Device]IRQ-9 assigned to [PCI Device]IRQ-10 assigned to [PCI Device]IRQ-11 assigned to [PCI Device]IRQ-14 assigned to [PCI Device]IRQ-15 assigned to [PCI Device]

Plug and Play O/S [No]When set to [No], BIOS con gures all the devices in the system. When set to[Yes] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating systemcon gures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot. Con guration options:[No] [Yes]

PCI Latency Timer [64]

Allows you to select the value in units of PCI clocks for the PCI device latencytimer register. Con guration options: [32] [64] [96] [128] [160] [192] [224] [248]

Allocate IRQ to PCI VGA [Yes]When set to [Yes], BIOS assigns an IRQ to PCI VGA card if the card requests foran IRQ. When set to [No], BIOS does not assign an IRQ to the PCI VGA card evenif requested. Con guration options: [No] [Yes]

Palette Snooping [Disabled]

When set to [Enabled], the pallete snooping feature informs the PCI devices thatan ISA graphics device is installed in the system so that the latter can functioncorrectly. Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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USB 1.1 Controller [Enabled]Allows you to enable or disable the USB 1.1 Controller.Con guration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled]

Allows you to enable or disable the USB 2.0 Controller.Con guration options: [Enabled] [Disabled]

Legacy USB Support [Enabled]Allows you to enable or disable support for USB devices on legacy operatingsystems (OS). Setting to Auto allows the system to detect the presence of USBdevices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If noUSB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled.Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto]

USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed]Allows you to con gure the USB 2.0 controller in HiSpeed (480 Mbps) or FullSpeed (12 Mbps). Con guration options: [HiSpeed] [Full Speed]

The Module Version and USB Devices Enabled items show theauto‑detected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None.

2.4.5 USB Con gurationThe items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select anitem then press <Enter> to display the con guration options.

USB Con guration

Module Version - 2.24.0-11.4

USB Devices Enabled: None

USB 1.1 Controller [Enabled] USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled]Legacy USB Support [Enabled]USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed]

IRQ-xx assigned to [PCI Device]When set to [PCI Device], the speci c IRQ is free for use of PCI/PnP devices.When set to [Reserved], the IRQ is reserved for legacy ISA devices. Con gurationoptions: [PCI Device] [Reserved]

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2.4.6 Jumperfree Con guration

Con gure System Frequency/Voltage

AI Overclocking [Auto]Chipset Voltage [Auto]

Memory Voltage [Auto]

AI Overclocking [Auto]Allows selection of CPU frequency and auto adjustment of relevant parameters.Frequencies higher than CPU manufacturer recommends are not guaranteed tobe stable. If the system becomes unstable, return to the default. Con gurationoptions: [Manual] [Standard]

Chipset Voltage [Auto]Allows selection of the chipset voltage. The con guration options vary dependingon the CPU installed.Con guration options: [Auto] [1.2V] [1.3V]

Memory Voltage [Auto]Allows you to select the memory voltage or set it to auto for safe mode.Con guration options: [Auto] [1.850V] [1.900V] [1.950V] [2.000V]

The following items appear only when the AI Tuning item is set to [Manual].

CPU Frequency [200]Displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and PCI bus.The value of this item is auto‑detected by the BIOS. Use the <+> and <‑> keys toadjust the CPU frequency. You can also type the desired CPU frequency using thenumeric keypad. The values range from 200 to 230. Refer to the table below forthe correct Front Side Bus and CPU

FSB/CPU External Frequency Synchronization

Front Side Bus CPU External Frequency FSB 1066 266 MHz FSB 800 200 MHz FSB 533 133 MHz

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CPU Frequency [200]Displays the frequency sent by the clock generator to the system bus and PCI bus.The value of this item is auto‑detected by the BIOS. Use the <+> and <‑> keys toadjust the CPU frequency. You can also type the desired CPU frequency using thenumeric keypad. The values range from 200 to 230. Refer to the table below forthe correct Front Side Bus and CPU External Frequency settings.

PCI Express Frequency [Auto]Allows you to select PCI Express frequency.Con guration options: [Auto] [90] [91] [92] [93]... [150]

Spread Spectrum [Enabled]Allows you to enable or disable the clock generator spread spectrum.Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

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2.5 Power menuThe Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the AdvancedPower Management (APM). Select an item then press <Enter> to display the

con guration options.

2.5.1 Suspend Mode [Auto]Allows you to select the Advanced Con guration and Power Interface (ACPI) stateto be used for system suspend.Con guration options: [S1 (POS) Only] [S3 only] [Auto]

2.5.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume [No]Allows you to determines whether to invoke VGA BIOS POST on S3/STR resume.Con guration options: [No] [Yes]

2.5.3 ACPI Support [ACPI v1.0]Allows you to add more tables for Advanced Con guration and Power Interface(ACPI) 2.0 speci cations.

Con guration options: [ACPI v1.0] [ACPI v2.0] [ACPI v3.0]

2.5.4 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Con guration and Power Interface(ACPI) support in the Application‑Speci c Integrated Circuit (ASIC). When setto Enabled, the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list.Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Suspend Mode [Auto]Repost Video on S3 Resume [No]

ACPI Support [ACPI v1.0] ACPI APIC Support [Enabled]

APM Con guration Hardware Monitor

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2.5.5 APM Con guration

APM Con guration

Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off]Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled] Power On By External Modems [Disabled]Power On By PCI Device [Disabled]Power On By PCIE Device [Disabled]Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]Power On By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]

Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off]When set to Power Off, the system goes into off state after an AC power loss.When set to Power On, the system goes on after an AC power loss. When set toLast State, the system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system statewas before the AC power loss.Con guration options: [Power Off] [Power On] [Last State]

Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled]Allows you to enable or disable RTC to generate a wake event. When this item isset to Enabled, the items RTC Alarm Date, RTC Alarm Hour, RTC Alarm Minute,and RTC Alarm Second appear with set values.Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Power On By External Modems [Disabled]This allows either settings of [Enabled] or [Disabled] for powering up the computerwhen the external modem receives a call while the computer is in Soft-off mode.Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

The computer cannot receive or transmit data until the computer andapplications are fully running. Thus, connection cannot be made on the rst

try. Turning an external modem off and then back on while the computer is offcauses an initialization string that turns the system power on.

Power On By PCI Devices [Disabled]When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to turn on the system through aPCI LAN or modem card. This feature requires an ATX power supply that providesat least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Power On By PCIE Devices [Disabled]When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to turn on the system througha PCIE LAN or modem card. This feature requires an ATX power supply thatprovides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead. Con guration options: [Disabled][Enabled]

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Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]Allows you to use speci c keys on the keyboard to turn on the system. Thisfeature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.Con guration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Ctrl‑Esc] [Power Key]

Power On By PS/2 Mouse [Disabled]When set to [Enabled], this parameter allows you to use the PS/2 mouse to turn onthe system. This feature requires an ATX power supply that provides at least 1A onthe +5VSB lead. Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

2.5.6 Hardware Monitor

Hardware Monitor

CPU Temperature [44ºC/111ºF] MB Temperature [37ºC/98.5ºF]

CPU Fan Speed (RPM) [3308RPM]Chassis Fan1 Speed [N/A]CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled]

VCORE Voltage [ 1.392V]3.3V Voltage [ 3.296V]5V Voltage [ 4.892V]12V Voltage [11.126V]

CPU Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] MB Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboardand CPU temperatures. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the detectedtemperatures.

CPU Fan Speed (RPM) [xxxxRPM] or [N/A] or [Ignored]The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPUfan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to themotherboard, the eld shows N/A. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display thedetected speed.

Chassis Fan1 Speed [xxxxRPM] or [N/A] or [Ignored]The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the chassis fan speedin rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the chassis, the speci c eld

shows N/A. Select Ignored if you do not wish to display the detected speed.

CPU Q-Fan Control [Disabled]Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Q‑Fan feature that smartly adjusts thefan speeds for more ef cient system operation. Con guration options: [Disabled][Enabled]

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CPU Fan Pro le Mode [Optimal]Allows you to set the appropriate CPU fan performance level. When set to[Optimal], the CPU fan speed automatically adjusts depending on the CPUtemperature. Set this item to [Silent Mode] for silent CPU fan operation or[Performance Mode] to achieve the maximum CPU fan speed. Con gurationoptions: [Optimal] [Silent Mode] [Performance Mode]

VCORE Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V VoltageThe onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through

the onboard voltage regulators.Fan Control [Disabled]Allows you to enable or disable the Fan control. Con guration options: [Disabled][Enabled]

2.6 Boot menuThe Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item

then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.

Boot settings

Boot Device Priority

Boot Settings Con guration Security

2.6.1 Boot Device Priority

Boot Device Priority

1st Boot Device [1st FLOPPY DRIVE]2nd Boot Device [Hard Drive]3rd Boot Device [ATAPI CD-ROM]

The CPU Fan Pro le Mode item appears when you enable the CPU Q-FanControl feature.

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2.6.2 Boot Settings Con guration

Boot Settings Con guration

Quick Boot [Enabled]Full Screen Logo [Enabled]

AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]Bootup Num-Lock [On]PS/2 Mouse Support [Auto]

Wait For ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]

Hit ‘DEL’ Message Display [Enabled]Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled]

Allows BIOS to skipcertain tests while

booting. This willdecrease the timeneeded to boot thesystem.

Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo2™ feature.

Quick Boot [Enabled]Enabling this item allows the BIOS to skip some power on self tests (POST) whilebooting to decrease the time needed to boot the system. When set to [Disabled],BIOS performs all the POST items.Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Full Screen Logo [Enabled]This allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature.Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

Add On ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS]Sets the display mode for option ROM.Con guration options: [Force BIOS] [Keep Current]

Bootup Num-Lock [On]Allows you to select the power‑on state for the NumLock.Con guration options: [Off] [On]

PS/2 Mouse Support [Auto]

Allows you to enable or disable support for PS/2 mouse.Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto]

Wait for ‘F1’ If Error [Enabled]When set to Enabled, the system waits for the F1 key to be pressed when erroroccurs. Con guration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]

1st ~ xxth Boot Device [1st Floppy Drive]These items specify the boot device priority sequence from the available devices.The number of device items that appears on the screen depends on the number ofdevices installed in the system. Con guration options: [xxxxx Drive] [Disabled]

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After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you tochange other security settings.

User Access Level [Full Access]This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items.Con guration options: [No Access] [View Only] [Limited] [Full Access]

No Access prevents user access to the Setup utility.

View Only allows access but does not allow change to any eld.

Limited allows changes only to selected elds, such as Date and Time.Full Access allows viewing and changing all the elds in the Setup utility.

Change User PasswordSelect this item to set or change the user password. The User Password item ontop of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, thisitem shows Installed.

To set a User Password:

1. Select the Change User Password item and press <Enter>.2. On the password box that appears, type a password composed of at least six

letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>.3. Con rm the password when prompted.

The message “Password Installed” appears after you set your passwordsuccessfully.

To change the user password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password.

Clear User PasswordSelect this item to clear the user password.

Security Settings

Supervisor Password : Not Installed User Password : Not Installed

Change Supervisor Password User Access Level [Full Access]Change User Password Clear User Password Password Check [Setup]

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ASUS M2N-MX 2-35

Password Check [Setup]When set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setuputility. When set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both when accessingSetup and booting the system.Con guration options: [Setup] [Always]

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Exit & Discard ChangesSelect this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to

the Setup program. If you made changes to elds other than System Date, SystemTime, and Password, the BIOS asks for a con rmation before exiting.

Discard ChangesThis option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore thepreviously saved values. After selecting this option, a con rmation appears. SelectOK to discard any changes and load the previously saved values.

Load Setup Defaults

This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on theSetup menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a con rmationwindow appears. Select OK to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes ormake other changes before saving the values to the non‑volatile RAM.

Exit & Save ChangesOnce you are nished making your selections, choose this option from the Exitmenu to ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboardbackup battery sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turnedoff. When you select this option, a con rmation window appears. Select OK to save

changes and exit.

2.8 Exit menu

Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the optionsfrom this menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit.

The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for theBIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items.

Exit Options

Exit & Save ChangesExit & Discard ChangesDiscard Changes

Load Setup Defaults

If you attempt to exit the Setup program without saving your changes, theprogram prompts you with a message asking if you want to save your changesbefore exiting. Press <Enter> to save the changes while exiting.

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3Softwaresupport

This chapter describes the contentsof the support CD that comes with themotherboard package.

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3-2 Chapter 3: Software support

If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the supportCD to locate the le ASSETUP.EXE from the BIN folder. Double-click theASSETUP.EXE to run the CD.

Click an item to install

3.1 Installing an operating systemThis motherboard supports Windows ® 2000/XP operating systems (OS). Alwaysinstall the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the featuresof your hardware.

3.2 Support CD informationThe support CD that came with the motherboard package contains the drivers,software applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboardfeatures.

3.2.1 Running the support CDPlace the support CD to the optical drive. The CD automatically displays theDrivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer.

• Motherboard settings and hardware options vary. Use the setupprocedures presented in this chapter for reference only. Refer to your OSdocumentation for detailed information.

• Make sure that you install Windows ® 2000 Service Pack 4 or the Windows ® XP Service Pack 1 or later versions before installing the drivers for bettercompatibility and system stability.

The contents of the support CD are subject to change at any time withoutnotice. Visit the ASUS website(www.asus.com) for updates.

Click an icon to displaysupport CD/motherboardinformation

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3.2.2 Drivers menuThe drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installeddevices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices.

NVIDIA Chipset Driver ProgramInstalls the NVIDIA® nForce™ Chipset Driver program.

SoundMAX ® ADI1986A Audio DriverExecutes the wizard to install the SoundMAX™ AD1986A audio driver andapplication.

AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet DriverInstalls the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet driver.

The screen display and drivers option may not be the same for differentoperating system versions.

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3.2.3 Utilities menuThe Utilitiesmenu shows the applications and other software that the motherboardsupports.

ASUS PC Probe II

This smart utility monitors the fan speed, CPU temperature, and system voltages,and alerts you of any detected problems. This utility helps you keep your computerin healthy operating condition.

ASUS UpdateThe ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in aWindows® environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through anetwork or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).

ADOBE Acrobat Reader V7.0The Adobe ® Acrobat® Reader V7.0 is for opening, viewing, and printing documentsin Portable Document Format (PDF).

Microsoft DirectX 9.0cThe Microsoft® DirectX® 9.0c is a multimedia technology that enhances computergraphics and sounds. DirectX ® improves the multimedia features of your computerso you can enjoy watching TV and movies, capturing videos, or playing games onyour computer.

Microsoft® Windows® XP Service Pack 2 already includes Microsoft ® DirectX® 9.0c. If your system is Microsoft ® Windows® XP ServicePack 2-embedded, skip Microsoft ® DirectX® 9.0c installation.

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3.2.4 Make Disk menuThe Make Disk menu allows you to make a RAID driver disk.

ASUS Screen SaverInstalls the ASUS screen saver.

ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet UtilityThis item installs the ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet utility.

Anti-Virus utilityThe anti-virus utility scans, identi es, and removes computer viruses. View theonline help for detailed information.

The screen display and utilities option may not be the same for differentoperating system versions.

NVIDIA® 32bit SATA RAID DriverAllows you to create an NVIDIA® Serial ATA (SATA) RAID driver disk for a 32-bit

system.

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NVIDIA® SATA RAID User’s ManualAllows you to open the NVIDIA® SATA RAID user’s manual.

3.2.5 Manual menuThe Manual menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item toopen the folder of the user manual.

Most user manual les are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install theAdobe® Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening a user manualle.

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3.2.6 ASUS Contact informationClick the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. You can also ndthis information on the inside front cover of this user guide.

3.2.7 Other information

The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on themotherboard and the contents of the support CD. Click an icon to display thespeci ed information.

Motherboard InfoDisplays the general speci cations of the motherboard.

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Technical support FormDisplays the ASUS Technical Support Request Form that you have to ll out whenrequesting technical support.

FilelistDisplays the contents of the support CD and a brief description of each in textformat.

Browse this CDDisplays the support CD contents in graphical format.

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3-9ASUS M2N-MX

3.3 Creating a RAID driver diskA oppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows® 2000/XP

operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set.To create a RAID driver disk:

1. Place the motherboard support CD into the CD-ROM drive.2. Select Make Disk tab.3. From the Make Disk menu, select the RAID driver disk you want to create or

browse the contents of the support CD to locate the driver disk utility.

For detailed descriptions on the NVIDIA ® RAID con guration, refer to the“NVIDIA® MediaShield RAID User’s Manual” found in your motherboard supportCD .

4. Insert oppy disk to oppy disk drive.5. Follow succeeding screen information to complete process.6. Write-protect the oppy disk to avoid computer virus infection.

To install the RAID driver:

1. During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6 key toinstall third-party SCSI or RAID driver.

2. Press <F6> then insert the oppy disk with RAID driver into the oppy diskdrive.

3. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.

Due to chipset limitation, the Serial ATA ports supported by the NVIDIA chipsetdoesn’t support Serial Optical Disk Drives (Serial ODD) under DOS.

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Documents

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