Asus Blitz Extreme User Manual
Motherboard Blitz Extreme
ii E3152 First Edition V1 June 2007 Copyright © 2007 ASUST eK 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 any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUST eK COMPUTER INC. (âASUSâ). Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modiîed or altered, unless such repair , modiîcation of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing. ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL âAS ISâ WITHOUT W ARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANT ABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A P ARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT , SPECIAL, INCIDENT AL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DA T A, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE), EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT . SPECIFICA TIONS AND INFORMA TION CONT AINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR INFORMA TIONAL USE ONL Y , AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE A T ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THA T MA Y APPEAR IN THIS MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT . Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identiîcation or explanation and to the ownersâ beneît, without intent to infringe.
iii Contents Notices ....................................................................................................... viii Safety information ...................................................................................... ix About this guide .......................................................................................... x Blitz Extreme speciîcations summary .................................................... xii Chapter 1: Product introduction 1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1 1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1 1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-2 1.3.1 ROG intelligent Performace & Overclocking features .... 1-2 1.3.2 ROG unique features ..................................................... 1-4 1.3.3 Product highlights ........................................................... 1-7 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1 2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-5 2.2.1 Placement direction ........................................................ 2-5 2.2.2 Screw holes .................................................................... 2-5 2.2.3 Motherboard layout ......................................................... 2-6 2.2.4 Audio card layout ............................................................ 2-6 2.2.5 Layout contents ............................................................... 2-7 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-9 2.3.1 Installing the CPU ......................................................... 2-10 2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan .............................. 2-12 2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan ......................... 2-14 2.4 System memory ......................................................................... 2-16 2.4.1 Overview ....................................................................... 2-16 2.4.2 Memory conîgurations .................................................. 2-17 2.4.3 Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 2-19 2.4.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 2-19 2.5 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 2-20 2.5.1 Installing an expansion card ......................................... 2-20 2.5.2 Conîguring an expansion card ..................................... 2-20 2.5.3 Interrupt assignments ................................................... 2-21 2.5.4 PCI slots ........................................................................ 2-22 2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slots ..................................................... 2-22
iv Contents 2.5.6 PCI Express x16 slots ................................................... 2-22 2.6 Jumper ........................................................................................ 2-23 2.7 EL I/O shield, LCD Poster and Audio card Installation ........... 2-24 2.7.1 EL I/O shield and LCD Poster Installation ..................... 2-24 2.7.2 Audio card Installation ................................................... 2-25 2.8 Connectors ................................................................................. 2-26 2.8.1 Rear panel connectors .................................................. 2-26 2.8.2 Internal connectors ....................................................... 2-29 2.8.3 Onboard switches ......................................................... 2-38 2.8.4 Installing the optional fans ............................................ 2-39 2.8.5 Installing the DIY Pedestal ............................................ 2-41 Chapter 3: Powering up 3.1 Starting up for the îrst time ........................................................ 3-1 3.2 T urning off the computer ............................................................. 3-2 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function .................................... 3-2 3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch .............................. 3-2 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 4-1 4.1.1 ASUS Update utility ........................................................ 4-1 4.1.2 Creating a bootable îoppy disk ....................................... 4-4 4.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ................................................... 4-5 4.1.4 AFUDOS utility ................................................................ 4-6 4.1.5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ...................................... 4-8 4.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 4-9 4.2.1 BIOS menu screen ........................................................ 4-10 4.2.2 Menu bar ....................................................................... 4-10 4.2.3 Navigation keys ............................................................. 4-10 4.2.4 Menu items .................................................................... 4-1 1 4.2.5 Sub-menu items ............................................................. 4-1 1 4.2.6 Conîguration îelds ........................................................ 4-1 1 4.2.7 Pop-up window .............................................................. 4-1 1 4.2.8 Scroll bar ........................................................................ 4-1 1 4.2.9 General help .................................................................. 4-1 1 4.3 Main menu .................................................................................. 4-12
v Contents 4.3.1 System T ime [xx:xx:xx] ................................................. 4-12 4.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx] ....................................... 4-12 4.3.3 Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.] ................................. 4-12 4.3.4 Language [English] ....................................................... 4-12 4.3.5 S A T A 1 - 6 . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . 4 - 1 3 4.3.6 SA T A Conîguration ....................................................... 4-14 4.3.7 AHCI Conîguration ....................................................... 4-15 4.3.8 System Information ....................................................... 4-16 4.4 Extreme T weaker menu ............................................................. 4-17 4.4.1 Ai Overclocking [Auto] ................................................... 4-17 PCIE Frequency [Auto] ................................................................ 4-18 DRAM Frequency [Auto] .............................................................. 4-18 DRAM T iming Control [Auto] ........................................................ 4-18 Loadline Calibration [Auto] ........................................................... 4-20 FSB T ermination V oltage [Auto] ................................................... 4-20 DRAM V oltage [Auto] ................................................................... 4-21 South Bridge V oltage [Auto] ......................................................... 4-21 PLL V oltage [Auto] ....................................................................... 4-21 NB LED Selection [NB V olt] ......................................................... 4-22 SB LED Selection [PLL V olt] ........................................................ 4-22 4.5 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 4-22 4.5.1 Ai Net 2 ......................................................................... 4-23 4.5.2 USB Conîguration ........................................................ 4-23 4.5.3 CPU Conîguration ........................................................ 4-25 4.5.4 Chipset .......................................................................... 4-26 4.5.5 OnBoard Devices Conîguration ................................... 4-27 4.5.6 PCI PnP ........................................................................ 4-28 4.6 Power menu ................................................................................ 4-29 4.6.1 Suspend Mode [Auto] ................................................... 4-29 4.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume [Disabled] ....................... 4-29 4.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled] .......................................... 4-29 4.6.4 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled] ....................................... 4-29 4.6.5 APM Conîguration ........................................................ 4-30 4.6.6 Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 4-31 4.7 Boot menu .................................................................................. 4-35
vi Contents 4.7.1 Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 4-35 4.7.2 Boot Settings Conîguration .......................................... 4-36 4.7.3 Security ......................................................................... 4-37 4.8 T ools menu ................................................................................. 4-39 4.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 .......................................................... 4-39 4.8.2 ASUS O.C. Proîle ......................................................... 4-40 4.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 4-41 Chapter 5: Software support 5.1 Installing an operating system ................................................... 5-1 5.2 Support DVD information ............................................................ 5-1 5.2.1 Running the support DVD ............................................... 5-1 5.2.2 Drivers menu ................................................................... 5-2 5.2.3 Utilities menu .................................................................. 5-3 5.2.4 Make disk menu .............................................................. 5-5 5.2.5 Manual menu .................................................................. 5-6 5.2.6 ASUS Contact information .............................................. 5-6 5.2.7 Other information ............................................................ 5-7 5.3 Software information ................................................................... 5-9 5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3⢠........................................................... 5-9 5.3.2 AI NET2 ......................................................................... 5-1 1 5.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II ......................................................... 5-12 5.3.4 ASUS AI Suite ............................................................... 5-18 5.3.5 ASUS AI Gear 2 ............................................................ 5-20 5.3.6 ASUS AI Nap ................................................................ 5-21 5.3.7 ASUS AI N.O.S. ............................................................ 5-22 5.3.8 ASUS Q-Fan Plus ......................................................... 5-23 5.3.9 ASUS AI Booster ........................................................... 5-24 5.3.10 SoundMAX ® High Deînition Audio utility ....................... 5-25 5.4 RAID conîgurations .................................................................. 5-30 5.4.1 RAID deînitions ............................................................ 5-30 5.4.2 Installing Serial A T A hard disks ..................................... 5-31 5.4.3 Intel ® RAID conîgurations ............................................. 5-31 5.4.4 JMicron ® RAID Conîguration ........................................ 5-39 5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk ....................................................... 5-47 5.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS .... 5-47
vii 5.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows ® ...................................... 5-47 Chapter 6: A TI ® CrossFire⢠technology support 6.1 Overview ....................................................................................... 6-1 6.1.1 Requirements .................................................................. 6-1 6.1.2 Before you begin ............................................................. 6-1 6.2 Installing CrossFire⢠graphics cards ....................................... 6-2 6.3 Software information ................................................................... 6-5 6.3.1 Installing the device drivers ............................................. 6-5 6.3.2 Using the Catalyst⢠Control Center ............................... 6-7 Appendix: CPU features A.1 Intel ® EM64T .................................................................................. A-1 A.2 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep ® T echnology (EIST) ........................ A-1 A.2.1 System requirements ...................................................... A-1 A.2.2 Using the EIST ................................................................ A-2 A.3 Intel ® Hyper-Threading T echnology ........................................... A-3 A.4 Debug Code T able ........................................................................ A-4
viii Notices Federal Communications Commission Statement This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: ⢠This device may not cause harmful interference, and ⢠This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with manufacturerâs instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However , there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: ⢠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 emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian 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 is required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modiîcations to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the userâs authority to operate this equipment.
ix Safety information Electrical safety ⢠T o prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system. ⢠When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device. ⢠Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all power cables are unplugged. ⢠Seek professional assistance before using an adpater 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, contact your local power company . ⢠If the power supply is broken, do not try to îx it by yourself. Contact a qualiîed service 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 dealer immediately . ⢠T o avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry . ⢠Avoid dust, humidity , and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area where it may become wet. ⢠Place the product on a stable surface. ⢠If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualiîed service technician or your retailer .
x About this guide This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conîguring the motherboard. How this guide is organized This guide contains the following parts: ⢠Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. ⢠Chapter 2: Hardware information This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It includes description of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard. ⢠Chapter 3: Powering up This chapter describes the power up sequence and ways of shutting down the system. ⢠Chapter 4: BIOS setup This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided. ⢠Chapter 5: Software support This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes with the motherboard package and the software. ⢠Chapter 6: A TI CrossFire⢠support This chapter describes the A TI CrossFire⢠feature and shows the graphics card installation procedures. ⢠Appendix: CPU features The Appendix describes the CPU features and technologies that the motherboard supports as well as the debug code table for the LCD Poster . Where to înd more information Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates. 1. ASUS websites The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information. 2. Optional documentation Y our product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty îyers, that may have been added by your dealer . These documents are not part of the standard package.
xi Conventions used in this guide T o make sure that you perform certain tasks properly , take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. T ypography Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select. Italics Used to emphasize a word or a phrase. <Key> Key s encl osed i n the less- than a nd gre ater-t han s ign mea ns tha t you must p ress the enclo sed ke y. Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or Return key . <Key1 Key2 Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously , the key names are linked with a plus sign ( ). Example: <Ctrl Alt D> Command Means that you must type the command exactly as shown, then supply the required item or value enclosed in brackets. Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line: afudos /i[î¿lename] afudos /iBlitz-Extreme.ROM DANGER/W ARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task. CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task. NOTE: T ips and additional information to help you complete a task. IMPORT ANT : Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.
xii Blitz Extreme speciî¿cations summary CPU LGA775 socket for Intel ® Coreâ¢2 Quad / Coreâ¢2 Extreme / Coreâ¢2 Duo / Pentium ® Extreme / Pentium ® D / Pentium ® 4 / Celeron ® D Processors Support Intel ® next generation 45nm Multi-Core CPU Compatible with Intel ® 06/05B/05A processors * Refer to www .asus.com for Intel CPU support list Chipset Intel ® P35 / ICH9R with Intel ® Fast Memory Access T echnology System Bus 1333 / 1066 / 800 MHz Memory 4 x DIMM, max. 8GB, DDR3 1333* / 1066 / 800 MHz, non-ECC, un-buffered memory Dual channel memory architecture * This chipset ofîcially supports the memory frequency up to DDR3 1066MHz. T uned by ASUS Super Memspeed T echnology , this motherboard natively supports up to DDR3 1333. Refer to www .asus.com or user manual for Memory QVL (Qualiîed Vendor List). Expansion Slots 2 x PCI Express x16 slots (support dual graphics solution) 3 x PCI Express x1 (PCIEx1_1 is compatible with the audio slot.) 2 x PCI 2.2 CrossFire⢠T echnology Support A TI CrossFire⢠graphics cards (both at x8 mode) Storage Southbridge - 6 x SA T A 3.0 Gb/s ports - Intel Matrix Storage T echnology supports RAID 0, 1, 10, 5. JMicron ® JMB363 P A T A and SA T A controller - 1 x UltraDMA 133/100/66 for up to 2 P A T A devices - 2 x External SA T A 3.0 Gb/s port (SA T A On-the-Go) LAN Dual Gigabit LAN controllers, both featuring AI NET2 High Deînition Audio SupremeFX II Audio Card - ADI 1988B 8-channel High Deînition Audio CODEC - Noise Filter Coaxial / Optical S/PDIF out ports at back I/O IEEE 1394 VIA 6308P 1394a controller supports 2 x 1394a ports (one at midboard; one at back I/O) USB 12 x USB 2.0 ports (6 ports at mid-board, 6 ports at back panel) (continued on the next page)
xiii Blitz Extreme speciî¿cations summary ASUS Exclusive Overclocking features Crosslinx technology Extreme T weaker Loadline Calibration Intelligent overclocking tools: - CPU level up - AI NOS⢠(Non-delay Overclocking System) - AI Overclocking (intelligent CPU frequency tuner) - AI Booster Utility - O.C. Proîle Overclocking protection: - COP EX (Component Overheat Protection -EX) - V oltiminder LED - ASUS C.P .R. (CPU Parameter Recall) ASUS Special Features Fusion Block System LCD Poster EL I/O Onboard Switches: Power / Reset / Clr CMOS Q-Connector Q-Fan Plus ASUS EZ Flash2 ASUS CrashFree BIOS3 ASUS MyLogo3⢠Multi-Language BIOS Back Panel I/O Ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard (purple) 1 x S/PDIF Out (Coaxial Optical) 2 x External SA T A 2 x LAN (RJ45) port 6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports 1 x IEEE1394a port 1 x Clr CMOS switch Internal I/O Connectors 3 x USB 2.0 connectors support additional 6 USB 2.0 ports 1 x Floppy disk drive connector 1 x IDE connector for two devices 6 x SA T A connectors 8 x Fan connectors (1 x CPU/ 1 x Power/ 4 x Chassis/ 2 x Optional) 2 x Thermal sensor connectors 1 x IEEE1394a connector 1 x S/PDIF Out connector 1 x Chassis Intrusion connector 24-pin A TX Power connector 8-pin A TX 12V Power connector 1 x En/Dis-able Clr CMOS 1 x EL I/O Shield connector 1 x System panel connector 1 x LCD poster connector (continued on the next page)
xiv Blitz Extreme speciî¿cations summary BIOS Features 16 Mb AMI BIOS, PnP , DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 2.4, ACPI 2.0a Multi-Language BIOS Manageability WOL by PME, Chassis Intrusion, PXE Accessories Fusion Block System Accessory ASUS Optional Fan DIY Pedestal 3 in 1 ASUS Q-connector kit UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable Floppy disk drive cable Serial A T A cables Serial A T A power cables 2-port USB2.0 module IEEE1394a module EL I/O Shield Thermal sensor cables Cable ties User's manual Software The hottest 3D game: S.T .A.L.K.E.R Support DVD: Drivers ASUS PC Probe II ASUS Update ASUS AI Suite Futuremark ® 3DMark ® 06 Advanced Edition Kaspersky Anti-Virus software Form Factor A TX Form Factor , 12âx 9.6â (30.5cm x 24.5cm) *Speciîcations are subject to change without notice.
1 Product introduction This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.
ASUS Blitz Extreme Chapter summary 1 1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1 1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1 1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-2
ASUS Blitz Extreme 1-1 1.1 Welcome! Thank you for buying an ASUS ® Blitz Extreme motherboard! The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards! Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in your package with the list below . If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer . 1.2 Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items. Motherboard ASUS Blitz Extreme I/O modules USB 2.0 module IEEE 1394a module Cables Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable Floppy disk drive cable Serial A T A cables Serial A T A power cables Thermal sensor cables Accessories Fusion Block System Accessory EL I /O shield LCD Poster ASUS Optional Fan 3-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector Kit Cable ties DIY Pedestal DVD/CD ASUS motherboard support DVD The hottest game: S.T .A.L.K.E.R Documentation User guide
1-2 Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1.3 Special features 1.3.1 ROG intelligent Performace & Overclocking features Crosslinx Crosslinx is a unique technology utilizing a dedicated special graphics controller to optimize PCIe allocation with dual x8 lanes. Such architecture eliminates the x4 bottleneck found on competing x16, x4 solutions. Hence, the Crosslinx is able to provide faster graphics performance. Fusion Block System Building on the ROG unique heatpipe, the Fusion Block System (FBS) provides dual paths to cool down the motherboard. Users will be able to connect the FBS with the watercooling circuit. Component Overheat Protection -EX (COP EX) When the temperature of Northbridge and Southbridge reaches the limit of speciîcations, the motherboard will automatically shut down to protect NB and SB from burning. V oltiminder LED The voltage warning LED uses green, yellow , and red light on the motherboard to highlight the voltage status of each respecitve component (CPU, memory , NB, SB). 2-Phase DDR3 The 2-phase DDR3 supplies stable power to memory in turns. Each phase only shoulders half of the loading compared with the only one phase power module. 8 phase DrMOS power The DrMOS, the next generation of CPU power module, provides higher efîciency for energy saving and higher quality power supply to the processor . With thtis latest technology , this motherboard allows users to reach the highest overclock frequency and to have the most stable platform. Super Memspeed T echnology T o attain top performance, ASUS has managed to break through current FSB and DRAM ratio proportions by utilizing Super Memspeed T echnology- the latest technology that provides even more precise overclocking options to unleash the true potential of DDR3 memory . Native DDR3 1333 maximizes system performance by eliminating the bottleneck when overclocking both the CPU and the memory- providing great performance for 3D graphics and other memory demanding applications.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 1-3 Loadline Calibration The Loadline calibration ensures stable and optimal CPU voltage when heavy loading. Extreme T weaker This feature allows you to îne tune the CPU/memory voltage and gradually increase the memory Front Side Bus (FSB) and PCI Express frequency at 1MHz increment to achieve maximum system performance. AI NOS⢠(Non-Delay Overclocking System) The patented ASUS Non-delay Overclocking System⢠(AI NOSâ¢) technology auto-detects the CPU loading and dynamically overclocks the CPU speed when needed. Unlike other dynamic overclocking techniques, AI NOS⢠reacts much faster to satisfy your need for speed. See page 4-17 and 5-22 for details. AI Booster The ASUS AI Booster allows you to overclock the CPU speed in Windows environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. ASUS O.C. Proîle The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Proîle that allows users to conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be stored in the CMOS or a separate île, giving users freedom to share and distribute their favorite settings. See page 4-40 for details. C.P .R. (CPU Parameter Recall) The C.P .R. feature of the motherboard BIOS allows automatic re-setting to the BIOS default settings in case the system hangs due to overclocking. When the system hangs due to overclocking, C.P .R. eliminates the need to open the system chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut down and reboot the system, and the BIOS automatically restores the CPU default setting for each parameter .
1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1.3.2 ROG unique features Supreme FX II features Supreme FX II extends all the features of the 1st generation and places a shielding to enhancethe sound quality . It also lights up the model name with stylish LEDs. Noise Filter This feature detects repetitive and stationary noises (non-voice signals) like computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates it in the incoming audio stream while recording. See page 5-29 for details. LCD Poster The LCD Poster uses an external panel to smartly display the error message of the physical system during the Power-On Self T est (POST) to inform you the boot error instead of the âcode name.â Onboard Switches A power-on button, a reset button, and a clear CMOS button are onboard to provide overclockers and gamers the convenience of îne-tuning performance when working on a bare (open-case) system. Press the power-on button to wake up the system, the reset button to reboot, and the clear CMOS button to clear setup information when the system hangs due to overclocking. See page 2-38 for details. ASUS Q-Fan plus technology The ASUS Q-Fan plus technology smartly adjusts the CPU and chassis fan 1 speeds according to the system loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efîcient operation. See pages 4-32 and 5-23 for details. Optional Fan (for water-cooling/passive-cooling only) The optional fan is speciîcally designed to provide sufîcient airîow over the CPU power modules and chipset area when water-cooling or passive-cooling is utilized, ensuring effective heat dissipation for the entire system. See page 2-39 for details. ASUS Multi-language BIOS The multi-language BIOS allows you to select the language of your choice from the available options. The localized BIOS menus allow easier and faster conîguration. See page 4-12 for details.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 1-5 ASUS MyLogo3 This new feature present in the motherboard allows you to personalize and add style to your system with customizable boot logos. See page 5-9 for details. ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the overclocking capability . AI Gear 2 AI Gear 2 allows you to choose from proîles to adjust CPU frequency and vCore voltage, minimizing system noise and saving 50% power consumption at most. Y ou can real-time chnage the mode under operating system to suit your needs. See page 5-20 for details. AI Nap With AI Nap, the system can continue running at minimum power and noise when you are temporarily away . T o wake the system and return to the OS environment, simply click the mouse or press a key . See page 5-21 for details. 8-Phase Power Design The ASUS 8-Phase Power Design provides highly efîcient operation to generate less heat (at least 15°C (59°F)) than other conventional power solutions. It reduces input ripple current and output ripple voltage, which keeps CPU and power module from suffering the risk of high power stress. It has the advantages of quick transient response and stability , especially beneîcial when CPU requires more current immediately under heavy loading or overclocking mode. Fanless Design - Stack Cool 2 ASUS Stack Cool 2 is a fan-less and zero-noise cooling solution that lowers the temperature of critical heat generating components. The motherboard uses a special design on the printed circuit board (PCB) to dissipate heat these critical components generate. ASUS EZ DIY ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings.
1-6 Chapter 1: Product Introduction ASUS Q-Connector ASUS Q-Connector allows you to easily connect or disconnect the chassis front panel cables to the motherboard. This unique module eliminates the trouble of connecting the system panel cables one at a time and avoiding wrong cable connections. See page 2-37 for details. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 allows users to restore corrupted BIOS data from a USB îash disk containing the BIOS île. See page 4-8 for details. ASUS EZ Flash 2 EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility . Simply press the predeîned hotkey to launch the utility and update the BIOS without entering the OS. Update your BIOS easily without preparing a bootable diskette or using an OS-based îash utility . See pages 4-5 and 4-39 for details.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 1-7 1.3.3 Product highlights Green ASUS This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Unionâs Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packaging to safeguard consumersâ health while minimizing the impact on the environment. Intel ® Quad-core Processor Ready This motherboard supports the latest Intel ® Quad-core processors in the LGA775 package. It is excellent for multi-tasking, multi-media and enthusiastic gamers. Intel ® Quad-core processor is one of the most powerful CPU in the world. Intel ® Coreâ¢2 Duo/ Intel ® Coreâ¢2 Extreme CPU support This motherboard supports the latest Intel ® Coreâ¢2 processor in the LGA775 package. With the new Intel ® Core⢠microarchitecture technology and 1333/ 1066 / 800 MHz FSB, the Intel ® Coreâ¢2 is one of the most powerful and energy efîcient CPUs in the world. Intel P35 Chipset The Intel ® P35 Express Chipset is the latest chipset designed to support 8GB of dual-channel DDR3 1066/800 architecture, 1333/1066/800 FSB (Front Side Bus), PCI Express x16 graphics and multi-core CPU. It especially includes Intel ® Fast Memory Access technology that signiîcantly optimizes the use of available memory bandwidth and reduces the latency of the memory accesses. DDR3 memory support The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of 1066 / 800 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR3 architecture doubles the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance. Furthermore, this motherboard does not restrict the memory size across two channels. Users may install different memory size DIMMs into the two channels and enjoy dual-channel and single-channel functions at the same time. This new feature optimizes the use of available memory size.
1-8 Chapter 1: Product Introduction Serial A T A 3.0 Gb/s technology and SA T A-On-The-Go This motherboard supports the next-generation hard drives based on the Serial A T A (SA T A) 3Gb/s storage speciîcation, delivering enhanced scalability and doubling the bus bandwidth for high-speed data retrieval and saves. The external SA T A port located at the back I/O provides smart setup and hot-plug functions. Easily backup photos, videos and other entertainment contents to external devices. See page 2-27 for details. Dual RAID solution The Intel ® P35 chipset incorporates six Serial A T A connectors with high performance RAID 0, 1, 5 and 10 functions. Making this motherboard an ideal solution to enhance hard disk performance and data back up protection without the cost of add-on cards. See page 2-30 for details. IEEE 1394a support The IEEE 1394a interface provides high speed digital interface for audio/video appliances such as digital television, digital video camcorders, storage peripherals & other PC portable devices. See pages 2-28 and 2-32 for details. S/PDIF digital sound ready This motherboard provides convenient connectivity to external home theater audio systems via coaxial and optical S/PDIF-out (SONY -PHILIPS Digital Interface) jacks. It allows to transfer digital audio without converting to analog format and keeps the best signal quality . See pages 2-28 and 2-35 for details. Dual Gigabit LAN solution The integrated dual Gigabit LAN design allows a PC to serve as a network gateway for managing trafîc between two separate networks. This capability ensures rapid transfer of data from W AN to LAN without any added arbitration or latency . See page 2-26 for details. High Deînition Audio Enjoy high-end sound quality on your PC! The onboard 8-channel HD audio (High Deînition Audio, previously codenamed Azalia) CODEC enables high-quality 192KHz/24-bit audio output, jack-sensing feature, retasking functions and multi- streaming technology that simultaneously sends different audio streams to dif ferent destinations. Y ou can now talk to your partners on the headphone while playing multi-channel network games. See pages 2-27 for details.
2 Hardware information This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It includes description of the jumpers and connectors on the motherboard.
ASUS Blitz Extreme Chapter summary 2 2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1 2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-5 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-9 2.4 System memory ......................................................................... 2-16 2.5 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 2-20 2.6 Jumper ........................................................................................ 2-23 2.7 EL I/O, LCD Poster and Audio card Installation ...................... 2-24 2.8 Connectors ................................................................................. 2-26
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-1 2.1 Before you proceed T ake note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. ⢠Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. ⢠Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity . ⢠Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them. ⢠Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component. ⢠Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the A TX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply . Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, and/or components. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME CPU LED CPU_CRAZY CPU_HIGH CPU_NORMAL Onboard LEDs The motherboard comes with LEDs that indicate the voltage conditions of CPU, memory , northbridge, southbridge and FSB frenquency . Y ou may adjust the voltages in BI OS. Th ere are also a n LED for hard disk drive act ivity and an o nboard switch for power status. For more information on voltage adjustment, refer to 4.4 Extreme T weaker menu 1. CPU LED Refer to the illustration below for the location of the CPU LED and the table below for LED deînition. Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red) CPU V oltage 1.10000~1.50000 1.51250~1.69375 1.70000~1.90000
2-2 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2. Memory LED Refer to the illustration below for the location of the memory LED and the table below for LED deînition. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME DDR LED DDR_CRAZY DDR_HIGH DDR_NORMAL BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME North/South Bridge LED NB_CRAZY NB_HIGH NB_NORMAL SB_CRAZY SB_HIGH SB_NORMAL 3. Northbridge/Southbridge LEDs Northbridge and southbridge LEDs each have two different voltage displays. The northbridge LED displays either the 1.25V NB voltage or the 1.20V FSB termination voltage. The southbridge LED shows either the 1.50V CPU PLL voltage or the 1.05V SB voltage. Y ou can select the voltage to display in BIOS. Refer to the illustration below for the location of the northbridge/ southbridge LEDs and the table below for LED deînition. Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red) DRAM V oltage 1.80~2.20 2.22~2.60 2.62~3.40 Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red) North Bridge V oltage 1.25~1.59 1.61~1.83 1.85~2.03 FSB T ermination V oltage 1.20~1.40 1.42~1.60 1.62~1.80 PLL V oltage 1.50~1.60 1.62~1.80 1.82~2.00 South Bridge V oltage 1.050~1.125 1.150~1.175 1.200~1.225
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-3 CPU FSB 200MHz 200-299 (Default) 300-399 (Overclocking) 400-499 (Overclocking) 500-599 (Overclocking) 600~ (Overclocking) 1 (Default) 2 3 4 5 (Fast) CPU FSB 266MHz 266-299 (Default) 300-399 (Overclocking) 400-499 (Overclocking) 500-599 (Overclocking) 600~ (Overclocking) 1 (Default) 2 3 4 5 (Fast) CPU FSB 333MHz 333-399 (Default) 400-499 (Overclocking) 500-549 (Overclocking) 550-599 (Overclocking) 600~ (Overclocking) 1 (Default) 2 3 4 5 (Fast) BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Frequency LED Fast Default 4. FSB frenquency LED There are îve LEDs that light up to indicate the level of FSB frequency . One lit blue LED suggests that the frequency is low (default), while îve lit blue LEDs shows that the frequency is high (fast). Refer to the illustration below for the location of the FSB frenquency LEDs and the table below for LED deînition.
2-4 Chapter 2: Hardware information BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Hard Disk LED HD_LED 5. Hard Disk LED The HD LED is designed for indication of the hard disk activity . It blinks when the data is written into or read from the hard disk drive. It stays unlit if there is no hard disk connect ed to the motherboar d or the hard disk does not function. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Power on switch 6. Power LED The motherboard comes with a power-on switch as the standby power LED. The swtich lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard power- on switch.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-5 BLITZ EXTREME ® 2.2 Motherboard overview Before you install the motherboard, study the conîguration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard îts into it. Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard. 2.2.1 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, make sur e that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear p art of the chassis as indicated in the image below . 2.2.2 Screw holes Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis. Place this side towards the rear of the chassis
2-6 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.2.3 Motherboard layout PANEL BLITZ EXTREME ® CHASSIS 24.5cm (9.6in) 30.5cm (12.0in) CPU_FAN DDR2 DIMM_A1 (64 bit,240-pin module) OPT_FAN1 FLOPPY Super I/O CLRTC_SW Intel ® ICH9R EA TXPWR CR2032 3V Lithium Cell CMOS Power Intel ® P35 USB11 12 KB_USB56 LAN2_USB34 JMB363 CHA_FAN1 Marvell 88E8001 SPDIF_OUT LGA775 CHA_FAN3 IE1394_2 USB78 EA TX12V 88E8056 PWR_FAN DDR2 DIMM_A2 (64 bit,240-pin module) DDR2 DIMM_B1 (64 bit,240-pin module) DDR2 DIMM_B2 (64 bit,240-pin module) CHA_FAN2 BIOS PCIEX1_1 PCIEX1_2 PCIEX1_3 PCI1 PCIEX16_1 PCIEX16_2 PCI2 SAT A56 SAT A34 SAT A12 IDT PES24N3A LAN1_USB12 VIA VT6308P OPT_TEMP1 CHA_FAN4 ADH DDR_CRAZY DDR_HIGH DDR_NORMAL USB910 OPT_FAN2 OPT_TEMP2 CLR_CMOS CPU_CRAZY CPU_HIGH CPU_NORMAL PWR_SW RST_SW PRI_EIDE SPDIF_O12 E1394 LCD_CON SB_CRAZY SB_HIGH SB_NORMAL FREQUENCY Fast Default NB_CRAZY NB_HIGH NB_NORMAL ESA TA12 HD_LED Refer to 2.8 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. 2.2.4 Audio card layout S UPREMEFX II Listen with Absolute HD
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-7 2.2.5 Layout contents Slots Page 1. DDR3 DIMM slots 2-16 2. PCI slots 2-22 3. PCI Express x 1 slots 2-22 4. PCI Express x16 slots 2-22 Jumper Page 1. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLR TC) 2-23 Rear panel connectors Page 1. PS/2 keyboard port (purple) 2-26 2. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port 2-26 3. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port 2-26 4. LAN 1 (RJ-45) port 2-26 5. Line In port (light blue) 2-27 6. Line Out port (lime) 2-27 7. Microphone port (pink) 2-27 8. Center/Subwoofer port (orange) 2-27 9. Rear Speaker Out port (black) 2-27 10. Side Speaker Out port (gray) 2-27 1 1. USB 2.0 ports 1, 2, 3 and 4 2-27 12. External SA T A port 1/2 2-27 13. IEEE 1394a port 2-28 14. Clear CMOS switch 2-28 15. Optical S/PDIF Out port 2-28 16. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6 2-28
2-8 Chapter 2: Hardware information Internal connectors Page 1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) 2-29 2. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE) 2-29 3. ICH9R Serial A T A connectors (7-pin SA T A1-6) 2-30 4. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1 1 12) 2-31 5. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) 2-32 6. Thermal sensor cable connectors (2-pin OPT_TEMP1-2) 2-32 7. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_F AN, 3-pin CHA_F AN1-4, 3-pin PWR_F AN, 3-pin OPT_F AN1-2) 2-33 8. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) 2-34 9. A TX power connectors (24-pin EA TXPWR, 2x4-pin EA TX12V) 2-34 10. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF , for ASUS HDMI VGA card) 2-35 1 1. System panel connector (20-8 pin P ANEL) 2-36 Onboard switches Page 1. Power-on switch 2-38 2. Reset switch 2-38
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-9 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA775 socket designed for the Intel ® Coreâ¢2 Quad/ Coreâ¢2 Extreme/ Coreâ¢2 DUO/ Coreâ¢2/ Pentium ® D/ Pentium ® 4/ Pentium ® Extreme. ⢠Upon purchase of the motherboard, make sure that the PnP cap is on the socket and the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard components. ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is shipment/transit-related. ⢠Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the LGA775 socket. ⢠The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts resulting from incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/ incorrect removal of the PnP cap. ⢠Make sure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU. ⢠If installing a dual-core CPU, connect the chassis fan cable to the CHA_F AN1 connector to ensure system stability .
2-10 Chapter 2: Hardware information 3. Lift the load lever in the direction of the arrow to a 135º angle. 2. Press the load lever with your thumb (A), then move it to the left (B) until it is released from the retention tab. Retention tab Load lever This side of the socket box should face you. PnP cap A B T o prevent damage to the socket pins, do not remove the PnP cap unless you are installing a CPU. 2.3.1 Installing the CPU T o install a CPU: 1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard. Before installing the CPU, make sure that the cam box is facing towards you and the load lever is on your left. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME CPU Socket 775
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-1 1 5. Position the CPU over the socket, making sure that the gold triangle is on the bottom-left corner of the socket then ît the socket alignment key into the CPU notch. Alignment key Gold triangle mark 6. Close the load plate (A), then push the load lever (B) until it snaps into the retention tab. 7. If installing a dual-core CPU, connect the chassis fan cable to the CHA_F AN1 connector to ensure system stability . A B The CPU îts in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU! The motherboard supports Intel ® LGA775 processors with the Intel ® Enhanced Memory 64 T echnology (EM64T), Enhanced Intel SpeedStep ® T echnology (EIST), and Hyper-Threading T echnology . Refer to the Appendix for more information on these CPU features. 4. Lift the load plate with your thumb and foreînger to a 100º angle (A), then push the PnP cap from the load plate window to remove (B). Load plate A B CPU notch
2-12 Chapter 2: Hardware information Fastener Motherboard hole 2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan The Intel ® LGA775 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance. T o install the CPU heatsink and fan: 1. Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, making sure that the four fasteners match the holes on the motherboard. ⢠When you buy a boxed Intel ® processor , the package includes the CPU fan and heatsink assembly . If you buy a CPU separately , make sure that you use only Intel ® -certiîed multi-directional heatsink and fan. ⢠Y our Intel ® LGA775 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design and requires no tool to install. ⢠If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly , make sure that you have properly applied Thermal Interface Material to the CPU heatsink or CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly . Make sure that you have installed the motherboard to the chassis before you install the CPU fan and heatsink assembly . Make sure to orient each fastener with the narrow end of the groove pointing outward. (The photo shows the groove shaded for emphasis.) Orient the heatsink and fan assembly such that the CPU fan cable is closest to the CPU fan connector . Narrow end of the groove
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-13 3. Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_F AN. 2. Push down two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to secure the heatsink and fan assembly in place. B A A A B B DO NOT forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors will occur if you fail to plug this connector . BLITZ EXTREME ® GND CPU F AN PWR CPU F AN IN CPU F AN PWM BLITZ EXTREME CPU fan connector CPU_F AN A B
2-14 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan 3. Pull up two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to disengage the heatsink and fan assembl y from the motherboard. B B A A A A B B 4. Carefully remove the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard. T o uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan: 1. Disconnect the CPU fan cable from the connector on the motherboard. 2. Rotate each fastener counterclockwise.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-15 5. Rotate each fastener clockwise to ensure correct orientation when reinstalling. Narrow end of the groove Refer to the documentation in the boxed or stand-alone CPU fan package for detailed information on CPU fan installation. The narrow end of the groove should point outward after resetting. (The photo shows the groove shaded for emphasis.)
2-16 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.4 System memory 2.4.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR3 DIMM but is notched differently . DDR3 modules are developed for better performance with less power consumption. The îgure illustrates the location of the DDR3 DIMM sockets: Channel Sockets Channel A DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2 Channel B DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2 BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets DIMM_A2 DIMM_A1 DIMM_B2 DIMM_B1 This chipset ofîcially supports DDR3 1066/800. With the ASUS Super Memspeed T echnology , the motherboard supports upto 1333MHz and provides more ratio setting items. Refer to the table below for details. FSB 1600 1333 1066 DDR3 1600 1333 1200 1000 800 1333 1 1 1 1 1000 833 889
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-17 ⢠If you install four 1 GB memory modules, the system may detect less than 3 GB of total memory because of address space allocation for other critical functions. Thi s limitation applies to Windows Vista 32-bit/Wi ndows XP 32-bit version operating system since it does not support P AE (Physical Address Extention) mode. ⢠If you install Windows Vista 32-bit/Windows XP 32-bit version operating system, we recommend that you install less than 3GB of total memory . Notes on memory limitations ⢠Due to chipset limitation, this motherboard can only support up to 8 GB on the operating systems listed below . Y ou may install a maximum of 2 GB DIMMs on each slot. 64-bit Windows XP Professional x64 Edition Windows Vista x64 Edition ⢠Y ou may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel conîguration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation. ⢠Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency . For optimum compatibility , it is recommended that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor . ⢠Due to chipset resource allocation, the system may detect less than 8 GB system memory when you installed four 2 GB DDR3 memory modules. 2.4.2 Memory conîgurations Y ou may install 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.
2-18 Chapter 2: Hardware information Blitz Extreme Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1067 MHz capability Blitz Extreme Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1333MHz capability Size V endor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No. DIMM support A* B* C* 512MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-DG-E 8 ELPIDA SS EBJ51UD8BAF A-DG-E ⢠⢠⢠1024MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-DG-E 8 ELPIDA DS EBJ1 1UD8BAFA-DG-E ⢠⢠512MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-DJ-E 9 ELPIDA SS EBJ51UD8BAF A-DJ-E ⢠⢠1024MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-DJ-E 9 ELPIDA DS EBJ1 1UD8BAFA-DJ-E ⢠Size V endor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No. DIMM support A* B* C* 512MB Qimonda IDSH51-03A1F1C-10F N/A QIMONDA SS IMSH51U03A1F1C-10F ⢠⢠⢠1024MB Qimonda IDSH51-03A1F1C-10F N/A QIMONDA DS IMSH1GU13A1F1C-10F ⢠⢠512MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-AC-E 8 ELPIDA SS EBJ51UD8BAF A-AG-E ⢠⢠⢠1024MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-AC-E 8 ELPIDA DS EBJ1 1UD8BAFA-AG-E ⢠⢠512MB NANY A NT5CB64M8AN-BE N/A NANYA SS NT512C64B88A0NY -BF ⢠⢠1024MB MICRON D9GTR 7 MICRON SS MT8JTF12864A Y -1G1BZES ⢠⢠⢠1024MB SAMSUNG K4B1G0846C-ZCF8 8 SAMSUNG SS M378B2873CZ0-CF8 ⢠⢠⢠512MB SAMSUNG K4B510846E-ZCG8 8 SAMSUNG SS M378B6573EZ0-CG8 ⢠⢠512MB Kingston IDSH51-03A1F1C-10F N/A QIMONDA SS KVR1066D3N7/512 ⢠⢠⢠1024MB Kingston J5308BASE-AC-E N/A ELPIDA DS KVR1066D3N7/1G ⢠⢠⢠Blitz Extreme Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-800 MHz capability Size V endor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No. DIMM support A* B* C* 512MB SAMSUNG K4B510846E-ZCE7 N/A SAMSUNG SS M378B6573EZ0-CE7 ⢠⢠⢠512MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-AC-E 6 ELPIDA SS EBJ51UD8BAF A-8C-E ⢠⢠⢠1024MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-AC-E 6 ELPIDA DS EBJ1 1UD8BAFA-8C-E ⢠⢠⢠512MB NANY A NT5CB64M8AN-25D N/A NANY A SS NT512C64B88A0NY -25D ⢠⢠1024MB NANY A NT5CB64M8AN-25D N/A NANY A DS NT1GC64B8HA0NY -25D ⢠⢠1024MB Qimonda IDSH51-03A1F1C-08E N/A QIMONDA DS IMSH1GU13A1F1C-08E ⢠⢠1024MB Hynix HY5TQ1G831ZNF-S6 N/A Hynix SS HYMT1 12U64ZNF8-S6 ⢠⢠2048MB Hynix HY5TQ1G831ZNF-S5 N/A Hynix DS HYMT125U64ZNF8-S5 ⢠⢠SS - Single-sided DS - Double-sided DIMM support: A - Supports one module inserted into either slot, in Single-channel memory conîguration. B - Supports one pair of modules inserted into either Channel A or Channel B as one pair of Dual- channel memory conîguration. C - S upp ort s f our mo dul es i nse rte d i nto th e bl ue an d wh ite sl ots a s tw o p air s of Du al -ch ann el memory conîguration. Visit the ASUS website for the latest DDR3-1333/1067/800 MHz QVL.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-19 2.4.3 Installing a DIMM Unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so can cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components. T o install a DIMM: 1. Unlo ck a DIM M so cket by pres sing the retaining clips outward. 2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break on the socket. 3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the socket until the retaining clips snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated. 2.4.4 Removing a DIMM T o remove a DIMM: 1. Simultaneously press the retaining clips outward to unlock the DIMM. 2. Remove the DIMM from the socket. ⢠A DDR3 DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it îts in only one direction. DO NOT force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the DIMM. ⢠The DDR3 DIMM sockets do not support DDR and DDR2 DIMMs. DO NOT install DDR or DDR2 DIMMs to the DDR3 DIMM sockets. Unlocked retaining clip DDR3 DIMM notch Support the DIMM lightly with your îngers when pressing the retaining clips. The DIMM might get damaged when it îips out with extra force. 1 2 3 2 1 DDR3 DIMM notch 1 1
2-20 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.5 Expansion slots In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support. 2.5.1 Installing an expansion card T o 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 îrmly 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 . 2.5.2 Conîguring an expansion card After installing the expansion card, conîgure it by adjusting the software settings. 1. T urn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any . See Chapter 4 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 expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support âShare IRQâ or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conîicts will arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable. Refer to the table on the next page for details.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-21 2.5.3 Interrupt assignments Standard interrupt assignments IRQ Priority Standard Function 0 1 System T imer 1 2 Keyboard Controller 2 â Re-direct to IRQ#9 3 1 1 IRQ holder for PCI steering* 4 12 Communications Port (COM1)* 5 13 IRQ holder for PCI steering* 6 14 Floppy Disk Controller 7 15 Printer Port (LPT1)* 8 3 System CMOS/Real T ime Clock 9 4 IRQ holder for PCI steering* 10 5 IRQ holder for PCI steering* 1 1 6 IRQ holder for PCI steering* 12 7 PS/2 Compatible Mouse Port* 13 8 Numeric Data Processor 14 9 Primary IDE Channel 15 10 Secondary IDE Channel * These IRQs are usually available for PCI devices. IRQ assignments for this motherboard A B C D E F G H PCI slot 1 shared â â â â â â â PCI slot 2 â shared â â â â â â LAN(8001) shared â â â â â â â SA T A(363) shared â â â â â â â LAN(8056) â shared â â â â â â PCIE x16 1 shared â â â â â â â PCIE x16 2 shared â â â â â â â PCIE x1 1 â shared â â â â â â PCIE x1 2 shared â â â â â â â PCIE x1 3 â â shared â â â â â USB controller 1 â â â â â â â shared USB controller 2 â â â shared â â â â USB controller 3 â â shared â â â â â USB controller 4 shared â â â â â â â USB controller 5 â â â â â shared â â USB controller 6 â â shared â â â â â USB 2.0 controller 1 â â â â â â â shared USB 2.0 controller 2 â â shared â â â â â SA T A controller 1 â â â â â â shared â SA T A controller 2 â â â â â â shared â
2-22 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.5.4 PCI slots The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI speciîcations. The îgure shows a LAN card installed on a PCI slot. 2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slots This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other cards that comply with the PCI Express speciîcations. ⢠Install the audio card on the black PCIEx1 slot prior to other compatible cards. ⢠When using PCIEx1 cards, install the cards on PCIEx1 slots prior to PCIEx16 slots. 2.5.6 PCI Express x16 slots This motherboard has two PCI Express x16 slots that support PCI Express x16 graphic cards complying with the PCI Express speciîcations. With two graphics cards installed, the motherboard can enable dual-display . This motherboard supports two A TI CrossFire⢠PCI Express x16 graphics cards that comply with the PCI Express speciîcations. PCI slot PCI Express x 16 slot PCI Express x 1 slot PCI Express x 16 slot PCI slot ⢠In CrossFire⢠mode, install the A TI CrossFire⢠Edition (Master) graphics card on the primary PCI Express slot. ⢠Install two A TI graphics cards from the same GPU family that support CrossFire⢠mode. Audio slot
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-23 2.6 Jumper 1. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC_SW) This jumper allows you to enable the clr CMOS switch. Y ou can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The clr CMOS switch on the back I/O helps you easily to clear the system setup information such as system passwords. T o erase the RTC RAM: 1. T urn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2. Press down the clr CMOS switch. 3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer . 4. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter data. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure! ⢠The clr CMOS switch will not function if the jumper cap on CLRTC_SW is moved to the Disable position, but the shutdwon function in S0 mode (DOS mode) still works. ⢠Make sure to re-enter your previous BIOS settings after you clear the CMOS. ⢠Y ou do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to CPU overclocking. With the C.P .R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature, shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset CPU parameter settings to default values. If the system hangs due to overclocking of memory timing or chipset voltage and the power button fails to function, pressing down the clr CMOS switch will shut down the system and clear CMOS simultaneously . System power state G3* S5* S0 (DOS mode) S0 (OS mode) S1 S3 S4 Clearing CMOS ** *G3: Power off without 5VSB power (AC power loss); S5: Power off with 5VSB power ** The system shuts down immediately . clr CMOS switch behavior
2-24 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.7 EL I/O shield, LCD Poster and Audio card Installation 1. Install the EL I/O shield to the chassis by snaping it in place from inside. 3. Locate the P_ELJ1 connector and connect the shield cable to the connector in a correct orientation. 2.7.1 EL I/O shield and LCD Poster Installation 2. Orient the motherboard and install it to the chassis. Make sure that the motherboard external ports ît the I/O openings. Be cautious when installing the motherboard. The I/O shield edge springs may damage the I/O ports. 4. Thread the LCD Poster cable through the back I/O shield opening until the stopper îts the opening. 5. Locate and connect the LCD Poster cable to the LCD_con connector . 6. Place the LCD Poster on the chassis or to wherever you like.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-25 2.7.2 Audio card Installation 1. T ake out the Audio card from the package. 2. Locate the audio slot on the motherboard. 3. Align the card connector with the slot and press îrmly until the card sits on the slot completely . 4. The photo below shows the audio card installed on the motherboard.
2-26 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.8 Connectors 2.8.1 Rear panel connectors 1. PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard. 2. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device via a coaxial S/PDIF cable. 3. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications. 4. LAN 1 (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications. 2 1 15 16 3 4 1 1 12 13 14 clr CMOS 5 Line in Mic in Cen/Sub Rear-out Side-out Front-out 6 7 8 9 10 SPEED LED ACT/LINK LED LAN port 32-bit OS LAN port LED indications * Blinking Activity/Link Speed LED Description OFF OFF Soft-off Mode YELLOW* OFF During Power ON/OFF YELLOW* ORANGE 100 Mbps connection 64-bit OS LAN port LED indications Activity/Link Speed LED Description DNR DNR Soft-off Mode DNR DNR During Power ON/OFF DNR DNR 100 Mbps connection DNR DNR 1 Gbps connection
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-27 5. Line In port (light blue). This port connects the tape, CD, DVD player , or other audio sources. 6. Line Out port (lime). This port connects a headphone or a speaker . In 4-channel, 6-channel, and 8-channel conîguration, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out. 7. Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone. 8. Center/Subwoofer port (orange). This port connects the center/subwoofer speakers. 9. Rear Speaker Out port (black). This port connects the rear speakers on a 4-channel, 6-channel, or 8-channel audio conîguration. 10. Side Speaker Out port (gray). This port connects the side speakers in an 8-channel audio conîguration. Refer to the audio conîguration table below for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conîguration. Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conîguration Port Headset 2-channel 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Line In Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Pink Mic In Mic In Mic In Mic In Orange â â Center/Subwoofer Center/Subwoofer Black â Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Ou Rear Speaker Out Gray â â â Side Speaker Out 1 1. USB 2.0 ports 1, 2, 3 and 4. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices. 12. External SA T A port 1/2 . These ports connect to external Serial A T A hard disk drives. T o conîgure a RAID0, RAID1, RAID 10, RAID 5 or JBOD set, connect external Serial A T A hard disk drives to the External SA T A port 1 and 2. The external SA T A port supports external Serial A T A 3.0 Gb/s devices. Longer cables support higher power requirements to deliver signal up to two meters away , and enables improved hot- swap function.
2-28 Chapter 2: Hardware information 13. IEEE 1394a port. This 6-pin IEEE 1394a port provides high-speed connectivity for audio/video devices, storage peripherals, PCs, or portable devices. 14. Clear CMOS switch. Press the clear CMOS switch to clear setup information when the system hangs due to overclocking. 15. Optical S/PDIF Out port . This port connects an external audio output device via an optical S/PDIF cable. 16. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices. ⢠DO NOT insert dif ferent connectors to the external SA T A ports. ⢠DO NOT unplug the external Serial A T A box when a RAID 0 or JBOD is conîgured. ⢠Before creating a RAID set using Serial A T A hard disks, make sure that y ou ha ve conn ect ed the Serial A T A signal cable and installed Serial A T A hard disk drives; otherwise, you cannot enter the JMicron RAID utility and SA T A BIOS setup during POST . ⢠If you intend to create a RAID conîguration using this connector , set the J-Micron eSA T A/P A T A Controller Mode in the BIOS to [RAID]. See section 4.5.5 Onboard Device Conîguration for details. ⢠When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the J-Micron eSA T A/P A T A Controller Mode in the BIOS to [AHCI]. See section 4.5.5 Onboard Device Conîguration for details. ⢠Before creating a RAID set, refer to 5.4.3 JMicron ® RAID Conîguration or the manual bundled in the motherboard support DVD.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-29 2.8.2 Internal connectors 1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) This connector is for the provided îoppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert one end of the cable to this connector , then connect the other end to the signal connector at the back of the îoppy disk drive. Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when using a FDD cable with a covered Pin 5. 2. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE) The onboard IDE connector is for the Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable. There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable: blue, black, and gray . Connect the blue connector to the motherboardâs IDE connector , then select one of the following modes to conîgure your device. ⢠Pin 20 on the IDE connector is removed to match the covered hole on the Ultra DMA cable connector . This prevents incorrect insertion when you connect the IDE cable. ⢠Use the 80-conductor IDE cable for Ultra DMA 133/100/66 IDE devices. If any device jumper is set as âCable-Select,â make sure all other device jumpers have the same setting. Drive jumper setting Mode of device(s) Cable connector Single device Cable-Select or Master - Black T wo devices Cable-Select Master Black Slave Gray Master Master Black or gray Slave Slave BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Floppy disk drive connector NOTE: Orient the red markings on the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1. PIN 1 FLOPPY
2-30 Chapter 2: Hardware information 3. ICH9R Serial A T A connectors (7-pin SA T A1~6) These connectors are for the Serial A T A signal cables for Serial A T A hard disk drives. If you installed Serial A T A hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10 conîguration with the Intel ® Matrix Storage T echnology through the onboard Intel ® ICH9R RAID controller . BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME IDE connector NOTE: Orient the red markings (usually zigzag) on the IDE cable to PIN 1. PRI_EIDE BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME SA T A connectors GND RSAT A_TXP1 RSAT A_TXN1 GND RSAT A_RXP1 RSAT A_RXN1 GND SA T A1 GND RSAT A_TXP3 RSAT A_TXN3 GND RSAT A_RXP3 RSAT A_RXN3 GND SA T A3 GND RSAT A_TXP2 RSAT A_TXN2 GND RSAT A_RXP2 RSAT A_RXN2 GND SA T A2 GND RSAT A_TXP4 RSAT A_TXN4 GND RSAT A_RXP4 RSAT A_RXN4 GND SA T A4 GND RSAT A_TXP5 RSAT A_TXN5 GND RSAT A_RXP5 RSAT A_RXN5 GND SA T A5 GND RSAT A_TXP6 RSAT A_TXN6 GND RSAT A_RXP6 RSAT A_RXN6 GND SA T A6 ⢠These connectors are set to Standard IDE mode by default. In Standard IDE mode, you can connect Serial A T A boot/data hard disk drives to these connectors. If you intend to create a Serial A T A RAID set using these connectors, set the Conîgure SA T A as item in the BIOS to [RAID]. See section 4.3.6 SA T A Conîguration for details. ⢠For RAID 5, use at least three hard disk drives. For RAID 10, use at least four hard disk drives. Use two to four Serial A T A hard disk drives for each RAID 0 or RAID 1 set. ⢠Before creating a RAID set, refer to 5.4.2 Intel ® RAID Conîguration or the manual bundled in the motherboard support DVD.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-31 Connect the right-angle side of SA T A signal cable to SA T A device. Or you may connect the right-angle side of SA T A cable to the onboard SA T A port to avoid mechanical conîict with huge graphics cards. right angle side Y ou must install the Windows ® XP Service Pack 1 before using Serial A T A hard disk drives. The Serial A T A RAID feature (RAID 0/RAID 1/RAID 5/RAID 10) is available only if you are using Windows ® XP or later version. 4. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB 78, USB 9 10, USB 1 1 12) These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 speciîcation that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME USB 2.0 connectors USB 5V USB_P12- USB_P12 GND NC USB 5V USB_P1 1- USB_P1 1 GND USB1 1 12 USB 5V USB_P10- USB_P10 GND NC USB 5V USB_P9- USB_P9 GND USB910 USB 5V USB_P8- USB_P8 GND NC USB 5V USB_P7- USB_P7 GND USB78 Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! Y ou can connect the USB cable to ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) îrst, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard.
2-32 Chapter 2: Hardware information 5. IEE E 1394 a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) This connector is for a IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module cable to this connector , then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME IEEE 1394a connector IE1394_2 PIN 1 GND 12V TPB1- GND TP A1- 12V TPB1 GND TP A1 Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector . Doing so will damage the motherboard! Y ou can c onnect the 1394 c able to ASU S Q-C onnector (139 4, re d) îr st, a nd then install the Q-Connector (1394) to the 1394 connector onboard. 6. Thermal sensor cable connectors (2-pin OPT_TEMP1-2) These connectors are for temperature monitoring. Connect the thermal sensor cables to these connectors and place the other ends to the devices. The OPT_TEMP connectors are for the devices that you want to monitor temperature. The optional fans can work with the temperature sensors for a better cooling effect. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Thermal sensor cable connectors OPT_TEMP1 T emperature Ground T emperature Ground OPT_TEMP2 Remove the thermal sensor cable from the assigned device when you set this item to [SB Overheat Protection].
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-33 7. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_F AN, 3-pin CHA_F AN1-4, 3-pin PWR_F AN, 3-pin OPT_F AN1-2) The fan c onnect ors su pport co oling fans o f 350 mA ~ 1000 mA (24 W max.) or a total of 1 A ~ 3.48 A (41.76 W max.) at 12V . Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, making sure that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector . DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufîcient air îow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on the fan connectors! BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Fan connectors CPU_F AN GND CPU F AN PWR CPU F AN IN CPU F AN PWM PWR_F AN GND Rotation 12V OPT_F AN1 OPT_FAN2 GND Rotation 12V CHA_F AN2 GND Rotation 12V CHA_F AN4 GND Rotation 12V CPU_F AN PWR_F AN CHA_F AN4 CHA_F AN1 CHA_F AN3 OPT_F AN1 OPT_F AN2 CHA_F AN2 GND Rotation 12V CHA_F AN1 GND Rotation 12V CHA_F AN3 GND Rotation 12V ⢠If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the chassis fan cable to the motherboard connector labled CHA_F AN1 or CHA_F AN2 for better themal environment. ⢠Only the CPU_F AN, CHA_F AN1-3 and OPT_F AN1-2 support ASUS Q-Fan feature.
2-34 Chapter 2: Hardware information 9. AT X p owe r c on ne cto rs (24-pin EA TXPWR, 8-pin EA TX12V) These connectors are for A TX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to ît these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down îrmly until the connectors completely ît. 8. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch. Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this connector . The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal is then generated as a chassis intrusion event. By default , the pin labeled âChassis Signalâ and âGroundâ are shorted with a jumper cap. Remove the jumper caps only when you intend to use the chassis intrusion detection feature. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Chassis intrusion connector CHASSIS 5VSB_MB Chassis Signal GND (Default) BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME A TX power connectors EA TXPWR EA TX12V 3 V olts 3 V olts Ground 5 V olts 5 V olts Ground Ground Power OK 5V Standby 12 V olts -5 V olts 5 V olts 3 V olts -12 V olts Ground Ground Ground PSON# Ground 5 V olts 12 V olts 3 V olts 5 V olts Ground GND 12V DC GND 12V DC GND 12V DC GND 12V DC ⢠Make sure to remove the cap on the EA TX12V connector before connecting an 8-pin EPS 12V power plug. ⢠Use only an 8-pin EPS 12V power plug for the EA TX12V connector.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-35 BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Digital audio connector 5V SPDIFOUT GND SPDIF_OUT 10. Digital audio con nec tor (4-1 pin SPDIF , for ASUS HDMI VGA card) This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s). If you are using ASUS HDMI-equipped graphics card, connect the HDMI card to this connector with a S/PDIF out cable. The ASUS HDMI-equipped graphics card and S/PDIF out cable are purchased separately . ⢠For a fully conîgured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with A TX 12 V Speciîcation 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 400 W . ⢠Do not forget to connect the 4-pin/8pin EA TX12V power plug; otherwise, the system will not boot. ⢠Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when conîguring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate. ⢠The A TX 12 V Speciîcation 2.0-compliant (400W) PSU has been tested to support the motherboard power requirements with the following conîguration: CPU: Intel ® Pentium ® Extreme 3.73GHz Memory: 512 MB DDR2 (x4) Graphics card: ASUS EAX1900XT Parallel A T A device: IDE hard disk drive Serial A T A device: SA T A hard disk drive (x2) Optical drive: DVD-RW ⢠If you want to use two high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with 500W to 600W power or above to ensure the system stability .
2-36 Chapter 2: Hardware information ⢠System power LED (2-pin PLED) This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector . The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system power , and blinks when the system is in sleep mode. ⢠Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED) This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable to this connector . The IDE LED lights up or îashes when data is read from or written to the HDD. ⢠System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER) This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker . The speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings. ⢠A TX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW) This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button turns the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending on the BIOS settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON turns the system OFF . ⢠Reset button (2-pin RESET) This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without turning off the system power . 1 1. System panel connector (20-8 pin P ANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME System panel connector * Requires an A TX power supply . P ANEL PLED- PWR 5V Speaker Ground RESET Ground Reset Ground Ground PWRSW PLED IDE_LED- IDE_LED IDE_LED PLED SPEAKER
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-37 ASUS Q-Connector (system panel) Y ou can use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect chassis front panel cables in a few steps. Refer to the instructions below to install the ASUS Q- Connector . 1. Connect the front panel cables to the ASUS Q-Connector . Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector to know the detailed pin deînitions, then match them to the respective front panel cable labels. 2. Install the ASUS Q-Connector to the system panel connector , making sure the orientation matches the labels on the motherboard. 3. The front panel functions are now enabled. The îgure shows the Q-Connector properly installed on the motherboard.
2-38 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.8.3 Onboard switches Onboard switches allow you to îne-tune performance when working on a bare or open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. 1. Power-on switch Press the clear power-on switch to wake/power up the system. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Power on switch 2. Reset switch Press the reset switch to reboot the system. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Reset switch
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-39 2.8.4 Installing the optional fans Install the optional fan only if you are using a passive cooler or a water cooler . Installing the optional fan with an active CPU cooler will interfere with the airîow and destabilize the system. 1. Position the fan above the pipe and heatsink assembly . 2. Fit the fan to the grooved edge of the heatsink. 3. Carefully push down the fan until it snugly îts the heatsink, then connect the fan cable. 4. The photo shows the fan installed on the motherboard. Optional fan on one side îns
2-40 Chapter 2: Hardware information 1. Assemble the optional fan kit by îtting the optional fan to the grooved edge of the plastic fan seat and snapping it into place. 2. The photo below demostrates the the optional fan ready for use. 3. Slide the optional fan onto the heatsink, then connect the fan cable. 4. The photo shows the fan installed on the motherboard. ⢠Plug the optional fan cables to the CHA_F AN1, CHA_F AN4 or PWR_F AN connector on the motherboard. ⢠Make sure the optional fan is installed correctly to prevent damage to the fan and motherboard components. When you are using water-cooling modules, make sure to install TWO optional fans to obtain a more effective heat dissipation. Optional fan on the other side îns
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-41 2.8.5 Installing the DIY Pedestal 1. T ake out the DIY Pedestal from the motherboard package. 2. Arrange and stick the rubber studs to wherever you wish to place your motherboard. 3. Put the motherboard on the DIY Pedestal to get a more efîcient heat dissipation. ⢠The tape on the rubber studs is for one-time use. Replace the tape if the adhesive surface fails to function. ⢠Y ou can use the DIY Pedestal in other creative ways based on your needs.
2-42 Chapter 2: Hardware information
3 Powering up This chapter describes the power up sequence, the vocal POST messages, and ways of shutting down the system.
ASUS Blitz Extreme Chapter summary 3 3.1 Starting up for the îrst time ........................................................ 3-1 3.2 T urning off the computer ............................................................. 3-2
ASUS Blitz Extreme 3-1 3.1 Starting up for the î¿rst time 1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover . 2. Be sure that all switches are off. 3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. 4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector . 5. T urn on the devices in the following order: a. Monitor b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain) c. System power 6. After applying power , the system power LED on the system front panel case lights up. For systems with A TX power supplies, the system LED lights up when you press the A TX power button. If your monitor complies with âgreenâ standards or if it has a âpower standbyâ feature, the monitor LED may light up or switch between orange and green after the system LED turns on. The system then runs the power-on self tests or POST . While the tests are running, the BIOS beeps (see BIOS beep codes table below) or additional messages appear on the screen. If you do not see anything within 30 seconds from the time you tu rned on the power , the system may have failed a power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call your retailer for assistance. 7. At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the instructions in Chapter 4. BIOS Beep Description One short beep VGA detected Quick boot set to disabled No keyboard detected One continuous beep followed by two short beeps then a pause (repeated) No memory detected One continuous beep followed by three short beeps No VGA detected One continuous beep followed by four short beeps Hardware component failure
3-2 Chapter 3: Powering up 3.2 Turning off the computer 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function If you are using Windows ® XP: 1. Click the Start button then select T urn Off Computer . 2. Click the T urn Off button to shut down the computer . 3. The power supply should turn off after Windows ® shuts down. If you are using Windows ® Vista: 1. Click the Start button then select ShutDown. 2. The power supply should turn off after Windows ® shuts down. 3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts the system to sleep mode or to soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. Refer to section 4.5 Power Menu in Chapter 4 for details.
4 BIOS setup This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
Chapter summary 4 ASUS Blitz Extreme 4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 4-1 4.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 4-9 4.3 Main menu .................................................................................. 4-12 4.4 Extreme T weaker menu ............................................................. 4-17 4.5 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 4-22 4.6 Power menu ................................................................................ 4-29 4.7 Boot menu .................................................................................. 4-35 4.8 T ools menu ................................................................................. 4-39 4.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 4-41
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-1 4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. 1. ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows ® environment.) 2. ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a îoppy disk or USB îash disk.) 3. ASUS AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS using a bootable îoppy disk.) 4. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 (Updates the BIOS using a bootable îoppy disk, USB îash disk or the motherboard support DVD when the BIOS île fails or gets corrupted.) Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities. Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS île to a bootable îoppy disk or USB îash disk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update or AFUDOS utilities. Installing ASUS Update T o install ASUS Update: 1. Place the support DVD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears. 2. Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update VX.XX.XX. 3. The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system. 4.1.1 ASUS Update utility The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows ® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you to: ⢠Save the current BIOS île ⢠Download the latest BIOS île from the Internet ⢠Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS île ⢠Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and ⢠View the BIOS version information. This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package. ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
4-2 Chapter 4: BIOS setup Quit all Windows ® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility . 3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network trafîc, or click Auto Select. Click Next. Updating the BIOS through the Internet T o 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 Update main window appears. 2. Select Update BIOS from the Internet option from the drop-down menu, then click Next.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-3 Updating the BIOS through a BIOS île T o update the BIOS through a BIOS île: 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows ® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate . The ASUS Update main window appears. 2. Select Update BIOS from a île option from the drop-down menu, then click Next. 4. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download. Click Next. 5. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process. The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update the utility to avail all its features. 3. Locate the BIOS île from the Open window , then click Open. 4. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process. Blitz-Extreme Blitz-Extreme.rom
4-4 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.1.2 Creating a bootable îoppy disk 1. Do either one of the following to create a bootable îoppy disk. DOS environment a. Insert a 1.44MB îoppy 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 îoppy disk to the îoppy 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 îeld, then click Start. Windows ® 2000 environment T o create a set of boot disks for Windows ® 2000: a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44 MB îoppy disk into the drive. b. Insert the Windows ® 2000 CD to the optical drive. c. Click Start , then select Run . d. From the Open îeld, 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 île to the bootable îoppy disk.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-5 T o update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2: 1. Visit the ASUS website (www .asus.com) to download the latest BIOS île for the motherboard. 2. Save the BIOS île to a îoppy disk or a USB îash disk, then restart the system. 4.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go through the long process of booting from a îoppy disk and using a DOS-based utility . The EZ Flash 2 utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing <Alt> <F2> during the Power-On Self T ests (POST). (2) Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the T ools menu to select EZ Flash2 and press <Enter> to enable it. Y ou can switch between drives by pressing <T ab> before the correct île is found. Then press <Enter>. 3. Y ou can launch the EZ Flash 2 by two methods. (1) Insert the îoppy disk / USB îash disk that contains the BIOS île to the îoppy disk drive or the USB port. Press <Alt> <F2> during POST to display the following. ⢠This function can support devices such as USB îash disk, or îoppy disk with F A T 32/16 format and single partition only . ⢠DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure! 4. When the correct BIOS île is found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update process and automatically reboots the system when done. ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.05 Current ROM Update ROM A: Note [Enter] Select or Load [B] Backup [ESC] Exit [Tab] Switch [Up/Down/Home/End] Move FLASH TYPE: SST 25VF016 PATH: A:\ BOARD: Blitz Extreme VER: 0122 DATE: 05/07/07 BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown
4-6 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.1.4 AFUDOS utility The AFUDOS utility allows you to update the BIOS île in DOS environment using a bootable îoppy disk with the updated BIOS île. This utility also allows you to copy the current BIOS île that you can use as backup when the BIOS fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. Copying the current BIOS T o copy the current BIOS île using the AFUDOS utility: Main îlename Extension name 1. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to the bootable îoppy disk you created earlier . 2. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type: afudos /o[î¿lename] where the [îlename] is any user-assigned îlename not more than eight alphanumeric characters for the main îlename and three alphanumeric characters for the extension name. A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom ⢠Make sure that the îoppy disk is not write-protected and has at least 1024KB free space to save the île. ⢠The succeeding BIOS screens are for reference only . The actual BIOS screen displays may not be same as shown. The utility returns to the DOS prompt after copying the current BIOS île. 3. Press <Enter>. The utility copies the current BIOS île to the îoppy disk. A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom AM I F irm war e Up dat e U ti li ty - V ers io n 1.1 9(A SU S V2. 07( 03. 11 .2 4BB )) Cop yrig ht ( C) 20 02 A meri can Meg atre nds, Inc. All rig hts r eser ved. Reading îash ..... done Write to î¿le...... ok A:\> Updating the BIOS île T o update the BIOS île using the AFUDOS utility: 1. Visit the ASUS website (www .asus.com) and download the latest BIOS île for the motherboard. Save the BIOS île to a bootable îoppy disk.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-7 2. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to the bootable îoppy disk you created earlier . 3. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type: afudos /i[î¿lename] where [îlename] is the latest or the original BIOS île on the bootable îoppy disk. A:\>afudos /iBlitz Extreme.ROM Write the BIOS îlename on a piece of paper . Y ou need to type the exact BIOS îlename at the DOS prompt. 5. The utility returns to the DOS prompt after the BIOS update process is completed. Reboot the system from the hard disk drive. A:\>afudos /iBlitz Extreme.ROM AM I F irm war e Up dat e U ti li ty - V ers io n 1.1 9(A SU S V2. 07( 03. 11 .2 4BB )) Cop yrig ht ( C) 20 02 A meri can Meg atre nds, Inc. All rig hts r eser ved. WARNING!! Do not turn off power during îash BIOS Reading î¿le ....... done Reading îash ...... done Advance Check ...... Erasing îash ...... done Writing îash ...... done Verifying îash .... done Please restart your computer A:\> A:\>afudos /iBlitz Extreme.ROM AM I F irm war e Up dat e U ti li ty - V ers io n 1.1 9(A SU S V2. 07( 03. 11 .2 4BB )) Cop yrig ht ( C) 20 02 A meri can Meg atre nds, Inc. All rig hts r eser ved. WARNING!! Do not turn off power during îash BIOS Reading î¿le ....... done Reading îash ...... done Advance Check ...... Erasing îash ...... done Writing îash ...... 0x0008CC00 (9%) 4. The utility veriîes the île and starts updating the BIOS. Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure!
4-8 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.1.5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS île when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. Y ou can update a corrupted BIOS île using the motherboard support DVD, the îoppy disk, or the USB îash disk that contains the updated BIOS île. Prepare the motherboard support DVD, the îoppy disk or the USB îash disk containing the updated motherboard BIOS before using this utility . Recovering the BIOS from the support DVD T o recover the BIOS from the support DVD: 1. T urn on the system. 2. Insert the motherboard support DVD to the optical drive. 3. The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the DVD for the BIOS île. 4. Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process. ⢠Only the USB îash disk with F A T 32/16 format and single partition can support ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3. The device size should be smaller than 8GB. ⢠DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause system boot failure! When found, the utility reads the BIOS île and starts îashing the corrupted BIOS île. Recovering the BIOS from the USB îash disk T o recover the BIOS from the USB îash disk: 1. Insert the USB îash disk that contains BIOS île to the USB port. 2. T urn on the system. 3. The utility will automatically checks the devices for the BIOS île When found, the utility reads the BIOS île and starts îashing the corrupted BIOS île. 4. Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process. Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery... Checking for îoppy... Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery... Checking for îoppy... Floppy found! Reading î¿le âBlitz Extreme.ROMâ. Completed. Start îashing...
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-9 4.2 BIOS setup program This motherboard supports a programmable Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) chip that you can update using the provided utility described in section 4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS . Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconîguring your system, or prompted to âRun Setup.â This section explains how to conîgure your system using this utility . Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the conîguration of your computer in the future. For example, you can enable the security password feature or change the power management settings. This requires you to reconîgure your system using the BIOS Setup program so that the computer can recognize these changes and record them in the CMOS RAM of the SPI chip. The SPI chip on the motherboard stores the Setup utility . When you start up the computer , the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press <Del> during the Power-On Self-T est (POST) to enter the Setup utility; otherwise, POST continues with its test routines. If you wish to enter Setup after POST , restart the system by pressing <Ctrl Alt Delete>, or by pressing the reset button on the system chassis. Y ou can also restart by turning the system off and then back on. Do this last option only if the îrst two failed. The Setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Being a menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various sub-menus and make your selections from the available options using the navigation keys. ⢠The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply for most conditions to ensure optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS settings, load the default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability . Select the Load Setup Defaults item under the Exit Menu. See section 4.9 Exit Menu. ⢠The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only , and may not exactly match what you see on your screen. ⢠Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS île for this motherboard.
4-10 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.2.2 Menu bar The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items: Main For changing the basic system conîguration Extreme T weaker For changing the overclocking settings Advanced For changing the advanced system settings Power For changing the advanced power management (APM) conîguration Boot For changing the system boot conîguration T ools For conîguring options for special functions Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default settings T o select an item on the menu bar , press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard until the desired item is highlighted. 4.2.3 Navigation keys At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings. 4.2.1 BIOS menu screen Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another . Select Screen Select Item - Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit System Time [10:55:25] System Date [Thu 05/10/2007] Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in] Language [English] SATA 1 [Not Detected] SATA 2 [Not Detected] SATA 3 [Not Detected] SATA 4 [Not Detected] SATA 5 [Not Detected] SATA 6 [Not Detected] SATA Conî¿guration System Information Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a î¿eld. Use [ ] or [-] to conî¿gure system Time. Navigation keys General help Menu bar Sub-menu items Conîguration îelds Menu items
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-1 1 4.2.4 Menu items The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the speciîc items for that menu. For example, selecting Main shows the Main menu items. The other items (Advanced, Power , Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items. 4.2.5 Sub-menu items A solid triangle before each item on any menu screen means that the iteam has a sub-menu. T o display the sub-menu, select the item and press <Enter>. 4.2.6 Conîguration îelds These îelds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user- conîgurable, you can change the value of the îeld opposite the item. Y ou cannot select an item that is not user-conîgurable. A conîgurable îeld is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. T o change the value of a îeld, select it then press <Enter> to display a list of options. Refer to 4.2.7 Pop-up window. 4.2.7 Pop-up window Select a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the conîguration options for that item. 4.2.8 Scroll bar A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not ît on the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> /<Page Down> keys to display the other items on the screen. 4.2.9 General help At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item. Main menu items Scroll bar Pop-up window System Time [06:22:54] System Date [Thu 05/10/2007] Legac y Disket te A [1 .4 4 M , 3. 5 in] Language [English] SATA 1 [N ot Det ect ed ] SATA 2 [N ot Det ect ed ] SATA 3 [N ot Det ect ed ] SATA 4 [N ot Det ect ed ] SATA 5 [N ot Det ect ed ] SATA 6 [N ot Det ect ed ] SATA Conî¿guration System Information Use [ENTER], [TAB], or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a î¿eld. Use [ ] or [-] to conî¿gure system.
4-12 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.3 Main menu When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an overview of the basic system information. 4.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx] Allows you to set the system time. 4.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx] Allows you to set the system date. 4.3.3 Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.] Sets the type of îoppy drive installed. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [720K , 3.5 in.] [1.44M, 3.5 in.] 4.3.4 Language [English] Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options. Conîguration options: [Chinese BIG5] [Chinese (GB)] [Japanese] [Français] [German] [English] Refer to section 4.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them. Select Screen Select Item - Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit System Time [10:55:25] System Date [Thu 05/10/2007] Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in] Language [English] SATA 1 [Not Detected] SATA 2 [Not Detected] SATA 3 [Not Detected] SATA 4 [Not Detected] SATA 5 [Not Detected] SATA 6 [Not Detected] SATA Conî¿guration System Information Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a î¿eld. Use [ ] or [-] to conî¿gure system Time.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-13 4.3.5 S A T A 1 - 6 While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of Serial A T A devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SA T A device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to display the SA T A device information. The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device, V endor , Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and SMART monitoring). These values are not user-conîgurable. These items show N/A if no SA T A device is installed in the system. T ype [Auto] Selects the type of IDE drive. Setting to [Auto] allows automatic selection of the appropriate IDE device type. Select [CDROM] if you are speciîcally conîguring a CD-ROM drive. Select [ARMD] (A T API Removable Media Device) if your device is either a ZIP , LS-120, or MO drive. Conîguration options: [Not Installed] [Auto] [CDROM] [ARMD] LBA/Large Mode [Auto] Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting to [Auto] enables the LBA mode if the device supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA mode disabled. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Auto] Block (Multi-sector T ransfer) [Auto] Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When set to [Auto], the data transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device supports multi-sector transfer feature. When set to [Disabled], the data transfer from and to the device occurs one sector at a time. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Auto] PIO Mode [Auto] Selects the PIO mode. Conîguration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4] Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main SATA 1 Device :Not Detected Type [Auto] LBA/Large Mode [Auto] Block(Multi-Sector Transfer) [Auto] PIO Mode [Auto] DMA Mode [Auto] SMART Monitoring [Auto] 32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled] Select the type of device connected to the system.
4-14 Chapter 4: BIOS setup DMA Mode [Auto] Selects the DMA mode. Conîguration options: [Auto] [SWDMA0] [SWDMA1] [SWDMA2] [MWDMA0] [MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2] [UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5] SMART Monitoring [Auto] Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting T echnology . Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] 32Bit Data T ransfer [Enabled] Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer . Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] SA T A Conîguration [Enhanced] Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Compatible] [Enhanced] Configure SA T A as [IDE] Sets the conîguration for the Serial A T A connectors supported by the Southbridge chip. The AHCI allows the onboard storage driver to enable advanced Serial A T A features that increases storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to internally optimize the order of commands. If you want to create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, or the Intel ® Matrix Storage T echnology conîguration from the Serial A T A hard disk drives, set this item to [RAID]. If you want to use the Serial A T A hard disk drives as Parallel A T A physical storage devices, keep the default setting [IDE]. If yo u w ant t he Se ria l AT A h ard di sk d riv es to u se the Ad va nc ed Hos t C on tro lle r In ter fac e ( AH CI ), set t hi s i tem to [ AH CI] . SATA Conî¿guration SATA Conî¿guraton [Enhanced] Conî¿gure SATA as [IDE] Hard Disk Write Protect [Disabled] IDE Detect Time Out (Sec) [35] 4.3.6 SA T A Conîguration The items in this menu allow you to set or change the conîgurations for the SA T A devices installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you want to conîgure the item. Set [Compatible Mode] when Legacy OS (i.e. WIN ME, 98, NT4.0, MS DOS) is used. Set [Enhanced Mode] when Native OS (i.e. WIN2000, WIN XP, Vista is used.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-15 Intel Robson T echnology [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable Intel Robson T echnology . Conîguration option: [Disabled] [Enabled] The Intel Robson T echnology appears only when you set the item Conîgure SA T A as to [AHCI]. Hard Disk Write Protect [Disabled] Disables or enables device write protection. This will be ef fective only if device is accessed through BIOS. Conîuration option: [Disabled] [Enabled] IDE Detect Time Out (Sec) [35] Selects the time out value for detecting A T A/A T API devices. Conîguration options: [0] [5] [10] [15] [20] [25] [30] [35] 4.3.7 AHCI Conîguration This menu allows you to conîgure AHCI settings. It appears only when you set the Conîgure SA T A as item to [AHCI] in the SA T A Conîguration menu. AHCI Settings AHCI Port1 [Not Detected] AHCI Port2 [Not Detected] AHCI Port3 [Not Detected] AHCI Port4 [Not Detected] AHCI Port5 [Not Detected] AHCI Port6 [Not Detected] While entering setup, BIOS auto detects the presence of SATA devices. This displays the status of auto detection of SATA devices. ACHI Port1~6 [XXXX] Displays the status of auto-detection of SA T A devices. AHCI Port1 Device :Not Detected SATA Port1 [Auto] Select the type of devices connected to the system. SA T A Port1 [Auto] Allows you to select the type of device connected to the system. Conîguration options: [Auto] [Not Installed]
4-16 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.3.8 System Information This menu gives you an overview of the general system speciîcations. The BIOS automatically detects the items in this menu. AMI BIOS Displays the auto-detected BIOS information. Processor Displays the auto-detected CPU speciîcation. System Memory Displays the auto-detected system memory . Select Screen Select Item F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main AMIBIOS Version : 0122 Build Date : 05/07/07 Processor Type : Intel(R) Core(TM)2 CPU 6300 @ 1.86GHz Speed : 1876MHz Count : 2 System Memory Available : 512 MB
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-17 4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu The Extreme T weaker menu items allow you to conîgure overclocking-related items. T ake caution when changing the settings of the Extreme T weaker menu items. Incorrect îeld values can cause the system to malfunction. Select Screen Select Item - Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Conî¿gure System Frequency/Voltage Ai Overclocking [Auto] CPU Ratio Control [Auto] DRAM Frequency [Auto] DRAM Timing Control [Auto] DRAM Static Read Control [Auto] DRAM Dynamic Write Control [Auto] Transaction Booster [Auto] Clock Over-Charging Mode [Auto] CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto] PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto] Select the target CPU frequency, and the relevant parameters will be auto-adjusted. Frequencies higher than CPU manufacturer recomends are not guaranteed to be stable. If the system becomes unstable, return to the default. 4.4.1 Ai Overclocking [Auto] Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal frequency . Selct either one of the preset overclocking conîguration options: Manual Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters. Auto Loads the optimal settings for the system. Standard Loads the standard settings for the system. N.O.S. The ASUS Non-delay Overclocking System feature intelligently determines the system load and automatically boosts the performance for the most demanding tasks. N.O.S. Mode [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Standard] [Sensitive] [Heavy Load] CPU Ratio Control [Auto] Allows you to control the CPU ratio. Conîguration options: [Auto] [Manual] The following item only appears when you set the Ai Overclocking item to [N.O.S]. The following item only appears when you set the CPU Ratio Control item to [Manual].
4-18 Chapter 4: BIOS setup PCIE Frequency [Auto] Allows you to set the PCI Express frequency . Conîguration options: [Auto] [100] [101]~[149] [150] DRAM Frequency [Auto] Allows you to set the DDR3 operating frequency . Conîguration options: [Auto] [DDR3-800MHz] [DDR3-889 MHz] [DDR3-1067MHz] A very high DRAM frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this happens, revert to the default setting. DRAM Timing Control [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [ Manual ] The following items appear when you set the DRAM Timing Control item to [Manual]. CAS# Latency [ 6] Conîguration options: [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10] RAS# to CAS# Delay [ 5 DRAM Clocks] Conîguration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] [4 DRAM Clocks]~[9 DRAM Clocks] [10 DRAM Clocks] FSB/CPU External Frequency Synchronization Front Side Bus CPU External Frequency FSB 1333 333 MHz FSB 1066 266 MHz FSB 800 200 MHz Refer to page 2-3 for FSB frequency LED deînition. FSB Frequency [266] 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 to adjust the FSB frequency . Y ou can also type the desired CPU frequency using the numeric keypad. The values range from 200 to 800. Refer to the table below for the correct Front Side Bus and CPU External Frequency settings. The following two items only appear when you set the Ai Overclocking item to [Manual]. Ratio CMOS Setting [7] Conîguration options: [6] [7]
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-19 RAS# Precharge [ 5 DRAM Clocks] Conîguration options: [ 3 DRAM Clocks] [ 4 DRAM Clocks]~[ 9 DRAM Clocks] [10 DRAM Clocks] RAS# Activate to Precharge [ 9 DRAM Clocks] Conîguration options: [ 3 DRAM Clocks] [ 4 DRAM Clocks]~[33 DRAM Clocks] [34 DRAM Clocks] TWR [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [ 1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks] TRFC [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [30 DRAM Clocks] [36 DRAM Clocks] [48 DRAM Clocks] [60 DRAM Clocks] [72 DRAM Clocks] TWTR [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [ 1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks] TRRD [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [ 1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks] TRTP [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [ 1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks] DRAM Static Read Control [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] DRAM Dynamic Write Control [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] T ransaction Booster [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] Boost Level [0] Set this time to higher level to get better performance. This item is available only when you set the T ransaction Booster item to [Enabled]. Conîguration options: [0] [1] Clock Over-Charging Mode [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [700mV] [800mV] [900mV] [1000mV] CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto] Allows you to enable or disable the CPU spread spectrum. Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto] Allows you to enable or disable the PCIE spread spectrum. Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled]
4-20 Chapter 4: BIOS setup CPU V oltage [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU VCore voltage. The text color in the conîguration îeld corresponds to the onboard CPU LED color , both of which indicate CPU voltage condition. Refer to page 2-1 for CPU LED deînition. Conîguration options: [Auto] [1.10000V] [1.10625V] [1.1 1250V] [1.1 1875V] [1.12500V] [1.13125V] [1.13750V] [1.14375V] [1.50000V] [1.15625V] [1.16250V] [1.16875V] [1.17500V] [1.18125V] [1.18750V] [1.19375V] [1.20000V] [1.20625V] [1.21250V] [1.21875V] [1.22500V] [1.23125V] [1.23750V] [1.24375V] [1.25000V] [1.25625V] [1.26250V] [1.26875V] [1.27500V] [1.28125V] [1.28750V] [1.29375V] [1.30000V]~[1.80000V] [1.80625V] [1.81250V] [1.81875V] [1.82500V] [1.83125V] [1.83750V] [1.84375V] [1.85000V] [1.85625V] [1.86250V] [1.86875V] [1.87500V] [1.88125V] [1.88750V] [1.89375V] [1.90000V] Refer to the CPU documentation before setting the CPU Vcore voltage. Setting a high VCore voltage may damage the CPU permanently , and setting a low VCore voltage may make the system unstable. CPU V oltage Reference [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [0.531V] [0.545V] [0.561V] [0.576V] [0.581V] [0.597V] [0.618V] [0.635V] Loadline Calibration [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] FSB T ermination V oltage [Auto] Allows you to select the front side bus (FSB) termination voltage. The text color in the conîguration îeld indicates FSB termination voltage condition. When you set the NB LED Selection item to [FSBT V olt], the onboard northbridge LED displays FSB termination voltage condition. Refer to page 2-2 for northbridge LED deînition. Conîguration options: [Auto] [1.20V] [1.22V] [1.24V] [1.26V] [1.28V] [1.30V]~ [1.70V] [1.72V] [1.74V] [1.76V] [1.78V] [1.80V] Setting a high FSB termination voltage may damage the chipset and CPU. North Bridge V oltage [Auto] Allows you to select the northbridge voltage. The text color in the conîguration îeld indicates northbridge voltage condition. When you set the NB LED Selection item to [NB V olt], the onboard northbridge LED displays northbridge voltage condition. Refer to page 2-2 for northbridge LED deînition. Conîguration options: [Auto] [1.25V] [1.27V] [1.29V] [1.31V]~[1.97V] [1.99V] [2.01V] [2.03V] The following item only appears when you set the Ai Overclocking item to [Manual] or [N.O.S.].
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-21 North Bridge V oltage Refernece [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [0.61x] [0.67x] DRAM V oltage [Auto] Allows you to select the DRAM reference voltage. The text color in the conîguration îeld corresponds to the onboard memory LED color , both of which indicate DRAM voltage condition. Refer to page 2-2 for memory LED deînition. Conîguration options: [Auto] [1.50V] [1.52V] [1.54V] [1.56V] [1.58V] [1.60V]~ [3.00V] [3.02V] [3.04V] DDR3 Channel A REF V oltage [Auto] Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to [Auto] for the safe mode. Conîguration options: [DDR3_REF-30mv] [DDR3_REF-20mv] [DDR3_REF-10mv] [DDR3_REF] [DDR3_REF 10mv] [DDR3_REF 20mv] [DDR3_REF 30mv] DDR3 Channel B REF V oltage [Auto] Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to [Auto] for the safe mode. Conîguration options: [DDR3_REF-30mv] [DDR3_REF-20mv] [DDR3_REF-10mv] [DDR3_REF] [DDR3_REF 10mv] [DDR3_REF 20mv] [DDR3_REF 30mv] DDR3 Controller REF V oltage [Auto] Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to [Auto] for the safe mode. Conîguration options: [DDR3_REF-30mv] [DDR3_REF-20mv] [DDR3_REF-10mv] [DDR3_REF] [DDR3_REF 10mv] [DDR3_REF 20mv] [DDR3_REF 30mv] South Bridge V oltage [Auto] Allows you to select the southbridge voltage. The text color in the conîguration îeld indicates southbridge voltage condition. When you set the SB LED Selection item to [SB V olt], the onboard southbridge LED displays southbridge voltage condition. Refer to page 2-2 for southbridge LED deînition. Conîguration options: [Auto] [1.050V] [1.075V] [1.1 10V] [1.125V] [1.150V] [1.175V] [1.200V] [1.225V] PLL V oltage [Auto] Allows you to select the southbridge voltage. The text color in the conîguration îeld indicates southbridge voltage condition. When you set the SB LED Selection item to [SB V olt], the onboard southbridge LED displays southbridge voltage condition. Refer to page 2-2 for southbridge LED deînition. Conîguration options: [Auto] [1.50V] [1.52V] [1.56V] [1.58V] [1.60V]~[1.92V] [1.94V] [1.96V] [1.98V] [2.00V]
4-22 Chapter 4: BIOS setup NB LED Selection [NB V olt] Allows you to switch the onboard northbridge LED display between northbridge voltage [NB V olt] and front side bus termination voltage [FSBT V olt]. Conîguration options: [NB V olt] [FSBT V olt] SB LED Selection [PLL V olt] Allows you to switch the onboard southbridge LED display between PLL voltage [PLL V olt] and southbridge voltage [SB V olt]. Conîguration options: [PLL V olt] [SB V olt] 4.5 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. T ake caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect îeld values can cause the system to malfunction. v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Ai Net 2 USB Conî¿guration CPU Conî¿guration Chipset Onboard Devices Conî¿guration PCIPnP LAN Cable Status. Select Screen Select Item - Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-23 4.5.2 USB Conîguration The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conîguration options. The USB Devices Enabled item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None. USB Functions [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the USB functions. The following sub-items appear when this item is set to [Enabled]. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. USB Conî¿guration USB Devices Enabled: None USB Functions [Enabled] USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled] USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed] BIOS EHCI Hand-off [Enabled] Port 64/60 Emulation [Disabled] Legacy USB Support [Auto] Options Disabled Enabled BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced 4.5.1 Ai Net 2 v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. POST Check LAN cable [Disabled] Ai Net 2 Pair Status Length 1-2 N/A 3-6 N/A 4-5 N/A 7-8 N/A 1-2 N/A 3-6 N/A 4-5 N/A 7-8 N/A Check LAN cable during POST. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced POST Check LAN cable [Disabled] Enables or disables the LAN cable checking during the POST . Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
4-24 Chapter 4: BIOS setup The USB 2.0 Controller Mode item appears only when you enable the USB 2.0 Controller . BIOS EHCI Hand-off [Enabled] Allows you to enable the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand-off feature. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Port 64/60 Emulation [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the I/O port 60h/64h emulation support. This item should be enabled for the complete USB keyboard legacy support for non-USB aware OSes. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Legacy USB Support [Auto] Allows you to enable or disable the support for legacy USB devices. Setting to [Auto] allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto] USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the USB 2.0 controller . Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed] Allows you to set the USB 2.0 controller mode to HiSpeed (480 Mbps) or FullSpeed (12 Mbps). Conîguration options: [FullSpeed] [HiSpeed] The following items appear only when you set USB Functions to [Enabled].
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-25 Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. 4.5.3 CPU Conîguration The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically detects. CPU Ratio Control [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Manual] The following item appears when the item CPU Ratio Control is set to [Manual]. Ratio CMOS Setting: [ 7] C1E Support [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable C1E Support. Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Max CPUID V alue Limit [Disabled] Setting this item to [Enabled] allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs with extended CPUID functions. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] V anderpool T echnology [Enabled] Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] CPU TM Function [Enabled] Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Execute Disable Bit [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the No-Execution Page Protection T echnology . Setting this item to [Disabled] forces the XD feature îag to always return to zero (0). Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Conî¿gure Advanced CPU settings Manufacturer:Intel Brand String:Intel(R) Core(TM)2 CPU 6300 @ 1.86GHz Frequency :1.86GHz FSB Speed :1066 MHz Cache L1 :64 KB Cache L2 :2048 KB CPUID :6F5 Ratio Status:Unlocked (Max:07, Min:06) Ratio Actual Value: 7 CPU Ratio Control [Auto] C1E Support [Enabled] Max CPUID Value Limit [Disabled] Vanderpool Technology [Enabled] CPU TM Function [Enabled] Execute Disable Bit [Enabled] PECI [Enabled] Intel(R) SpeedStep(tm) Tech. [Disabled] Options Auto Manual BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced
4-26 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.5.4 Chipset The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. Advanced Chipset Settings WARMING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction. North Bridge Conî¿guration Conî¿ gure North B ridge features. PECI [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the PECI interface. Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] The following item appears when the item CPU Ratio Control is set to [Auto]. Intel(R) SpeedStep (tm) T ech. [Disabled] Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced North Bridge Chipset Conî¿guration Memory Remap Feature [Enabled] Initiate Graphic Adapter [PEG/PCI] PEG Port Control [Auto] North Bridge Chipset Conîguration ENABLE: Allow remapping of overlapped PCI memory above the total physical memory. DISABLE: Do not allow remapping of memory. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Memory Remap Feature [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the remapping of the overlapped PCI memory above the total physical memory . Enable this option only when you install 64- bit operating system. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Initiate Graphic Adapter [PEG/PCI] Allows you to decide which graphics controller to use as the primary boot device. Conîguration options: [PCI/PEG] [PEG/PCI] PEG Port Control [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled]
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-27 4.5.5 OnBoard Devices Conîguration J-Micron eSA T A/P A T A Controller [Enabled] Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Controller Mode [IDE] Conîguration options: [RAID] [IDE] [AHCI] Marvell Gigabit LAN 1 [Enabled] Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] MarvelI Gigabit LAN 2 [Enabled] Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] VIA Firewire 1394 [Enabled] Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Onboard Device Conî¿guration J-Micron eSATA/PATA Controller [Enabled] Controller Mode [IDE] Marvell Gigabit LAN 1 [Enabled] LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] Marvell Gigabit LAN 2 [Enabled] LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] VIA Firewire 1394 [Enabled] BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Options Enabled Disabled
4-28 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.5.6 PCI PnP The PCIPnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices. T ake caution when changing the settings of the PCI PnP menu items. Incorrect îeld values can cause the system to malfunction. Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Advanced PCI/PnP Settings WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction. Plug And Play O/S [NO] NO: lets the BIOS conî¿gure all the devices in the system. YES: lets the operating system conî¿gure Plug and Play (PnP) devices not required for boot if your system has a Plug and Play operating system. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Plug And Play O/S [NO] When set to [NO], BIOS conîgures all the devices in the system. When set to [YES] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system conîgures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot. Conîguration options: [NO] [YES]
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-29 4.6 Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conîguration options. 4.6.1 Suspend Mode [Auto] Allows you to select the Advanced Conîguration and Power Interface (ACPI) state to be used for system suspend. Conîguration options: [S1 (POS) Only] [S3 Only] [Auto] 4.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume [Disabled] Determines whether to invoke VGA BIOS POST on S3/STR resume. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 4.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled] Speciîes the Advanced Conîguration and Power Interface (ACPI) version supported. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 4.6.4 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Conîguration and Power Interface (ACPI) support in the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). When set to Enabled, the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Suspend Mode [Auto] Repost Video on S3 Resume [Disabled] ACPI 2.0 Support [Disabled] ACPI APIC Support [Enabled] APM Conî¿guration Hardware Monitor Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
4-30 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.6.5 APM Conîguration Restore On AC Power Loss [Power Off] When set to [Power Off], the system goes into of f state after an AC power loss. When set to [Power On], the system goes on after an AC power loss. When set to [Last State], the system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was before the AC power loss. Conîguration 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 is set to Enabled, the items RTC Alarm Date/ RTC Alarm Hour/ RTC Alarm Minute/ RTC Alarm Second will become user-conîgurable with set values. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Power On By PCI Devices [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the PME to wake up from S5 by PCI devices. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Power On By PCIE Devices [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the PCIE devices to generate a wake event. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled] Allows you to disable the Power On by PS/2 keyboard function or set speciîc keys on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature requires an A TX power supply that provides at least 1A on the 5VSB lead. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Ctrl-Esc] [Power Key] Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. APM Conî¿guration Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off] Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled] Power On By PCI Devices [Disabled] Power On By PCIE Devices [Disabled] Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled] <Enter> to select whether or not to restart the system after AC power loss. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-31 4.6.6 Hardware Monitor CPU T emperature; MB T emperature; NB T emperature SB T emperature; OPT T emperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU, motherboard, northbridge, southbridge and the assigned device temperatures. Select [Ignored] if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures. North Bridge Overheat Protection [Auto] Allows you to enable/disable the northbridge overheat auto-protection function or set the temperature over which the system shuts down. Conîguration options: [Auto] [70C] [80C] [Disabled] South Bridge Sensor Select [SB Overheat Protection] Allows you to switch the target the temperature sensor aims at between the southbridge and any device with a thermal sensor cable connected to the OPT_TEMP2 connector . Conîguration options: [SB Overheat Protection] [OPT_TEMP2] Remove the thermal sensor cable from the assigned device when you set this item to [SB Overheat Protection]. The next item varies depending on whether you set the South Bridge Sensor Select item to [SB Overheat Protection] or [OPT_TEMP2]. v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2006, American Megatrends, Inc. Select Screen Select Item - Change Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit Hardware Monitor CPU Temperature [30.5ºC/86.5ºF] MB Temperature [35ºC/95ºF] NB Temperature [34ºC/94ºF] SB Temperature [42ºC/107.5ºF] OPT Temperature [N/A] North Bridge Overheat Protecti[Auto] South Bridge Sensor Select [SB Overheat Protec] South Bridge Overheat Protecti[Auto] OPT_TEMP1 Overheat Protection [Disabled] CPU Fan and Chassis Fan OPT Fan and Power Fan VCORE Voltage [ 1.280V] FSB Termination Voltage [ 1.232V] North Bridge Voltage [ 1.280V] DRAM Voltage [ 1.584V] CPU Temperature BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Scroll down to see more items. v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2006, American Megatrends, Inc. Select Screen Select Item - Change Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. DRAM Reference Voltage [ 1.584V] South Bridge Voltage [ 1.072V] PLL Voltage [ 1.520V] 3.3V Voltage [ 3.200V] 5V Voltage [ 5.040V] 12V Voltage [12.152V]
4-32 Chapter 4: BIOS setup South Bridge Overheat Protection [Auto] Allows yous to enable/disable the southbridge overheat auto-protection function or set the temperature over which the system shuts down. Conîguration options: [Auto] [70C] [80C] [Disabled] OPT_TEMP2 Overheat Protection [Disabled] If you monitor a device temperature using a thermal sensor cable connected to the OPT_TEMP2 connector , you can use this item to set the temperature over which the system shuts down or disable this function. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [50C] [60C] [70C] [80C] [90C] OPT_TEMP1 Overheat Protection [Disabled] If you monitor a device temperature using a thermal sensor cable connected to the OPT_TEMP1 connector , you can use this item to set the temperature over which the system shuts down or disable this function. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [50C] [60C] [70C] [80C] [90C] CPU Fan and Chassis Fan Select Screen Select Item - Change Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit CPU Fan Speed [4411RPM] CPU Q-Fan Control [Disabled] Chassis Fan 1 Speed [N/A] Chassis Fan 2 Speed [N/A] Chassis Fan 3 Speed [N/A] Chassis Q-Fan Control [N/A] Chassis Fan 4 Speed :N/A CPU Fan Speed BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. CPU Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the îeld shows N/A. CPU Q-Fan Control [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the CPU Q-Fan controller . Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the chassis fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the îeld shows N/A.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-33 Chassis Q-Fan Control [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the chassis Q-Fan controller . Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] The following two items appear when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature. Chassis Fan Ratio [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [90%] [80%] [70%] [60%] Chassis T arget T emperature [21ºC] Conîguration options: [12ºC] [15ºC] [18ºC] [21ºC] [24ºC] [27ºC] [30ºC] Chassis Fan 4 Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the chassis fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the îeld shows N/A. OPT Fan and Power Fan Select Screen Select Item - Change Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit OPT_Fan 1 Speed :N/A OPT_Fan1 Q-Fan Control [DUTY CYCLE] Duty Cycle Mode [90%] OPT_Fan 2 Speed :N/A OPT_Fan2 Q-Fan Control [DUTY CYCLE] Duty Cycle Mode [90%] Power Fan Speed :N/A Fan conî¿guration mode setting BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the optional fan speed. If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the îeld shows N/A. OPT_Fan1/2 Q-Fan Control [DUTY CYCLE] Allows you to select the optional fan control mode. When this item is set to [DUTY CYCLE], you can conîgure the Duty Cycle Mode item. If you set this item to [Q-F AN], you are allowed to conîgure the T argetT emp V alue item. The Q-Fan detects the temperature of the fan connected to the OPT_F AN1/2 connector and adjusts the fan speed. Conîguraiton options: [DUTY CYCLE] [Q-F AN] Y ou need to connect the thermal sensor cables to the OPT_TEMP1/2 connectors to enable this function.
4-34 Chapter 4: BIOS setup Duty Cycle Mode [90%] Allows you to set the fan duty cycle. When the OPT_Fan1/2 Q-Fan Control item is set to [Q-F AN], this item does not appear . Conîguraiton options: [70%] [80%] [90%] [100%] T argetT emp V alue [32] Allows you to set the temperature at which the optional fan starts up. When the OPT_Fan1/2 Q-Fan Control item is set to [DUTY CYCLE], this item does not appear . Conîguration options: [16] [24] [32] [40] [48] [56] [64] [72] Power Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the power fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the îeld shows N/A. VCORE V oltage, FSB T ermination V oltage, North Bridge V oltage, DRAM V oltage, DRAM Reference V oltage, South Bridge V oltage, PLL V oltage, 3.3V V oltage, 5V V oltage, 12V V oltage The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard voltage regulators.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-35 4.7 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. Select Screen Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Boot Device Priority Boot Settings Conî¿guration Security Speciî¿es the Boot Device Priority sequence. A virtual îoppy disk drive (Floppy Drive B:) may appear when you set the CD-ROM drive as the î¿rst boot device. 4.7.1 Boot Device Priority 1st ~ xxth Boot Device [xxx 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 of devices installed in the system. Conîguration options: [xxx Drive] [Disabled] Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Boot Device Priority 1st Boot Device [1st FLOPPY DRIVE] 2nd Boot Device [Hard Drive] 3rd Boot Device [ATAPI CD-ROM] Speciî¿es the boot sequence from the availabe devices. A device enclosed in parenthesis has been disabled in the corresponding menu. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot
4-36 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.7.2 Boot Settings Conîguration Quick Boot [Enabled] Enabling this item allows the BIOS to skip some power on self tests (POST) while booting to decrease the time needed to boot the system. When set to [Disabled], BIOS performs all the POST items. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Full Screen Logo [Enabled] This allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo3 ⢠feature. AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS] Sets the display mode for option ROM. Conîguration options: [Force BIOS] [Keep Current] Bootup Num-Lock [On] Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock. Conîguration options: [Off] [On] W ait for âF1â If Error [Enabled] When set to Enabled, the system waits for the F1 key to be pressed when error occurs. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Hit âDELâ Message Display [Enabled] When set to Enabled, the system displays the message âPress DEL to run Setupâ during POST . Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled] When set to [Enabled], this function allows the option ROMs to trap Interrupt 19. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Boot Settings Conî¿guration Quick Boot [Enabled] Full Screen Logo [Enabled] AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS] Bootup Num-Lock [On] Wait for âF1â if Error [Enabled] Hit âDELâ Message Display [Enabled] Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled] Allows BIOS to skip certain tests while booting. This will decrease the time needed to boot the system. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-37 Change Supervisor Password Select this item to set or change the supervisor password. The Supervisor Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed. T o set a Supervisor Password: 1. Select the Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>. 2. From the password box, type a password composed of at least six letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>. 3. Conîrm the password when prompted. The message âPassword Installedâ appears after you successfully set your password. T o change the supervisor password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password. T o clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then press <Enter>. The message âPassword Uninstalledâ appears. If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real T ime Clock (RTC) RAM. See section 2.6 Jumper for information on how to erase the RTC RAM. 4.7.3 Security The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conîguration options. Select Screen Select Item Enter Change F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Security Settings Supervisor Password :Not Installed User Password :Not Installed Change Supervisor Password Change User Password <Enter> to change password. <Enter> again to disabled password. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot
4-38 Chapter 4: BIOS setup User Access Level [Full Access] This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items. Conîguration 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 îeld. [Limited] allows changes only to selected îelds, such as Date and T ime. [Full Access] allows viewing and changing all the îelds in the Setup utility . Change User Password Select this item to set or change the user password. The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed. T o 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. Conîrm the password when prompted. The message âPassword Installedâ appears after you set your password successfully . T o change the user password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password. Clear User Password Select this item to clear the user password. Select Screen Select Item Enter Change F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. 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] <Enter> to change password. <Enter> again to disabled password. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change other security settings.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-39 Password Check [Setup] When set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup utility . When set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both when accessing Setup and booting the system. Conîguration options: [Setup] [Always] 4.8 Tools menu The T ools menu items allow you to conîgure options for special functions. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. Select Screen Select Item - Change Field Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS O.C. Proî¿le Press ENTER to run the utility to select and update BIOS. This utility doesn't support : 1.NTFS format 4.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a conîrmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Y es] or [No], then press <Enter> to conîrm your choice. Please see page 4-5, section 4.1.3 for details. ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.05 Current ROM Update ROM A: Note [Enter] Select or Load [B] Backup [ESC] Exit [Tab] Switch [Up/Down/Home/End] Move FLASH TYPE: SST 25VF016 PATH: A:\ BOARD: Blitz Extreme VER: 0122 DATE: 05/07/07 BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
4-40 Chapter 4: BIOS setup Select Screen Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. O.C. PROFILE Conî¿guration O.C. Proî¿le 1 Status :Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 2 Status :Not Installed Save to Proî¿le 1 Load from Proî¿le 1 Save to Proî¿le 2 Load from Proî¿le 2 Start O.C. Proî¿le Save to Proî¿le 1 4.8.2 ASUS O.C. Proîle This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. Save to Proîe 1/2 Allows you to save the current BIOS île to the BIOS Flash. Press <Enter> to save the île. Load from Proîle 1/2 Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Press <Enter> to load the île. Start O.C. Proîle Allows you to run the utility to save and load CMOS. Press <Enter> to run the utility . ASUSTek O.C. Proî¿le Utility V1.05 Current CMOS Restore CMOS A: Note [Enter] Select or Load [B] Backup [ESC] Exit [Tab] Switch [Up/Down/Home/End] Move PATH: A:\ BOARD: Blitz Extreme VER: 0122 DATE: 05/07/07 BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown ⢠This function can support devices such as USB îash disk or îoppy disk with F A T 32/16 format and single partition only . ⢠DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the system boot failure! BIOS SETUP UTILITY Tools
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-41 4.9 Exit menu Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options from 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 the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. Select Screen Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Exit Options Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes Load Setup Defaults Exit system setup after saving the changes. F10 key can be used for this operation. Exit & Save Changes Once you are înished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard backup battery sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turned off. When you select this option, a conîrmation window appears. Select YES to save changes and exit. If you attempt to exit the Setup program without saving your changes, the program prompts you with a message asking if you want to save your changes before exiting. Press <Enter> to save the changes while exiting. Exit & Discard Changes Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to the Setup program. If you made changes to îelds other than System Date, System T ime, and Password, the BIOS asks for a conîrmation before exiting. Discard Changes This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the previously saved values. After selecting this option, a conîrmation appears. Select YES 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 the Setup menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a conîrmation window appears. Select YES to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes or make other changes before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
4-42 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
5 Software support This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package and the softwares.
ASUS Blitz Extreme Chapter summary 5 5.1 Installing an operating system ................................................... 5-1 5.2 Support DVD information ............................................................ 5-1 5.3 Software information ................................................................... 5-9 5.4 RAID conîgurations .................................................................. 5-30 5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk ....................................................... 5-47
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-1 If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer , browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the île ASSETUP .EXE from the BIN folder . Double-click the ASSETUP .EXE to run the DVD. Click an item to install 5.1 Installing an operating system This motherboard supports Windows ® XP/ 64-bit XP/ Vista⢠operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware. 5.2 Support DVD information The support DVD that came with the motherboard package contains the drivers, software applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard features. 5.2.1 Running the support DVD Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer . ⢠Motherboard settings and hardware options vary . Use the setup procedures presented in this chapter for reference only . Refer to your OS documentation for detailed information. ⢠Make sure that you install the Windows ® XP Service Pack2 or later versions before installing the drivers for better compatibility and system stability . The contents of the support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the ASUS website(www.asus.com) for updates. Click an icon to display support DVD/ motherboard information
5-2 Chapter 5: Software support 5.2.2 Drivers menu The Drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices. ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Drivers Installs all of the drivers through the Installation Wizard. Intel(R) Chipset Inf Update Program Installs the Intel ® chipset Inf update program. SoundMAX ADI1988 Audio Driver Installs the SoundMAX ® ADI1988 audio driver and application. Marvell Y ukon Gigabit Ethernet Driver Installs the Marvell Y ukon Gigabit Ethernet driver . USB 2.0 Driver Installs the USB 2.0 driver .
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-3 5.2.3 Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities Installs all of the utilities through the Installation Wizard. Marvell Y ukon VCT Application Installs the Marvell ® Y ukon Virtual Cable T ester⢠(VCT) application that diagnoses and reports LAN cable faults and shorts using the T ime Domain Reîectometry (TDR) technology . 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 computer in healthy operating condition. Click to display the next page Click to return to the previous page
5-4 Chapter 5: Software support ASUS AI Suite Installs the ASUS AI Suite. ASUS Update The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in Windows ® environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP). ADOBE Acrobat Reader V7.0 Installs the Adobe ® Acrobat ® Reader that allows you to open, view , and print documents in Portable Document Format (PDF). Microsoft DirectX 9.0c Installs the Microsoft ® DirectX 9.0c driver . The Microsoft DirectX ® 9.0c is a multimedia technology that enhances computer graphics and sound. DirectX ® improves the multimedia features of you computer so you can enjoy watching TV and movies, capturing videos, or playing games in your computer . Visit the Microsoft website (www .microsoft.com) for updates. Anti-Virus Utility The anti-virus application scans, identiîes, and removes computer viruses. View the online help for detailed information. 3DMark06 Software Installs the 3DMark software. WinDVD Copy5 T rial Installs the WinDVD Copy5 trial version. InterVideo MediaOne Gallery Installs the media library and all-in-one software. Ulead PhotoImpact 12 SE Installs the PhotoImpact image editing software. CyberLink PowerBackup Installs CyberLink PowerBackup to back up and restore your data easily . Corel Snapîre Plus SE Installs Corel Snapîre Plus SE.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-5 5.2.4 Make disk menu The Make disk menu contains items to create the Intel ICH9 or JMicron ® JMB36X RAID/AHCI driver disk. Make Intel ICH9R 32/64bit AHCI/RAID Driver Disk Allows you to create an ICH9R 32/64bit AHCI/RAID driver disk. Make JMicron JMB36X 32/64bit SA T A/RAID Driver Allows you to create a JMicron ® JMB36X 32/64bit SA T A/RAID driver .
5-6 Chapter 5: Software support 5.2.5 Manual menu The Manual menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to open the folder of the user manual. Mo st user ma nua l î les a re in P ort abl e D ocum ent Fo rma t ( PD F). Ins tal l t he Ad obe ® Ac rob at ® R ead er f rom th e U til it ies men u b efo re open ing a use r m an ual île . 5.2.6 ASUS Contact information Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. Y ou can also înd this information on the inside front cover of this user guide.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-7 Browse this DVD Displays the support DVD contents in graphical format. 5.2.7 Other information The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on the motherboard and the contents of the support DVD. Click an icon to display the speciîed information. Motherboard Info Displays the general speciîcations of the motherboard.
5-8 Chapter 5: Software support T echnical support Form Displays the ASUS T echnical Support Request Form that you have to îll out when requesting technical support. Filelist Displays the contents of the support DVD in text format.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-9 5.3 Software information Most of the applications in the support DVD have wizards that will conveniently guide you through the installation. View the online help or readme île that came with the software application for more information. 5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3⢠The ASUS MyLogo3⢠utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the image that appears on screen during the Power-On-Self-T ests (POST). The ASUS MyLogo3⢠is automatically installed when you install the ASUS Update utility from the support DVD. See section 5.2.3 Utilities menu for details. T o launch the ASUS MyLogo3â¢: 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility . Refer to section 4.1.1 ASUS Update utility for details. 2. Select Options from the drop down menu, then click Next . 3. Check the option Launch MyLogo to replace system boot logo before îashing BIOS, then click Next . 4. Select Update BIOS from a île from the drop down menu, then click Next . 5. When prompted, locate the new BIOS île, then click Next . The ASUS MyLogo3 window appears. 6. From the left window pane, select the folder that contains the image you intend to use as your boot logo. ⢠Before using the ASUS MyLogo3â¢, use the AFUDOS utility to make a copy of your original BIOS île, or obtain the latest BIOS version from the ASUS website. See section 4.1.4 AFUDOS utility . ⢠Make sure that the BIOS item Full Screen Logo is set to [Enabled] if you wish to use ASUS MyLogo3. See section 4.7.2 Boot Settings Conîguration . ⢠Y ou can create your own boot logo image in GIF , JPG, or BMP île formats.
5-10 Chapter 5: Software support 9. When the screen returns to the ASUS Update utility , îash the original BIOS to load the new boot logo. 10. After îashing the BIOS, restart the computer to display the new boot logo during POST . 8. Adjust the boot image to your desired size by selecting a value on the Ratio box. 7. When the logo images appear on the right window pane, select an image to enlarge by clicking on it.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-1 1 3. Click the Run button to perform a cable test. 5.3.2 AI NET2 The AI NET2 features the Marvell ® Virtual Cable T ester⢠(VCT). VCT is a cable diagnostic utility that reports LAN cable faults and shorts using the T ime Domain Reîectometry (TDR) technology . The VCT detects and reports open and shorted cables, impedance mismatches, pair swaps, pair polarity problems, and pair skew problems of up to 64 ns at one meter accuracy . The VCT feature reduces networking and support costs through a highly manageable and controlled network system. This utility can be incorporated in the network systems sofware for ideal îeld support as well as development diagnostics. Using the Virtual Cable T ester⢠T o use the the Marvell ® Virtual Cable T ester⢠utility: 1. Launch the VCT utility from the Windows ® desktop by clicking Start > All Programs > Marvell > Virtual Cable T ester . 2. Click Virtual Cable T ester from the menu to display the screen below . ⢠The VCT utility only tests Ethernet cables connected to Gigabit LAN port(s). ⢠The Run button on the Virtual Cable T ester⢠main window is disabled if no problem is detected on the LAN cable(s) connected to the LAN port(s). ⢠If you want the system to check the status of the LAN cable before entering the OS, enable the item Post Check LAN Cable in the BIOS Setup.
5-12 Chapter 5: Software support 5.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II PC Probe II is a utility that monitors the computerâs vital components, and detects and alerts you of any problem with these components. PC Probe II senses fan rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others. Because PC Probe II is software-based, you can start monitoring your computer the moment you turn it on. With this utility , you are assured that your computer is always at a healthy operating condition. Installing PC Probe II T o install PC Probe II on your computer: 1. Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature. If Autorun is not enabled in your computer , browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the setup.exe île from the ASUS PC Probe II folder . Double-click the setup.exe île to start installation. 2. Click the Utilities tab, then click ASUS PC Probe II. 3. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. Launching PC Probe II Y ou can launch the PC Probe II right after installation or anytime from the Windows ® desktop. T o launch the PC Probe II from the Windows ® desktop, click Start > All Programs > ASUS > PC Probe II > PC Probe II v1.xx.xx . The PC Probe II main window appears. After launching the application, the PC Probe II icon appears in the Windows ® taskbar . Click this icon to close or restore the application. Using PC Probe II Main window The PC Probe II main window allows you to view the current status of your system and change the utility conîguration. By default, th e main window displays the Preference section. Y ou can close or restore the Preference section by clicking on the triangle on the main window right handle. Click to close the Preference panel
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-13 Button Function Opens the Conîguration window Opens the Report window Opens the Desktop Management Interface window Opens the Peripheral Component Interconnect window Opens the Windows Management Instrumentation window Opens the hard disk drive, memory , CPU usage window Shows/Hides the Preference section Minimizes the application Closes the application Sensor alert Wh en a sys tem sen sor det ect s a p rob lem , th e ma in w ind ow r igh t ha ndl e turns red, as the illustrations below show . When displayed, the monitor panel for that sensor also turns red. Refer to the Monitor panels section for details. Preferences Y ou can customize the application using the Preference section in the main window . Click the box before each preference to activate or deactivate.
5-14 Chapter 5: Software support Changing the monitor panels position T o change the position of the monitor panels in the desktop, click the arrow down button of the Scheme options, then select another position from the list box. Click OK when înished. Moving the monitor panels Al l mon itor pan els m ove t oge ther usin g a m agne tic e ffect . If you want to detach a monitor panel from t he g r ou p, cl ic k t he ho rs es h oe m a gn et icon. Y ou can now move or reposition the panel independently . Hardware monitor panels The hardware monitor panels display the current value of a system sensor such as fan rotation, CPU temperature, and voltages. The hardware monitor panels come in two display modes: hexagonal (large) and rectangular (small). When you check the Enable Monitoring Panel option from the Preference section, the monitor panels appear on your computerâs desktop. Large display Small display Click to increase value Click to decrease value Adjusting the sensor threshold value Y ou can adjust the sensor threshold value in the monitor panel by clicking the or buttons. Y ou can also adjust the threshold values using the Conîg window . Y ou cannot adjust the sensor threshold values in a small monitoring panel.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-15 Monitoring sensor alert The monitor panel turns red when a component value exceeds or is lower than the threshold value. Refer to the illustrations below . Large display Small display WMI browser Click to display the WMI (Windows Management Instrumentation) browser . This b ro ws er displays various Windows ® management information. Click an item from the left panel to display on the right panel. Click the plus sign ( ) before WMI Information to display the available information. Y ou can enlarge or reduce the browser size by dragging the bottom right corner of the browser . DMI browser Click to display the DMI (Desktop Management Interface) browser . This browser displays various desktop and system information. Click the plus sign ( ) before DMI Information to display the available information.
5-16 Chapter 5: Software support PCI browser Click to display the PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) browser . This browser provides information on the PCI devices installed on your system. Click the plus sign ( ) before the PCI Information item to display available information. Usage The Usage browser displays real-time information on the CPU, hard disk drive space, and memory usage. Click to display the Usage browser . CPU usage The CPU tab displays real- time CPU usage in line graph representation. If the CPU has an enabled Hyper-Threading, two separate line graphs display the operation of the two logical processors. Hard disk drive space usage The Hard Disk tab displays the used and available hard disk drive space. The left panel of the tab lists all logical drives. Click a hard disk drive to display the information on the right panel. The pie chart at the bottom of the window represents the used (b lue) and the available HDD space.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-17 Memory usage The Memory tab shows both used and available physical memory . The pie chart at the bottom of the window represents the used (blue) and the available physical memory . Conîguring PC Probe II Click to view and adjust the sensor threshold values. The Conîg window has two tabs: Sensor/Threshold and Preference. The Sensor/ Threshold tab enables you to activate the sensors or to adjust the sensor threshold values. The Preference tab allows you to customize sensor alerts, or change the temperature scale. Loads the default threshold values for each sensor Applies your changes Cancels or ignores your changes Lo ad s y ou r s av ed co nî gur at ion Saves your conîguration
5-18 Chapter 5: Software support 5.3.4 ASUS AI Suite ASUS AI Suite allows you to launch AI Gear 2, AI N.O.S., AI Booster , AI Nap, and Q-Fan Plus utilities easily . Installing AI Suite T o install AI Suite on your computer: 1. Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature. 2. Click the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite . 3. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. Launching AI Suite Y ou can launch the AI Suite right after installation or anytime from the Windows ® desktop. T o launch the AI Suite from the Windows ® desktop, click Start > All Programs > ASUS > AI Suite > AI Suite v1.xx.xx . The AI Suite main window appears. After launching the application, the AI Suite icon appears in the Windows ® taskbar . Click this icon to close or restore the application. Using AI Suite Click the AI N.O.S., AI Gear 2, AI Nap, AI Booster , or Q-Fan Plus icon to launch the utility , or click the Normal icon to restore the system to normal state. Press to launch AI Gear 2 Press to launch AI Nap Pres s to la unch AI N.O.S. Press to launch Q-Fan Plus Pr ess to l aun ch A I Bo ost er Press to restore to normal
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-19 Other feature buttons Click on right corner of the main window to open the monitor window . Click on right corner of the expanded window to switch the temperature from degrees Centigrade to degrees Fahrenheit. Displays the CPU/ system temperature, CPU/memory/PCIE voltage, and CPU/ chassis fan speed Displays the FSB/CPU frequency
5-20 Chapter 5: Software support 5.3.5 ASUS AI Gear 2 ASUS AI Gear 2 provides four system performance options that allows you to select the best performance setting for your computing needs. This easy-to-use utility adjusts the processor frequency and vCore voltage to minimize system noise and power consumption. After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch AI Gear 2 by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on your Windows OS taskbar and then click the AI Gear 2 button on the AI Suite main window . Shift the gear to the performance setting that you like. Maximum Performance Medium Performance High Performance Maximum Power Saving
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-21 5.3.6 ASUS AI Nap This feature allows you to minimize the power consumption of your computer whenever you are away . Enable this feature for minimum power consumption and a more quiet system operation. After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows OS taskbar and click the AI Nap button on the AI Suite main window . Click Y es on the conîrmation screen. T o exit AI Nap mode, press the system power or mouse button then click Y es on the conîrmation screen. T o switch the power button functions from AI Nap to shutting down, just right click the AI Suite icon on the OS taskbar , select AI Nap and click Use power button . Unclick the the item to switch the function back.
5-22 Chapter 5: Software support 5.3.7 ASUS AI N.O.S. This ASUS Non-delay Overclocking System feature intelligently determines the system load and automatically boosts the performance for the most demanding tasks. After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows OS taskbar and click the AI N.O.S. button on the AI Suite main window . drop-down menu button select an N.O.S. mode Click the drop-down menu button and select Disable or Manual. Click Apply at the bottom to save the conîguration.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-23 5.3.8 ASUS Q-Fan Plus This ASUS Q-Fan Plus Control feature allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU Q-Fan or the Chassis Q-Fan for more efîcient system operation. After enabling the Q-Fan Plus function, the fans can be set to automatically adjust depending on the temperature, to decrease fan speed, or to achieve the maximum fan speed. After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows ® OS taskbar and click the Q-Fan Plus button on the AI Suite main window . Click the drop-down menu button and display the fan names. Select CPU Q-Fan or CHASSIS Q-Fan . Click the box of Enable Q-Fan to activate this function. drop-down list button Enable Q-Fan box Proîle list appears after clicking the Enable Q-Fan box. Click the drop-down list button and select a proîle. Optimal mode makes the fans adjust speed with the temperature; Silent mode minimizes fan speed for quiet fan operation; Performance mode boosts the fan to achieve maximal fan speed for the best cooling effect. click to display the drop-down list and select a Q-Fan mode Click Apply at the bottom to save the setup.
5-24 Chapter 5: Software support 5.3.9 ASUS AI Booster The ASUS AI Booster application allows you to overclock the CPU speed in WIndows ® environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows ® OS taskbar and click the AI Booster button on the AI Suite main window . The options on the taskbar allow you to use the default settings, adjust CPU/ Memory/PCI-E frequency manually , or create and apply your personal overclocking conîgurations.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-25 5.3.10 SoundMAX ® High Deînition Audio utility The ADI AD1988 High Deînition Audio CODEC provides 8-channel aud io capability through the SoundMAX ® audio utility with AudioESP⢠software to deliver the ultimate audio experience on your PC. The software implements high quality audio synthesis/rendering, 3D sound positioning, and advanced voice-input technologies. Follow the installation wizard to install the ADI AD1988 Audio Driver from the support CD that came with the motherboard package to activate the SoundMAX ® audio utility . If the SoundMAX ® audio utility is correctly installed, you will înd the SoundMAX ® icon on the taskbar . Y ou must use 4-channel, 6-channel or 8-channel speakers for this setup.
5-26 Chapter 5: Software support From the taskbar , double-click on the SoundMAX ® icon to display the SoundMAX ® Control Panel. Audio Setup Wizard By clicking the icon from the SoundMAX ® control panel, you can easily conîgure your audio settings. Simply follow succeeding screen instructions and begin enjoying High Deînition Audio.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-27 Jack conîguration This screen helps you conîgure your computerâs audio ports, depending on the audio devices you have installed. Adjust speaker volume This screen helps you adjust speaker volume. Click the T est button to hear the changes you have made. Adjust microphone volume This screen helps you adjust microphone volume. Y ou will be asked to read pre- written text to allow the AudioWizard to adjust the volume as you speak.
5-28 Chapter 5: Software support Audio preferences Click the icon to go to the Preferences page. This page allows you to change various audio settings. General options Click the General tab to choose your playback and recording devices, enable/ disable the AudioESP⢠feature, and enable/disable digital output. Listening Environment options Click the Listening Environment tab to set up your speaker , acoustic environment, and enable/disable the Virtual Theater Surround function.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-29 Microphone options Click the Microphone tab allows you to optimize your microphone input settings. Enhanced Microphone Features V oice recording Enables Noise Filter function. Detects repetitive and stationary noises like computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates it in the incoming sudio stream while recording. Y ou can enable it for a better recording quality . Directional Array Receives only the sound coming from the reception cone and eliminates interferences including neighboring speakers and reverberations. Y ou can enable it to transit clearer sound during on-line games, MSN, or Skype. Speaker Phone Advanced de-reverberation techniques can help to reduce echo and minimize its effect on the speech engine. Y ou can enable it when you have conference call to reduce echoes in the other side. ⢠The directional Array and Speaker Phone function only when working with the ASUS Array Mic. ⢠If you are using Windows Vista, you have to manually enable the directional Array and Speaker Phone function. Go to Control panel > Sound . Click the Recording tab on the top and select Microphone . Click the Microphone Enhancement tab and check Array Mic .
5-30 Chapter 5: Software support If you want to boot the system from a hard disk drive included in a created RAID set, copy îrst the RAID driver from the support CD to a îoppy disk before you install an operating system to the selected hard disk drive. Refer to section 5.6 Creating a RAID driver disk for details. 5.4 RAID conî¿gurations The motherboard comes with the Intel ® ICH9R Southbridge RAID controller that allow you to conîgure IDE and Serial A T A hard disk drives as RAID sets. The motherboard supports the following RAID conîgurations. 5.4.1 RAID deînitions RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in parallel, interleaved stacks. T wo hard disks perform the same work as a single drive but at a sustained data transfer rate, double that of a single disk alone, thus improving data access and storage. Use of two new identical hard disk drives is required for this setup. RAID 1 (Data mirroring) copies and maintains an identical image of data from one drive to a second drive. If one drive fails, the disk array management software directs all applications to the surviving drive as it contains a complete copy of the data in the other drive. This RAID conîguration provides data protection and increases fault tolerance to the entire system. Use two new drives or use an existing drive and a new drive for this setup. The new drive must be of the same size or larger than the existing drive. RAID 10 is data striping and data mirroring combined without parity (redundancy data) having to be calculated and written. With the RAID 10 conîguration you get all the beneîts of both RAID 0 and RAID 1 conîgurations. Use four new hard disk drives or use an existing drive and three new drives for this setup. RAID 5 stripes both data and parity information across three or more hard disk drives. Among the advantages of RAID 5 conîguration include better HDD performance, fault tolerance, and higher storage capacity . The RAID 5 conîguration is best suited for transaction processing, relational database applications, enterprise resource planning, and other business systems. Use a minimum of three identical hard disk drives for this setup. Intel ® Matrix Storage. The Intel ® Matrix Storage technology supported by the ICH9R chip allows you to create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10 function to improve both system performance and data safety . Y ou can also combine two RAID sets to get higher performance, capacity , or fault tolerance provided by the difference RAID function. For example, RAID 0 and RAID 1 set can be created by using only two identical hard disk drives.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-31 5.4.3 Intel ® RAID conîgurations This motherboard supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10 (0 1) and Intel ® Matrix Storage conîgurations for Serial A T A hard disks drives through the Intel ® ICH9R Southbridge chip. Setting the RAID item in BIOS Y ou must set the RAID item in the BIOS Setup before you can create a RAID set(s). T o do this: 1. Enter the BIOS Setup during POST . 2. Go to the Main Menu, select SA T A Conîguration , then press <Enter>. 3. Select the item Conîgure SA T A As , then press <Enter> to display the conîguration options. 4. Select [RAID] from the Conîgure SA T A As item options, then press <Enter>. 5. Select the item Onboard Serial-A T A BOOTROM , press <Enter>, then select [Enabled] from the options. 6. Save your changes, then exit the BIOS Setup. Refer to the system or the motherboard user guide for details on entering and navigating through the BIOS Setup. 5.4.2 Installing Serial A T A hard disks The motherboard supports Serial A T A hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array . T o install the SA T A hard disks for a RAID conîguration: 1. Install the SA T A hard disks into the drive bays. 2. Connect the SA T A signal cables. 3. Connect a SA T A power cable to the power connector on each drive .
5-32 Chapter 5: Software support Intel ® Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM Utility The Intel ® Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM utility allows you to create RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 (RAID 0 1), and RAID 5 set(s) from Serial A T A hard disk drives that are connected to the Serial A T A connectors supported by the Southbridge. T o enter the Intel ® Application Accelerator RAID Option ROM utility: 1. Install all the Serial A T A hard disk drives. 2. T urn on the system. 3. During POST , press <Ctrl I> to display the utility main menu. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ MAIN MENU ] 1. Create RAID Volume 2. Delete RAID Volume 3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID 4. Exit [ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ] RAID Volumes: None deî¿ned. Physical Disks: Port Drive Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID) 0 XXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk 1 XXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk 2 XXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk 3 XXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk [ ââ ]-Select [ESC]-Exit [ENTER]-Select Menu The navigation keys at the bottom of the screen allow you to move through the menus and select the menu options. The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only and may not exactly match the items on your screen.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-33 Creating a RAID 0 set (striped) T o create a RAID 0 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID V olume, then press <Enter>. This screen appears. 2. Enter a name for the RAID 0 set, then press <Enter>. 3. When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to select RAID 0(Stripe), then press <Enter>. 4. When the Disks item is highlighted, press <Enter> to select the hard disk drives to conîgure as RAID. This pop-up screen appears. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ CREATE ARRAY MENU ] [ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ] Enter a string between 1 and 16 characters in length that can be used to uniquely identify the RAID volume. This name is case sensitive and cannot contain special characters. [ ââ ]-Change [TAB]-Next [ESC]-Previous Menu [Enter]-Select Name: RAID Level: Disks: Strip Size: Capacity: Volume0 RAID0(Stripe) Select Disks 128KB 0.0 GB Create Volume [ SELECT DISKS ] [ ââ ]-Previous/Next [SPACE]-Selects [ENTER]-Selection Complete Port Drive Model Serial # Size Status 0 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk 1 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk 2 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk 3 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk Select 2 to 4 disks to use in creating the volume. 5. Use the up/down arrow key to highlight a drive, then press <Space> to select. A small triangle marks the selected drive. Press <Enter> after completing your selection.
5-34 Chapter 5: Software support 6. Use the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID 0 array , then press <Enter>. The available stripe size values range from 4 KB to 128 KB. The default stripe size is 128 KB. We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size for multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing. 7. Key in the RAID volume capacity that you want, then press <Enter>. The default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity . 8. Press <Enter> when the Create V olume item is highlighted. This warning message appears. WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST. Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N): 9. Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu, or <N> to go back to the Create V olume menu.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-35 Creating a RAID 1 set (mirrored) T o create a RAID 1 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID V olume, then press <Enter>. This screen appears. 2. Enter a name for the RAID 1 set, then press <Enter>. 3. When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to select RAID 1(Mirror), then press <Enter>. 4. When the Capacity item is highlighted, key in the RAID volume capacity that you want, then press <Enter>. The default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity . 5. Press <Enter> when the Create V olume item is highlighted. This warning message appears. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ CREATE ARRAY MENU ] [ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ] Enter a string between 1 and 16 characters in length that can be used to uniquely identify the RAID volume. This name is case sensitive and cannot contain special characters. [ ââ ]-Change [TAB]-Next [ESC]-Previous Menu [Enter]-Select Name: RAID Level: Disks: Strip Size: Capacity: Volume1 RAID1(Mirror) Select Disks N/A XX.X GB Create Volume WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST. Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N): 6. Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to main menu or <N> to go back to Create V olume menu.
5-36 Chapter 5: Software support Creating a RAID 10 set (RAID 0 1) T o create a RAID 10 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID V olume, then press <Enter>. This screen appears. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ CREATE ARRAY MENU ] [ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ] Enter a string between 1 and 16 characters in length that can be used to uniquely identify the RAID volume. This name is case sensitive and cannot contain special characters. Name: RAID Level: Disks: Strip Size: Capacity: Volume10 RAID10(RAID0 1) Select Disks 128KB XXX.X GB Create Volume 2. Enter a name for the RAID 10 set, then press <Enter>. 3. When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to select RAID 10(RAID0 1), then press <Enter>. 4. When the Stripe Size item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID 10 array , then press <Enter>. The available stripe size values range from 4 KB to 128 KB. The default stripe size is 64 KB. We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size for multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing. 5. Key in the RAID volume capacity that you want then press <Enter> when the Capacity item is highlighted. The default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity . [ ââ ]-Change [TAB]-Next [ESC]-Previous Menu [Enter]-Select
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-37 Creating a RAID 5 set (parity) T o create a RAID 5 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID V olume, then press <Enter>. This screen appears. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ CREATE ARRAY MENU ] [ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ] Enter a string between 1 and 16 characters in length that can be used to uniquely identify the RAID volume. This name is case sensitive and cannot contain special characters. Name: RAID Level: Disks: Strip Size: Capacity: Volume5 RAID5(Parity) Select Disks 64KB 0.0 GB Create Volume WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST. Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N): 7. Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu or <N> to go back to the Create V olume menu. [ ââ ]-Change [TAB]-Next [ESC]-Previous Menu [Enter]-Select 6. Press <Enter> when the Create V olume item is highlighted. This warning message appears. 2. Enter a name for the RAID 5 set, then press <Enter>. 3. When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to select RAID 5(Parity), then press <Enter>.
5-38 Chapter 5: Software support 4. The Disks item is highlighted, press <Enter> to select the hard disk drives to conîgure as RAID. The following pop-up screen appears. [ SELECT DISKS ] [ ââ ]-Previous/Next [SPACE]-Selects [ENTER]-Selection Complete Port Drive Model Serial # Size Status 0 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk 1 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk 2 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk 3 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk Select 2 to 4 disks to use in creating the volume. 5. Use the up/down arrow key to highlight the drive you want to set, then press <Space> to select. A small triangle marks the selected drive. Press <Enter> after completing your selection. 6. When the Stripe Size item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID 5 array , then press <Enter>. The available stripe size va lues range from 4 KB to 128 K B. The defa ult stripe size is 64 KB. We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size for multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing. 7. Key in the RAID volume capacity that you want, then press <Enter> when the Capacity item is highlighted. The default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity . 8. Press <Enter> when the Create V olume item is highlighted. This warning message appears. WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST. Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N): 9. Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu or <N> to go back to the Create V olume menu.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-39 5.4.4 JMicron ® RAID Conîguration The JMicron ® Serial A T A controller allows you to conîgure RAID 0, RAID 1 and JBOD sets on the external Serial A T A hard disk drives. Before creating a RAID set Prepare the following items: 1. T wo SA T A HDDs, preferably with the same model and capacity . 2. A write-enabled îoppy disk (Windows XP). A write-enabled îoppy disk or a USB îash disk drive (Windows Vista) 3. Microsoft ® Windows ® OS installation disk (Windows XP) 4. Motherboard support DVD with JMB363 driver Complete the following steps before you create a RAID set: 1. Install two external Serial A T A hard disk drives on your system. 2. Set the Controller Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID]. See section 4.5.5 Onboard Devices Conîguration for details. 3. Enter the JMB363 RAID BIOS utility to set up your RAID conîguration. 4. Create a JMB363 RAID driver disk for Windows ® OS installation. See section 5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk for details. 5. Install the JMB363 driver after the Windows ® OS had been installed. Always install the JMB363 driver before creating RAID sets. Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Onboard Device Conî¿guration J-Micron eSATA/PATA Controller [Enabled] Controller Mode [IDE] Marvell Gigabit LAN 1 [Enabled] LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] Marvell Gigabit LAN 2 [Enabled] LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] VIA Firewire 1394 [Enabled] BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Options Enabled Disabled
5-40 Chapter 5: Software support Entering the JMB363 RAID BIOS utility 1. During POST , press <Ctrl-J> to enter the JBM363 RAID BIOS menu. JMicron Technology Corp. PCI-to-SATA II/IDE RAID Controller BIOS v0.97 Copyright (C) 2004-2005 JMicron Technology http://www. jmicron.com HDD0 : HDS722516VLSA80 164 GB Non-RAID HDD1 : HDS722516DLA380 164 GB Non-RAID Press <Ctrl-J> to enter RAID Setup Utility... 2. The main JMB363 RAID BIOS menu appears. 3. Use the arrow keys to move the color bar and navigate through the items. Creating a RAID set 1. In the main JMB363 RAID BIOS menu, highlight Create RAID Disk Drive using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter>. [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving JMicron Technology Corp. PCI-to-SATA II/IDE RAID Controller BIOS v0.97 [ TAB]-Switch Window [ ââ ]-Select Item [ENTER]-Action [ESC]-Exit [Hard Disk Drive List] Model Name Capacity Type/Status HDD0: HDS722516VLSA80 164 GB Non-RAID HDD1: HDS722516DLA380 164 GB Non-RAID [RAID Disk Drive List] [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-41 2. When the Level item is highlighted, use the up/down arrow key to select the RAID set that you want to create. 3. When the Disks item is highlighted, use the up/down arrow key to highlight an HDD that you want to belong to the RAID set, then press the space bar to conîrm selection. Repeat the process until the HDDs are selected. A selected HDD shows a sign before it. 4. Key in the RAID volume capacity . Use the up/down arrow to choose the block size. The default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity . [Create New RAID] Name : JRAID Level: 0-Stripe Disks: Select Disk Block: 128 KB Size : 319 GB Conî¿rm Creation [Create New RAID] Name : JRAID Level: 1-Mirror Disks: Select Disk Block: N/A Size : 159 GB Conî¿rm Creation [Hard Disk Drive List] Model Name Capacity Type/Status HDD0: HDS722516VLSA80 XXX GB Non-RAID HDD1: HDS722516DLA380 XXX GB Non-RAID [Create New RAID] Name : JRAID Level: 0-Stripe Disks: Select Disk Block: 128 KB Size : 319 GB Conî¿rm Creation
5-42 Chapter 5: Software support 5. When done, press <Enter> to conîrm the creation of the RA ID set. A dialogue box appears to conîrm the action. Press <Y> to conîrm; otherwise, press <N>. 6. The following screen appears, displaying the relevant information about the RAID set you created. [RAID Disk Drive List] Mo de l N a m e RA ID L e ve l C ap ac it y S ta tu s M e mb er s( HD D x) RDD0: JRAID 0-Stripe XXX GB Normal 01 J M i c r o n T e c h n o l o g y C o r p . P C I - t o - S A T A I I / I D E R A I D C o n t r o l l e r B I O S v 0 . 9 7 [Hard Disk Drive List] Mo del Na me Available Ty pe/ Sta tu s HDD0: HDS722516VLSA80 164 GB Non-RAID HDD1: HDS722516DLA380 164 GB Non-RAID [ TAB]-Switch Window [ ââ ]-Select Item [ENTER]-Action [ESC]-Exit Pressing <Y> deletes all the data in the HDDs. [RAID Disk Dr ive List] [Create New RAID] Name: JRAID Level: 0-Stripe Disks: Select Disk Block: 128 KB Size : 319 GB Conî¿rm Creation CONFIRM RAID CREATION ALL DATA ON THE SELECTED HARD DISK WILL BE LOST WHEN EXIT WITH SAVING Create RAID on the selected HDD (Y/N)? Y
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-43 Deleting a RAID set 1. In the main JMB363 RAID BIOS menu, highlight Delete RAID Disk Drive using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter>. 2. Use the space bar to select the RAID set you want to delete. A selected set shows a sign before it. Press the <Del> key to delete the set. 3. A dialogue box appears to conîrm the action. Press <Y> to conîrm; otherwise, press <N>. Pressing <Y> deletes all the data in the HDDs. [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving J M i c r on T e c h n o l o g y C o r p . P C I - t o -S A T A I I / I D E R A I D C o n t r o l l er B I O S v 0 . 9 7 [Hard Disk Drive List] Mo del Na me C apa cit y Ty pe/ Sta tus HDD0: HDS722516VLSA80 164 GB RAID Inside HDD1: HDS722516DLA380 164 GB RAID Inside [RAID Di sk Drive List] M o d e l N a m e R A I D L e v e l C a p a c i t y S t a t u s M em be rs ( H D D x) R DD 0 : JRAID 0-Stripe XXX GB Normal 01 [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving ALL DATA ON THE RAID WILL BE LOST!! ARE YOU SURE TO DELETE (Y/N)? Y [ TAB]-Switch Window [ ââ ]-Select Item [ENTER]-Action [ESC]-Exit
5-44 Chapter 5: Software support Resetting disks to non-RAID T o reset disks to non-RAID: 1. In the main JMB363 RAID BIOS menu, highlight Revert HDD to non-RAID using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter>. 2. Use the space bar to select the HDD that you want to reset to non-RAID. A selected HDD shows a sign before it. 3. A dialogue box appears to conîrm the action. Press <Y> to conîrm; otherwise, press <N>. [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving Pressing <Y> deletes all the data in the HDD. ⢠An HDD that has been previously conîgured as part of another RAID set in another platform is called a broken RAID HDD. When you install a broken R AI D H DD , yo u c an n ot s el e ct t h is H D D w h en c o nf ig u ri n g a R A ID s et through the JMB363 utility . ⢠If yo u s ti ll w an t to u se t hi s br ok en R AI D HD D a s p ar t of t he R AI D se t conîgured through the J MB363, you may do so by resetting the dis k to non- RAID. Y ou will, however , lose all data and previous RAID conîgurations.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-45 T o solve a Mirror conîict: 1. In the main JMB363 RAID BIOS menu, highlight Solve Mirror Conîict using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter>. 2. Use the space bar to select the HDD that you want to set as source drive. The selected HDD shows a sign before it. 3. Using the <T AB>, move to the RAID Disk Drive List menu and highlight the RAID set that you want to rebuild. Press <Del> to begin rebuilding the Mirror conîguration. A status bar at the bottom of the screen shows the progress of the rebuilding. [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving J M i c r on T e c h n o l o g y C o r p . P C I - t o -S A T A I I / I D E R A I D C o n t r o l l er B I O S v 0 . 9 7 [Hard Disk Drive List] Mo del Na me C apa cit y Ty pe/ Sta tus HDD0: HDS722516VLSA80 164 GB R AI D I n s id e HDD1: HDS722516DLA380 164 GB RAID Inside [RAID Disk Drive List] M od el Na me RA I D Le ve l Ca pa ci ty St at us M em be rs (H DD x) RDD0: JRAID 1-Mirror XXX GB Rebuild 01 [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving Rebuilding... 01%, please wait... Solving a Mirror conîict A Mirror conîict occurs when both disks in a RAID 1 (Mirror) conîguration are unplugged from the system in turn, then plugged in again. Since both disks contain exactly the same data, the system will be unable to determine which of the two is the source drive. This option allows you to set the source drive and rebuild the Mirror drive according to the contents of the source drive.
5-46 Chapter 5: Software support Saving the settings and exiting setup When you have înished, highlight Save & Exit Setup using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter> to save the current RAID conîguration and exit the JMB363 RAID BOS utility . A dialogue box appears to conîrm the action. Press <Y> to conîrm; otherwise, press <N> to return to the JMB RAID BIOS menu. T o rebuild a Mirror drive: 1. In the main JMB363 RAID BIOS menu, highlight Rebuild Mirror Drive using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter>. [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving Rebuilding a Mirror Drive When one of the disks in a RAID 1 (Mirror) conîguration is unplugged from the system, then plugged in again, a dialogue box appears to ask you to rebuild the Mirror drive. Press <Y> to conîrm; otherwise, press <N>. This option allows you to rebuild the Mirror drive later and synchronize the data between two hard disks. 2. Using the <T AB>, move to the RAID Disk Drive List menu and highlight the RAID set that you want to rebuild. Press <Del> to begin rebuilding the Mirror conîguration. A status bar at the bottom of the screen shows the progress of the rebuilding. J M i c r on T e c h n o l o g y C o r p . P C I - t o -S A T A I I / I D E R A I D C o n t r o l l er B I O S v 0 . 9 7 [Hard Disk Drive List] Mo del Na me C apa cit y Ty pe/ Sta tus HDD0: HDS722516VLSA80 164 GB R AI D I n s id e HDD1: HDS722516DLA380 164 GB RAID Inside [RAID Disk Drive List] M od el Na me RA I D Le ve l Ca pa ci ty St at us M em be rs (H DD x) RDD0: JRAID 1-Mirror XXX GB Rebuild 01 [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving Rebuilding... 01%, please wait...
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-47 5.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows ® T o create a RAID driver disk in Windows ® : 1. Start Windows ® . 2. Place the motherboard support CD into the optical drive. 3. Go to the Make Disk menu, then click Intel ICH9R 32/64 bit RAID Driver Disk to create an Intel ® ICH9R RAID driver disk or the Make JMicron JMB36X 32/64-bit RAID Driver to create a JMicron JMB363 RAID driver disk. 4. Insert a îoppy disk into the îoppy disk drive or connect a USB îash disk if you are using Windows Vista OS. 5. Follow succeeding screen instructions to complete the process. Write-protect the îoppy disk to avoid computer virus infection. 5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk A îoppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows ® XP/Vista and later operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. For Windows Vista user , you can create a RAID driver disk with a îoppy disk drive or a USB îash disk drive. 5.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS T o create a RAID driver disk without entering the OS: 1. Boot your computer . 2. Press <Del> during POST to enter the BIOS setup utility . 3. Set the optical drive as the primary boot device. 4. Insert the support CD into the optical drive. 5. Save changes and exit BIOS. 6. Press any key when the system prompts âPress any key to boot from the optical drive.â 7. When the menu appears, press <1> to create a RAID driver disk. 8. Insert a formatted îoppy disk into the îoppy drive then press <Enter>. 9. Follow succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.
5-48 Chapter 5: Software support T o install the RAID driver in Windows XP: 1. During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the <F6> key to install third-party SCSI or RAID driver . 2. Press <F6> then insert the îoppy disk with RAID driver into the îoppy disk drive. 3. When prompted to select the SCSI adapter to install, make sure you select Intel(R) SA T A RAID Controller (Desktop ICH9R) and JMicron JMB363. 4. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation. T o install the RAID driver in Windows ® Vista: 1. Insert the îoppy disk/USB device with RAID driver into the îoppy disk drive/U SB port. 2. During the OS installation, select JMicron JMB363. 3. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.
6 This chapter tells how to install A TI ® CrossFire⢠graphics cards to avail of A TIâs Multi-Video Processing technology . ATI ® CrossFire⢠technology support
ASUS Blitz Extreme Chapter summary 6 6.1 Overview ....................................................................................... 6-1 6.2 Installing CrossFire⢠graphics cards ....................................... 6-2 6.3 Software information ................................................................... 6-5
ASUS Blitz Extreme 6-1 6.1 Overview The motherboard supports the A TI ® CrossFire⢠technology that allows you to install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the installation procedures in this section. 6.1.1 Requirements ⢠CrossFire⢠Edition graphics card (Master) ⢠CrossFireâ¢-ready graphics card (Slave) ⢠CrossFireâ¢-ready motherboard ⢠Make sure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power required by your system. See 9. A TX Power connectors on page 2-30 for details. 6.1.2 Before you begin Uninstall other graphics card drivers in your system T o uninstall other graphics card drivers: 1. Close all current applications. 2. Go to Control Panel > Add/Remove Programs . 3. Select your current graphics card driver/s. 4. Select Add/Remove . 5. Restart your system. ⢠Visit the A TI website or download the Radeon ® X850 Crossîre⢠Edition Userâs Guide from the support CD for detailed hardware requirements and installation procedures. ⢠The A TI CrossFire⢠technology supports only the following operating systems: - Windows ® XP 32-bit (Home or Professional) with Service Pack 2 (SP2) - Windows ® XP Professional 64-bit Edition. ⢠Make sure that your graphics card driver supports the A TI ® CrossFire⢠T echnology . Download the latest driver from the A TI website (www .ati.com) ⢠The maximum resolution of Radeon⢠X850 CrossFire⢠Edition is 1600 x 1200 at 65 MHz when you use DVI output.
6-2 Chapter 6: A TI ® MVP technology support Slave graphics card Master graphics card 2. Insert the CrossFire⢠Edition (Master) graphics card into the PCI Express x16 blue slot. Make sure that the card is properly seated on the slot. 6.2 Installing CrossFire⢠graphics cards Before installing a CrossFire⢠system, refer to the user guide that came with the A TI ® CrossFire⢠Edition graphics card. T o install the graphics cards: 1. Prepare one CrossFire⢠Edition (Master) graphics card and one CrossFireâ¢-ready (Slave) graphics card.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 6-3 3. Insert the CrossFireâ¢-ready (Slave) graphics card into the PCI Express x16 blue slot. Make sure that the card is properly seated on the slot. 4. Connect an auxiliary power source from the power supply to the graphics cards.
6-4 Chapter 6: A TI ® MVP technology support 6. Connect the other end of the external cable to the Slave graphics card. 7. Connect the loose end to the corresponding port on your monitor . 5. Connect one end of the external cable to the Master graphics card. 7 6
ASUS Blitz Extreme 6-5 6.3 Software information 6.3.1 Installing the device drivers Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device drivers. The A TI CrossFire⢠technology supports only the following operating systems: ⢠Windows ® XP 32-bit (Home or Professional) with Service Pack 2 (SP2) ⢠Windows ® XP Professional 64-bit Edition. ⢠Windows ® Vista 32/64 bit Edition. (Will be ready later . Visit the A TI website (www .ati.com) 1. T urn on your system and log in with administrator rights. 2. Windows ® auto-detects the CrossFire⢠graphics cards and displays the Found New Hardware Wizard window . Click Cancel . 3. Place the CrossFire⢠installation CD in your optical drive and install drivers from the opening menu. 4. Click Next to continue from the installation window that appears. 5. Read the License Agreement, then click Y es .
6-6 Chapter 6: A TI ® MVP technology support 6. Select the components that you want to install, then click Next. Setup prepares the installation wizard that will guide you to setup process. Windows automatically conîgures the A TI Catalyst Control Center . The status windows indicates the progress of the installation. 7. The Setup Complete window appears, indicating that the driver îles have been copied to your computer . Click Y es to restart your computer now or No to restart later 8. Click Finish . ⢠Select Express to install the HydraVision⢠multi-monitor and desktop management software, as well as the A TI driver . ⢠Select Custom to individually choose desired software components.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 6-7 6.3.2 Using the Catalyst⢠Control Center The Catalyst⢠Control Center allows you to access display features of the A TI hardware and software you installed. Use this application to adjust your graphic settings, enable/disable connected devices, and change your desktop orientation. Launching the Catalyst⢠Control Center There are several ways to launch the Catalyst⢠Control Center: ⢠On the Windows ® task bar , click Start > A TI Catalyst⢠Control Center > Catalyst⢠Control Center ⢠Double-click the Catalyst⢠Control Center desktop shortcut. ⢠On the Windows ® task bar , double- click the Catalyst⢠Control Center icon.
6-8 Chapter 6: A TI ® MVP technology support The Catalyst⢠Control Center Dialog Box View The Catalyst⢠Control Center provides two views: Standard - simple view with wizards for beginners Advance - allows advanced users to access and conîgure the complete features of the software Set to Advance view to enable the CrossFire⢠function.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 6-9 T o enable CrossFireâ¢: 1. Set the view to Advance . 2. Click the Crossîre⢠item in Graphics Settings. 3. In the CrossFire⢠Settings dialog, tick the box opposite Enable CrossFire⢠. 4. Click OK to effect the setting. 2 3 4 Hotkeys Click the Hotkeys tab on the Catalyst⢠Control Center to access the Hotkeys Manager , which allows you to create key combinations as shortcuts for performing certain functions quickly .
6-10 Chapter 6: A TI ® MVP technology support Profiles Click the Proîles tab on the Catalyst⢠Control Center to access the Proîles Manager , which allows you to create customized environments for your desktop, video, and 3D applications. Preferences Click the Preferences tab on the Catalyst⢠Control Center to select a language, restore defaults, change skins, or enable/disable the System T ray icon.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 6-1 1 Help Click the Help tab on the Catalyst⢠Control Center to access the online help system, generate a Problem Report, and get the Catalyst⢠Control Center version information.
6-12 Chapter 6: A TI ® MVP technology support
A CPU features The Appendix describ es the CPU features and technologies that the motherboard supports as well as the debug code table for the LCD Poster .
ASUS Blitz Extreme Chapter summary A A.1 Intel ® EM64T .................................................................................. A-1 A.2 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep ® T echnology (EIST) ........................ A-1 A.3 Intel ® Hyper-Threading T echnology ........................................... A-3 A.4 Debug Code T able ........................................................................ A-4
ASUS Blitz Extreme A-1 A.1 Intel ® EM64T ⢠The motherboard is fully compatible with Intel ® LGA775 processors running on 32-bit operating systems. ⢠The motherboard comes with a BIOS île that supports EM64T . Y ou can download the latest BIOS île from the ASUS website (www .asus.com/ support/download/) if you need to update the BIOS île. See Chapter 4 for details. ⢠Visit www .intel.com for more information on the EM64T feature. ⢠Vi sit www .mi cro sof t.c om fo r mo re inf orm atio n o n W ind ows ® 64-bit OS. Using the Intel ® EM64T feature T o use the Intel ® EM64T feature: 1. Install an Intel ® CPU that supports the Intel ® EM64T . 2. Install a 64-bit operating system (Windows ® Vista 64-bit Edition, Windows ® XP Professional x64 Edition or Windows ® Server 2003 x64 Edition). 3. Install the 64-bit drivers for the motherboard components and devices from the support DVD. 4. Install the 64-bit drivers for expansion cards or add-on devices, if any . Refe r to t he expa nsion card or add-o n devi ce(s ) docu mentati on, or visit the rela ted we bsite, to ver ify if the ca rd/dev ice suppor ts a 64 -bit s ystem. A.2 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep ® Technology (EIST) ⢠The motherboard comes with a BIOS île that supports EIST . Y ou can download the latest BIOS île from the ASUS website (www .asus.com/ support/download/) if you need to update the BIOS. See Chapter 4 for details. ⢠Visit www .intel.com for more information on the EIST feature. A.2.1 System requirements Before using EIST , check your system if it meets the following requirements: ⢠In tel ® processor with EIST support ⢠BIOS île with EIST support ⢠Operating system with EIST support (Windows ® Vista, Windows ® XP SP2/ Windows ® Server 2003 SP1/Linux 2.6 kernel or later versions)
A-2 Appendix: CPU features A.2.2 Using the EIST T o use the EIST feature: 1. T urn on the computer , then enter the BIOS Setup. 2. Go to the Advanced Menu, highlight CPU Conîguration, then press <Enter>. 3. Set the Intel(R) SpeedStep T echnology item to [Automatic], then press <Enter>. 4. Press <F10> to save your changes and exit the BIOS setup. 5. After the computer restarts, right click on a blank space on the desktop, then select Properties from the pop-up menu. 6. When the Display Properties window appears, click the Screen Saver tab. 7. Click the Power button on the Monitor power section to open the Power Options Properties window . 8. On the Power schemes section, click , then select any option except Home/Ofîce Desktop or Always On. 9. Click Apply , then click OK. 10. Close the Display Properties window . After you adjust the power scheme, the CPU internal frequency slightly decreases when the CPU loading is low . The screen displays and procedures may vary depending on the operating system.
ASUS Blitz Extreme A-3 A.3 Intel ® Hyper-Threading Technology ⢠The motherboard supports Intel ® Pentium ® 4 LGA775 processors with Hyper-Threading T echnology . ⢠Hy per -Thr ead ing Te chn ol ogy is sup por ted und er Win dow s ® Vista/XP/2003 Server and Linux 2.4.x (kernel) and later versions only . Under Linux, use the Hyper-Threading compiler to compile the code. If you are using any other operating systems, disable the Hyper-Threading T echnology item in the BIOS to ensure system stability and performance. ⢠Installing Windows ® XP Service Pack 1 or later version is recommended. ⢠Make sure to enable the Hyper-Threading T echnology item in BIOS before installing a supported operating system. ⢠For more information on Hyper-Threading T echnology , visit www.intel. com/info/hyperthreading. Using the Hyper-Threading T echnology T o use the Hyper-Threading T echnology: 1. Install an Intel ® Pentium ® 4 CPU that supports Hyper-Threading T echnology . 2. Power up the system and enter the BIOS Setup. Under the Advanced Menu, make sure that the item Hyper-Threading T echnology is set to [Enabled]. The BIOS item appears only if you installed a CPU that supports Hyper- -Threading T echnology . 3. Restart the computer .
A-4 Appendix: CPU features A.4 Debug Code Table Code Description CPU INIT CPU Initiation DET CPU T est CMOS R/W functionality . CHIPINIT Early chipset initialization: -Disable shadow RAM -Disable L2 cache -Program basic chipset registers DET DRAM Detect memory -Auto-detection of DRAM size, type and ECC. -Auto-detection of L2 cache DC FCODE Expand compressed BIOS code to DRAM EFSHADOW Call chipset hook to copy BIOS back to E000 & F000 shadow RAM. INIT IO Initialize IO devices. INIT HWM Initialize Hardware Monitor . CLR SCRN 1. Blank out screen 2. Clear CMOS error îag INIT8042 1. Clear 8042 interface 2. Initialize 8042 self-test ENABLEKB 1. T est special keyboard controller for Super I/O chips. 2. Enable keyboard interface. DIS MS 1. Disable PS/2 mouse interface (optional). 2. Auto detect ports for keyboard & mouse followed by a port & interface swap (optional). 3. Reset keyboard for Super I/O chips. R/W FSEG T est F000h segment shadow to see whether it is R/W-able or not. If test fails, keep beeping the speaker . DET FLASH Auto detect îash type to load appropriate îash R/W codes into the run time area in F000 for ESCD & DMI support. TESTCMOS Use walking 1âs algorithm to check out interface in CMOS circuitry . Also set real-time clock power status, and then check for override. PRG CHIP Program chipset default values into chipset. INIT CLK Initialize clock generator. CHECKCPU Detect CPU information including brand, type and CPU level (586 or 686). INTRINIT Initial interrupts vector table. INITINT9 Initialize INT 09 buffer CPUSPEED 1. Program CPU internal MTRR (Pentium class CPU) for 0-640K memory address. 2. Initialize the APIC for Pentium class CPU. 3. Program early chipset according to CMOS setup. Example: onboard IDE controller . 4. Measure CPU speed. 5. Invoke video BIOS. VGA BIOS Initialize VGA BIOS TESTVRAM 1. Initialize multi-language 2. Put information on screen display , including BIOS logo, CPU type, CPU speed . RESET KB Reset keyboard.
ASUS Blitz Extreme A-5 8254TEST T est 8254 8259MSK1 T est 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 1. 8259MSK2 T est 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 2. 8259TEST T est 8259 functionality . COUNTMEM Calculate total memory by testing the last double word of each 64K page. MP INIT 1. Program MTRR of M1 CPU 2. Initialize L2 cache for P6 class CPU & program CPU with proper cacheable range. 3. Initialize the APIC for P6 class CPU. 4. On MP platform, adjust the cacheable range to smaller one in case the cacheable ranges between each CPU are not identical. USB INIT Initialize USB TEST MEM T est all memory (clear all extended memory to 0) SHOW MP Display number of processors (multi-processor platform) PNP LOGO Display PnP logo ONBD IO Initialize Onboard IO devices. EN SETUP Okay to enter Setup utility . MSINST AL Initialize PS/2 Mouse CHK ACPI Prepare memory size information for function call: INT 15h ax=E820h EN CACHE Turn on L2 cache SET CHIP Program chipset registers according to items described in Setup & Auto- conîguration table. AUTO CFG Assign resources to devices. INIT FDC 1. Initialize îoppy controller 2. Set up îoppy related îelds in 40:hardware. DET IDE Detect & install all IDE devices: HDD, LS120, ZIP , CDROM. COM/LPT Detect serial ports & parallel ports. DET FPU Detect & install co-processor CPU CHG New CPU installed EZ FLASH Execute EZ Flash CPR F AIL CPR error F AN F AIL Fan error UCODEERR UCODE error FLOPYERR Floppy error KB ERROR Keyboard error HD ERR HDD error CMOS ERR CMOS error MS ERROR Mouse error SMARTERR HDD smart function error HM ERROR Hard monitor error AINETERR AI NET error CASEOPEN Case open P ASSWORD Clear EP A or customization logo. 1. Call chipset power management hook. 2. Recover the text fond used by EP A logo (not for full screen logo) 3. If password is set, ask for password.
A-6 Appendix: CPU features USB FINAL Initialize PnP boot devices 1. USB înal Initialization 2. NET PC: Build SYSID structure 3. Switch screen back to text mode 4. Set up ACPI table at top of memory . 5. Invoke ISA adapter ROMs 6. Assign IRQs to PCI devices 7. Initialize APM 8. Clear noise of IRQs. INIT ROM Initialize device option ROMs. NUM LOCK 1. Program daylight saving 2. Update keyboard LED & typematic rate UPDT DMI 1. Build MP table 2. Build & update ESCD 3. Set CMOS century to 20h or 19h 4. Load CMOS time into DOS timer tick 5. Build MSIRQ routing table. INT 19H Boot attempt (INT 19h)
ii E3152 First Edition V1 June 2007 Copyright © 2007 ASUST eK 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 any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUST eK COMPUTER INC. (âASUSâ). Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modiîed or altered, unless such repair , modiîcation of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or (2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing. ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL âAS ISâ WITHOUT W ARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANT ABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A P ARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT , SPECIAL, INCIDENT AL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DA T A, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE), EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT . SPECIFICA TIONS AND INFORMA TION CONT AINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FOR INFORMA TIONAL USE ONL Y , AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE A T ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THA T MA Y APPEAR IN THIS MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT . Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registered trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identiîcation or explanation and to the ownersâ beneît, without intent to infringe.
iii Contents Notices ....................................................................................................... viii Safety information ...................................................................................... ix About this guide .......................................................................................... x Blitz Extreme speciîcations summary .................................................... xii Chapter 1: Product introduction 1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1 1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1 1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-2 1.3.1 ROG intelligent Performace & Overclocking features .... 1-2 1.3.2 ROG unique features ..................................................... 1-4 1.3.3 Product highlights ........................................................... 1-7 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1 2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-5 2.2.1 Placement direction ........................................................ 2-5 2.2.2 Screw holes .................................................................... 2-5 2.2.3 Motherboard layout ......................................................... 2-6 2.2.4 Audio card layout ............................................................ 2-6 2.2.5 Layout contents ............................................................... 2-7 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-9 2.3.1 Installing the CPU ......................................................... 2-10 2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan .............................. 2-12 2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan ......................... 2-14 2.4 System memory ......................................................................... 2-16 2.4.1 Overview ....................................................................... 2-16 2.4.2 Memory conîgurations .................................................. 2-17 2.4.3 Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 2-19 2.4.4 Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 2-19 2.5 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 2-20 2.5.1 Installing an expansion card ......................................... 2-20 2.5.2 Conîguring an expansion card ..................................... 2-20 2.5.3 Interrupt assignments ................................................... 2-21 2.5.4 PCI slots ........................................................................ 2-22 2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slots ..................................................... 2-22
iv Contents 2.5.6 PCI Express x16 slots ................................................... 2-22 2.6 Jumper ........................................................................................ 2-23 2.7 EL I/O shield, LCD Poster and Audio card Installation ........... 2-24 2.7.1 EL I/O shield and LCD Poster Installation ..................... 2-24 2.7.2 Audio card Installation ................................................... 2-25 2.8 Connectors ................................................................................. 2-26 2.8.1 Rear panel connectors .................................................. 2-26 2.8.2 Internal connectors ....................................................... 2-29 2.8.3 Onboard switches ......................................................... 2-38 2.8.4 Installing the optional fans ............................................ 2-39 2.8.5 Installing the DIY Pedestal ............................................ 2-41 Chapter 3: Powering up 3.1 Starting up for the îrst time ........................................................ 3-1 3.2 T urning off the computer ............................................................. 3-2 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function .................................... 3-2 3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch .............................. 3-2 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 4-1 4.1.1 ASUS Update utility ........................................................ 4-1 4.1.2 Creating a bootable îoppy disk ....................................... 4-4 4.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility ................................................... 4-5 4.1.4 AFUDOS utility ................................................................ 4-6 4.1.5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility ...................................... 4-8 4.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 4-9 4.2.1 BIOS menu screen ........................................................ 4-10 4.2.2 Menu bar ....................................................................... 4-10 4.2.3 Navigation keys ............................................................. 4-10 4.2.4 Menu items .................................................................... 4-1 1 4.2.5 Sub-menu items ............................................................. 4-1 1 4.2.6 Conîguration îelds ........................................................ 4-1 1 4.2.7 Pop-up window .............................................................. 4-1 1 4.2.8 Scroll bar ........................................................................ 4-1 1 4.2.9 General help .................................................................. 4-1 1 4.3 Main menu .................................................................................. 4-12
v Contents 4.3.1 System T ime [xx:xx:xx] ................................................. 4-12 4.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx] ....................................... 4-12 4.3.3 Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.] ................................. 4-12 4.3.4 Language [English] ....................................................... 4-12 4.3.5 S A T A 1 - 6 . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . . .. . 4 - 1 3 4.3.6 SA T A Conîguration ....................................................... 4-14 4.3.7 AHCI Conîguration ....................................................... 4-15 4.3.8 System Information ....................................................... 4-16 4.4 Extreme T weaker menu ............................................................. 4-17 4.4.1 Ai Overclocking [Auto] ................................................... 4-17 PCIE Frequency [Auto] ................................................................ 4-18 DRAM Frequency [Auto] .............................................................. 4-18 DRAM T iming Control [Auto] ........................................................ 4-18 Loadline Calibration [Auto] ........................................................... 4-20 FSB T ermination V oltage [Auto] ................................................... 4-20 DRAM V oltage [Auto] ................................................................... 4-21 South Bridge V oltage [Auto] ......................................................... 4-21 PLL V oltage [Auto] ....................................................................... 4-21 NB LED Selection [NB V olt] ......................................................... 4-22 SB LED Selection [PLL V olt] ........................................................ 4-22 4.5 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 4-22 4.5.1 Ai Net 2 ......................................................................... 4-23 4.5.2 USB Conîguration ........................................................ 4-23 4.5.3 CPU Conîguration ........................................................ 4-25 4.5.4 Chipset .......................................................................... 4-26 4.5.5 OnBoard Devices Conîguration ................................... 4-27 4.5.6 PCI PnP ........................................................................ 4-28 4.6 Power menu ................................................................................ 4-29 4.6.1 Suspend Mode [Auto] ................................................... 4-29 4.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume [Disabled] ....................... 4-29 4.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled] .......................................... 4-29 4.6.4 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled] ....................................... 4-29 4.6.5 APM Conîguration ........................................................ 4-30 4.6.6 Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 4-31 4.7 Boot menu .................................................................................. 4-35
vi Contents 4.7.1 Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 4-35 4.7.2 Boot Settings Conîguration .......................................... 4-36 4.7.3 Security ......................................................................... 4-37 4.8 T ools menu ................................................................................. 4-39 4.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 .......................................................... 4-39 4.8.2 ASUS O.C. Proîle ......................................................... 4-40 4.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 4-41 Chapter 5: Software support 5.1 Installing an operating system ................................................... 5-1 5.2 Support DVD information ............................................................ 5-1 5.2.1 Running the support DVD ............................................... 5-1 5.2.2 Drivers menu ................................................................... 5-2 5.2.3 Utilities menu .................................................................. 5-3 5.2.4 Make disk menu .............................................................. 5-5 5.2.5 Manual menu .................................................................. 5-6 5.2.6 ASUS Contact information .............................................. 5-6 5.2.7 Other information ............................................................ 5-7 5.3 Software information ................................................................... 5-9 5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3⢠........................................................... 5-9 5.3.2 AI NET2 ......................................................................... 5-1 1 5.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II ......................................................... 5-12 5.3.4 ASUS AI Suite ............................................................... 5-18 5.3.5 ASUS AI Gear 2 ............................................................ 5-20 5.3.6 ASUS AI Nap ................................................................ 5-21 5.3.7 ASUS AI N.O.S. ............................................................ 5-22 5.3.8 ASUS Q-Fan Plus ......................................................... 5-23 5.3.9 ASUS AI Booster ........................................................... 5-24 5.3.10 SoundMAX ® High Deînition Audio utility ....................... 5-25 5.4 RAID conîgurations .................................................................. 5-30 5.4.1 RAID deînitions ............................................................ 5-30 5.4.2 Installing Serial A T A hard disks ..................................... 5-31 5.4.3 Intel ® RAID conîgurations ............................................. 5-31 5.4.4 JMicron ® RAID Conîguration ........................................ 5-39 5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk ....................................................... 5-47 5.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS .... 5-47
vii 5.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows ® ...................................... 5-47 Chapter 6: A TI ® CrossFire⢠technology support 6.1 Overview ....................................................................................... 6-1 6.1.1 Requirements .................................................................. 6-1 6.1.2 Before you begin ............................................................. 6-1 6.2 Installing CrossFire⢠graphics cards ....................................... 6-2 6.3 Software information ................................................................... 6-5 6.3.1 Installing the device drivers ............................................. 6-5 6.3.2 Using the Catalyst⢠Control Center ............................... 6-7 Appendix: CPU features A.1 Intel ® EM64T .................................................................................. A-1 A.2 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep ® T echnology (EIST) ........................ A-1 A.2.1 System requirements ...................................................... A-1 A.2.2 Using the EIST ................................................................ A-2 A.3 Intel ® Hyper-Threading T echnology ........................................... A-3 A.4 Debug Code T able ........................................................................ A-4
viii Notices Federal Communications Commission Statement This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: ⢠This device may not cause harmful interference, and ⢠This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with manufacturerâs instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However , there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: ⢠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 emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian 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 is required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modiîcations to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the userâs authority to operate this equipment.
ix Safety information Electrical safety ⢠T o prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the electrical outlet before relocating the system. ⢠When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add a device. ⢠Before connecting or removing signal cables from the motherboard, ensure that all power cables are unplugged. ⢠Seek professional assistance before using an adpater 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, contact your local power company . ⢠If the power supply is broken, do not try to îx it by yourself. Contact a qualiîed service 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 dealer immediately . ⢠T o avoid short circuits, keep paper clips, screws, and staples away from connectors, slots, sockets and circuitry . ⢠Avoid dust, humidity , and temperature extremes. Do not place the product in any area where it may become wet. ⢠Place the product on a stable surface. ⢠If you encounter technical problems with the product, contact a qualiîed service technician or your retailer .
x About this guide This user guide contains the information you need when installing and conîguring the motherboard. How this guide is organized This guide contains the following parts: ⢠Chapter 1: Product introduction This chapter describes the features of the motherboard and the new technology it supports. ⢠Chapter 2: Hardware information This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It includes description of the switches, jumpers, and connectors on the motherboard. ⢠Chapter 3: Powering up This chapter describes the power up sequence and ways of shutting down the system. ⢠Chapter 4: BIOS setup This chapter tells how to change system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided. ⢠Chapter 5: Software support This chapter describes the contents of the support CD that comes with the motherboard package and the software. ⢠Chapter 6: A TI CrossFire⢠support This chapter describes the A TI CrossFire⢠feature and shows the graphics card installation procedures. ⢠Appendix: CPU features The Appendix describes the CPU features and technologies that the motherboard supports as well as the debug code table for the LCD Poster . Where to înd more information Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and software updates. 1. ASUS websites The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information. 2. Optional documentation Y our product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty îyers, that may have been added by your dealer . These documents are not part of the standard package.
xi Conventions used in this guide T o make sure that you perform certain tasks properly , take note of the following symbols used throughout this manual. T ypography Bold text Indicates a menu or an item to select. Italics Used to emphasize a word or a phrase. <Key> Key s encl osed i n the less- than a nd gre ater-t han s ign mea ns tha t you must p ress the enclo sed ke y. Example: <Enter> means that you must press the Enter or Return key . <Key1 Key2 Key3> If you must press two or more keys simultaneously , the key names are linked with a plus sign ( ). Example: <Ctrl Alt D> Command Means that you must type the command exactly as shown, then supply the required item or value enclosed in brackets. Example: At the DOS prompt, type the command line: afudos /i[î¿lename] afudos /iBlitz-Extreme.ROM DANGER/W ARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when trying to complete a task. CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components when trying to complete a task. NOTE: T ips and additional information to help you complete a task. IMPORT ANT : Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a task.
xii Blitz Extreme speciî¿cations summary CPU LGA775 socket for Intel ® Coreâ¢2 Quad / Coreâ¢2 Extreme / Coreâ¢2 Duo / Pentium ® Extreme / Pentium ® D / Pentium ® 4 / Celeron ® D Processors Support Intel ® next generation 45nm Multi-Core CPU Compatible with Intel ® 06/05B/05A processors * Refer to www .asus.com for Intel CPU support list Chipset Intel ® P35 / ICH9R with Intel ® Fast Memory Access T echnology System Bus 1333 / 1066 / 800 MHz Memory 4 x DIMM, max. 8GB, DDR3 1333* / 1066 / 800 MHz, non-ECC, un-buffered memory Dual channel memory architecture * This chipset ofîcially supports the memory frequency up to DDR3 1066MHz. T uned by ASUS Super Memspeed T echnology , this motherboard natively supports up to DDR3 1333. Refer to www .asus.com or user manual for Memory QVL (Qualiîed Vendor List). Expansion Slots 2 x PCI Express x16 slots (support dual graphics solution) 3 x PCI Express x1 (PCIEx1_1 is compatible with the audio slot.) 2 x PCI 2.2 CrossFire⢠T echnology Support A TI CrossFire⢠graphics cards (both at x8 mode) Storage Southbridge - 6 x SA T A 3.0 Gb/s ports - Intel Matrix Storage T echnology supports RAID 0, 1, 10, 5. JMicron ® JMB363 P A T A and SA T A controller - 1 x UltraDMA 133/100/66 for up to 2 P A T A devices - 2 x External SA T A 3.0 Gb/s port (SA T A On-the-Go) LAN Dual Gigabit LAN controllers, both featuring AI NET2 High Deînition Audio SupremeFX II Audio Card - ADI 1988B 8-channel High Deînition Audio CODEC - Noise Filter Coaxial / Optical S/PDIF out ports at back I/O IEEE 1394 VIA 6308P 1394a controller supports 2 x 1394a ports (one at midboard; one at back I/O) USB 12 x USB 2.0 ports (6 ports at mid-board, 6 ports at back panel) (continued on the next page)
xiii Blitz Extreme speciî¿cations summary ASUS Exclusive Overclocking features Crosslinx technology Extreme T weaker Loadline Calibration Intelligent overclocking tools: - CPU level up - AI NOS⢠(Non-delay Overclocking System) - AI Overclocking (intelligent CPU frequency tuner) - AI Booster Utility - O.C. Proîle Overclocking protection: - COP EX (Component Overheat Protection -EX) - V oltiminder LED - ASUS C.P .R. (CPU Parameter Recall) ASUS Special Features Fusion Block System LCD Poster EL I/O Onboard Switches: Power / Reset / Clr CMOS Q-Connector Q-Fan Plus ASUS EZ Flash2 ASUS CrashFree BIOS3 ASUS MyLogo3⢠Multi-Language BIOS Back Panel I/O Ports 1 x PS/2 Keyboard (purple) 1 x S/PDIF Out (Coaxial Optical) 2 x External SA T A 2 x LAN (RJ45) port 6 x USB 2.0/1.1 ports 1 x IEEE1394a port 1 x Clr CMOS switch Internal I/O Connectors 3 x USB 2.0 connectors support additional 6 USB 2.0 ports 1 x Floppy disk drive connector 1 x IDE connector for two devices 6 x SA T A connectors 8 x Fan connectors (1 x CPU/ 1 x Power/ 4 x Chassis/ 2 x Optional) 2 x Thermal sensor connectors 1 x IEEE1394a connector 1 x S/PDIF Out connector 1 x Chassis Intrusion connector 24-pin A TX Power connector 8-pin A TX 12V Power connector 1 x En/Dis-able Clr CMOS 1 x EL I/O Shield connector 1 x System panel connector 1 x LCD poster connector (continued on the next page)
xiv Blitz Extreme speciî¿cations summary BIOS Features 16 Mb AMI BIOS, PnP , DMI2.0, WfM2.0, SM BIOS 2.4, ACPI 2.0a Multi-Language BIOS Manageability WOL by PME, Chassis Intrusion, PXE Accessories Fusion Block System Accessory ASUS Optional Fan DIY Pedestal 3 in 1 ASUS Q-connector kit UltraDMA 133/100/66 cable Floppy disk drive cable Serial A T A cables Serial A T A power cables 2-port USB2.0 module IEEE1394a module EL I/O Shield Thermal sensor cables Cable ties User's manual Software The hottest 3D game: S.T .A.L.K.E.R Support DVD: Drivers ASUS PC Probe II ASUS Update ASUS AI Suite Futuremark ® 3DMark ® 06 Advanced Edition Kaspersky Anti-Virus software Form Factor A TX Form Factor , 12âx 9.6â (30.5cm x 24.5cm) *Speciîcations are subject to change without notice.
1 Product introduction This chapter describes the motherboard features and the new technologies it supports.
ASUS Blitz Extreme Chapter summary 1 1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1 1.2 Package contents ......................................................................... 1-1 1.3 Special features ............................................................................ 1-2
ASUS Blitz Extreme 1-1 1.1 Welcome! Thank you for buying an ASUS ® Blitz Extreme motherboard! The motherboard delivers a host of new features and latest technologies, making it another standout in the long line of ASUS quality motherboards! Before you start installing the motherboard, and hardware devices on it, check the items in your package with the list below . If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer . 1.2 Package contents Check your motherboard package for the following items. Motherboard ASUS Blitz Extreme I/O modules USB 2.0 module IEEE 1394a module Cables Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable Floppy disk drive cable Serial A T A cables Serial A T A power cables Thermal sensor cables Accessories Fusion Block System Accessory EL I /O shield LCD Poster ASUS Optional Fan 3-in-1 ASUS Q-Connector Kit Cable ties DIY Pedestal DVD/CD ASUS motherboard support DVD The hottest game: S.T .A.L.K.E.R Documentation User guide
1-2 Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1.3 Special features 1.3.1 ROG intelligent Performace & Overclocking features Crosslinx Crosslinx is a unique technology utilizing a dedicated special graphics controller to optimize PCIe allocation with dual x8 lanes. Such architecture eliminates the x4 bottleneck found on competing x16, x4 solutions. Hence, the Crosslinx is able to provide faster graphics performance. Fusion Block System Building on the ROG unique heatpipe, the Fusion Block System (FBS) provides dual paths to cool down the motherboard. Users will be able to connect the FBS with the watercooling circuit. Component Overheat Protection -EX (COP EX) When the temperature of Northbridge and Southbridge reaches the limit of speciîcations, the motherboard will automatically shut down to protect NB and SB from burning. V oltiminder LED The voltage warning LED uses green, yellow , and red light on the motherboard to highlight the voltage status of each respecitve component (CPU, memory , NB, SB). 2-Phase DDR3 The 2-phase DDR3 supplies stable power to memory in turns. Each phase only shoulders half of the loading compared with the only one phase power module. 8 phase DrMOS power The DrMOS, the next generation of CPU power module, provides higher efîciency for energy saving and higher quality power supply to the processor . With thtis latest technology , this motherboard allows users to reach the highest overclock frequency and to have the most stable platform. Super Memspeed T echnology T o attain top performance, ASUS has managed to break through current FSB and DRAM ratio proportions by utilizing Super Memspeed T echnology- the latest technology that provides even more precise overclocking options to unleash the true potential of DDR3 memory . Native DDR3 1333 maximizes system performance by eliminating the bottleneck when overclocking both the CPU and the memory- providing great performance for 3D graphics and other memory demanding applications.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 1-3 Loadline Calibration The Loadline calibration ensures stable and optimal CPU voltage when heavy loading. Extreme T weaker This feature allows you to îne tune the CPU/memory voltage and gradually increase the memory Front Side Bus (FSB) and PCI Express frequency at 1MHz increment to achieve maximum system performance. AI NOS⢠(Non-Delay Overclocking System) The patented ASUS Non-delay Overclocking System⢠(AI NOSâ¢) technology auto-detects the CPU loading and dynamically overclocks the CPU speed when needed. Unlike other dynamic overclocking techniques, AI NOS⢠reacts much faster to satisfy your need for speed. See page 4-17 and 5-22 for details. AI Booster The ASUS AI Booster allows you to overclock the CPU speed in Windows environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. ASUS O.C. Proîle The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Proîle that allows users to conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be stored in the CMOS or a separate île, giving users freedom to share and distribute their favorite settings. See page 4-40 for details. C.P .R. (CPU Parameter Recall) The C.P .R. feature of the motherboard BIOS allows automatic re-setting to the BIOS default settings in case the system hangs due to overclocking. When the system hangs due to overclocking, C.P .R. eliminates the need to open the system chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut down and reboot the system, and the BIOS automatically restores the CPU default setting for each parameter .
1-4 Chapter 1: Product Introduction 1.3.2 ROG unique features Supreme FX II features Supreme FX II extends all the features of the 1st generation and places a shielding to enhancethe sound quality . It also lights up the model name with stylish LEDs. Noise Filter This feature detects repetitive and stationary noises (non-voice signals) like computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates it in the incoming audio stream while recording. See page 5-29 for details. LCD Poster The LCD Poster uses an external panel to smartly display the error message of the physical system during the Power-On Self T est (POST) to inform you the boot error instead of the âcode name.â Onboard Switches A power-on button, a reset button, and a clear CMOS button are onboard to provide overclockers and gamers the convenience of îne-tuning performance when working on a bare (open-case) system. Press the power-on button to wake up the system, the reset button to reboot, and the clear CMOS button to clear setup information when the system hangs due to overclocking. See page 2-38 for details. ASUS Q-Fan plus technology The ASUS Q-Fan plus technology smartly adjusts the CPU and chassis fan 1 speeds according to the system loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efîcient operation. See pages 4-32 and 5-23 for details. Optional Fan (for water-cooling/passive-cooling only) The optional fan is speciîcally designed to provide sufîcient airîow over the CPU power modules and chipset area when water-cooling or passive-cooling is utilized, ensuring effective heat dissipation for the entire system. See page 2-39 for details. ASUS Multi-language BIOS The multi-language BIOS allows you to select the language of your choice from the available options. The localized BIOS menus allow easier and faster conîguration. See page 4-12 for details.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 1-5 ASUS MyLogo3 This new feature present in the motherboard allows you to personalize and add style to your system with customizable boot logos. See page 5-9 for details. ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the overclocking capability . AI Gear 2 AI Gear 2 allows you to choose from proîles to adjust CPU frequency and vCore voltage, minimizing system noise and saving 50% power consumption at most. Y ou can real-time chnage the mode under operating system to suit your needs. See page 5-20 for details. AI Nap With AI Nap, the system can continue running at minimum power and noise when you are temporarily away . T o wake the system and return to the OS environment, simply click the mouse or press a key . See page 5-21 for details. 8-Phase Power Design The ASUS 8-Phase Power Design provides highly efîcient operation to generate less heat (at least 15°C (59°F)) than other conventional power solutions. It reduces input ripple current and output ripple voltage, which keeps CPU and power module from suffering the risk of high power stress. It has the advantages of quick transient response and stability , especially beneîcial when CPU requires more current immediately under heavy loading or overclocking mode. Fanless Design - Stack Cool 2 ASUS Stack Cool 2 is a fan-less and zero-noise cooling solution that lowers the temperature of critical heat generating components. The motherboard uses a special design on the printed circuit board (PCB) to dissipate heat these critical components generate. ASUS EZ DIY ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings.
1-6 Chapter 1: Product Introduction ASUS Q-Connector ASUS Q-Connector allows you to easily connect or disconnect the chassis front panel cables to the motherboard. This unique module eliminates the trouble of connecting the system panel cables one at a time and avoiding wrong cable connections. See page 2-37 for details. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 allows users to restore corrupted BIOS data from a USB îash disk containing the BIOS île. See page 4-8 for details. ASUS EZ Flash 2 EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility . Simply press the predeîned hotkey to launch the utility and update the BIOS without entering the OS. Update your BIOS easily without preparing a bootable diskette or using an OS-based îash utility . See pages 4-5 and 4-39 for details.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 1-7 1.3.3 Product highlights Green ASUS This motherboard and its packaging comply with the European Unionâs Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packaging to safeguard consumersâ health while minimizing the impact on the environment. Intel ® Quad-core Processor Ready This motherboard supports the latest Intel ® Quad-core processors in the LGA775 package. It is excellent for multi-tasking, multi-media and enthusiastic gamers. Intel ® Quad-core processor is one of the most powerful CPU in the world. Intel ® Coreâ¢2 Duo/ Intel ® Coreâ¢2 Extreme CPU support This motherboard supports the latest Intel ® Coreâ¢2 processor in the LGA775 package. With the new Intel ® Core⢠microarchitecture technology and 1333/ 1066 / 800 MHz FSB, the Intel ® Coreâ¢2 is one of the most powerful and energy efîcient CPUs in the world. Intel P35 Chipset The Intel ® P35 Express Chipset is the latest chipset designed to support 8GB of dual-channel DDR3 1066/800 architecture, 1333/1066/800 FSB (Front Side Bus), PCI Express x16 graphics and multi-core CPU. It especially includes Intel ® Fast Memory Access technology that signiîcantly optimizes the use of available memory bandwidth and reduces the latency of the memory accesses. DDR3 memory support The motherboard supports DDR3 memory that features data transfer rates of 1066 / 800 MHz to meet the higher bandwidth requirements of the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications. The dual-channel DDR3 architecture doubles the bandwidth of your system memory to boost system performance. Furthermore, this motherboard does not restrict the memory size across two channels. Users may install different memory size DIMMs into the two channels and enjoy dual-channel and single-channel functions at the same time. This new feature optimizes the use of available memory size.
1-8 Chapter 1: Product Introduction Serial A T A 3.0 Gb/s technology and SA T A-On-The-Go This motherboard supports the next-generation hard drives based on the Serial A T A (SA T A) 3Gb/s storage speciîcation, delivering enhanced scalability and doubling the bus bandwidth for high-speed data retrieval and saves. The external SA T A port located at the back I/O provides smart setup and hot-plug functions. Easily backup photos, videos and other entertainment contents to external devices. See page 2-27 for details. Dual RAID solution The Intel ® P35 chipset incorporates six Serial A T A connectors with high performance RAID 0, 1, 5 and 10 functions. Making this motherboard an ideal solution to enhance hard disk performance and data back up protection without the cost of add-on cards. See page 2-30 for details. IEEE 1394a support The IEEE 1394a interface provides high speed digital interface for audio/video appliances such as digital television, digital video camcorders, storage peripherals & other PC portable devices. See pages 2-28 and 2-32 for details. S/PDIF digital sound ready This motherboard provides convenient connectivity to external home theater audio systems via coaxial and optical S/PDIF-out (SONY -PHILIPS Digital Interface) jacks. It allows to transfer digital audio without converting to analog format and keeps the best signal quality . See pages 2-28 and 2-35 for details. Dual Gigabit LAN solution The integrated dual Gigabit LAN design allows a PC to serve as a network gateway for managing trafîc between two separate networks. This capability ensures rapid transfer of data from W AN to LAN without any added arbitration or latency . See page 2-26 for details. High Deînition Audio Enjoy high-end sound quality on your PC! The onboard 8-channel HD audio (High Deînition Audio, previously codenamed Azalia) CODEC enables high-quality 192KHz/24-bit audio output, jack-sensing feature, retasking functions and multi- streaming technology that simultaneously sends different audio streams to dif ferent destinations. Y ou can now talk to your partners on the headphone while playing multi-channel network games. See pages 2-27 for details.
2 Hardware information This chapter lists the hardware setup procedures that you have to perform when installing system components. It includes description of the jumpers and connectors on the motherboard.
ASUS Blitz Extreme Chapter summary 2 2.1 Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1 2.2 Motherboard overview ................................................................. 2-5 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-9 2.4 System memory ......................................................................... 2-16 2.5 Expansion slots .......................................................................... 2-20 2.6 Jumper ........................................................................................ 2-23 2.7 EL I/O, LCD Poster and Audio card Installation ...................... 2-24 2.8 Connectors ................................................................................. 2-26
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-1 2.1 Before you proceed T ake note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components or change any motherboard settings. ⢠Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any component. ⢠Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or a metal object, such as the power supply case, before handling components to avoid damaging them due to static electricity . ⢠Hold components by the edges to avoid touching the ICs on them. ⢠Whenever you uninstall any component, place it on a grounded antistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component. ⢠Before you install or remove any component, ensure that the A TX power supply is switched off or the power cord is detached from the power supply . Failure to do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals, and/or components. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME CPU LED CPU_CRAZY CPU_HIGH CPU_NORMAL Onboard LEDs The motherboard comes with LEDs that indicate the voltage conditions of CPU, memory , northbridge, southbridge and FSB frenquency . Y ou may adjust the voltages in BI OS. Th ere are also a n LED for hard disk drive act ivity and an o nboard switch for power status. For more information on voltage adjustment, refer to 4.4 Extreme T weaker menu 1. CPU LED Refer to the illustration below for the location of the CPU LED and the table below for LED deînition. Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red) CPU V oltage 1.10000~1.50000 1.51250~1.69375 1.70000~1.90000
2-2 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2. Memory LED Refer to the illustration below for the location of the memory LED and the table below for LED deînition. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME DDR LED DDR_CRAZY DDR_HIGH DDR_NORMAL BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME North/South Bridge LED NB_CRAZY NB_HIGH NB_NORMAL SB_CRAZY SB_HIGH SB_NORMAL 3. Northbridge/Southbridge LEDs Northbridge and southbridge LEDs each have two different voltage displays. The northbridge LED displays either the 1.25V NB voltage or the 1.20V FSB termination voltage. The southbridge LED shows either the 1.50V CPU PLL voltage or the 1.05V SB voltage. Y ou can select the voltage to display in BIOS. Refer to the illustration below for the location of the northbridge/ southbridge LEDs and the table below for LED deînition. Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red) DRAM V oltage 1.80~2.20 2.22~2.60 2.62~3.40 Normal (green) High (yellow) Crazy (red) North Bridge V oltage 1.25~1.59 1.61~1.83 1.85~2.03 FSB T ermination V oltage 1.20~1.40 1.42~1.60 1.62~1.80 PLL V oltage 1.50~1.60 1.62~1.80 1.82~2.00 South Bridge V oltage 1.050~1.125 1.150~1.175 1.200~1.225
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-3 CPU FSB 200MHz 200-299 (Default) 300-399 (Overclocking) 400-499 (Overclocking) 500-599 (Overclocking) 600~ (Overclocking) 1 (Default) 2 3 4 5 (Fast) CPU FSB 266MHz 266-299 (Default) 300-399 (Overclocking) 400-499 (Overclocking) 500-599 (Overclocking) 600~ (Overclocking) 1 (Default) 2 3 4 5 (Fast) CPU FSB 333MHz 333-399 (Default) 400-499 (Overclocking) 500-549 (Overclocking) 550-599 (Overclocking) 600~ (Overclocking) 1 (Default) 2 3 4 5 (Fast) BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Frequency LED Fast Default 4. FSB frenquency LED There are îve LEDs that light up to indicate the level of FSB frequency . One lit blue LED suggests that the frequency is low (default), while îve lit blue LEDs shows that the frequency is high (fast). Refer to the illustration below for the location of the FSB frenquency LEDs and the table below for LED deînition.
2-4 Chapter 2: Hardware information BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Hard Disk LED HD_LED 5. Hard Disk LED The HD LED is designed for indication of the hard disk activity . It blinks when the data is written into or read from the hard disk drive. It stays unlit if there is no hard disk connect ed to the motherboar d or the hard disk does not function. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Power on switch 6. Power LED The motherboard comes with a power-on switch as the standby power LED. The swtich lights up to indicate that the system is ON, in sleep mode, or in soft-off mode. This is a reminder that you should shut down the system and unplug the power cable before removing or plugging in any motherboard component. The illustration below shows the location of the onboard power- on switch.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-5 BLITZ EXTREME ® 2.2 Motherboard overview Before you install the motherboard, study the conîguration of your chassis to ensure that the motherboard îts into it. Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. DO NOT overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard. 2.2.1 Placement direction When installing the motherboard, make sur e that you place it into the chassis in the correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear p art of the chassis as indicated in the image below . 2.2.2 Screw holes Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard to the chassis. Place this side towards the rear of the chassis
2-6 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.2.3 Motherboard layout PANEL BLITZ EXTREME ® CHASSIS 24.5cm (9.6in) 30.5cm (12.0in) CPU_FAN DDR2 DIMM_A1 (64 bit,240-pin module) OPT_FAN1 FLOPPY Super I/O CLRTC_SW Intel ® ICH9R EA TXPWR CR2032 3V Lithium Cell CMOS Power Intel ® P35 USB11 12 KB_USB56 LAN2_USB34 JMB363 CHA_FAN1 Marvell 88E8001 SPDIF_OUT LGA775 CHA_FAN3 IE1394_2 USB78 EA TX12V 88E8056 PWR_FAN DDR2 DIMM_A2 (64 bit,240-pin module) DDR2 DIMM_B1 (64 bit,240-pin module) DDR2 DIMM_B2 (64 bit,240-pin module) CHA_FAN2 BIOS PCIEX1_1 PCIEX1_2 PCIEX1_3 PCI1 PCIEX16_1 PCIEX16_2 PCI2 SAT A56 SAT A34 SAT A12 IDT PES24N3A LAN1_USB12 VIA VT6308P OPT_TEMP1 CHA_FAN4 ADH DDR_CRAZY DDR_HIGH DDR_NORMAL USB910 OPT_FAN2 OPT_TEMP2 CLR_CMOS CPU_CRAZY CPU_HIGH CPU_NORMAL PWR_SW RST_SW PRI_EIDE SPDIF_O12 E1394 LCD_CON SB_CRAZY SB_HIGH SB_NORMAL FREQUENCY Fast Default NB_CRAZY NB_HIGH NB_NORMAL ESA TA12 HD_LED Refer to 2.8 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and internal connectors. 2.2.4 Audio card layout S UPREMEFX II Listen with Absolute HD
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-7 2.2.5 Layout contents Slots Page 1. DDR3 DIMM slots 2-16 2. PCI slots 2-22 3. PCI Express x 1 slots 2-22 4. PCI Express x16 slots 2-22 Jumper Page 1. Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLR TC) 2-23 Rear panel connectors Page 1. PS/2 keyboard port (purple) 2-26 2. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port 2-26 3. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port 2-26 4. LAN 1 (RJ-45) port 2-26 5. Line In port (light blue) 2-27 6. Line Out port (lime) 2-27 7. Microphone port (pink) 2-27 8. Center/Subwoofer port (orange) 2-27 9. Rear Speaker Out port (black) 2-27 10. Side Speaker Out port (gray) 2-27 1 1. USB 2.0 ports 1, 2, 3 and 4 2-27 12. External SA T A port 1/2 2-27 13. IEEE 1394a port 2-28 14. Clear CMOS switch 2-28 15. Optical S/PDIF Out port 2-28 16. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6 2-28
2-8 Chapter 2: Hardware information Internal connectors Page 1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) 2-29 2. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE) 2-29 3. ICH9R Serial A T A connectors (7-pin SA T A1-6) 2-30 4. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB78, USB910, USB1 1 12) 2-31 5. IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) 2-32 6. Thermal sensor cable connectors (2-pin OPT_TEMP1-2) 2-32 7. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_F AN, 3-pin CHA_F AN1-4, 3-pin PWR_F AN, 3-pin OPT_F AN1-2) 2-33 8. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) 2-34 9. A TX power connectors (24-pin EA TXPWR, 2x4-pin EA TX12V) 2-34 10. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF , for ASUS HDMI VGA card) 2-35 1 1. System panel connector (20-8 pin P ANEL) 2-36 Onboard switches Page 1. Power-on switch 2-38 2. Reset switch 2-38
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-9 2.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) The motherboard comes with a surface mount LGA775 socket designed for the Intel ® Coreâ¢2 Quad/ Coreâ¢2 Extreme/ Coreâ¢2 DUO/ Coreâ¢2/ Pentium ® D/ Pentium ® 4/ Pentium ® Extreme. ⢠Upon purchase of the motherboard, make sure that the PnP cap is on the socket and the socket contacts are not bent. Contact your retailer immediately if the PnP cap is missing, or if you see any damage to the PnP cap/socket contacts/motherboard components. ASUS will shoulder the cost of repair only if the damage is shipment/transit-related. ⢠Keep the cap after installing the motherboard. ASUS will process Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) requests only if the motherboard comes with the cap on the LGA775 socket. ⢠The product warranty does not cover damage to the socket contacts resulting from incorrect CPU installation/removal, or misplacement/loss/ incorrect removal of the PnP cap. ⢠Make sure that all power cables are unplugged before installing the CPU. ⢠If installing a dual-core CPU, connect the chassis fan cable to the CHA_F AN1 connector to ensure system stability .
2-10 Chapter 2: Hardware information 3. Lift the load lever in the direction of the arrow to a 135º angle. 2. Press the load lever with your thumb (A), then move it to the left (B) until it is released from the retention tab. Retention tab Load lever This side of the socket box should face you. PnP cap A B T o prevent damage to the socket pins, do not remove the PnP cap unless you are installing a CPU. 2.3.1 Installing the CPU T o install a CPU: 1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard. Before installing the CPU, make sure that the cam box is facing towards you and the load lever is on your left. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME CPU Socket 775
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-1 1 5. Position the CPU over the socket, making sure that the gold triangle is on the bottom-left corner of the socket then ît the socket alignment key into the CPU notch. Alignment key Gold triangle mark 6. Close the load plate (A), then push the load lever (B) until it snaps into the retention tab. 7. If installing a dual-core CPU, connect the chassis fan cable to the CHA_F AN1 connector to ensure system stability . A B The CPU îts in only one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU into the socket to prevent bending the connectors on the socket and damaging the CPU! The motherboard supports Intel ® LGA775 processors with the Intel ® Enhanced Memory 64 T echnology (EM64T), Enhanced Intel SpeedStep ® T echnology (EIST), and Hyper-Threading T echnology . Refer to the Appendix for more information on these CPU features. 4. Lift the load plate with your thumb and foreînger to a 100º angle (A), then push the PnP cap from the load plate window to remove (B). Load plate A B CPU notch
2-12 Chapter 2: Hardware information Fastener Motherboard hole 2.3.2 Installing the CPU heatsink and fan The Intel ® LGA775 processor requires a specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition and performance. T o install the CPU heatsink and fan: 1. Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, making sure that the four fasteners match the holes on the motherboard. ⢠When you buy a boxed Intel ® processor , the package includes the CPU fan and heatsink assembly . If you buy a CPU separately , make sure that you use only Intel ® -certiîed multi-directional heatsink and fan. ⢠Y our Intel ® LGA775 heatsink and fan assembly comes in a push-pin design and requires no tool to install. ⢠If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly , make sure that you have properly applied Thermal Interface Material to the CPU heatsink or CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly . Make sure that you have installed the motherboard to the chassis before you install the CPU fan and heatsink assembly . Make sure to orient each fastener with the narrow end of the groove pointing outward. (The photo shows the groove shaded for emphasis.) Orient the heatsink and fan assembly such that the CPU fan cable is closest to the CPU fan connector . Narrow end of the groove
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-13 3. Connect the CPU fan cable to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_F AN. 2. Push down two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to secure the heatsink and fan assembly in place. B A A A B B DO NOT forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring errors will occur if you fail to plug this connector . BLITZ EXTREME ® GND CPU F AN PWR CPU F AN IN CPU F AN PWM BLITZ EXTREME CPU fan connector CPU_F AN A B
2-14 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.3.3 Uninstalling the CPU heatsink and fan 3. Pull up two fasteners at a time in a diagonal sequence to disengage the heatsink and fan assembl y from the motherboard. B B A A A A B B 4. Carefully remove the heatsink and fan assembly from the motherboard. T o uninstall the CPU heatsink and fan: 1. Disconnect the CPU fan cable from the connector on the motherboard. 2. Rotate each fastener counterclockwise.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-15 5. Rotate each fastener clockwise to ensure correct orientation when reinstalling. Narrow end of the groove Refer to the documentation in the boxed or stand-alone CPU fan package for detailed information on CPU fan installation. The narrow end of the groove should point outward after resetting. (The photo shows the groove shaded for emphasis.)
2-16 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.4 System memory 2.4.1 Overview The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets. A DDR3 module has the same physical dimensions as a DDR3 DIMM but is notched differently . DDR3 modules are developed for better performance with less power consumption. The îgure illustrates the location of the DDR3 DIMM sockets: Channel Sockets Channel A DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2 Channel B DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2 BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME 240-pin DDR3 DIMM sockets DIMM_A2 DIMM_A1 DIMM_B2 DIMM_B1 This chipset ofîcially supports DDR3 1066/800. With the ASUS Super Memspeed T echnology , the motherboard supports upto 1333MHz and provides more ratio setting items. Refer to the table below for details. FSB 1600 1333 1066 DDR3 1600 1333 1200 1000 800 1333 1 1 1 1 1000 833 889
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-17 ⢠If you install four 1 GB memory modules, the system may detect less than 3 GB of total memory because of address space allocation for other critical functions. Thi s limitation applies to Windows Vista 32-bit/Wi ndows XP 32-bit version operating system since it does not support P AE (Physical Address Extention) mode. ⢠If you install Windows Vista 32-bit/Windows XP 32-bit version operating system, we recommend that you install less than 3GB of total memory . Notes on memory limitations ⢠Due to chipset limitation, this motherboard can only support up to 8 GB on the operating systems listed below . Y ou may install a maximum of 2 GB DIMMs on each slot. 64-bit Windows XP Professional x64 Edition Windows Vista x64 Edition ⢠Y ou may install varying memory sizes in Channel A and Channel B. The system maps the total size of the lower-sized channel for the dual-channel conîguration. Any excess memory from the higher-sized channel is then mapped for single-channel operation. ⢠Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency . For optimum compatibility , it is recommended that you obtain memory modules from the same vendor . ⢠Due to chipset resource allocation, the system may detect less than 8 GB system memory when you installed four 2 GB DDR3 memory modules. 2.4.2 Memory conîgurations Y ou may install 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB unbuffered non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.
2-18 Chapter 2: Hardware information Blitz Extreme Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1067 MHz capability Blitz Extreme Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-1333MHz capability Size V endor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No. DIMM support A* B* C* 512MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-DG-E 8 ELPIDA SS EBJ51UD8BAF A-DG-E ⢠⢠⢠1024MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-DG-E 8 ELPIDA DS EBJ1 1UD8BAFA-DG-E ⢠⢠512MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-DJ-E 9 ELPIDA SS EBJ51UD8BAF A-DJ-E ⢠⢠1024MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-DJ-E 9 ELPIDA DS EBJ1 1UD8BAFA-DJ-E ⢠Size V endor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No. DIMM support A* B* C* 512MB Qimonda IDSH51-03A1F1C-10F N/A QIMONDA SS IMSH51U03A1F1C-10F ⢠⢠⢠1024MB Qimonda IDSH51-03A1F1C-10F N/A QIMONDA DS IMSH1GU13A1F1C-10F ⢠⢠512MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-AC-E 8 ELPIDA SS EBJ51UD8BAF A-AG-E ⢠⢠⢠1024MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-AC-E 8 ELPIDA DS EBJ1 1UD8BAFA-AG-E ⢠⢠512MB NANY A NT5CB64M8AN-BE N/A NANYA SS NT512C64B88A0NY -BF ⢠⢠1024MB MICRON D9GTR 7 MICRON SS MT8JTF12864A Y -1G1BZES ⢠⢠⢠1024MB SAMSUNG K4B1G0846C-ZCF8 8 SAMSUNG SS M378B2873CZ0-CF8 ⢠⢠⢠512MB SAMSUNG K4B510846E-ZCG8 8 SAMSUNG SS M378B6573EZ0-CG8 ⢠⢠512MB Kingston IDSH51-03A1F1C-10F N/A QIMONDA SS KVR1066D3N7/512 ⢠⢠⢠1024MB Kingston J5308BASE-AC-E N/A ELPIDA DS KVR1066D3N7/1G ⢠⢠⢠Blitz Extreme Motherboard Qualiîed V endors Lists (QVL) DDR3-800 MHz capability Size V endor Chip No. CL Chip Brand SS/ DS Part No. DIMM support A* B* C* 512MB SAMSUNG K4B510846E-ZCE7 N/A SAMSUNG SS M378B6573EZ0-CE7 ⢠⢠⢠512MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-AC-E 6 ELPIDA SS EBJ51UD8BAF A-8C-E ⢠⢠⢠1024MB ELPIDA J5308BASE-AC-E 6 ELPIDA DS EBJ1 1UD8BAFA-8C-E ⢠⢠⢠512MB NANY A NT5CB64M8AN-25D N/A NANY A SS NT512C64B88A0NY -25D ⢠⢠1024MB NANY A NT5CB64M8AN-25D N/A NANY A DS NT1GC64B8HA0NY -25D ⢠⢠1024MB Qimonda IDSH51-03A1F1C-08E N/A QIMONDA DS IMSH1GU13A1F1C-08E ⢠⢠1024MB Hynix HY5TQ1G831ZNF-S6 N/A Hynix SS HYMT1 12U64ZNF8-S6 ⢠⢠2048MB Hynix HY5TQ1G831ZNF-S5 N/A Hynix DS HYMT125U64ZNF8-S5 ⢠⢠SS - Single-sided DS - Double-sided DIMM support: A - Supports one module inserted into either slot, in Single-channel memory conîguration. B - Supports one pair of modules inserted into either Channel A or Channel B as one pair of Dual- channel memory conîguration. C - S upp ort s f our mo dul es i nse rte d i nto th e bl ue an d wh ite sl ots a s tw o p air s of Du al -ch ann el memory conîguration. Visit the ASUS website for the latest DDR3-1333/1067/800 MHz QVL.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-19 2.4.3 Installing a DIMM Unplug the power supply before adding or removing DIMMs or other system components. Failure to do so can cause severe damage to both the motherboard and the components. T o install a DIMM: 1. Unlo ck a DIM M so cket by pres sing the retaining clips outward. 2. Align a DIMM on the socket such that the notch on the DIMM matches the break on the socket. 3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the socket until the retaining clips snap back in place and the DIMM is properly seated. 2.4.4 Removing a DIMM T o remove a DIMM: 1. Simultaneously press the retaining clips outward to unlock the DIMM. 2. Remove the DIMM from the socket. ⢠A DDR3 DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it îts in only one direction. DO NOT force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the DIMM. ⢠The DDR3 DIMM sockets do not support DDR and DDR2 DIMMs. DO NOT install DDR or DDR2 DIMMs to the DDR3 DIMM sockets. Unlocked retaining clip DDR3 DIMM notch Support the DIMM lightly with your îngers when pressing the retaining clips. The DIMM might get damaged when it îips out with extra force. 1 2 3 2 1 DDR3 DIMM notch 1 1
2-20 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.5 Expansion slots In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The following sub-sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support. 2.5.1 Installing an expansion card T o 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 îrmly 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 . 2.5.2 Conîguring an expansion card After installing the expansion card, conîgure it by adjusting the software settings. 1. T urn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any . See Chapter 4 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 expansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury and damage motherboard components. When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support âShare IRQâ or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments. Otherwise, conîicts will arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card inoperable. Refer to the table on the next page for details.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-21 2.5.3 Interrupt assignments Standard interrupt assignments IRQ Priority Standard Function 0 1 System T imer 1 2 Keyboard Controller 2 â Re-direct to IRQ#9 3 1 1 IRQ holder for PCI steering* 4 12 Communications Port (COM1)* 5 13 IRQ holder for PCI steering* 6 14 Floppy Disk Controller 7 15 Printer Port (LPT1)* 8 3 System CMOS/Real T ime Clock 9 4 IRQ holder for PCI steering* 10 5 IRQ holder for PCI steering* 1 1 6 IRQ holder for PCI steering* 12 7 PS/2 Compatible Mouse Port* 13 8 Numeric Data Processor 14 9 Primary IDE Channel 15 10 Secondary IDE Channel * These IRQs are usually available for PCI devices. IRQ assignments for this motherboard A B C D E F G H PCI slot 1 shared â â â â â â â PCI slot 2 â shared â â â â â â LAN(8001) shared â â â â â â â SA T A(363) shared â â â â â â â LAN(8056) â shared â â â â â â PCIE x16 1 shared â â â â â â â PCIE x16 2 shared â â â â â â â PCIE x1 1 â shared â â â â â â PCIE x1 2 shared â â â â â â â PCIE x1 3 â â shared â â â â â USB controller 1 â â â â â â â shared USB controller 2 â â â shared â â â â USB controller 3 â â shared â â â â â USB controller 4 shared â â â â â â â USB controller 5 â â â â â shared â â USB controller 6 â â shared â â â â â USB 2.0 controller 1 â â â â â â â shared USB 2.0 controller 2 â â shared â â â â â SA T A controller 1 â â â â â â shared â SA T A controller 2 â â â â â â shared â
2-22 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.5.4 PCI slots The PCI slots support cards such as a LAN card, SCSI card, USB card, and other cards that comply with PCI speciîcations. The îgure shows a LAN card installed on a PCI slot. 2.5.5 PCI Express x1 slots This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other cards that comply with the PCI Express speciîcations. ⢠Install the audio card on the black PCIEx1 slot prior to other compatible cards. ⢠When using PCIEx1 cards, install the cards on PCIEx1 slots prior to PCIEx16 slots. 2.5.6 PCI Express x16 slots This motherboard has two PCI Express x16 slots that support PCI Express x16 graphic cards complying with the PCI Express speciîcations. With two graphics cards installed, the motherboard can enable dual-display . This motherboard supports two A TI CrossFire⢠PCI Express x16 graphics cards that comply with the PCI Express speciîcations. PCI slot PCI Express x 16 slot PCI Express x 1 slot PCI Express x 16 slot PCI slot ⢠In CrossFire⢠mode, install the A TI CrossFire⢠Edition (Master) graphics card on the primary PCI Express slot. ⢠Install two A TI graphics cards from the same GPU family that support CrossFire⢠mode. Audio slot
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-23 2.6 Jumper 1. Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC_SW) This jumper allows you to enable the clr CMOS switch. Y ou can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The clr CMOS switch on the back I/O helps you easily to clear the system setup information such as system passwords. T o erase the RTC RAM: 1. T urn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord. 2. Press down the clr CMOS switch. 3. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer . 4. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup to re-enter data. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure! ⢠The clr CMOS switch will not function if the jumper cap on CLRTC_SW is moved to the Disable position, but the shutdwon function in S0 mode (DOS mode) still works. ⢠Make sure to re-enter your previous BIOS settings after you clear the CMOS. ⢠Y ou do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to CPU overclocking. With the C.P .R. (CPU Parameter Recall) feature, shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS can automatically reset CPU parameter settings to default values. If the system hangs due to overclocking of memory timing or chipset voltage and the power button fails to function, pressing down the clr CMOS switch will shut down the system and clear CMOS simultaneously . System power state G3* S5* S0 (DOS mode) S0 (OS mode) S1 S3 S4 Clearing CMOS ** *G3: Power off without 5VSB power (AC power loss); S5: Power off with 5VSB power ** The system shuts down immediately . clr CMOS switch behavior
2-24 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.7 EL I/O shield, LCD Poster and Audio card Installation 1. Install the EL I/O shield to the chassis by snaping it in place from inside. 3. Locate the P_ELJ1 connector and connect the shield cable to the connector in a correct orientation. 2.7.1 EL I/O shield and LCD Poster Installation 2. Orient the motherboard and install it to the chassis. Make sure that the motherboard external ports ît the I/O openings. Be cautious when installing the motherboard. The I/O shield edge springs may damage the I/O ports. 4. Thread the LCD Poster cable through the back I/O shield opening until the stopper îts the opening. 5. Locate and connect the LCD Poster cable to the LCD_con connector . 6. Place the LCD Poster on the chassis or to wherever you like.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-25 2.7.2 Audio card Installation 1. T ake out the Audio card from the package. 2. Locate the audio slot on the motherboard. 3. Align the card connector with the slot and press îrmly until the card sits on the slot completely . 4. The photo below shows the audio card installed on the motherboard.
2-26 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.8 Connectors 2.8.1 Rear panel connectors 1. PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard. 2. Coaxial S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device via a coaxial S/PDIF cable. 3. LAN 2 (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications. 4. LAN 1 (RJ-45) port. This port allows Gigabit connection to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a network hub. Refer to the table below for the LAN port LED indications. 2 1 15 16 3 4 1 1 12 13 14 clr CMOS 5 Line in Mic in Cen/Sub Rear-out Side-out Front-out 6 7 8 9 10 SPEED LED ACT/LINK LED LAN port 32-bit OS LAN port LED indications * Blinking Activity/Link Speed LED Description OFF OFF Soft-off Mode YELLOW* OFF During Power ON/OFF YELLOW* ORANGE 100 Mbps connection 64-bit OS LAN port LED indications Activity/Link Speed LED Description DNR DNR Soft-off Mode DNR DNR During Power ON/OFF DNR DNR 100 Mbps connection DNR DNR 1 Gbps connection
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-27 5. Line In port (light blue). This port connects the tape, CD, DVD player , or other audio sources. 6. Line Out port (lime). This port connects a headphone or a speaker . In 4-channel, 6-channel, and 8-channel conîguration, the function of this port becomes Front Speaker Out. 7. Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone. 8. Center/Subwoofer port (orange). This port connects the center/subwoofer speakers. 9. Rear Speaker Out port (black). This port connects the rear speakers on a 4-channel, 6-channel, or 8-channel audio conîguration. 10. Side Speaker Out port (gray). This port connects the side speakers in an 8-channel audio conîguration. Refer to the audio conîguration table below for the function of the audio ports in 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conîguration. Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel conîguration Port Headset 2-channel 4-channel 6-channel 8-channel Light Blue Line In Line In Line In Line In Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out Pink Mic In Mic In Mic In Mic In Orange â â Center/Subwoofer Center/Subwoofer Black â Rear Speaker Out Rear Speaker Ou Rear Speaker Out Gray â â â Side Speaker Out 1 1. USB 2.0 ports 1, 2, 3 and 4. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices. 12. External SA T A port 1/2 . These ports connect to external Serial A T A hard disk drives. T o conîgure a RAID0, RAID1, RAID 10, RAID 5 or JBOD set, connect external Serial A T A hard disk drives to the External SA T A port 1 and 2. The external SA T A port supports external Serial A T A 3.0 Gb/s devices. Longer cables support higher power requirements to deliver signal up to two meters away , and enables improved hot- swap function.
2-28 Chapter 2: Hardware information 13. IEEE 1394a port. This 6-pin IEEE 1394a port provides high-speed connectivity for audio/video devices, storage peripherals, PCs, or portable devices. 14. Clear CMOS switch. Press the clear CMOS switch to clear setup information when the system hangs due to overclocking. 15. Optical S/PDIF Out port . This port connects an external audio output device via an optical S/PDIF cable. 16. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices. ⢠DO NOT insert dif ferent connectors to the external SA T A ports. ⢠DO NOT unplug the external Serial A T A box when a RAID 0 or JBOD is conîgured. ⢠Before creating a RAID set using Serial A T A hard disks, make sure that y ou ha ve conn ect ed the Serial A T A signal cable and installed Serial A T A hard disk drives; otherwise, you cannot enter the JMicron RAID utility and SA T A BIOS setup during POST . ⢠If you intend to create a RAID conîguration using this connector , set the J-Micron eSA T A/P A T A Controller Mode in the BIOS to [RAID]. See section 4.5.5 Onboard Device Conîguration for details. ⢠When using hot-plug and NCQ, set the J-Micron eSA T A/P A T A Controller Mode in the BIOS to [AHCI]. See section 4.5.5 Onboard Device Conîguration for details. ⢠Before creating a RAID set, refer to 5.4.3 JMicron ® RAID Conîguration or the manual bundled in the motherboard support DVD.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-29 2.8.2 Internal connectors 1. Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY) This connector is for the provided îoppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert one end of the cable to this connector , then connect the other end to the signal connector at the back of the îoppy disk drive. Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when using a FDD cable with a covered Pin 5. 2. IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_EIDE) The onboard IDE connector is for the Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable. There are three connectors on each Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable: blue, black, and gray . Connect the blue connector to the motherboardâs IDE connector , then select one of the following modes to conîgure your device. ⢠Pin 20 on the IDE connector is removed to match the covered hole on the Ultra DMA cable connector . This prevents incorrect insertion when you connect the IDE cable. ⢠Use the 80-conductor IDE cable for Ultra DMA 133/100/66 IDE devices. If any device jumper is set as âCable-Select,â make sure all other device jumpers have the same setting. Drive jumper setting Mode of device(s) Cable connector Single device Cable-Select or Master - Black T wo devices Cable-Select Master Black Slave Gray Master Master Black or gray Slave Slave BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Floppy disk drive connector NOTE: Orient the red markings on the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1. PIN 1 FLOPPY
2-30 Chapter 2: Hardware information 3. ICH9R Serial A T A connectors (7-pin SA T A1~6) These connectors are for the Serial A T A signal cables for Serial A T A hard disk drives. If you installed Serial A T A hard disk drives, you can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10 conîguration with the Intel ® Matrix Storage T echnology through the onboard Intel ® ICH9R RAID controller . BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME IDE connector NOTE: Orient the red markings (usually zigzag) on the IDE cable to PIN 1. PRI_EIDE BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME SA T A connectors GND RSAT A_TXP1 RSAT A_TXN1 GND RSAT A_RXP1 RSAT A_RXN1 GND SA T A1 GND RSAT A_TXP3 RSAT A_TXN3 GND RSAT A_RXP3 RSAT A_RXN3 GND SA T A3 GND RSAT A_TXP2 RSAT A_TXN2 GND RSAT A_RXP2 RSAT A_RXN2 GND SA T A2 GND RSAT A_TXP4 RSAT A_TXN4 GND RSAT A_RXP4 RSAT A_RXN4 GND SA T A4 GND RSAT A_TXP5 RSAT A_TXN5 GND RSAT A_RXP5 RSAT A_RXN5 GND SA T A5 GND RSAT A_TXP6 RSAT A_TXN6 GND RSAT A_RXP6 RSAT A_RXN6 GND SA T A6 ⢠These connectors are set to Standard IDE mode by default. In Standard IDE mode, you can connect Serial A T A boot/data hard disk drives to these connectors. If you intend to create a Serial A T A RAID set using these connectors, set the Conîgure SA T A as item in the BIOS to [RAID]. See section 4.3.6 SA T A Conîguration for details. ⢠For RAID 5, use at least three hard disk drives. For RAID 10, use at least four hard disk drives. Use two to four Serial A T A hard disk drives for each RAID 0 or RAID 1 set. ⢠Before creating a RAID set, refer to 5.4.2 Intel ® RAID Conîguration or the manual bundled in the motherboard support DVD.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-31 Connect the right-angle side of SA T A signal cable to SA T A device. Or you may connect the right-angle side of SA T A cable to the onboard SA T A port to avoid mechanical conîict with huge graphics cards. right angle side Y ou must install the Windows ® XP Service Pack 1 before using Serial A T A hard disk drives. The Serial A T A RAID feature (RAID 0/RAID 1/RAID 5/RAID 10) is available only if you are using Windows ® XP or later version. 4. USB connectors (10-1 pin USB 78, USB 9 10, USB 1 1 12) These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB module cable to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. These USB connectors comply with USB 2.0 speciîcation that supports up to 480 Mbps connection speed. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME USB 2.0 connectors USB 5V USB_P12- USB_P12 GND NC USB 5V USB_P1 1- USB_P1 1 GND USB1 1 12 USB 5V USB_P10- USB_P10 GND NC USB 5V USB_P9- USB_P9 GND USB910 USB 5V USB_P8- USB_P8 GND NC USB 5V USB_P7- USB_P7 GND USB78 Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the motherboard! Y ou can connect the USB cable to ASUS Q-Connector (USB, blue) îrst, and then install the Q-Connector (USB) to the USB connector onboard.
2-32 Chapter 2: Hardware information 5. IEE E 1394 a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_2) This connector is for a IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE 1394a module cable to this connector , then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME IEEE 1394a connector IE1394_2 PIN 1 GND 12V TPB1- GND TP A1- 12V TPB1 GND TP A1 Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector . Doing so will damage the motherboard! Y ou can c onnect the 1394 c able to ASU S Q-C onnector (139 4, re d) îr st, a nd then install the Q-Connector (1394) to the 1394 connector onboard. 6. Thermal sensor cable connectors (2-pin OPT_TEMP1-2) These connectors are for temperature monitoring. Connect the thermal sensor cables to these connectors and place the other ends to the devices. The OPT_TEMP connectors are for the devices that you want to monitor temperature. The optional fans can work with the temperature sensors for a better cooling effect. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Thermal sensor cable connectors OPT_TEMP1 T emperature Ground T emperature Ground OPT_TEMP2 Remove the thermal sensor cable from the assigned device when you set this item to [SB Overheat Protection].
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-33 7. CPU, chassis, and optional fan connectors (4-pin CPU_F AN, 3-pin CHA_F AN1-4, 3-pin PWR_F AN, 3-pin OPT_F AN1-2) The fan c onnect ors su pport co oling fans o f 350 mA ~ 1000 mA (24 W max.) or a total of 1 A ~ 3.48 A (41.76 W max.) at 12V . Connect the fan cables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, making sure that the black wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector . DO NOT forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors. Insufîcient air îow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are not jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on the fan connectors! BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Fan connectors CPU_F AN GND CPU F AN PWR CPU F AN IN CPU F AN PWM PWR_F AN GND Rotation 12V OPT_F AN1 OPT_FAN2 GND Rotation 12V CHA_F AN2 GND Rotation 12V CHA_F AN4 GND Rotation 12V CPU_F AN PWR_F AN CHA_F AN4 CHA_F AN1 CHA_F AN3 OPT_F AN1 OPT_F AN2 CHA_F AN2 GND Rotation 12V CHA_F AN1 GND Rotation 12V CHA_F AN3 GND Rotation 12V ⢠If you install two VGA cards, we recommend that you plug the chassis fan cable to the motherboard connector labled CHA_F AN1 or CHA_F AN2 for better themal environment. ⢠Only the CPU_F AN, CHA_F AN1-3 and OPT_F AN1-2 support ASUS Q-Fan feature.
2-34 Chapter 2: Hardware information 9. AT X p owe r c on ne cto rs (24-pin EA TXPWR, 8-pin EA TX12V) These connectors are for A TX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs are designed to ît these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down îrmly until the connectors completely ît. 8. Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS) This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor or switch. Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switch cable to this connector . The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends a high-level signal to this connector when a chassis component is removed or replaced. The signal is then generated as a chassis intrusion event. By default , the pin labeled âChassis Signalâ and âGroundâ are shorted with a jumper cap. Remove the jumper caps only when you intend to use the chassis intrusion detection feature. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Chassis intrusion connector CHASSIS 5VSB_MB Chassis Signal GND (Default) BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME A TX power connectors EA TXPWR EA TX12V 3 V olts 3 V olts Ground 5 V olts 5 V olts Ground Ground Power OK 5V Standby 12 V olts -5 V olts 5 V olts 3 V olts -12 V olts Ground Ground Ground PSON# Ground 5 V olts 12 V olts 3 V olts 5 V olts Ground GND 12V DC GND 12V DC GND 12V DC GND 12V DC ⢠Make sure to remove the cap on the EA TX12V connector before connecting an 8-pin EPS 12V power plug. ⢠Use only an 8-pin EPS 12V power plug for the EA TX12V connector.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-35 BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Digital audio connector 5V SPDIFOUT GND SPDIF_OUT 10. Digital audio con nec tor (4-1 pin SPDIF , for ASUS HDMI VGA card) This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF) port(s). If you are using ASUS HDMI-equipped graphics card, connect the HDMI card to this connector with a S/PDIF out cable. The ASUS HDMI-equipped graphics card and S/PDIF out cable are purchased separately . ⢠For a fully conîgured system, we recommend that you use a power supply unit (PSU) that complies with A TX 12 V Speciîcation 2.0 (or later version) and provides a minimum power of 400 W . ⢠Do not forget to connect the 4-pin/8pin EA TX12V power plug; otherwise, the system will not boot. ⢠Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when conîguring a system with more power-consuming devices. The system may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate. ⢠The A TX 12 V Speciîcation 2.0-compliant (400W) PSU has been tested to support the motherboard power requirements with the following conîguration: CPU: Intel ® Pentium ® Extreme 3.73GHz Memory: 512 MB DDR2 (x4) Graphics card: ASUS EAX1900XT Parallel A T A device: IDE hard disk drive Serial A T A device: SA T A hard disk drive (x2) Optical drive: DVD-RW ⢠If you want to use two high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU with 500W to 600W power or above to ensure the system stability .
2-36 Chapter 2: Hardware information ⢠System power LED (2-pin PLED) This 2-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect the chassis power LED cable to this connector . The system power LED lights up when you turn on the system power , and blinks when the system is in sleep mode. ⢠Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED) This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDD Activity LED cable to this connector . The IDE LED lights up or îashes when data is read from or written to the HDD. ⢠System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER) This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warning speaker . The speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings. ⢠A TX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW) This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the power button turns the system on or puts the system in sleep or soft-off mode depending on the BIOS settings. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds while the system is ON turns the system OFF . ⢠Reset button (2-pin RESET) This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button for system reboot without turning off the system power . 1 1. System panel connector (20-8 pin P ANEL) This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME System panel connector * Requires an A TX power supply . P ANEL PLED- PWR 5V Speaker Ground RESET Ground Reset Ground Ground PWRSW PLED IDE_LED- IDE_LED IDE_LED PLED SPEAKER
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-37 ASUS Q-Connector (system panel) Y ou can use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect chassis front panel cables in a few steps. Refer to the instructions below to install the ASUS Q- Connector . 1. Connect the front panel cables to the ASUS Q-Connector . Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector to know the detailed pin deînitions, then match them to the respective front panel cable labels. 2. Install the ASUS Q-Connector to the system panel connector , making sure the orientation matches the labels on the motherboard. 3. The front panel functions are now enabled. The îgure shows the Q-Connector properly installed on the motherboard.
2-38 Chapter 2: Hardware information 2.8.3 Onboard switches Onboard switches allow you to îne-tune performance when working on a bare or open-case system. This is ideal for overclockers and gamers who continually change settings to enhance system performance. 1. Power-on switch Press the clear power-on switch to wake/power up the system. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Power on switch 2. Reset switch Press the reset switch to reboot the system. BLITZ EXTREME ® BLITZ EXTREME Reset switch
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-39 2.8.4 Installing the optional fans Install the optional fan only if you are using a passive cooler or a water cooler . Installing the optional fan with an active CPU cooler will interfere with the airîow and destabilize the system. 1. Position the fan above the pipe and heatsink assembly . 2. Fit the fan to the grooved edge of the heatsink. 3. Carefully push down the fan until it snugly îts the heatsink, then connect the fan cable. 4. The photo shows the fan installed on the motherboard. Optional fan on one side îns
2-40 Chapter 2: Hardware information 1. Assemble the optional fan kit by îtting the optional fan to the grooved edge of the plastic fan seat and snapping it into place. 2. The photo below demostrates the the optional fan ready for use. 3. Slide the optional fan onto the heatsink, then connect the fan cable. 4. The photo shows the fan installed on the motherboard. ⢠Plug the optional fan cables to the CHA_F AN1, CHA_F AN4 or PWR_F AN connector on the motherboard. ⢠Make sure the optional fan is installed correctly to prevent damage to the fan and motherboard components. When you are using water-cooling modules, make sure to install TWO optional fans to obtain a more effective heat dissipation. Optional fan on the other side îns
ASUS Blitz Extreme 2-41 2.8.5 Installing the DIY Pedestal 1. T ake out the DIY Pedestal from the motherboard package. 2. Arrange and stick the rubber studs to wherever you wish to place your motherboard. 3. Put the motherboard on the DIY Pedestal to get a more efîcient heat dissipation. ⢠The tape on the rubber studs is for one-time use. Replace the tape if the adhesive surface fails to function. ⢠Y ou can use the DIY Pedestal in other creative ways based on your needs.
2-42 Chapter 2: Hardware information
3 Powering up This chapter describes the power up sequence, the vocal POST messages, and ways of shutting down the system.
ASUS Blitz Extreme Chapter summary 3 3.1 Starting up for the îrst time ........................................................ 3-1 3.2 T urning off the computer ............................................................. 3-2
ASUS Blitz Extreme 3-1 3.1 Starting up for the î¿rst time 1. After making all the connections, replace the system case cover . 2. Be sure that all switches are off. 3. Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system chassis. 4. Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge protector . 5. T urn on the devices in the following order: a. Monitor b. External SCSI devices (starting with the last device on the chain) c. System power 6. After applying power , the system power LED on the system front panel case lights up. For systems with A TX power supplies, the system LED lights up when you press the A TX power button. If your monitor complies with âgreenâ standards or if it has a âpower standbyâ feature, the monitor LED may light up or switch between orange and green after the system LED turns on. The system then runs the power-on self tests or POST . While the tests are running, the BIOS beeps (see BIOS beep codes table below) or additional messages appear on the screen. If you do not see anything within 30 seconds from the time you tu rned on the power , the system may have failed a power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call your retailer for assistance. 7. At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup. Follow the instructions in Chapter 4. BIOS Beep Description One short beep VGA detected Quick boot set to disabled No keyboard detected One continuous beep followed by two short beeps then a pause (repeated) No memory detected One continuous beep followed by three short beeps No VGA detected One continuous beep followed by four short beeps Hardware component failure
3-2 Chapter 3: Powering up 3.2 Turning off the computer 3.2.1 Using the OS shut down function If you are using Windows ® XP: 1. Click the Start button then select T urn Off Computer . 2. Click the T urn Off button to shut down the computer . 3. The power supply should turn off after Windows ® shuts down. If you are using Windows ® Vista: 1. Click the Start button then select ShutDown. 2. The power supply should turn off after Windows ® shuts down. 3.2.2 Using the dual function power switch While the system is ON, pressing the power switch for less than four seconds puts the system to sleep mode or to soft-off mode, depending on the BIOS setting. Pressing the power switch for more than four seconds lets the system enter the soft-off mode regardless of the BIOS setting. Refer to section 4.5 Power Menu in Chapter 4 for details.
4 BIOS setup This chapter tells how to change the system settings through the BIOS Setup menus. Detailed descriptions of the BIOS parameters are also provided.
Chapter summary 4 ASUS Blitz Extreme 4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 4-1 4.2 BIOS setup program .................................................................... 4-9 4.3 Main menu .................................................................................. 4-12 4.4 Extreme T weaker menu ............................................................. 4-17 4.5 Advanced menu ......................................................................... 4-22 4.6 Power menu ................................................................................ 4-29 4.7 Boot menu .................................................................................. 4-35 4.8 T ools menu ................................................................................. 4-39 4.9 Exit menu .................................................................................... 4-41
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-1 4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboard Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup. 1. ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows ® environment.) 2. ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS using a îoppy disk or USB îash disk.) 3. ASUS AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS using a bootable îoppy disk.) 4. ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 (Updates the BIOS using a bootable îoppy disk, USB îash disk or the motherboard support DVD when the BIOS île fails or gets corrupted.) Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities. Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS île to a bootable îoppy disk or USB îash disk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update or AFUDOS utilities. Installing ASUS Update T o install ASUS Update: 1. Place the support DVD in the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears. 2. Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update VX.XX.XX. 3. The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system. 4.1.1 ASUS Update utility The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and update the motherboard BIOS in Windows ® environment. The ASUS Update utility allows you to: ⢠Save the current BIOS île ⢠Download the latest BIOS île from the Internet ⢠Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS île ⢠Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and ⢠View the BIOS version information. This utility is available in the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package. ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
4-2 Chapter 4: BIOS setup Quit all Windows ® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility . 3. Select the ASUS FTP site nearest you to avoid network trafîc, or click Auto Select. Click Next. Updating the BIOS through the Internet T o 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 Update main window appears. 2. Select Update BIOS from the Internet option from the drop-down menu, then click Next.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-3 Updating the BIOS through a BIOS île T o update the BIOS through a BIOS île: 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows ® desktop by clicking Start > Programs > ASUS > ASUSUpdate > ASUSUpdate . The ASUS Update main window appears. 2. Select Update BIOS from a île option from the drop-down menu, then click Next. 4. From the FTP site, select the BIOS version that you wish to download. Click Next. 5. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process. The ASUS Update utility is capable of updating itself through the Internet. Always update the utility to avail all its features. 3. Locate the BIOS île from the Open window , then click Open. 4. Follow the screen instructions to complete the update process. Blitz-Extreme Blitz-Extreme.rom
4-4 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.1.2 Creating a bootable îoppy disk 1. Do either one of the following to create a bootable îoppy disk. DOS environment a. Insert a 1.44MB îoppy 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 îoppy disk to the îoppy 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 îeld, then click Start. Windows ® 2000 environment T o create a set of boot disks for Windows ® 2000: a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44 MB îoppy disk into the drive. b. Insert the Windows ® 2000 CD to the optical drive. c. Click Start , then select Run . d. From the Open îeld, 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 île to the bootable îoppy disk.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-5 T o update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2: 1. Visit the ASUS website (www .asus.com) to download the latest BIOS île for the motherboard. 2. Save the BIOS île to a îoppy disk or a USB îash disk, then restart the system. 4.1.3 ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility The ASUS EZ Flash 2 feature allows you to update the BIOS without having to go through the long process of booting from a îoppy disk and using a DOS-based utility . The EZ Flash 2 utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing <Alt> <F2> during the Power-On Self T ests (POST). (2) Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the T ools menu to select EZ Flash2 and press <Enter> to enable it. Y ou can switch between drives by pressing <T ab> before the correct île is found. Then press <Enter>. 3. Y ou can launch the EZ Flash 2 by two methods. (1) Insert the îoppy disk / USB îash disk that contains the BIOS île to the îoppy disk drive or the USB port. Press <Alt> <F2> during POST to display the following. ⢠This function can support devices such as USB îash disk, or îoppy disk with F A T 32/16 format and single partition only . ⢠DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure! 4. When the correct BIOS île is found, EZ Flash 2 performs the BIOS update process and automatically reboots the system when done. ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.05 Current ROM Update ROM A: Note [Enter] Select or Load [B] Backup [ESC] Exit [Tab] Switch [Up/Down/Home/End] Move FLASH TYPE: SST 25VF016 PATH: A:\ BOARD: Blitz Extreme VER: 0122 DATE: 05/07/07 BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown
4-6 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.1.4 AFUDOS utility The AFUDOS utility allows you to update the BIOS île in DOS environment using a bootable îoppy disk with the updated BIOS île. This utility also allows you to copy the current BIOS île that you can use as backup when the BIOS fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. Copying the current BIOS T o copy the current BIOS île using the AFUDOS utility: Main îlename Extension name 1. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to the bootable îoppy disk you created earlier . 2. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type: afudos /o[î¿lename] where the [îlename] is any user-assigned îlename not more than eight alphanumeric characters for the main îlename and three alphanumeric characters for the extension name. A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom ⢠Make sure that the îoppy disk is not write-protected and has at least 1024KB free space to save the île. ⢠The succeeding BIOS screens are for reference only . The actual BIOS screen displays may not be same as shown. The utility returns to the DOS prompt after copying the current BIOS île. 3. Press <Enter>. The utility copies the current BIOS île to the îoppy disk. A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.rom AM I F irm war e Up dat e U ti li ty - V ers io n 1.1 9(A SU S V2. 07( 03. 11 .2 4BB )) Cop yrig ht ( C) 20 02 A meri can Meg atre nds, Inc. All rig hts r eser ved. Reading îash ..... done Write to î¿le...... ok A:\> Updating the BIOS île T o update the BIOS île using the AFUDOS utility: 1. Visit the ASUS website (www .asus.com) and download the latest BIOS île for the motherboard. Save the BIOS île to a bootable îoppy disk.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-7 2. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard support DVD to the bootable îoppy disk you created earlier . 3. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type: afudos /i[î¿lename] where [îlename] is the latest or the original BIOS île on the bootable îoppy disk. A:\>afudos /iBlitz Extreme.ROM Write the BIOS îlename on a piece of paper . Y ou need to type the exact BIOS îlename at the DOS prompt. 5. The utility returns to the DOS prompt after the BIOS update process is completed. Reboot the system from the hard disk drive. A:\>afudos /iBlitz Extreme.ROM AM I F irm war e Up dat e U ti li ty - V ers io n 1.1 9(A SU S V2. 07( 03. 11 .2 4BB )) Cop yrig ht ( C) 20 02 A meri can Meg atre nds, Inc. All rig hts r eser ved. WARNING!! Do not turn off power during îash BIOS Reading î¿le ....... done Reading îash ...... done Advance Check ...... Erasing îash ...... done Writing îash ...... done Verifying îash .... done Please restart your computer A:\> A:\>afudos /iBlitz Extreme.ROM AM I F irm war e Up dat e U ti li ty - V ers io n 1.1 9(A SU S V2. 07( 03. 11 .2 4BB )) Cop yrig ht ( C) 20 02 A meri can Meg atre nds, Inc. All rig hts r eser ved. WARNING!! Do not turn off power during îash BIOS Reading î¿le ....... done Reading îash ...... done Advance Check ...... Erasing îash ...... done Writing îash ...... 0x0008CC00 (9%) 4. The utility veriîes the île and starts updating the BIOS. Do not shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent system boot failure!
4-8 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.1.5 ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 utility The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS île when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. Y ou can update a corrupted BIOS île using the motherboard support DVD, the îoppy disk, or the USB îash disk that contains the updated BIOS île. Prepare the motherboard support DVD, the îoppy disk or the USB îash disk containing the updated motherboard BIOS before using this utility . Recovering the BIOS from the support DVD T o recover the BIOS from the support DVD: 1. T urn on the system. 2. Insert the motherboard support DVD to the optical drive. 3. The utility displays the following message and automatically checks the DVD for the BIOS île. 4. Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process. ⢠Only the USB îash disk with F A T 32/16 format and single partition can support ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3. The device size should be smaller than 8GB. ⢠DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS! Doing so can cause system boot failure! When found, the utility reads the BIOS île and starts îashing the corrupted BIOS île. Recovering the BIOS from the USB îash disk T o recover the BIOS from the USB îash disk: 1. Insert the USB îash disk that contains BIOS île to the USB port. 2. T urn on the system. 3. The utility will automatically checks the devices for the BIOS île When found, the utility reads the BIOS île and starts îashing the corrupted BIOS île. 4. Restart the system after the utility completes the updating process. Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery... Checking for îoppy... Bad BIOS checksum. Starting BIOS recovery... Checking for îoppy... Floppy found! Reading î¿le âBlitz Extreme.ROMâ. Completed. Start îashing...
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-9 4.2 BIOS setup program This motherboard supports a programmable Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) chip that you can update using the provided utility described in section 4.1 Managing and updating your BIOS . Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard, reconîguring your system, or prompted to âRun Setup.â This section explains how to conîgure your system using this utility . Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the conîguration of your computer in the future. For example, you can enable the security password feature or change the power management settings. This requires you to reconîgure your system using the BIOS Setup program so that the computer can recognize these changes and record them in the CMOS RAM of the SPI chip. The SPI chip on the motherboard stores the Setup utility . When you start up the computer , the system provides you with the opportunity to run this program. Press <Del> during the Power-On Self-T est (POST) to enter the Setup utility; otherwise, POST continues with its test routines. If you wish to enter Setup after POST , restart the system by pressing <Ctrl Alt Delete>, or by pressing the reset button on the system chassis. Y ou can also restart by turning the system off and then back on. Do this last option only if the îrst two failed. The Setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Being a menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various sub-menus and make your selections from the available options using the navigation keys. ⢠The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply for most conditions to ensure optimum performance. If the system becomes unstable after changing any BIOS settings, load the default settings to ensure system compatibility and stability . Select the Load Setup Defaults item under the Exit Menu. See section 4.9 Exit Menu. ⢠The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference purposes only , and may not exactly match what you see on your screen. ⢠Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS île for this motherboard.
4-10 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.2.2 Menu bar The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items: Main For changing the basic system conîguration Extreme T weaker For changing the overclocking settings Advanced For changing the advanced system settings Power For changing the advanced power management (APM) conîguration Boot For changing the system boot conîguration T ools For conîguring options for special functions Exit For selecting the exit options and loading default settings T o select an item on the menu bar , press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard until the desired item is highlighted. 4.2.3 Navigation keys At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys for that particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menu and change the settings. 4.2.1 BIOS menu screen Some of the navigation keys differ from one screen to another . Select Screen Select Item - Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit System Time [10:55:25] System Date [Thu 05/10/2007] Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in] Language [English] SATA 1 [Not Detected] SATA 2 [Not Detected] SATA 3 [Not Detected] SATA 4 [Not Detected] SATA 5 [Not Detected] SATA 6 [Not Detected] SATA Conî¿guration System Information Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a î¿eld. Use [ ] or [-] to conî¿gure system Time. Navigation keys General help Menu bar Sub-menu items Conîguration îelds Menu items
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-1 1 4.2.4 Menu items The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the speciîc items for that menu. For example, selecting Main shows the Main menu items. The other items (Advanced, Power , Boot, and Exit) on the menu bar have their respective menu items. 4.2.5 Sub-menu items A solid triangle before each item on any menu screen means that the iteam has a sub-menu. T o display the sub-menu, select the item and press <Enter>. 4.2.6 Conîguration îelds These îelds show the values for the menu items. If an item is user- conîgurable, you can change the value of the îeld opposite the item. Y ou cannot select an item that is not user-conîgurable. A conîgurable îeld is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. T o change the value of a îeld, select it then press <Enter> to display a list of options. Refer to 4.2.7 Pop-up window. 4.2.7 Pop-up window Select a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the conîguration options for that item. 4.2.8 Scroll bar A scroll bar appears on the right side of a menu screen when there are items that do not ît on the screen. Press the Up/Down arrow keys or <Page Up> /<Page Down> keys to display the other items on the screen. 4.2.9 General help At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected item. Main menu items Scroll bar Pop-up window System Time [06:22:54] System Date [Thu 05/10/2007] Legac y Disket te A [1 .4 4 M , 3. 5 in] Language [English] SATA 1 [N ot Det ect ed ] SATA 2 [N ot Det ect ed ] SATA 3 [N ot Det ect ed ] SATA 4 [N ot Det ect ed ] SATA 5 [N ot Det ect ed ] SATA 6 [N ot Det ect ed ] SATA Conî¿guration System Information Use [ENTER], [TAB], or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a î¿eld. Use [ ] or [-] to conî¿gure system.
4-12 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.3 Main menu When you enter the BIOS Setup program, the Main menu screen appears, giving you an overview of the basic system information. 4.3.1 System Time [xx:xx:xx] Allows you to set the system time. 4.3.2 System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx] Allows you to set the system date. 4.3.3 Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.] Sets the type of îoppy drive installed. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [720K , 3.5 in.] [1.44M, 3.5 in.] 4.3.4 Language [English] Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options. Conîguration options: [Chinese BIG5] [Chinese (GB)] [Japanese] [Français] [German] [English] Refer to section 4.2.1 BIOS menu screen for information on the menu screen items and how to navigate through them. Select Screen Select Item - Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit System Time [10:55:25] System Date [Thu 05/10/2007] Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in] Language [English] SATA 1 [Not Detected] SATA 2 [Not Detected] SATA 3 [Not Detected] SATA 4 [Not Detected] SATA 5 [Not Detected] SATA 6 [Not Detected] SATA Conî¿guration System Information Use [ENTER], [TAB] or [SHIFT-TAB] to select a î¿eld. Use [ ] or [-] to conî¿gure system Time.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-13 4.3.5 S A T A 1 - 6 While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of Serial A T A devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SA T A device. Select a device item then press <Enter> to display the SA T A device information. The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Device, V endor , Size, LBA Mode, Block Mode, PIO Mode, Async DMA, Ultra DMA, and SMART monitoring). These values are not user-conîgurable. These items show N/A if no SA T A device is installed in the system. T ype [Auto] Selects the type of IDE drive. Setting to [Auto] allows automatic selection of the appropriate IDE device type. Select [CDROM] if you are speciîcally conîguring a CD-ROM drive. Select [ARMD] (A T API Removable Media Device) if your device is either a ZIP , LS-120, or MO drive. Conîguration options: [Not Installed] [Auto] [CDROM] [ARMD] LBA/Large Mode [Auto] Enables or disables the LBA mode. Setting to [Auto] enables the LBA mode if the device supports this mode, and if the device was not previously formatted with LBA mode disabled. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Auto] Block (Multi-sector T ransfer) [Auto] Enables or disables data multi-sectors transfers. When set to [Auto], the data transfer from and to the device occurs multiple sectors at a time if the device supports multi-sector transfer feature. When set to [Disabled], the data transfer from and to the device occurs one sector at a time. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Auto] PIO Mode [Auto] Selects the PIO mode. Conîguration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3] [4] Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main SATA 1 Device :Not Detected Type [Auto] LBA/Large Mode [Auto] Block(Multi-Sector Transfer) [Auto] PIO Mode [Auto] DMA Mode [Auto] SMART Monitoring [Auto] 32Bit Data Transfer [Enabled] Select the type of device connected to the system.
4-14 Chapter 4: BIOS setup DMA Mode [Auto] Selects the DMA mode. Conîguration options: [Auto] [SWDMA0] [SWDMA1] [SWDMA2] [MWDMA0] [MWDMA1] [MWDMA2] [UDMA0] [UDMA1] [UDMA2] [UDMA3] [UDMA4] [UDMA5] SMART Monitoring [Auto] Sets the Smart Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting T echnology . Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] 32Bit Data T ransfer [Enabled] Enables or disables 32-bit data transfer . Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] SA T A Conîguration [Enhanced] Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Compatible] [Enhanced] Configure SA T A as [IDE] Sets the conîguration for the Serial A T A connectors supported by the Southbridge chip. The AHCI allows the onboard storage driver to enable advanced Serial A T A features that increases storage performance on random workloads by allowing the drive to internally optimize the order of commands. If you want to create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10, or the Intel ® Matrix Storage T echnology conîguration from the Serial A T A hard disk drives, set this item to [RAID]. If you want to use the Serial A T A hard disk drives as Parallel A T A physical storage devices, keep the default setting [IDE]. If yo u w ant t he Se ria l AT A h ard di sk d riv es to u se the Ad va nc ed Hos t C on tro lle r In ter fac e ( AH CI ), set t hi s i tem to [ AH CI] . SATA Conî¿guration SATA Conî¿guraton [Enhanced] Conî¿gure SATA as [IDE] Hard Disk Write Protect [Disabled] IDE Detect Time Out (Sec) [35] 4.3.6 SA T A Conîguration The items in this menu allow you to set or change the conîgurations for the SA T A devices installed in the system. Select an item then press <Enter> if you want to conîgure the item. Set [Compatible Mode] when Legacy OS (i.e. WIN ME, 98, NT4.0, MS DOS) is used. Set [Enhanced Mode] when Native OS (i.e. WIN2000, WIN XP, Vista is used.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-15 Intel Robson T echnology [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable Intel Robson T echnology . Conîguration option: [Disabled] [Enabled] The Intel Robson T echnology appears only when you set the item Conîgure SA T A as to [AHCI]. Hard Disk Write Protect [Disabled] Disables or enables device write protection. This will be ef fective only if device is accessed through BIOS. Conîuration option: [Disabled] [Enabled] IDE Detect Time Out (Sec) [35] Selects the time out value for detecting A T A/A T API devices. Conîguration options: [0] [5] [10] [15] [20] [25] [30] [35] 4.3.7 AHCI Conîguration This menu allows you to conîgure AHCI settings. It appears only when you set the Conîgure SA T A as item to [AHCI] in the SA T A Conîguration menu. AHCI Settings AHCI Port1 [Not Detected] AHCI Port2 [Not Detected] AHCI Port3 [Not Detected] AHCI Port4 [Not Detected] AHCI Port5 [Not Detected] AHCI Port6 [Not Detected] While entering setup, BIOS auto detects the presence of SATA devices. This displays the status of auto detection of SATA devices. ACHI Port1~6 [XXXX] Displays the status of auto-detection of SA T A devices. AHCI Port1 Device :Not Detected SATA Port1 [Auto] Select the type of devices connected to the system. SA T A Port1 [Auto] Allows you to select the type of device connected to the system. Conîguration options: [Auto] [Not Installed]
4-16 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.3.8 System Information This menu gives you an overview of the general system speciîcations. The BIOS automatically detects the items in this menu. AMI BIOS Displays the auto-detected BIOS information. Processor Displays the auto-detected CPU speciîcation. System Memory Displays the auto-detected system memory . Select Screen Select Item F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main AMIBIOS Version : 0122 Build Date : 05/07/07 Processor Type : Intel(R) Core(TM)2 CPU 6300 @ 1.86GHz Speed : 1876MHz Count : 2 System Memory Available : 512 MB
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-17 4.4 Extreme Tweaker menu The Extreme T weaker menu items allow you to conîgure overclocking-related items. T ake caution when changing the settings of the Extreme T weaker menu items. Incorrect îeld values can cause the system to malfunction. Select Screen Select Item - Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Conî¿gure System Frequency/Voltage Ai Overclocking [Auto] CPU Ratio Control [Auto] DRAM Frequency [Auto] DRAM Timing Control [Auto] DRAM Static Read Control [Auto] DRAM Dynamic Write Control [Auto] Transaction Booster [Auto] Clock Over-Charging Mode [Auto] CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto] PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto] Select the target CPU frequency, and the relevant parameters will be auto-adjusted. Frequencies higher than CPU manufacturer recomends are not guaranteed to be stable. If the system becomes unstable, return to the default. 4.4.1 Ai Overclocking [Auto] Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal frequency . Selct either one of the preset overclocking conîguration options: Manual Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters. Auto Loads the optimal settings for the system. Standard Loads the standard settings for the system. N.O.S. The ASUS Non-delay Overclocking System feature intelligently determines the system load and automatically boosts the performance for the most demanding tasks. N.O.S. Mode [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Standard] [Sensitive] [Heavy Load] CPU Ratio Control [Auto] Allows you to control the CPU ratio. Conîguration options: [Auto] [Manual] The following item only appears when you set the Ai Overclocking item to [N.O.S]. The following item only appears when you set the CPU Ratio Control item to [Manual].
4-18 Chapter 4: BIOS setup PCIE Frequency [Auto] Allows you to set the PCI Express frequency . Conîguration options: [Auto] [100] [101]~[149] [150] DRAM Frequency [Auto] Allows you to set the DDR3 operating frequency . Conîguration options: [Auto] [DDR3-800MHz] [DDR3-889 MHz] [DDR3-1067MHz] A very high DRAM frequency may cause the system to become unstable! If this happens, revert to the default setting. DRAM Timing Control [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [ Manual ] The following items appear when you set the DRAM Timing Control item to [Manual]. CAS# Latency [ 6] Conîguration options: [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10] RAS# to CAS# Delay [ 5 DRAM Clocks] Conîguration options: [3 DRAM Clocks] [4 DRAM Clocks]~[9 DRAM Clocks] [10 DRAM Clocks] FSB/CPU External Frequency Synchronization Front Side Bus CPU External Frequency FSB 1333 333 MHz FSB 1066 266 MHz FSB 800 200 MHz Refer to page 2-3 for FSB frequency LED deînition. FSB Frequency [266] 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 to adjust the FSB frequency . Y ou can also type the desired CPU frequency using the numeric keypad. The values range from 200 to 800. Refer to the table below for the correct Front Side Bus and CPU External Frequency settings. The following two items only appear when you set the Ai Overclocking item to [Manual]. Ratio CMOS Setting [7] Conîguration options: [6] [7]
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-19 RAS# Precharge [ 5 DRAM Clocks] Conîguration options: [ 3 DRAM Clocks] [ 4 DRAM Clocks]~[ 9 DRAM Clocks] [10 DRAM Clocks] RAS# Activate to Precharge [ 9 DRAM Clocks] Conîguration options: [ 3 DRAM Clocks] [ 4 DRAM Clocks]~[33 DRAM Clocks] [34 DRAM Clocks] TWR [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [ 1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks] TRFC [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [30 DRAM Clocks] [36 DRAM Clocks] [48 DRAM Clocks] [60 DRAM Clocks] [72 DRAM Clocks] TWTR [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [ 1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks] TRRD [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [ 1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks] TRTP [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [ 1 DRAM Clocks]~[15 DRAM Clocks] DRAM Static Read Control [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] DRAM Dynamic Write Control [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] T ransaction Booster [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] Boost Level [0] Set this time to higher level to get better performance. This item is available only when you set the T ransaction Booster item to [Enabled]. Conîguration options: [0] [1] Clock Over-Charging Mode [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [700mV] [800mV] [900mV] [1000mV] CPU Spread Spectrum [Auto] Allows you to enable or disable the CPU spread spectrum. Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] PCIE Spread Spectrum [Auto] Allows you to enable or disable the PCIE spread spectrum. Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled]
4-20 Chapter 4: BIOS setup CPU V oltage [Auto] Allows you to select the CPU VCore voltage. The text color in the conîguration îeld corresponds to the onboard CPU LED color , both of which indicate CPU voltage condition. Refer to page 2-1 for CPU LED deînition. Conîguration options: [Auto] [1.10000V] [1.10625V] [1.1 1250V] [1.1 1875V] [1.12500V] [1.13125V] [1.13750V] [1.14375V] [1.50000V] [1.15625V] [1.16250V] [1.16875V] [1.17500V] [1.18125V] [1.18750V] [1.19375V] [1.20000V] [1.20625V] [1.21250V] [1.21875V] [1.22500V] [1.23125V] [1.23750V] [1.24375V] [1.25000V] [1.25625V] [1.26250V] [1.26875V] [1.27500V] [1.28125V] [1.28750V] [1.29375V] [1.30000V]~[1.80000V] [1.80625V] [1.81250V] [1.81875V] [1.82500V] [1.83125V] [1.83750V] [1.84375V] [1.85000V] [1.85625V] [1.86250V] [1.86875V] [1.87500V] [1.88125V] [1.88750V] [1.89375V] [1.90000V] Refer to the CPU documentation before setting the CPU Vcore voltage. Setting a high VCore voltage may damage the CPU permanently , and setting a low VCore voltage may make the system unstable. CPU V oltage Reference [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [0.531V] [0.545V] [0.561V] [0.576V] [0.581V] [0.597V] [0.618V] [0.635V] Loadline Calibration [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [Enabled] FSB T ermination V oltage [Auto] Allows you to select the front side bus (FSB) termination voltage. The text color in the conîguration îeld indicates FSB termination voltage condition. When you set the NB LED Selection item to [FSBT V olt], the onboard northbridge LED displays FSB termination voltage condition. Refer to page 2-2 for northbridge LED deînition. Conîguration options: [Auto] [1.20V] [1.22V] [1.24V] [1.26V] [1.28V] [1.30V]~ [1.70V] [1.72V] [1.74V] [1.76V] [1.78V] [1.80V] Setting a high FSB termination voltage may damage the chipset and CPU. North Bridge V oltage [Auto] Allows you to select the northbridge voltage. The text color in the conîguration îeld indicates northbridge voltage condition. When you set the NB LED Selection item to [NB V olt], the onboard northbridge LED displays northbridge voltage condition. Refer to page 2-2 for northbridge LED deînition. Conîguration options: [Auto] [1.25V] [1.27V] [1.29V] [1.31V]~[1.97V] [1.99V] [2.01V] [2.03V] The following item only appears when you set the Ai Overclocking item to [Manual] or [N.O.S.].
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-21 North Bridge V oltage Refernece [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [0.61x] [0.67x] DRAM V oltage [Auto] Allows you to select the DRAM reference voltage. The text color in the conîguration îeld corresponds to the onboard memory LED color , both of which indicate DRAM voltage condition. Refer to page 2-2 for memory LED deînition. Conîguration options: [Auto] [1.50V] [1.52V] [1.54V] [1.56V] [1.58V] [1.60V]~ [3.00V] [3.02V] [3.04V] DDR3 Channel A REF V oltage [Auto] Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to [Auto] for the safe mode. Conîguration options: [DDR3_REF-30mv] [DDR3_REF-20mv] [DDR3_REF-10mv] [DDR3_REF] [DDR3_REF 10mv] [DDR3_REF 20mv] [DDR3_REF 30mv] DDR3 Channel B REF V oltage [Auto] Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to [Auto] for the safe mode. Conîguration options: [DDR3_REF-30mv] [DDR3_REF-20mv] [DDR3_REF-10mv] [DDR3_REF] [DDR3_REF 10mv] [DDR3_REF 20mv] [DDR3_REF 30mv] DDR3 Controller REF V oltage [Auto] Allows you to manually set the memory voltage, or you can set to [Auto] for the safe mode. Conîguration options: [DDR3_REF-30mv] [DDR3_REF-20mv] [DDR3_REF-10mv] [DDR3_REF] [DDR3_REF 10mv] [DDR3_REF 20mv] [DDR3_REF 30mv] South Bridge V oltage [Auto] Allows you to select the southbridge voltage. The text color in the conîguration îeld indicates southbridge voltage condition. When you set the SB LED Selection item to [SB V olt], the onboard southbridge LED displays southbridge voltage condition. Refer to page 2-2 for southbridge LED deînition. Conîguration options: [Auto] [1.050V] [1.075V] [1.1 10V] [1.125V] [1.150V] [1.175V] [1.200V] [1.225V] PLL V oltage [Auto] Allows you to select the southbridge voltage. The text color in the conîguration îeld indicates southbridge voltage condition. When you set the SB LED Selection item to [SB V olt], the onboard southbridge LED displays southbridge voltage condition. Refer to page 2-2 for southbridge LED deînition. Conîguration options: [Auto] [1.50V] [1.52V] [1.56V] [1.58V] [1.60V]~[1.92V] [1.94V] [1.96V] [1.98V] [2.00V]
4-22 Chapter 4: BIOS setup NB LED Selection [NB V olt] Allows you to switch the onboard northbridge LED display between northbridge voltage [NB V olt] and front side bus termination voltage [FSBT V olt]. Conîguration options: [NB V olt] [FSBT V olt] SB LED Selection [PLL V olt] Allows you to switch the onboard southbridge LED display between PLL voltage [PLL V olt] and southbridge voltage [SB V olt]. Conîguration options: [PLL V olt] [SB V olt] 4.5 Advanced menu The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for the CPU and other system devices. T ake caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect îeld values can cause the system to malfunction. v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit Ai Net 2 USB Conî¿guration CPU Conî¿guration Chipset Onboard Devices Conî¿guration PCIPnP LAN Cable Status. Select Screen Select Item - Change Field Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-23 4.5.2 USB Conîguration The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conîguration options. The USB Devices Enabled item shows the auto-detected values. If no USB device is detected, the item shows None. USB Functions [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the USB functions. The following sub-items appear when this item is set to [Enabled]. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. USB Conî¿guration USB Devices Enabled: None USB Functions [Enabled] USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled] USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed] BIOS EHCI Hand-off [Enabled] Port 64/60 Emulation [Disabled] Legacy USB Support [Auto] Options Disabled Enabled BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced 4.5.1 Ai Net 2 v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. POST Check LAN cable [Disabled] Ai Net 2 Pair Status Length 1-2 N/A 3-6 N/A 4-5 N/A 7-8 N/A 1-2 N/A 3-6 N/A 4-5 N/A 7-8 N/A Check LAN cable during POST. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced POST Check LAN cable [Disabled] Enables or disables the LAN cable checking during the POST . Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled]
4-24 Chapter 4: BIOS setup The USB 2.0 Controller Mode item appears only when you enable the USB 2.0 Controller . BIOS EHCI Hand-off [Enabled] Allows you to enable the support for operating systems without an EHCI hand-off feature. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Port 64/60 Emulation [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the I/O port 60h/64h emulation support. This item should be enabled for the complete USB keyboard legacy support for non-USB aware OSes. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Legacy USB Support [Auto] Allows you to enable or disable the support for legacy USB devices. Setting to [Auto] allows the system to detect the presence of USB devices at startup. If detected, the USB controller legacy mode is enabled. If no USB device is detected, the legacy USB support is disabled. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] [Auto] USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the USB 2.0 controller . Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] USB 2.0 Controller Mode [HiSpeed] Allows you to set the USB 2.0 controller mode to HiSpeed (480 Mbps) or FullSpeed (12 Mbps). Conîguration options: [FullSpeed] [HiSpeed] The following items appear only when you set USB Functions to [Enabled].
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-25 Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. 4.5.3 CPU Conîguration The items in this menu show the CPU-related information that the BIOS automatically detects. CPU Ratio Control [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Manual] The following item appears when the item CPU Ratio Control is set to [Manual]. Ratio CMOS Setting: [ 7] C1E Support [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable C1E Support. Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Max CPUID V alue Limit [Disabled] Setting this item to [Enabled] allows legacy operating systems to boot even without support for CPUs with extended CPUID functions. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] V anderpool T echnology [Enabled] Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] CPU TM Function [Enabled] Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Execute Disable Bit [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the No-Execution Page Protection T echnology . Setting this item to [Disabled] forces the XD feature îag to always return to zero (0). Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Conî¿gure Advanced CPU settings Manufacturer:Intel Brand String:Intel(R) Core(TM)2 CPU 6300 @ 1.86GHz Frequency :1.86GHz FSB Speed :1066 MHz Cache L1 :64 KB Cache L2 :2048 KB CPUID :6F5 Ratio Status:Unlocked (Max:07, Min:06) Ratio Actual Value: 7 CPU Ratio Control [Auto] C1E Support [Enabled] Max CPUID Value Limit [Disabled] Vanderpool Technology [Enabled] CPU TM Function [Enabled] Execute Disable Bit [Enabled] PECI [Enabled] Intel(R) SpeedStep(tm) Tech. [Disabled] Options Auto Manual BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced
4-26 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.5.4 Chipset The Chipset menu allows you to change the advanced chipset settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. Advanced Chipset Settings WARMING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction. North Bridge Conî¿guration Conî¿ gure North B ridge features. PECI [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the PECI interface. Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] The following item appears when the item CPU Ratio Control is set to [Auto]. Intel(R) SpeedStep (tm) T ech. [Disabled] Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced North Bridge Chipset Conî¿guration Memory Remap Feature [Enabled] Initiate Graphic Adapter [PEG/PCI] PEG Port Control [Auto] North Bridge Chipset Conîguration ENABLE: Allow remapping of overlapped PCI memory above the total physical memory. DISABLE: Do not allow remapping of memory. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Memory Remap Feature [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the remapping of the overlapped PCI memory above the total physical memory . Enable this option only when you install 64- bit operating system. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Initiate Graphic Adapter [PEG/PCI] Allows you to decide which graphics controller to use as the primary boot device. Conîguration options: [PCI/PEG] [PEG/PCI] PEG Port Control [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [Disabled]
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-27 4.5.5 OnBoard Devices Conîguration J-Micron eSA T A/P A T A Controller [Enabled] Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Controller Mode [IDE] Conîguration options: [RAID] [IDE] [AHCI] Marvell Gigabit LAN 1 [Enabled] Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] MarvelI Gigabit LAN 2 [Enabled] Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] VIA Firewire 1394 [Enabled] Conîguration options: [Enabled] [Disabled] Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Onboard Device Conî¿guration J-Micron eSATA/PATA Controller [Enabled] Controller Mode [IDE] Marvell Gigabit LAN 1 [Enabled] LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] Marvell Gigabit LAN 2 [Enabled] LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] VIA Firewire 1394 [Enabled] BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Options Enabled Disabled
4-28 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.5.6 PCI PnP The PCIPnP menu items allow you to change the advanced settings for PCI/PnP devices. T ake caution when changing the settings of the PCI PnP menu items. Incorrect îeld values can cause the system to malfunction. Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Advanced PCI/PnP Settings WARNING: Setting wrong values in below sections may cause system to malfunction. Plug And Play O/S [NO] NO: lets the BIOS conî¿gure all the devices in the system. YES: lets the operating system conî¿gure Plug and Play (PnP) devices not required for boot if your system has a Plug and Play operating system. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Plug And Play O/S [NO] When set to [NO], BIOS conîgures all the devices in the system. When set to [YES] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system conîgures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot. Conîguration options: [NO] [YES]
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-29 4.6 Power menu The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced Power Management (APM). Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conîguration options. 4.6.1 Suspend Mode [Auto] Allows you to select the Advanced Conîguration and Power Interface (ACPI) state to be used for system suspend. Conîguration options: [S1 (POS) Only] [S3 Only] [Auto] 4.6.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume [Disabled] Determines whether to invoke VGA BIOS POST on S3/STR resume. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 4.6.3 ACPI 2.0 Support [Enabled] Speciîes the Advanced Conîguration and Power Interface (ACPI) version supported. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] 4.6.4 ACPI APIC Support [Enabled] Allows you to enable or disable the Advanced Conîguration and Power Interface (ACPI) support in the Advanced Programmable Interrupt Controller (APIC). When set to Enabled, the ACPI APIC table pointer is included in the RSDT pointer list. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Suspend Mode [Auto] Repost Video on S3 Resume [Disabled] ACPI 2.0 Support [Disabled] ACPI APIC Support [Enabled] APM Conî¿guration Hardware Monitor Select the ACPI state used for System Suspend. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
4-30 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.6.5 APM Conîguration Restore On AC Power Loss [Power Off] When set to [Power Off], the system goes into of f state after an AC power loss. When set to [Power On], the system goes on after an AC power loss. When set to [Last State], the system goes into either off or on state, whatever the system state was before the AC power loss. Conîguration 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 is set to Enabled, the items RTC Alarm Date/ RTC Alarm Hour/ RTC Alarm Minute/ RTC Alarm Second will become user-conîgurable with set values. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Power On By PCI Devices [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the PME to wake up from S5 by PCI devices. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Power On By PCIE Devices [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the PCIE devices to generate a wake event. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled] Allows you to disable the Power On by PS/2 keyboard function or set speciîc keys on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature requires an A TX power supply that provides at least 1A on the 5VSB lead. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Space Bar] [Ctrl-Esc] [Power Key] Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. APM Conî¿guration Restore on AC Power Loss [Power Off] Power On By RTC Alarm [Disabled] Power On By PCI Devices [Disabled] Power On By PCIE Devices [Disabled] Power On By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled] <Enter> to select whether or not to restart the system after AC power loss. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-31 4.6.6 Hardware Monitor CPU T emperature; MB T emperature; NB T emperature SB T emperature; OPT T emperature [xxxºC/xxxºF] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU, motherboard, northbridge, southbridge and the assigned device temperatures. Select [Ignored] if you do not wish to display the detected temperatures. North Bridge Overheat Protection [Auto] Allows you to enable/disable the northbridge overheat auto-protection function or set the temperature over which the system shuts down. Conîguration options: [Auto] [70C] [80C] [Disabled] South Bridge Sensor Select [SB Overheat Protection] Allows you to switch the target the temperature sensor aims at between the southbridge and any device with a thermal sensor cable connected to the OPT_TEMP2 connector . Conîguration options: [SB Overheat Protection] [OPT_TEMP2] Remove the thermal sensor cable from the assigned device when you set this item to [SB Overheat Protection]. The next item varies depending on whether you set the South Bridge Sensor Select item to [SB Overheat Protection] or [OPT_TEMP2]. v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2006, American Megatrends, Inc. Select Screen Select Item - Change Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit Hardware Monitor CPU Temperature [30.5ºC/86.5ºF] MB Temperature [35ºC/95ºF] NB Temperature [34ºC/94ºF] SB Temperature [42ºC/107.5ºF] OPT Temperature [N/A] North Bridge Overheat Protecti[Auto] South Bridge Sensor Select [SB Overheat Protec] South Bridge Overheat Protecti[Auto] OPT_TEMP1 Overheat Protection [Disabled] CPU Fan and Chassis Fan OPT Fan and Power Fan VCORE Voltage [ 1.280V] FSB Termination Voltage [ 1.232V] North Bridge Voltage [ 1.280V] DRAM Voltage [ 1.584V] CPU Temperature BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Scroll down to see more items. v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2006, American Megatrends, Inc. Select Screen Select Item - Change Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. DRAM Reference Voltage [ 1.584V] South Bridge Voltage [ 1.072V] PLL Voltage [ 1.520V] 3.3V Voltage [ 3.200V] 5V Voltage [ 5.040V] 12V Voltage [12.152V]
4-32 Chapter 4: BIOS setup South Bridge Overheat Protection [Auto] Allows yous to enable/disable the southbridge overheat auto-protection function or set the temperature over which the system shuts down. Conîguration options: [Auto] [70C] [80C] [Disabled] OPT_TEMP2 Overheat Protection [Disabled] If you monitor a device temperature using a thermal sensor cable connected to the OPT_TEMP2 connector , you can use this item to set the temperature over which the system shuts down or disable this function. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [50C] [60C] [70C] [80C] [90C] OPT_TEMP1 Overheat Protection [Disabled] If you monitor a device temperature using a thermal sensor cable connected to the OPT_TEMP1 connector , you can use this item to set the temperature over which the system shuts down or disable this function. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [50C] [60C] [70C] [80C] [90C] CPU Fan and Chassis Fan Select Screen Select Item - Change Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit CPU Fan Speed [4411RPM] CPU Q-Fan Control [Disabled] Chassis Fan 1 Speed [N/A] Chassis Fan 2 Speed [N/A] Chassis Fan 3 Speed [N/A] Chassis Q-Fan Control [N/A] Chassis Fan 4 Speed :N/A CPU Fan Speed BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. CPU Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the îeld shows N/A. CPU Q-Fan Control [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the CPU Q-Fan controller . Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Chassis Fan 1/2/3 Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the chassis fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the îeld shows N/A.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-33 Chassis Q-Fan Control [Disabled] Allows you to enable or disable the chassis Q-Fan controller . Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] The following two items appear when you enable the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature. Chassis Fan Ratio [Auto] Conîguration options: [Auto] [90%] [80%] [70%] [60%] Chassis T arget T emperature [21ºC] Conîguration options: [12ºC] [15ºC] [18ºC] [21ºC] [24ºC] [27ºC] [30ºC] Chassis Fan 4 Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the chassis fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the îeld shows N/A. OPT Fan and Power Fan Select Screen Select Item - Change Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit OPT_Fan 1 Speed :N/A OPT_Fan1 Q-Fan Control [DUTY CYCLE] Duty Cycle Mode [90%] OPT_Fan 2 Speed :N/A OPT_Fan2 Q-Fan Control [DUTY CYCLE] Duty Cycle Mode [90%] Power Fan Speed :N/A Fan conî¿guration mode setting BIOS SETUP UTILITY Power v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the optional fan speed. If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the îeld shows N/A. OPT_Fan1/2 Q-Fan Control [DUTY CYCLE] Allows you to select the optional fan control mode. When this item is set to [DUTY CYCLE], you can conîgure the Duty Cycle Mode item. If you set this item to [Q-F AN], you are allowed to conîgure the T argetT emp V alue item. The Q-Fan detects the temperature of the fan connected to the OPT_F AN1/2 connector and adjusts the fan speed. Conîguraiton options: [DUTY CYCLE] [Q-F AN] Y ou need to connect the thermal sensor cables to the OPT_TEMP1/2 connectors to enable this function.
4-34 Chapter 4: BIOS setup Duty Cycle Mode [90%] Allows you to set the fan duty cycle. When the OPT_Fan1/2 Q-Fan Control item is set to [Q-F AN], this item does not appear . Conîguraiton options: [70%] [80%] [90%] [100%] T argetT emp V alue [32] Allows you to set the temperature at which the optional fan starts up. When the OPT_Fan1/2 Q-Fan Control item is set to [DUTY CYCLE], this item does not appear . Conîguration options: [16] [24] [32] [40] [48] [56] [64] [72] Power Fan Speed [xxxxRPM] or [Ignored] / [N/A] The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the power fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected to the motherboard, the îeld shows N/A. VCORE V oltage, FSB T ermination V oltage, North Bridge V oltage, DRAM V oltage, DRAM Reference V oltage, South Bridge V oltage, PLL V oltage, 3.3V V oltage, 5V V oltage, 12V V oltage The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through the onboard voltage regulators.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-35 4.7 Boot menu The Boot menu items allow you to change the system boot options. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. Select Screen Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Boot Device Priority Boot Settings Conî¿guration Security Speciî¿es the Boot Device Priority sequence. A virtual îoppy disk drive (Floppy Drive B:) may appear when you set the CD-ROM drive as the î¿rst boot device. 4.7.1 Boot Device Priority 1st ~ xxth Boot Device [xxx 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 of devices installed in the system. Conîguration options: [xxx Drive] [Disabled] Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Boot Device Priority 1st Boot Device [1st FLOPPY DRIVE] 2nd Boot Device [Hard Drive] 3rd Boot Device [ATAPI CD-ROM] Speciî¿es the boot sequence from the availabe devices. A device enclosed in parenthesis has been disabled in the corresponding menu. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot
4-36 Chapter 4: BIOS setup 4.7.2 Boot Settings Conîguration Quick Boot [Enabled] Enabling this item allows the BIOS to skip some power on self tests (POST) while booting to decrease the time needed to boot the system. When set to [Disabled], BIOS performs all the POST items. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Full Screen Logo [Enabled] This allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Set this item to [Enabled] to use the ASUS MyLogo3 ⢠feature. AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS] Sets the display mode for option ROM. Conîguration options: [Force BIOS] [Keep Current] Bootup Num-Lock [On] Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock. Conîguration options: [Off] [On] W ait for âF1â If Error [Enabled] When set to Enabled, the system waits for the F1 key to be pressed when error occurs. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Hit âDELâ Message Display [Enabled] When set to Enabled, the system displays the message âPress DEL to run Setupâ during POST . Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled] When set to [Enabled], this function allows the option ROMs to trap Interrupt 19. Conîguration options: [Disabled] [Enabled] Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Boot Settings Conî¿guration Quick Boot [Enabled] Full Screen Logo [Enabled] AddOn ROM Display Mode [Force BIOS] Bootup Num-Lock [On] Wait for âF1â if Error [Enabled] Hit âDELâ Message Display [Enabled] Interrupt 19 Capture [Disabled] Allows BIOS to skip certain tests while booting. This will decrease the time needed to boot the system. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-37 Change Supervisor Password Select this item to set or change the supervisor password. The Supervisor Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed. T o set a Supervisor Password: 1. Select the Change Supervisor Password item and press <Enter>. 2. From the password box, type a password composed of at least six letters and/or numbers, then press <Enter>. 3. Conîrm the password when prompted. The message âPassword Installedâ appears after you successfully set your password. T o change the supervisor password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password. T o clear the supervisor password, select the Change Supervisor Password then press <Enter>. The message âPassword Uninstalledâ appears. If you forget your BIOS password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real T ime Clock (RTC) RAM. See section 2.6 Jumper for information on how to erase the RTC RAM. 4.7.3 Security The Security menu items allow you to change the system security settings. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the conîguration options. Select Screen Select Item Enter Change F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Security Settings Supervisor Password :Not Installed User Password :Not Installed Change Supervisor Password Change User Password <Enter> to change password. <Enter> again to disabled password. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot
4-38 Chapter 4: BIOS setup User Access Level [Full Access] This item allows you to select the access restriction to the Setup items. Conîguration 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 îeld. [Limited] allows changes only to selected îelds, such as Date and T ime. [Full Access] allows viewing and changing all the îelds in the Setup utility . Change User Password Select this item to set or change the user password. The User Password item on top of the screen shows the default Not Installed. After you set a password, this item shows Installed. T o 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. Conîrm the password when prompted. The message âPassword Installedâ appears after you set your password successfully . T o change the user password, follow the same steps as in setting a user password. Clear User Password Select this item to clear the user password. Select Screen Select Item Enter Change F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. 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] <Enter> to change password. <Enter> again to disabled password. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Boot After you have set a supervisor password, the other items appear to allow you to change other security settings.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-39 Password Check [Setup] When set to [Setup], BIOS checks for user password when accessing the Setup utility . When set to [Always], BIOS checks for user password both when accessing Setup and booting the system. Conîguration options: [Setup] [Always] 4.8 Tools menu The T ools menu items allow you to conîgure options for special functions. Select an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu. Select Screen Select Item - Change Field Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. ASUS EZ Flash 2 ASUS O.C. Proî¿le Press ENTER to run the utility to select and update BIOS. This utility doesn't support : 1.NTFS format 4.8.1 ASUS EZ Flash 2 Allows you to run ASUS EZ Flash 2. When you press <Enter>, a conîrmation message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Y es] or [No], then press <Enter> to conîrm your choice. Please see page 4-5, section 4.1.3 for details. ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility V3.05 Current ROM Update ROM A: Note [Enter] Select or Load [B] Backup [ESC] Exit [Tab] Switch [Up/Down/Home/End] Move FLASH TYPE: SST 25VF016 PATH: A:\ BOARD: Blitz Extreme VER: 0122 DATE: 05/07/07 BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
4-40 Chapter 4: BIOS setup Select Screen Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. O.C. PROFILE Conî¿guration O.C. Proî¿le 1 Status :Not Installed O.C. Proî¿le 2 Status :Not Installed Save to Proî¿le 1 Load from Proî¿le 1 Save to Proî¿le 2 Load from Proî¿le 2 Start O.C. Proî¿le Save to Proî¿le 1 4.8.2 ASUS O.C. Proîle This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings. Save to Proîe 1/2 Allows you to save the current BIOS île to the BIOS Flash. Press <Enter> to save the île. Load from Proîle 1/2 Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Press <Enter> to load the île. Start O.C. Proîle Allows you to run the utility to save and load CMOS. Press <Enter> to run the utility . ASUSTek O.C. Proî¿le Utility V1.05 Current CMOS Restore CMOS A: Note [Enter] Select or Load [B] Backup [ESC] Exit [Tab] Switch [Up/Down/Home/End] Move PATH: A:\ BOARD: Blitz Extreme VER: 0122 DATE: 05/07/07 BOARD: Unknown VER: Unknown DATE: Unknown ⢠This function can support devices such as USB îash disk or îoppy disk with F A T 32/16 format and single partition only . ⢠DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent the system boot failure! BIOS SETUP UTILITY Tools
ASUS Blitz Extreme 4-41 4.9 Exit menu Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options from 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 the BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items. Select Screen Select Item Enter Go to Sub Screen Tab Select Field F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Exit Options Exit & Save Changes Exit & Discard Changes Discard Changes Load Setup Defaults Exit system setup after saving the changes. F10 key can be used for this operation. Exit & Save Changes Once you are înished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit menu to ensure the values you selected are saved to the CMOS RAM. An onboard backup battery sustains the CMOS RAM so it stays on even when the PC is turned off. When you select this option, a conîrmation window appears. Select YES to save changes and exit. If you attempt to exit the Setup program without saving your changes, the program prompts you with a message asking if you want to save your changes before exiting. Press <Enter> to save the changes while exiting. Exit & Discard Changes Select this option only if you do not want to save the changes that you made to the Setup program. If you made changes to îelds other than System Date, System T ime, and Password, the BIOS asks for a conîrmation before exiting. Discard Changes This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the previously saved values. After selecting this option, a conîrmation appears. Select YES 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 the Setup menus. When you select this option or if you press <F5>, a conîrmation window appears. Select YES to load default values. Select Exit & Save Changes or make other changes before saving the values to the non-volatile RAM. BIOS SETUP UTILITY Main Extreme Tweaker Advanced Power Boot Tools Exit
4-42 Chapter 4: BIOS setup
5 Software support This chapter describes the contents of the support DVD that comes with the motherboard package and the softwares.
ASUS Blitz Extreme Chapter summary 5 5.1 Installing an operating system ................................................... 5-1 5.2 Support DVD information ............................................................ 5-1 5.3 Software information ................................................................... 5-9 5.4 RAID conîgurations .................................................................. 5-30 5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk ....................................................... 5-47
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-1 If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer , browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the île ASSETUP .EXE from the BIN folder . Double-click the ASSETUP .EXE to run the DVD. Click an item to install 5.1 Installing an operating system This motherboard supports Windows ® XP/ 64-bit XP/ Vista⢠operating systems (OS). Always install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features of your hardware. 5.2 Support DVD information The support DVD that came with the motherboard package contains the drivers, software applications, and utilities that you can install to avail all motherboard features. 5.2.1 Running the support DVD Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer . ⢠Motherboard settings and hardware options vary . Use the setup procedures presented in this chapter for reference only . Refer to your OS documentation for detailed information. ⢠Make sure that you install the Windows ® XP Service Pack2 or later versions before installing the drivers for better compatibility and system stability . The contents of the support DVD are subject to change at any time without notice. Visit the ASUS website(www.asus.com) for updates. Click an icon to display support DVD/ motherboard information
5-2 Chapter 5: Software support 5.2.2 Drivers menu The Drivers menu shows the available device drivers if the system detects installed devices. Install the necessary drivers to activate the devices. ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Drivers Installs all of the drivers through the Installation Wizard. Intel(R) Chipset Inf Update Program Installs the Intel ® chipset Inf update program. SoundMAX ADI1988 Audio Driver Installs the SoundMAX ® ADI1988 audio driver and application. Marvell Y ukon Gigabit Ethernet Driver Installs the Marvell Y ukon Gigabit Ethernet driver . USB 2.0 Driver Installs the USB 2.0 driver .
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-3 5.2.3 Utilities menu The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard supports. ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities Installs all of the utilities through the Installation Wizard. Marvell Y ukon VCT Application Installs the Marvell ® Y ukon Virtual Cable T ester⢠(VCT) application that diagnoses and reports LAN cable faults and shorts using the T ime Domain Reîectometry (TDR) technology . 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 computer in healthy operating condition. Click to display the next page Click to return to the previous page
5-4 Chapter 5: Software support ASUS AI Suite Installs the ASUS AI Suite. ASUS Update The ASUS Update utility allows you to update the motherboard BIOS in Windows ® environment. This utility requires an Internet connection either through a network or an Internet Service Provider (ISP). ADOBE Acrobat Reader V7.0 Installs the Adobe ® Acrobat ® Reader that allows you to open, view , and print documents in Portable Document Format (PDF). Microsoft DirectX 9.0c Installs the Microsoft ® DirectX 9.0c driver . The Microsoft DirectX ® 9.0c is a multimedia technology that enhances computer graphics and sound. DirectX ® improves the multimedia features of you computer so you can enjoy watching TV and movies, capturing videos, or playing games in your computer . Visit the Microsoft website (www .microsoft.com) for updates. Anti-Virus Utility The anti-virus application scans, identiîes, and removes computer viruses. View the online help for detailed information. 3DMark06 Software Installs the 3DMark software. WinDVD Copy5 T rial Installs the WinDVD Copy5 trial version. InterVideo MediaOne Gallery Installs the media library and all-in-one software. Ulead PhotoImpact 12 SE Installs the PhotoImpact image editing software. CyberLink PowerBackup Installs CyberLink PowerBackup to back up and restore your data easily . Corel Snapîre Plus SE Installs Corel Snapîre Plus SE.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-5 5.2.4 Make disk menu The Make disk menu contains items to create the Intel ICH9 or JMicron ® JMB36X RAID/AHCI driver disk. Make Intel ICH9R 32/64bit AHCI/RAID Driver Disk Allows you to create an ICH9R 32/64bit AHCI/RAID driver disk. Make JMicron JMB36X 32/64bit SA T A/RAID Driver Allows you to create a JMicron ® JMB36X 32/64bit SA T A/RAID driver .
5-6 Chapter 5: Software support 5.2.5 Manual menu The Manual menu contains a list of supplementary user manuals. Click an item to open the folder of the user manual. Mo st user ma nua l î les a re in P ort abl e D ocum ent Fo rma t ( PD F). Ins tal l t he Ad obe ® Ac rob at ® R ead er f rom th e U til it ies men u b efo re open ing a use r m an ual île . 5.2.6 ASUS Contact information Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. Y ou can also înd this information on the inside front cover of this user guide.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-7 Browse this DVD Displays the support DVD contents in graphical format. 5.2.7 Other information The icons on the top right corner of the screen give additional information on the motherboard and the contents of the support DVD. Click an icon to display the speciîed information. Motherboard Info Displays the general speciîcations of the motherboard.
5-8 Chapter 5: Software support T echnical support Form Displays the ASUS T echnical Support Request Form that you have to îll out when requesting technical support. Filelist Displays the contents of the support DVD in text format.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-9 5.3 Software information Most of the applications in the support DVD have wizards that will conveniently guide you through the installation. View the online help or readme île that came with the software application for more information. 5.3.1 ASUS MyLogo3⢠The ASUS MyLogo3⢠utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the image that appears on screen during the Power-On-Self-T ests (POST). The ASUS MyLogo3⢠is automatically installed when you install the ASUS Update utility from the support DVD. See section 5.2.3 Utilities menu for details. T o launch the ASUS MyLogo3â¢: 1. Launch the ASUS Update utility . Refer to section 4.1.1 ASUS Update utility for details. 2. Select Options from the drop down menu, then click Next . 3. Check the option Launch MyLogo to replace system boot logo before îashing BIOS, then click Next . 4. Select Update BIOS from a île from the drop down menu, then click Next . 5. When prompted, locate the new BIOS île, then click Next . The ASUS MyLogo3 window appears. 6. From the left window pane, select the folder that contains the image you intend to use as your boot logo. ⢠Before using the ASUS MyLogo3â¢, use the AFUDOS utility to make a copy of your original BIOS île, or obtain the latest BIOS version from the ASUS website. See section 4.1.4 AFUDOS utility . ⢠Make sure that the BIOS item Full Screen Logo is set to [Enabled] if you wish to use ASUS MyLogo3. See section 4.7.2 Boot Settings Conîguration . ⢠Y ou can create your own boot logo image in GIF , JPG, or BMP île formats.
5-10 Chapter 5: Software support 9. When the screen returns to the ASUS Update utility , îash the original BIOS to load the new boot logo. 10. After îashing the BIOS, restart the computer to display the new boot logo during POST . 8. Adjust the boot image to your desired size by selecting a value on the Ratio box. 7. When the logo images appear on the right window pane, select an image to enlarge by clicking on it.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-1 1 3. Click the Run button to perform a cable test. 5.3.2 AI NET2 The AI NET2 features the Marvell ® Virtual Cable T ester⢠(VCT). VCT is a cable diagnostic utility that reports LAN cable faults and shorts using the T ime Domain Reîectometry (TDR) technology . The VCT detects and reports open and shorted cables, impedance mismatches, pair swaps, pair polarity problems, and pair skew problems of up to 64 ns at one meter accuracy . The VCT feature reduces networking and support costs through a highly manageable and controlled network system. This utility can be incorporated in the network systems sofware for ideal îeld support as well as development diagnostics. Using the Virtual Cable T ester⢠T o use the the Marvell ® Virtual Cable T ester⢠utility: 1. Launch the VCT utility from the Windows ® desktop by clicking Start > All Programs > Marvell > Virtual Cable T ester . 2. Click Virtual Cable T ester from the menu to display the screen below . ⢠The VCT utility only tests Ethernet cables connected to Gigabit LAN port(s). ⢠The Run button on the Virtual Cable T ester⢠main window is disabled if no problem is detected on the LAN cable(s) connected to the LAN port(s). ⢠If you want the system to check the status of the LAN cable before entering the OS, enable the item Post Check LAN Cable in the BIOS Setup.
5-12 Chapter 5: Software support 5.3.3 ASUS PC Probe II PC Probe II is a utility that monitors the computerâs vital components, and detects and alerts you of any problem with these components. PC Probe II senses fan rotations, CPU temperature, and system voltages, among others. Because PC Probe II is software-based, you can start monitoring your computer the moment you turn it on. With this utility , you are assured that your computer is always at a healthy operating condition. Installing PC Probe II T o install PC Probe II on your computer: 1. Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature. If Autorun is not enabled in your computer , browse the contents of the support DVD to locate the setup.exe île from the ASUS PC Probe II folder . Double-click the setup.exe île to start installation. 2. Click the Utilities tab, then click ASUS PC Probe II. 3. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. Launching PC Probe II Y ou can launch the PC Probe II right after installation or anytime from the Windows ® desktop. T o launch the PC Probe II from the Windows ® desktop, click Start > All Programs > ASUS > PC Probe II > PC Probe II v1.xx.xx . The PC Probe II main window appears. After launching the application, the PC Probe II icon appears in the Windows ® taskbar . Click this icon to close or restore the application. Using PC Probe II Main window The PC Probe II main window allows you to view the current status of your system and change the utility conîguration. By default, th e main window displays the Preference section. Y ou can close or restore the Preference section by clicking on the triangle on the main window right handle. Click to close the Preference panel
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-13 Button Function Opens the Conîguration window Opens the Report window Opens the Desktop Management Interface window Opens the Peripheral Component Interconnect window Opens the Windows Management Instrumentation window Opens the hard disk drive, memory , CPU usage window Shows/Hides the Preference section Minimizes the application Closes the application Sensor alert Wh en a sys tem sen sor det ect s a p rob lem , th e ma in w ind ow r igh t ha ndl e turns red, as the illustrations below show . When displayed, the monitor panel for that sensor also turns red. Refer to the Monitor panels section for details. Preferences Y ou can customize the application using the Preference section in the main window . Click the box before each preference to activate or deactivate.
5-14 Chapter 5: Software support Changing the monitor panels position T o change the position of the monitor panels in the desktop, click the arrow down button of the Scheme options, then select another position from the list box. Click OK when înished. Moving the monitor panels Al l mon itor pan els m ove t oge ther usin g a m agne tic e ffect . If you want to detach a monitor panel from t he g r ou p, cl ic k t he ho rs es h oe m a gn et icon. Y ou can now move or reposition the panel independently . Hardware monitor panels The hardware monitor panels display the current value of a system sensor such as fan rotation, CPU temperature, and voltages. The hardware monitor panels come in two display modes: hexagonal (large) and rectangular (small). When you check the Enable Monitoring Panel option from the Preference section, the monitor panels appear on your computerâs desktop. Large display Small display Click to increase value Click to decrease value Adjusting the sensor threshold value Y ou can adjust the sensor threshold value in the monitor panel by clicking the or buttons. Y ou can also adjust the threshold values using the Conîg window . Y ou cannot adjust the sensor threshold values in a small monitoring panel.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-15 Monitoring sensor alert The monitor panel turns red when a component value exceeds or is lower than the threshold value. Refer to the illustrations below . Large display Small display WMI browser Click to display the WMI (Windows Management Instrumentation) browser . This b ro ws er displays various Windows ® management information. Click an item from the left panel to display on the right panel. Click the plus sign ( ) before WMI Information to display the available information. Y ou can enlarge or reduce the browser size by dragging the bottom right corner of the browser . DMI browser Click to display the DMI (Desktop Management Interface) browser . This browser displays various desktop and system information. Click the plus sign ( ) before DMI Information to display the available information.
5-16 Chapter 5: Software support PCI browser Click to display the PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) browser . This browser provides information on the PCI devices installed on your system. Click the plus sign ( ) before the PCI Information item to display available information. Usage The Usage browser displays real-time information on the CPU, hard disk drive space, and memory usage. Click to display the Usage browser . CPU usage The CPU tab displays real- time CPU usage in line graph representation. If the CPU has an enabled Hyper-Threading, two separate line graphs display the operation of the two logical processors. Hard disk drive space usage The Hard Disk tab displays the used and available hard disk drive space. The left panel of the tab lists all logical drives. Click a hard disk drive to display the information on the right panel. The pie chart at the bottom of the window represents the used (b lue) and the available HDD space.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-17 Memory usage The Memory tab shows both used and available physical memory . The pie chart at the bottom of the window represents the used (blue) and the available physical memory . Conîguring PC Probe II Click to view and adjust the sensor threshold values. The Conîg window has two tabs: Sensor/Threshold and Preference. The Sensor/ Threshold tab enables you to activate the sensors or to adjust the sensor threshold values. The Preference tab allows you to customize sensor alerts, or change the temperature scale. Loads the default threshold values for each sensor Applies your changes Cancels or ignores your changes Lo ad s y ou r s av ed co nî gur at ion Saves your conîguration
5-18 Chapter 5: Software support 5.3.4 ASUS AI Suite ASUS AI Suite allows you to launch AI Gear 2, AI N.O.S., AI Booster , AI Nap, and Q-Fan Plus utilities easily . Installing AI Suite T o install AI Suite on your computer: 1. Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The Drivers installation tab appears if your computer has an enabled Autorun feature. 2. Click the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite . 3. Follow the screen instructions to complete installation. Launching AI Suite Y ou can launch the AI Suite right after installation or anytime from the Windows ® desktop. T o launch the AI Suite from the Windows ® desktop, click Start > All Programs > ASUS > AI Suite > AI Suite v1.xx.xx . The AI Suite main window appears. After launching the application, the AI Suite icon appears in the Windows ® taskbar . Click this icon to close or restore the application. Using AI Suite Click the AI N.O.S., AI Gear 2, AI Nap, AI Booster , or Q-Fan Plus icon to launch the utility , or click the Normal icon to restore the system to normal state. Press to launch AI Gear 2 Press to launch AI Nap Pres s to la unch AI N.O.S. Press to launch Q-Fan Plus Pr ess to l aun ch A I Bo ost er Press to restore to normal
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-19 Other feature buttons Click on right corner of the main window to open the monitor window . Click on right corner of the expanded window to switch the temperature from degrees Centigrade to degrees Fahrenheit. Displays the CPU/ system temperature, CPU/memory/PCIE voltage, and CPU/ chassis fan speed Displays the FSB/CPU frequency
5-20 Chapter 5: Software support 5.3.5 ASUS AI Gear 2 ASUS AI Gear 2 provides four system performance options that allows you to select the best performance setting for your computing needs. This easy-to-use utility adjusts the processor frequency and vCore voltage to minimize system noise and power consumption. After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch AI Gear 2 by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on your Windows OS taskbar and then click the AI Gear 2 button on the AI Suite main window . Shift the gear to the performance setting that you like. Maximum Performance Medium Performance High Performance Maximum Power Saving
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-21 5.3.6 ASUS AI Nap This feature allows you to minimize the power consumption of your computer whenever you are away . Enable this feature for minimum power consumption and a more quiet system operation. After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows OS taskbar and click the AI Nap button on the AI Suite main window . Click Y es on the conîrmation screen. T o exit AI Nap mode, press the system power or mouse button then click Y es on the conîrmation screen. T o switch the power button functions from AI Nap to shutting down, just right click the AI Suite icon on the OS taskbar , select AI Nap and click Use power button . Unclick the the item to switch the function back.
5-22 Chapter 5: Software support 5.3.7 ASUS AI N.O.S. This ASUS Non-delay Overclocking System feature intelligently determines the system load and automatically boosts the performance for the most demanding tasks. After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows OS taskbar and click the AI N.O.S. button on the AI Suite main window . drop-down menu button select an N.O.S. mode Click the drop-down menu button and select Disable or Manual. Click Apply at the bottom to save the conîguration.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-23 5.3.8 ASUS Q-Fan Plus This ASUS Q-Fan Plus Control feature allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU Q-Fan or the Chassis Q-Fan for more efîcient system operation. After enabling the Q-Fan Plus function, the fans can be set to automatically adjust depending on the temperature, to decrease fan speed, or to achieve the maximum fan speed. After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows ® OS taskbar and click the Q-Fan Plus button on the AI Suite main window . Click the drop-down menu button and display the fan names. Select CPU Q-Fan or CHASSIS Q-Fan . Click the box of Enable Q-Fan to activate this function. drop-down list button Enable Q-Fan box Proîle list appears after clicking the Enable Q-Fan box. Click the drop-down list button and select a proîle. Optimal mode makes the fans adjust speed with the temperature; Silent mode minimizes fan speed for quiet fan operation; Performance mode boosts the fan to achieve maximal fan speed for the best cooling effect. click to display the drop-down list and select a Q-Fan mode Click Apply at the bottom to save the setup.
5-24 Chapter 5: Software support 5.3.9 ASUS AI Booster The ASUS AI Booster application allows you to overclock the CPU speed in WIndows ® environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS. After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows ® OS taskbar and click the AI Booster button on the AI Suite main window . The options on the taskbar allow you to use the default settings, adjust CPU/ Memory/PCI-E frequency manually , or create and apply your personal overclocking conîgurations.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-25 5.3.10 SoundMAX ® High Deînition Audio utility The ADI AD1988 High Deînition Audio CODEC provides 8-channel aud io capability through the SoundMAX ® audio utility with AudioESP⢠software to deliver the ultimate audio experience on your PC. The software implements high quality audio synthesis/rendering, 3D sound positioning, and advanced voice-input technologies. Follow the installation wizard to install the ADI AD1988 Audio Driver from the support CD that came with the motherboard package to activate the SoundMAX ® audio utility . If the SoundMAX ® audio utility is correctly installed, you will înd the SoundMAX ® icon on the taskbar . Y ou must use 4-channel, 6-channel or 8-channel speakers for this setup.
5-26 Chapter 5: Software support From the taskbar , double-click on the SoundMAX ® icon to display the SoundMAX ® Control Panel. Audio Setup Wizard By clicking the icon from the SoundMAX ® control panel, you can easily conîgure your audio settings. Simply follow succeeding screen instructions and begin enjoying High Deînition Audio.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-27 Jack conîguration This screen helps you conîgure your computerâs audio ports, depending on the audio devices you have installed. Adjust speaker volume This screen helps you adjust speaker volume. Click the T est button to hear the changes you have made. Adjust microphone volume This screen helps you adjust microphone volume. Y ou will be asked to read pre- written text to allow the AudioWizard to adjust the volume as you speak.
5-28 Chapter 5: Software support Audio preferences Click the icon to go to the Preferences page. This page allows you to change various audio settings. General options Click the General tab to choose your playback and recording devices, enable/ disable the AudioESP⢠feature, and enable/disable digital output. Listening Environment options Click the Listening Environment tab to set up your speaker , acoustic environment, and enable/disable the Virtual Theater Surround function.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-29 Microphone options Click the Microphone tab allows you to optimize your microphone input settings. Enhanced Microphone Features V oice recording Enables Noise Filter function. Detects repetitive and stationary noises like computer fans, air conditioners, and other background noises then eliminates it in the incoming sudio stream while recording. Y ou can enable it for a better recording quality . Directional Array Receives only the sound coming from the reception cone and eliminates interferences including neighboring speakers and reverberations. Y ou can enable it to transit clearer sound during on-line games, MSN, or Skype. Speaker Phone Advanced de-reverberation techniques can help to reduce echo and minimize its effect on the speech engine. Y ou can enable it when you have conference call to reduce echoes in the other side. ⢠The directional Array and Speaker Phone function only when working with the ASUS Array Mic. ⢠If you are using Windows Vista, you have to manually enable the directional Array and Speaker Phone function. Go to Control panel > Sound . Click the Recording tab on the top and select Microphone . Click the Microphone Enhancement tab and check Array Mic .
5-30 Chapter 5: Software support If you want to boot the system from a hard disk drive included in a created RAID set, copy îrst the RAID driver from the support CD to a îoppy disk before you install an operating system to the selected hard disk drive. Refer to section 5.6 Creating a RAID driver disk for details. 5.4 RAID conî¿gurations The motherboard comes with the Intel ® ICH9R Southbridge RAID controller that allow you to conîgure IDE and Serial A T A hard disk drives as RAID sets. The motherboard supports the following RAID conîgurations. 5.4.1 RAID deînitions RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write data in parallel, interleaved stacks. T wo hard disks perform the same work as a single drive but at a sustained data transfer rate, double that of a single disk alone, thus improving data access and storage. Use of two new identical hard disk drives is required for this setup. RAID 1 (Data mirroring) copies and maintains an identical image of data from one drive to a second drive. If one drive fails, the disk array management software directs all applications to the surviving drive as it contains a complete copy of the data in the other drive. This RAID conîguration provides data protection and increases fault tolerance to the entire system. Use two new drives or use an existing drive and a new drive for this setup. The new drive must be of the same size or larger than the existing drive. RAID 10 is data striping and data mirroring combined without parity (redundancy data) having to be calculated and written. With the RAID 10 conîguration you get all the beneîts of both RAID 0 and RAID 1 conîgurations. Use four new hard disk drives or use an existing drive and three new drives for this setup. RAID 5 stripes both data and parity information across three or more hard disk drives. Among the advantages of RAID 5 conîguration include better HDD performance, fault tolerance, and higher storage capacity . The RAID 5 conîguration is best suited for transaction processing, relational database applications, enterprise resource planning, and other business systems. Use a minimum of three identical hard disk drives for this setup. Intel ® Matrix Storage. The Intel ® Matrix Storage technology supported by the ICH9R chip allows you to create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10 function to improve both system performance and data safety . Y ou can also combine two RAID sets to get higher performance, capacity , or fault tolerance provided by the difference RAID function. For example, RAID 0 and RAID 1 set can be created by using only two identical hard disk drives.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-31 5.4.3 Intel ® RAID conîgurations This motherboard supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10 (0 1) and Intel ® Matrix Storage conîgurations for Serial A T A hard disks drives through the Intel ® ICH9R Southbridge chip. Setting the RAID item in BIOS Y ou must set the RAID item in the BIOS Setup before you can create a RAID set(s). T o do this: 1. Enter the BIOS Setup during POST . 2. Go to the Main Menu, select SA T A Conîguration , then press <Enter>. 3. Select the item Conîgure SA T A As , then press <Enter> to display the conîguration options. 4. Select [RAID] from the Conîgure SA T A As item options, then press <Enter>. 5. Select the item Onboard Serial-A T A BOOTROM , press <Enter>, then select [Enabled] from the options. 6. Save your changes, then exit the BIOS Setup. Refer to the system or the motherboard user guide for details on entering and navigating through the BIOS Setup. 5.4.2 Installing Serial A T A hard disks The motherboard supports Serial A T A hard disk drives. For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity when creating a disk array . T o install the SA T A hard disks for a RAID conîguration: 1. Install the SA T A hard disks into the drive bays. 2. Connect the SA T A signal cables. 3. Connect a SA T A power cable to the power connector on each drive .
5-32 Chapter 5: Software support Intel ® Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM Utility The Intel ® Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM utility allows you to create RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 10 (RAID 0 1), and RAID 5 set(s) from Serial A T A hard disk drives that are connected to the Serial A T A connectors supported by the Southbridge. T o enter the Intel ® Application Accelerator RAID Option ROM utility: 1. Install all the Serial A T A hard disk drives. 2. T urn on the system. 3. During POST , press <Ctrl I> to display the utility main menu. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ MAIN MENU ] 1. Create RAID Volume 2. Delete RAID Volume 3. Reset Disks to Non-RAID 4. Exit [ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ] RAID Volumes: None deî¿ned. Physical Disks: Port Drive Model Serial # Size Type/Status(Vol ID) 0 XXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk 1 XXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk 2 XXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk 3 XXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XXGB Non-RAID Disk [ ââ ]-Select [ESC]-Exit [ENTER]-Select Menu The navigation keys at the bottom of the screen allow you to move through the menus and select the menu options. The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only and may not exactly match the items on your screen.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-33 Creating a RAID 0 set (striped) T o create a RAID 0 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID V olume, then press <Enter>. This screen appears. 2. Enter a name for the RAID 0 set, then press <Enter>. 3. When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to select RAID 0(Stripe), then press <Enter>. 4. When the Disks item is highlighted, press <Enter> to select the hard disk drives to conîgure as RAID. This pop-up screen appears. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ CREATE ARRAY MENU ] [ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ] Enter a string between 1 and 16 characters in length that can be used to uniquely identify the RAID volume. This name is case sensitive and cannot contain special characters. [ ââ ]-Change [TAB]-Next [ESC]-Previous Menu [Enter]-Select Name: RAID Level: Disks: Strip Size: Capacity: Volume0 RAID0(Stripe) Select Disks 128KB 0.0 GB Create Volume [ SELECT DISKS ] [ ââ ]-Previous/Next [SPACE]-Selects [ENTER]-Selection Complete Port Drive Model Serial # Size Status 0 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk 1 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk 2 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk 3 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk Select 2 to 4 disks to use in creating the volume. 5. Use the up/down arrow key to highlight a drive, then press <Space> to select. A small triangle marks the selected drive. Press <Enter> after completing your selection.
5-34 Chapter 5: Software support 6. Use the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID 0 array , then press <Enter>. The available stripe size values range from 4 KB to 128 KB. The default stripe size is 128 KB. We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size for multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing. 7. Key in the RAID volume capacity that you want, then press <Enter>. The default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity . 8. Press <Enter> when the Create V olume item is highlighted. This warning message appears. WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST. Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N): 9. Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu, or <N> to go back to the Create V olume menu.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-35 Creating a RAID 1 set (mirrored) T o create a RAID 1 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID V olume, then press <Enter>. This screen appears. 2. Enter a name for the RAID 1 set, then press <Enter>. 3. When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to select RAID 1(Mirror), then press <Enter>. 4. When the Capacity item is highlighted, key in the RAID volume capacity that you want, then press <Enter>. The default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity . 5. Press <Enter> when the Create V olume item is highlighted. This warning message appears. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ CREATE ARRAY MENU ] [ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ] Enter a string between 1 and 16 characters in length that can be used to uniquely identify the RAID volume. This name is case sensitive and cannot contain special characters. [ ââ ]-Change [TAB]-Next [ESC]-Previous Menu [Enter]-Select Name: RAID Level: Disks: Strip Size: Capacity: Volume1 RAID1(Mirror) Select Disks N/A XX.X GB Create Volume WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST. Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N): 6. Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to main menu or <N> to go back to Create V olume menu.
5-36 Chapter 5: Software support Creating a RAID 10 set (RAID 0 1) T o create a RAID 10 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID V olume, then press <Enter>. This screen appears. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ CREATE ARRAY MENU ] [ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ] Enter a string between 1 and 16 characters in length that can be used to uniquely identify the RAID volume. This name is case sensitive and cannot contain special characters. Name: RAID Level: Disks: Strip Size: Capacity: Volume10 RAID10(RAID0 1) Select Disks 128KB XXX.X GB Create Volume 2. Enter a name for the RAID 10 set, then press <Enter>. 3. When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to select RAID 10(RAID0 1), then press <Enter>. 4. When the Stripe Size item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID 10 array , then press <Enter>. The available stripe size values range from 4 KB to 128 KB. The default stripe size is 64 KB. We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size for multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing. 5. Key in the RAID volume capacity that you want then press <Enter> when the Capacity item is highlighted. The default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity . [ ââ ]-Change [TAB]-Next [ESC]-Previous Menu [Enter]-Select
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-37 Creating a RAID 5 set (parity) T o create a RAID 5 set: 1. From the utility main menu, select 1. Create RAID V olume, then press <Enter>. This screen appears. Intel(R) Matrix Storage Manager Option ROM v5.0.0.1032 ICH9R wRAID5 Copyright(C) 2003-05 Intel Corporation. All Rights Reserved. [ CREATE ARRAY MENU ] [ DISK/VOLUME INFORMATION ] Enter a string between 1 and 16 characters in length that can be used to uniquely identify the RAID volume. This name is case sensitive and cannot contain special characters. Name: RAID Level: Disks: Strip Size: Capacity: Volume5 RAID5(Parity) Select Disks 64KB 0.0 GB Create Volume WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST. Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N): 7. Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu or <N> to go back to the Create V olume menu. [ ââ ]-Change [TAB]-Next [ESC]-Previous Menu [Enter]-Select 6. Press <Enter> when the Create V olume item is highlighted. This warning message appears. 2. Enter a name for the RAID 5 set, then press <Enter>. 3. When the RAID Level item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to select RAID 5(Parity), then press <Enter>.
5-38 Chapter 5: Software support 4. The Disks item is highlighted, press <Enter> to select the hard disk drives to conîgure as RAID. The following pop-up screen appears. [ SELECT DISKS ] [ ââ ]-Previous/Next [SPACE]-Selects [ENTER]-Selection Complete Port Drive Model Serial # Size Status 0 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk 1 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk 2 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk 3 XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XX.XGB Non-RAID Disk Select 2 to 4 disks to use in creating the volume. 5. Use the up/down arrow key to highlight the drive you want to set, then press <Space> to select. A small triangle marks the selected drive. Press <Enter> after completing your selection. 6. When the Stripe Size item is highlighted, press the up/down arrow key to select the stripe size for the RAID 5 array , then press <Enter>. The available stripe size va lues range from 4 KB to 128 K B. The defa ult stripe size is 64 KB. We recommend a lower stripe size for server systems, and a higher stripe size for multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing. 7. Key in the RAID volume capacity that you want, then press <Enter> when the Capacity item is highlighted. The default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity . 8. Press <Enter> when the Create V olume item is highlighted. This warning message appears. WARNING: ALL DATA ON SELECTED DISKS WILL BE LOST. Are you sure you want to create this volume? (Y/N): 9. Press <Y> to create the RAID volume and return to the main menu or <N> to go back to the Create V olume menu.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-39 5.4.4 JMicron ® RAID Conîguration The JMicron ® Serial A T A controller allows you to conîgure RAID 0, RAID 1 and JBOD sets on the external Serial A T A hard disk drives. Before creating a RAID set Prepare the following items: 1. T wo SA T A HDDs, preferably with the same model and capacity . 2. A write-enabled îoppy disk (Windows XP). A write-enabled îoppy disk or a USB îash disk drive (Windows Vista) 3. Microsoft ® Windows ® OS installation disk (Windows XP) 4. Motherboard support DVD with JMB363 driver Complete the following steps before you create a RAID set: 1. Install two external Serial A T A hard disk drives on your system. 2. Set the Controller Mode item in the BIOS to [RAID]. See section 4.5.5 Onboard Devices Conîguration for details. 3. Enter the JMB363 RAID BIOS utility to set up your RAID conîguration. 4. Create a JMB363 RAID driver disk for Windows ® OS installation. See section 5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk for details. 5. Install the JMB363 driver after the Windows ® OS had been installed. Always install the JMB363 driver before creating RAID sets. Select Screen Select Item - Change Option F1 General Help F10 Save and Exit ESC Exit v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2007, American Megatrends, Inc. Onboard Device Conî¿guration J-Micron eSATA/PATA Controller [Enabled] Controller Mode [IDE] Marvell Gigabit LAN 1 [Enabled] LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] Marvell Gigabit LAN 2 [Enabled] LAN Boot ROM [Disabled] VIA Firewire 1394 [Enabled] BIOS SETUP UTILITY Advanced Options Enabled Disabled
5-40 Chapter 5: Software support Entering the JMB363 RAID BIOS utility 1. During POST , press <Ctrl-J> to enter the JBM363 RAID BIOS menu. JMicron Technology Corp. PCI-to-SATA II/IDE RAID Controller BIOS v0.97 Copyright (C) 2004-2005 JMicron Technology http://www. jmicron.com HDD0 : HDS722516VLSA80 164 GB Non-RAID HDD1 : HDS722516DLA380 164 GB Non-RAID Press <Ctrl-J> to enter RAID Setup Utility... 2. The main JMB363 RAID BIOS menu appears. 3. Use the arrow keys to move the color bar and navigate through the items. Creating a RAID set 1. In the main JMB363 RAID BIOS menu, highlight Create RAID Disk Drive using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter>. [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving JMicron Technology Corp. PCI-to-SATA II/IDE RAID Controller BIOS v0.97 [ TAB]-Switch Window [ ââ ]-Select Item [ENTER]-Action [ESC]-Exit [Hard Disk Drive List] Model Name Capacity Type/Status HDD0: HDS722516VLSA80 164 GB Non-RAID HDD1: HDS722516DLA380 164 GB Non-RAID [RAID Disk Drive List] [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-41 2. When the Level item is highlighted, use the up/down arrow key to select the RAID set that you want to create. 3. When the Disks item is highlighted, use the up/down arrow key to highlight an HDD that you want to belong to the RAID set, then press the space bar to conîrm selection. Repeat the process until the HDDs are selected. A selected HDD shows a sign before it. 4. Key in the RAID volume capacity . Use the up/down arrow to choose the block size. The default value indicates the maximum allowed capacity . [Create New RAID] Name : JRAID Level: 0-Stripe Disks: Select Disk Block: 128 KB Size : 319 GB Conî¿rm Creation [Create New RAID] Name : JRAID Level: 1-Mirror Disks: Select Disk Block: N/A Size : 159 GB Conî¿rm Creation [Hard Disk Drive List] Model Name Capacity Type/Status HDD0: HDS722516VLSA80 XXX GB Non-RAID HDD1: HDS722516DLA380 XXX GB Non-RAID [Create New RAID] Name : JRAID Level: 0-Stripe Disks: Select Disk Block: 128 KB Size : 319 GB Conî¿rm Creation
5-42 Chapter 5: Software support 5. When done, press <Enter> to conîrm the creation of the RA ID set. A dialogue box appears to conîrm the action. Press <Y> to conîrm; otherwise, press <N>. 6. The following screen appears, displaying the relevant information about the RAID set you created. [RAID Disk Drive List] Mo de l N a m e RA ID L e ve l C ap ac it y S ta tu s M e mb er s( HD D x) RDD0: JRAID 0-Stripe XXX GB Normal 01 J M i c r o n T e c h n o l o g y C o r p . P C I - t o - S A T A I I / I D E R A I D C o n t r o l l e r B I O S v 0 . 9 7 [Hard Disk Drive List] Mo del Na me Available Ty pe/ Sta tu s HDD0: HDS722516VLSA80 164 GB Non-RAID HDD1: HDS722516DLA380 164 GB Non-RAID [ TAB]-Switch Window [ ââ ]-Select Item [ENTER]-Action [ESC]-Exit Pressing <Y> deletes all the data in the HDDs. [RAID Disk Dr ive List] [Create New RAID] Name: JRAID Level: 0-Stripe Disks: Select Disk Block: 128 KB Size : 319 GB Conî¿rm Creation CONFIRM RAID CREATION ALL DATA ON THE SELECTED HARD DISK WILL BE LOST WHEN EXIT WITH SAVING Create RAID on the selected HDD (Y/N)? Y
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-43 Deleting a RAID set 1. In the main JMB363 RAID BIOS menu, highlight Delete RAID Disk Drive using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter>. 2. Use the space bar to select the RAID set you want to delete. A selected set shows a sign before it. Press the <Del> key to delete the set. 3. A dialogue box appears to conîrm the action. Press <Y> to conîrm; otherwise, press <N>. Pressing <Y> deletes all the data in the HDDs. [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving J M i c r on T e c h n o l o g y C o r p . P C I - t o -S A T A I I / I D E R A I D C o n t r o l l er B I O S v 0 . 9 7 [Hard Disk Drive List] Mo del Na me C apa cit y Ty pe/ Sta tus HDD0: HDS722516VLSA80 164 GB RAID Inside HDD1: HDS722516DLA380 164 GB RAID Inside [RAID Di sk Drive List] M o d e l N a m e R A I D L e v e l C a p a c i t y S t a t u s M em be rs ( H D D x) R DD 0 : JRAID 0-Stripe XXX GB Normal 01 [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving ALL DATA ON THE RAID WILL BE LOST!! ARE YOU SURE TO DELETE (Y/N)? Y [ TAB]-Switch Window [ ââ ]-Select Item [ENTER]-Action [ESC]-Exit
5-44 Chapter 5: Software support Resetting disks to non-RAID T o reset disks to non-RAID: 1. In the main JMB363 RAID BIOS menu, highlight Revert HDD to non-RAID using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter>. 2. Use the space bar to select the HDD that you want to reset to non-RAID. A selected HDD shows a sign before it. 3. A dialogue box appears to conîrm the action. Press <Y> to conîrm; otherwise, press <N>. [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving Pressing <Y> deletes all the data in the HDD. ⢠An HDD that has been previously conîgured as part of another RAID set in another platform is called a broken RAID HDD. When you install a broken R AI D H DD , yo u c an n ot s el e ct t h is H D D w h en c o nf ig u ri n g a R A ID s et through the JMB363 utility . ⢠If yo u s ti ll w an t to u se t hi s br ok en R AI D HD D a s p ar t of t he R AI D se t conîgured through the J MB363, you may do so by resetting the dis k to non- RAID. Y ou will, however , lose all data and previous RAID conîgurations.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-45 T o solve a Mirror conîict: 1. In the main JMB363 RAID BIOS menu, highlight Solve Mirror Conîict using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter>. 2. Use the space bar to select the HDD that you want to set as source drive. The selected HDD shows a sign before it. 3. Using the <T AB>, move to the RAID Disk Drive List menu and highlight the RAID set that you want to rebuild. Press <Del> to begin rebuilding the Mirror conîguration. A status bar at the bottom of the screen shows the progress of the rebuilding. [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving J M i c r on T e c h n o l o g y C o r p . P C I - t o -S A T A I I / I D E R A I D C o n t r o l l er B I O S v 0 . 9 7 [Hard Disk Drive List] Mo del Na me C apa cit y Ty pe/ Sta tus HDD0: HDS722516VLSA80 164 GB R AI D I n s id e HDD1: HDS722516DLA380 164 GB RAID Inside [RAID Disk Drive List] M od el Na me RA I D Le ve l Ca pa ci ty St at us M em be rs (H DD x) RDD0: JRAID 1-Mirror XXX GB Rebuild 01 [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving Rebuilding... 01%, please wait... Solving a Mirror conîict A Mirror conîict occurs when both disks in a RAID 1 (Mirror) conîguration are unplugged from the system in turn, then plugged in again. Since both disks contain exactly the same data, the system will be unable to determine which of the two is the source drive. This option allows you to set the source drive and rebuild the Mirror drive according to the contents of the source drive.
5-46 Chapter 5: Software support Saving the settings and exiting setup When you have înished, highlight Save & Exit Setup using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter> to save the current RAID conîguration and exit the JMB363 RAID BOS utility . A dialogue box appears to conîrm the action. Press <Y> to conîrm; otherwise, press <N> to return to the JMB RAID BIOS menu. T o rebuild a Mirror drive: 1. In the main JMB363 RAID BIOS menu, highlight Rebuild Mirror Drive using the up/down arrow key then press <Enter>. [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving Rebuilding a Mirror Drive When one of the disks in a RAID 1 (Mirror) conîguration is unplugged from the system, then plugged in again, a dialogue box appears to ask you to rebuild the Mirror drive. Press <Y> to conîrm; otherwise, press <N>. This option allows you to rebuild the Mirror drive later and synchronize the data between two hard disks. 2. Using the <T AB>, move to the RAID Disk Drive List menu and highlight the RAID set that you want to rebuild. Press <Del> to begin rebuilding the Mirror conîguration. A status bar at the bottom of the screen shows the progress of the rebuilding. J M i c r on T e c h n o l o g y C o r p . P C I - t o -S A T A I I / I D E R A I D C o n t r o l l er B I O S v 0 . 9 7 [Hard Disk Drive List] Mo del Na me C apa cit y Ty pe/ Sta tus HDD0: HDS722516VLSA80 164 GB R AI D I n s id e HDD1: HDS722516DLA380 164 GB RAID Inside [RAID Disk Drive List] M od el Na me RA I D Le ve l Ca pa ci ty St at us M em be rs (H DD x) RDD0: JRAID 1-Mirror XXX GB Rebuild 01 [Main Menu] Create RAID Disk Drive Delete RAID Disk Drive Revert HDD to Non-RAID Solve Mirror Conîict Rebuild Mirror Drive Save and Exit Setup Exit Without Saving Rebuilding... 01%, please wait...
ASUS Blitz Extreme 5-47 5.5.2 Creating a RAID driver disk in Windows ® T o create a RAID driver disk in Windows ® : 1. Start Windows ® . 2. Place the motherboard support CD into the optical drive. 3. Go to the Make Disk menu, then click Intel ICH9R 32/64 bit RAID Driver Disk to create an Intel ® ICH9R RAID driver disk or the Make JMicron JMB36X 32/64-bit RAID Driver to create a JMicron JMB363 RAID driver disk. 4. Insert a îoppy disk into the îoppy disk drive or connect a USB îash disk if you are using Windows Vista OS. 5. Follow succeeding screen instructions to complete the process. Write-protect the îoppy disk to avoid computer virus infection. 5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk A îoppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows ® XP/Vista and later operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. For Windows Vista user , you can create a RAID driver disk with a îoppy disk drive or a USB îash disk drive. 5.5.1 Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS T o create a RAID driver disk without entering the OS: 1. Boot your computer . 2. Press <Del> during POST to enter the BIOS setup utility . 3. Set the optical drive as the primary boot device. 4. Insert the support CD into the optical drive. 5. Save changes and exit BIOS. 6. Press any key when the system prompts âPress any key to boot from the optical drive.â 7. When the menu appears, press <1> to create a RAID driver disk. 8. Insert a formatted îoppy disk into the îoppy drive then press <Enter>. 9. Follow succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.
5-48 Chapter 5: Software support T o install the RAID driver in Windows XP: 1. During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the <F6> key to install third-party SCSI or RAID driver . 2. Press <F6> then insert the îoppy disk with RAID driver into the îoppy disk drive. 3. When prompted to select the SCSI adapter to install, make sure you select Intel(R) SA T A RAID Controller (Desktop ICH9R) and JMicron JMB363. 4. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation. T o install the RAID driver in Windows ® Vista: 1. Insert the îoppy disk/USB device with RAID driver into the îoppy disk drive/U SB port. 2. During the OS installation, select JMicron JMB363. 3. Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.
6 This chapter tells how to install A TI ® CrossFire⢠graphics cards to avail of A TIâs Multi-Video Processing technology . ATI ® CrossFire⢠technology support
ASUS Blitz Extreme Chapter summary 6 6.1 Overview ....................................................................................... 6-1 6.2 Installing CrossFire⢠graphics cards ....................................... 6-2 6.3 Software information ................................................................... 6-5
ASUS Blitz Extreme 6-1 6.1 Overview The motherboard supports the A TI ® CrossFire⢠technology that allows you to install multi-graphics processing units (GPU) graphics cards. Follow the installation procedures in this section. 6.1.1 Requirements ⢠CrossFire⢠Edition graphics card (Master) ⢠CrossFireâ¢-ready graphics card (Slave) ⢠CrossFireâ¢-ready motherboard ⢠Make sure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the minimum power required by your system. See 9. A TX Power connectors on page 2-30 for details. 6.1.2 Before you begin Uninstall other graphics card drivers in your system T o uninstall other graphics card drivers: 1. Close all current applications. 2. Go to Control Panel > Add/Remove Programs . 3. Select your current graphics card driver/s. 4. Select Add/Remove . 5. Restart your system. ⢠Visit the A TI website or download the Radeon ® X850 Crossîre⢠Edition Userâs Guide from the support CD for detailed hardware requirements and installation procedures. ⢠The A TI CrossFire⢠technology supports only the following operating systems: - Windows ® XP 32-bit (Home or Professional) with Service Pack 2 (SP2) - Windows ® XP Professional 64-bit Edition. ⢠Make sure that your graphics card driver supports the A TI ® CrossFire⢠T echnology . Download the latest driver from the A TI website (www .ati.com) ⢠The maximum resolution of Radeon⢠X850 CrossFire⢠Edition is 1600 x 1200 at 65 MHz when you use DVI output.
6-2 Chapter 6: A TI ® MVP technology support Slave graphics card Master graphics card 2. Insert the CrossFire⢠Edition (Master) graphics card into the PCI Express x16 blue slot. Make sure that the card is properly seated on the slot. 6.2 Installing CrossFire⢠graphics cards Before installing a CrossFire⢠system, refer to the user guide that came with the A TI ® CrossFire⢠Edition graphics card. T o install the graphics cards: 1. Prepare one CrossFire⢠Edition (Master) graphics card and one CrossFireâ¢-ready (Slave) graphics card.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 6-3 3. Insert the CrossFireâ¢-ready (Slave) graphics card into the PCI Express x16 blue slot. Make sure that the card is properly seated on the slot. 4. Connect an auxiliary power source from the power supply to the graphics cards.
6-4 Chapter 6: A TI ® MVP technology support 6. Connect the other end of the external cable to the Slave graphics card. 7. Connect the loose end to the corresponding port on your monitor . 5. Connect one end of the external cable to the Master graphics card. 7 6
ASUS Blitz Extreme 6-5 6.3 Software information 6.3.1 Installing the device drivers Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install the device drivers. The A TI CrossFire⢠technology supports only the following operating systems: ⢠Windows ® XP 32-bit (Home or Professional) with Service Pack 2 (SP2) ⢠Windows ® XP Professional 64-bit Edition. ⢠Windows ® Vista 32/64 bit Edition. (Will be ready later . Visit the A TI website (www .ati.com) 1. T urn on your system and log in with administrator rights. 2. Windows ® auto-detects the CrossFire⢠graphics cards and displays the Found New Hardware Wizard window . Click Cancel . 3. Place the CrossFire⢠installation CD in your optical drive and install drivers from the opening menu. 4. Click Next to continue from the installation window that appears. 5. Read the License Agreement, then click Y es .
6-6 Chapter 6: A TI ® MVP technology support 6. Select the components that you want to install, then click Next. Setup prepares the installation wizard that will guide you to setup process. Windows automatically conîgures the A TI Catalyst Control Center . The status windows indicates the progress of the installation. 7. The Setup Complete window appears, indicating that the driver îles have been copied to your computer . Click Y es to restart your computer now or No to restart later 8. Click Finish . ⢠Select Express to install the HydraVision⢠multi-monitor and desktop management software, as well as the A TI driver . ⢠Select Custom to individually choose desired software components.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 6-7 6.3.2 Using the Catalyst⢠Control Center The Catalyst⢠Control Center allows you to access display features of the A TI hardware and software you installed. Use this application to adjust your graphic settings, enable/disable connected devices, and change your desktop orientation. Launching the Catalyst⢠Control Center There are several ways to launch the Catalyst⢠Control Center: ⢠On the Windows ® task bar , click Start > A TI Catalyst⢠Control Center > Catalyst⢠Control Center ⢠Double-click the Catalyst⢠Control Center desktop shortcut. ⢠On the Windows ® task bar , double- click the Catalyst⢠Control Center icon.
6-8 Chapter 6: A TI ® MVP technology support The Catalyst⢠Control Center Dialog Box View The Catalyst⢠Control Center provides two views: Standard - simple view with wizards for beginners Advance - allows advanced users to access and conîgure the complete features of the software Set to Advance view to enable the CrossFire⢠function.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 6-9 T o enable CrossFireâ¢: 1. Set the view to Advance . 2. Click the Crossîre⢠item in Graphics Settings. 3. In the CrossFire⢠Settings dialog, tick the box opposite Enable CrossFire⢠. 4. Click OK to effect the setting. 2 3 4 Hotkeys Click the Hotkeys tab on the Catalyst⢠Control Center to access the Hotkeys Manager , which allows you to create key combinations as shortcuts for performing certain functions quickly .
6-10 Chapter 6: A TI ® MVP technology support Profiles Click the Proîles tab on the Catalyst⢠Control Center to access the Proîles Manager , which allows you to create customized environments for your desktop, video, and 3D applications. Preferences Click the Preferences tab on the Catalyst⢠Control Center to select a language, restore defaults, change skins, or enable/disable the System T ray icon.
ASUS Blitz Extreme 6-1 1 Help Click the Help tab on the Catalyst⢠Control Center to access the online help system, generate a Problem Report, and get the Catalyst⢠Control Center version information.
6-12 Chapter 6: A TI ® MVP technology support
A CPU features The Appendix describ es the CPU features and technologies that the motherboard supports as well as the debug code table for the LCD Poster .
ASUS Blitz Extreme Chapter summary A A.1 Intel ® EM64T .................................................................................. A-1 A.2 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep ® T echnology (EIST) ........................ A-1 A.3 Intel ® Hyper-Threading T echnology ........................................... A-3 A.4 Debug Code T able ........................................................................ A-4
ASUS Blitz Extreme A-1 A.1 Intel ® EM64T ⢠The motherboard is fully compatible with Intel ® LGA775 processors running on 32-bit operating systems. ⢠The motherboard comes with a BIOS île that supports EM64T . Y ou can download the latest BIOS île from the ASUS website (www .asus.com/ support/download/) if you need to update the BIOS île. See Chapter 4 for details. ⢠Visit www .intel.com for more information on the EM64T feature. ⢠Vi sit www .mi cro sof t.c om fo r mo re inf orm atio n o n W ind ows ® 64-bit OS. Using the Intel ® EM64T feature T o use the Intel ® EM64T feature: 1. Install an Intel ® CPU that supports the Intel ® EM64T . 2. Install a 64-bit operating system (Windows ® Vista 64-bit Edition, Windows ® XP Professional x64 Edition or Windows ® Server 2003 x64 Edition). 3. Install the 64-bit drivers for the motherboard components and devices from the support DVD. 4. Install the 64-bit drivers for expansion cards or add-on devices, if any . Refe r to t he expa nsion card or add-o n devi ce(s ) docu mentati on, or visit the rela ted we bsite, to ver ify if the ca rd/dev ice suppor ts a 64 -bit s ystem. A.2 Enhanced Intel SpeedStep ® Technology (EIST) ⢠The motherboard comes with a BIOS île that supports EIST . Y ou can download the latest BIOS île from the ASUS website (www .asus.com/ support/download/) if you need to update the BIOS. See Chapter 4 for details. ⢠Visit www .intel.com for more information on the EIST feature. A.2.1 System requirements Before using EIST , check your system if it meets the following requirements: ⢠In tel ® processor with EIST support ⢠BIOS île with EIST support ⢠Operating system with EIST support (Windows ® Vista, Windows ® XP SP2/ Windows ® Server 2003 SP1/Linux 2.6 kernel or later versions)
A-2 Appendix: CPU features A.2.2 Using the EIST T o use the EIST feature: 1. T urn on the computer , then enter the BIOS Setup. 2. Go to the Advanced Menu, highlight CPU Conîguration, then press <Enter>. 3. Set the Intel(R) SpeedStep T echnology item to [Automatic], then press <Enter>. 4. Press <F10> to save your changes and exit the BIOS setup. 5. After the computer restarts, right click on a blank space on the desktop, then select Properties from the pop-up menu. 6. When the Display Properties window appears, click the Screen Saver tab. 7. Click the Power button on the Monitor power section to open the Power Options Properties window . 8. On the Power schemes section, click , then select any option except Home/Ofîce Desktop or Always On. 9. Click Apply , then click OK. 10. Close the Display Properties window . After you adjust the power scheme, the CPU internal frequency slightly decreases when the CPU loading is low . The screen displays and procedures may vary depending on the operating system.
ASUS Blitz Extreme A-3 A.3 Intel ® Hyper-Threading Technology ⢠The motherboard supports Intel ® Pentium ® 4 LGA775 processors with Hyper-Threading T echnology . ⢠Hy per -Thr ead ing Te chn ol ogy is sup por ted und er Win dow s ® Vista/XP/2003 Server and Linux 2.4.x (kernel) and later versions only . Under Linux, use the Hyper-Threading compiler to compile the code. If you are using any other operating systems, disable the Hyper-Threading T echnology item in the BIOS to ensure system stability and performance. ⢠Installing Windows ® XP Service Pack 1 or later version is recommended. ⢠Make sure to enable the Hyper-Threading T echnology item in BIOS before installing a supported operating system. ⢠For more information on Hyper-Threading T echnology , visit www.intel. com/info/hyperthreading. Using the Hyper-Threading T echnology T o use the Hyper-Threading T echnology: 1. Install an Intel ® Pentium ® 4 CPU that supports Hyper-Threading T echnology . 2. Power up the system and enter the BIOS Setup. Under the Advanced Menu, make sure that the item Hyper-Threading T echnology is set to [Enabled]. The BIOS item appears only if you installed a CPU that supports Hyper- -Threading T echnology . 3. Restart the computer .
A-4 Appendix: CPU features A.4 Debug Code Table Code Description CPU INIT CPU Initiation DET CPU T est CMOS R/W functionality . CHIPINIT Early chipset initialization: -Disable shadow RAM -Disable L2 cache -Program basic chipset registers DET DRAM Detect memory -Auto-detection of DRAM size, type and ECC. -Auto-detection of L2 cache DC FCODE Expand compressed BIOS code to DRAM EFSHADOW Call chipset hook to copy BIOS back to E000 & F000 shadow RAM. INIT IO Initialize IO devices. INIT HWM Initialize Hardware Monitor . CLR SCRN 1. Blank out screen 2. Clear CMOS error îag INIT8042 1. Clear 8042 interface 2. Initialize 8042 self-test ENABLEKB 1. T est special keyboard controller for Super I/O chips. 2. Enable keyboard interface. DIS MS 1. Disable PS/2 mouse interface (optional). 2. Auto detect ports for keyboard & mouse followed by a port & interface swap (optional). 3. Reset keyboard for Super I/O chips. R/W FSEG T est F000h segment shadow to see whether it is R/W-able or not. If test fails, keep beeping the speaker . DET FLASH Auto detect îash type to load appropriate îash R/W codes into the run time area in F000 for ESCD & DMI support. TESTCMOS Use walking 1âs algorithm to check out interface in CMOS circuitry . Also set real-time clock power status, and then check for override. PRG CHIP Program chipset default values into chipset. INIT CLK Initialize clock generator. CHECKCPU Detect CPU information including brand, type and CPU level (586 or 686). INTRINIT Initial interrupts vector table. INITINT9 Initialize INT 09 buffer CPUSPEED 1. Program CPU internal MTRR (Pentium class CPU) for 0-640K memory address. 2. Initialize the APIC for Pentium class CPU. 3. Program early chipset according to CMOS setup. Example: onboard IDE controller . 4. Measure CPU speed. 5. Invoke video BIOS. VGA BIOS Initialize VGA BIOS TESTVRAM 1. Initialize multi-language 2. Put information on screen display , including BIOS logo, CPU type, CPU speed . RESET KB Reset keyboard.
ASUS Blitz Extreme A-5 8254TEST T est 8254 8259MSK1 T est 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 1. 8259MSK2 T est 8259 interrupt mask bits for channel 2. 8259TEST T est 8259 functionality . COUNTMEM Calculate total memory by testing the last double word of each 64K page. MP INIT 1. Program MTRR of M1 CPU 2. Initialize L2 cache for P6 class CPU & program CPU with proper cacheable range. 3. Initialize the APIC for P6 class CPU. 4. On MP platform, adjust the cacheable range to smaller one in case the cacheable ranges between each CPU are not identical. USB INIT Initialize USB TEST MEM T est all memory (clear all extended memory to 0) SHOW MP Display number of processors (multi-processor platform) PNP LOGO Display PnP logo ONBD IO Initialize Onboard IO devices. EN SETUP Okay to enter Setup utility . MSINST AL Initialize PS/2 Mouse CHK ACPI Prepare memory size information for function call: INT 15h ax=E820h EN CACHE Turn on L2 cache SET CHIP Program chipset registers according to items described in Setup & Auto- conîguration table. AUTO CFG Assign resources to devices. INIT FDC 1. Initialize îoppy controller 2. Set up îoppy related îelds in 40:hardware. DET IDE Detect & install all IDE devices: HDD, LS120, ZIP , CDROM. COM/LPT Detect serial ports & parallel ports. DET FPU Detect & install co-processor CPU CHG New CPU installed EZ FLASH Execute EZ Flash CPR F AIL CPR error F AN F AIL Fan error UCODEERR UCODE error FLOPYERR Floppy error KB ERROR Keyboard error HD ERR HDD error CMOS ERR CMOS error MS ERROR Mouse error SMARTERR HDD smart function error HM ERROR Hard monitor error AINETERR AI NET error CASEOPEN Case open P ASSWORD Clear EP A or customization logo. 1. Call chipset power management hook. 2. Recover the text fond used by EP A logo (not for full screen logo) 3. If password is set, ask for password.
A-6 Appendix: CPU features USB FINAL Initialize PnP boot devices 1. USB înal Initialization 2. NET PC: Build SYSID structure 3. Switch screen back to text mode 4. Set up ACPI table at top of memory . 5. Invoke ISA adapter ROMs 6. Assign IRQs to PCI devices 7. Initialize APM 8. Clear noise of IRQs. INIT ROM Initialize device option ROMs. NUM LOCK 1. Program daylight saving 2. Update keyboard LED & typematic rate UPDT DMI 1. Build MP table 2. Build & update ESCD 3. Set CMOS century to 20h or 19h 4. Load CMOS time into DOS timer tick 5. Build MSIRQ routing table. INT 19H Boot attempt (INT 19h)