Asus A8N - Vmcsm Socket 939

7/25/2019 Asus A8N - Vmcsm Socket 939

1/86Moth

er

boardA8N-VM CSM


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Copyr ight 2005 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC . A l l R ights Reserved.Copyr ight 2005 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC . A l l R ights Reserved.Copyr ight 2005 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC . A l l R ights Reserved.Copyr ight 2005 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC . A l l R ights Reserved.Copyr ight 2005 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC . A l l R ights 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 formor by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without theexpress written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (ASUS).

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

ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL AS IS WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR

IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OFMERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITSDIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL,INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSSOF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THE LIKE), EVEN IF ASUSHAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY DEFECT ORERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.

SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHED FORINFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE, ANDSHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY ASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITYOR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES THAT MAY 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 identification orexplanation and to the owners benefit, without intent to infringe.

E2294E2294E2294E2294E2294

Revised Edit ion V2Revised Edit ion V2Revised Edit ion V2Revised Edit ion V2Revised Edit ion V2October 2005October 2005October 2005October 2005October 2005


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Contents

Notices ................................................................................................ vi

Safety information ............................................................................. vii

A8N-VM CSM specifications summary .............................................. viii

Chapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introductionChapter 1: Product introduction

1.1 Welcome! .............................................................................. 1-2

1.2 Package contents ................................................................. 1-2

1.3 Special features .................................................................... 1-2

1.3.1 Product highlights................................................... 1-2

1.3.2 Innovative ASUS features ....................................... 1-5

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

1.5.1 Motherboard layout ................................................ 1-7

1.5.2 Placement direction ................................................ 1-8

1.5.3 Screw holes ............................................................ 1-8

1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU) .............................................. 1-9

1.7 System memory ................................................................. 1-11

1.7.1 Overview ............................................................... 1-11

1.7.2 Memory configurations .........................................1-111.7.3 Installing a DIMM ................................................... 1-13

1.7.4 Removing a DIMM ................................................. 1-13

1.8 Expansion slots ................................................................... 1-14

1.8.1 Installing an expansion card ..................................1-14

1.8.2 Configuring an expansion card.............................. 1-14

1.8.3 PCI slots ................................................................ 1-16

1.8.4 PCI Express x1 slot ...............................................1-16

1.8.5 PCI Express x16 slot ............................................. 1-16

1.9 Jumpers ..............................................................................1-17

1.10 Connectors ......................................................................... 1-20

1.10.1 Rear panel connectors .......................................... 1-20

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


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Contents

Chapter 2: BIOS setupChapter 2: BIOS setupChapter 2: BIOS setupChapter 2: BIOS setupChapter 2: BIOS setup

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS ........................................ 2-2

2.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy disk.............................. 2-22.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash utility .............................................. 2-3

2.1.3 AFUDOS utility ........................................................ 2-4

2.1.4 ASUS Update utility ................................................ 2-6

2.2 BIOS setup program ............................................................. 2-9

2.2.1 BIOS menu screen................................................. 2-10

2.2.2 Menu bar...............................................................2-10

2.2.3 Navigation keys .................................................... 2-10

2.2.4 Menu items ...........................................................2-11

2.2.5 Sub-menu items ................................................... 2-11

2.2.6 Configuration fields ..............................................2-11

2.2.7 Pop-up window .....................................................2-11

2.2.8 Scroll bar .............................................................. 2-11

2.2.9 General help .......................................................... 2-11

2.3 Main menu .......................................................................... 2-12

2.3.1 System Time......................................................... 2-12

2.3.2 System Date ......................................................... 2-12

2.3.3 Legacy Diskette A ................................................ 2-12

2.3.4 Primary and Secondary IDE Master/Slave;First, Second, Third, and Fourth SATA .................2-13

2.3.5 IDE Configuration ..................................................2-14

2.3.6 System Information .............................................. 2-15

2.4 Advanced menu ..................................................................2-16

2.4.1 AMD Cool n Quiet Configuration .........................2-16

2.4.2 JumperFree Configuration .................................... 2-17

2.4.3 CPU Configuration ................................................. 2-18

2.4.4 Chipset ................................................................. 2-18

2.4.5 Onboard Devices Configuration ............................ 2-25

2.4.6 PCI PnP ................................................................. 2-26

2.4.7 USB Configuration.................................................2-27


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Contents

2.5 Power menu ........................................................................2-28

2.5.1 Suspend Mode ...................................................... 2-28

2.5.2 Repost Video on S3 Resume ................................ 2-282.5.3 ACPI 2.0 Support ..................................................2-28

2.5.4 ACPI APIC Support ................................................ 2-28

2.5.5 APM Configuration ................................................ 2-29

2.5.6 Hardware Monitor ................................................. 2-30

2.6 Boot menu .......................................................................... 2-32

2.6.1 Boot Device Priority .............................................. 2-32

2.6.2 Boot Settings Configuration .................................2-33

2.6.3 Security ................................................................ 2-342.7 Exit menu ........................................................................... 2-36

Chapter 3: Software supportChapter 3: Software supportChapter 3: Software supportChapter 3: Software supportChapter 3: Software support

3.1 Installing an operating system ............................................. 3-2

3.2 Support CD information ........................................................ 3-2

3.2.1 Running the support CD ......................................... 3-2

3.2.2 Drivers menu .......................................................... 3-3

3.2.3 Utilities menu .......................................................... 3-43.2.4 Make Disk menu ...................................................... 3-5

3.2.5 Manual menu ........................................................... 3-6

3.2.6 ASUS Contact information ...................................... 3-7

3.2.7 Other information ................................................... 3-7


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Notices

Federal Communications Commission StatementFederal Communications Commission StatementFederal Communications Commission StatementFederal Communications Commission StatementFederal Communications Commission Statement

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject tothe following two conditions:

This device may not cause harmful interference, and

This device must accept any interference received including interferencethat may cause undesired operation.

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

frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance withmanufacturers instructions, may cause harmful interference to radiocommunications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will notoccur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmfulinterference to radio or television reception, which can be determined byturning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correctthe 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 towhich the receiver is connected.

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Canadian Department of Communications StatementCanadian Department of Communications StatementCanadian Department of Communications StatementCanadian Department of Communications StatementCanadian Department of Communications Statement

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noiseemissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio InterferenceRegulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.

This class B digita l apparatus complies with CanadianThis class B digital apparatus complies with CanadianThis class B digita l apparatus complies with CanadianThis class B digital apparatus complies with CanadianThis class B digital apparatus complies with CanadianICES-003.ICES-003.ICES-003.ICES-003.ICES-003.

The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphicscard is required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes ormodifications to this unit not expressly approved by the partyresponsible for compliance could void the users authority to operatethis equipment.


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Safety information

Electrical safetyElectrical safetyElectrical safetyElectrical safetyElectrical safety

To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the

electrical outlet before relocating the system. When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the

power cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables areconnected. If possible, disconnect all power cables from the existingsystem 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 adapter or extension cord.These devices could interrupt the grounding circuit.

Make sure that your power supply is set to the correct voltage in yourarea. If you are not sure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you areusing, contact your local power company.

If the power supply is broken, do not try to fix it by yourself. Contact aqualified service technician or your retailer.

Operation safetyOperation safetyOperation safetyOperation safetyOperation safety

Before installing the motherboard and adding devices on it, carefully readall the manuals that came with the package.

Before using the product, make sure all cables are correctly connectedand the power cables are not damaged. If you detect any damage,contact your dealer immediately.

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

Avoid dust, humidity, and temperature extremes. Do not place theproduct 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 qualified

service technician or your retailer.


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A8N-VM CSM specifications summary

(continued on the next page)

C P UC P UC P UC P UC P U

Ch ipsetCh ipsetCh ipsetCh ipsetCh ipset

Front S ide BusFront S ide BusFront S ide BusFront S ide BusFront S ide Bus

MemoryMemoryMemoryMemoryMemory

Expans ion s lotsExpans ion s lotsExpans ion s lotsExpans ion s lotsExpans ion s lots

G raph i csG raph i csG raph i csG raph i csG raph i cs

S to rageSto rageSto rageSto rageSto rage

H igh Def in i t ionH igh Def in i t ionH igh Def in i t ionH igh Def in i t ionH igh Def in i t ionAud i oAud i oAud i oAud i oAud i o

L A NL A NL A NL A NL A N

IEEE 1394IEEE 1394IEEE 1394IEEE 1394IEEE 1394

Socket 939 for AMD Athlon 64FX/Athlon 64 X2/Athlon 64 processors

Supports AMD Cool n Quiet TechnologyNorthbridge: NVIDIAGeForce 6150 GPUSouthbridge: NVIDIAnForce430 MCP

2000/1600 MT/s

Dual-channel memory architecture4 x 184-pin DIMM sockets support up to 4 GB of

unbufferred ECC/non-ECC 400/333 MHz DDRmemory modules

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

Integrated in the NVIDIAGeForce 6150 GraphicsProcessing Unit (GPU)

Dual VGA output: DVI-D/TV-OUT, RGBHigh definition video processing with maximum

resolution of 1920 x 1440 pixels for RGB display

No te :No te :No te :No te :No te : DVI-D only supports digital display. You

cannot convert DVI-D to output RGB signal toCRT display.

NVIDIAnForce430 media and communicationsprocessor (MCP) supports:- 2 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66/33 interfaces for four

(4) hard disk drives- 4 x Serial ATA I/Serial ATA II 3 Gb/s hard disk

drives supporting RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, andRAID 5 configuration

SoundMAXADI AD1986A 5.1-channel CODEC

Supports Jack Sensing technologyS/PDIF out interface

NVIDIAnForce430 built-in Gigabit MAC with externalMarvell88E1111 PHY supports:- NV Active Armor- NV Firewall

VIA 6307 IEEE 1394a controller supports:- 2 x IEEE 1394a ports


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U S BU S BU S BU S BU S B

Spec ia l featuresSpec ia l featuresSpec ia l featuresSpec ia l featuresSpec ia l features

B IOS featuresB IOS featuresB IOS featuresB IOS featuresB IOS features

Rear pane lRear pane lRear pane lRear pane lRear pane l

I n te rna lI n te rna lI n te rna lI n te rna lI n te rna lconnectorsconnectorsconnectorsconnectorsconnectors

Powe rPowe rPowe rPowe rPowe rRequ i rementRequ i rementRequ i rementRequ i rementRequ i rement

Fo rm Facto rForm FactorFo rm Facto rForm FactorFo rm Facto r

Supports up to 8 USB 2.0 ports

ASUS Q-FanASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2ASUS EZ FlashASUS MyLogo2Stepless Frequency Selection (SFS) allows FSB tuning

from 200 MHz to 240 MHz at 1 MHz increment

No te :No te :No te :No te :No te : ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 and ASUS EZ Flash onlysupport VGA/RGB output.

4 Mb Flash ROM, AMI BIOS, PnP, DMI, WfM2.0, ACPI 2.0a,

SM BIOS 2.3

1 x Parallel port1 x IEEE 1394a port1 x LAN (RJ-45) port4 x USB 2.0 ports1 x VGA/RGB Out port1 x VGA/DVI-D port1 x PS/2 keyboard port1 x PS/2 mouse port6-channel audio ports

1 x IEEE 1394a connector1 x Front panel audio connector1 x CD audio in connector1 x Chassis intrusion connector1 x Serial port connector1 x CPU fan connector1 x Chassis fan connector1 x Floppy disk drive connector1 x Primary IDE connector1 x Secondary IDE connector

1 x S/PDIF Out connector1 x TV Out connector4 x Serial ATA connectors2 x USB 2.0 connectors for four additional USB 2.0 ports24-pin ATX power connector4-pin x ATX 12V power connectorSystem panel connector

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

uATX: 9.6 in. x 9.6 in. (24.5cm x 24.5cm)

(continued on the next page)


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*Specifications are subject to change without notice.


Manageab i l i tyManageab i l i tyManageab i l i tyManageab i l i tyManageab i l i ty

Suppo r t CDSupport CDSuppo r t CDSupport CDSuppo r t CDcontentscontentscontentscontentscontents

WfM2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME

Device driversASUS PC Probe IIAMD Cool nQuiet utilityASUS Live Update utilityAnti-virus software (OEM version)


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1Product

introduction

This chapter describes the motherboardfeatures and the new technologies

it supports.


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1 - 21 - 21 - 21 - 21 - 2 Chapter 1 : P roduct int roduct ionChapter 1 : P roduct int roduct ionChapter 1 : P roduct int roduct ionChapter 1 : P roduct int roduct ionChapter 1 : P roduct int roduct ion

1.1 Welcome!

Thank you for buying an ASUSThank you for buying an ASUSThank you for buying an ASUSThank you for buying an ASUSThank you for buying an ASUS A8N-VM CSM motherboard!A8N-VM CSM motherboard!A8N-VM CSM motherboard!A8N-VM CSM motherboard!A8N-VM CSM 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.

MotherboardMotherboardMotherboardMotherboardMotherboard ASUS A8N-VM CSM motherboard

Cab lesCab lesCab lesCab lesCab les 2 x Serial ATA signal cables1 x Serial ATA power cable for two Serial ATA devices1 x IEEE 1394 1-port module1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable1 x IDE cable1 x Floppy disk drive cable

AccessoyAccessoyAccessoyAccessoyAccessoy I/O shield

Appl icat ion CDAppl icat ion CDAppl icat ion CDAppl icat ion CDAppl ica tio n CD ASUS motherboard support CD

Documentat ionDocumentat ionDocumentat ionDocumentat ionDocumentat i on User guide

1.3 Special features

1.3.11.3.11.3.11.3.11.3.1 Product highlightsProduct highlightsProduct highlightsProduct highlightsProduct highlights

Latest processor technologyLatest processor technologyLatest processor technologyLatest processor technologyLatest processor technology

The motherboard comes with a 939-pin surface mount, Zero InsertionForce (ZIF) socket that supports AMDAthlon 64/Athlon 64 FX/Athlon64 X2 processors. With an integrated low-latency high-bandwidth memorycontroller and a highly-scalable HyperTransport technology-based systembus, the motherboard provides a powerful platform for your diversecomputing needs, increased office productivity, and enhanced digital mediaexperience. See page 1-9.


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ASUS A8N-VM CSMASUS A8N-VM CSMASUS A8N-VM CSMASUS A8N-VM CSMASUS A8N-VM CSM 1 - 31 - 31 - 31 - 31 - 3

NVIDIANVIDIANVIDIANVIDIANVIDIA GeForce 6150 GPUGeForce 6150 GPUGeForce 6150 GPUGeForce 6150 GPUGeForce 6150 GPU

and NVIDIAand NVIDIAand NVIDIAand NVIDIAand NVIDIA nForce 430 MCP chipsetsnForce 430 MCP chipsetsnForce 430 MCP chipsetsnForce 430 MCP chipsetsnForce 430 MCP chipsets

The NVIDIAGeForce 6150 graphics processing unit (GPU) Northbridgesupports MicrosoftDirectX 9.0 Shader Model 3.0, dual VGA out (RGB andDVI-D), NVIDIAPureVideo Technology with unprecedented integratedvideo quality, TV-out, and PCI Express interface.

The NVIDIAnForce 430 media and communications processor (MCP)Southbridge delivers NVIDIAGigabit LAN with ActiveArmor Firewall forsecure networking, and NVIDIAMediaShield storage managementtechnology allowing easy RAID configuration (RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1,and RAID 5) for Serial ATA II.

Dual-channel DDR memory supportDual-channel DDR memory supportDual-channel DDR memory supportDual-channel DDR memory supportDual-channel DDR memory support

Employing the Double Data Rate (DDR) memory technology, themotherboard supports up to 4 GB of system memory using DDR400/333DIMMs. The ultra-fast 400 MHz memory bus delivers the requiredbandwidth for the latest 3D graphics, multimedia, and Internet applications.See page 1-11 for details.

PCI Express interfacePCI Express interfacePCI Express interfacePCI Express interfacePCI Express interfaceThe motherboard fully supports PCI Express, the latest I/O interconnecttechnology that speeds up the PCI bus. PCI Express features point-to-pointserial interconnections between devices and allows higher clockspeeds bycarrying data in packets. This high speed interface is software compatible withexisting PCI specifications. See page 1-16 for details.

Serial ATA II technologySerial ATA II technologySerial ATA II technologySerial ATA II technologySerial ATA II technology

The motherboard supports the Serial ATA 3 Gb/s technology through theSerial ATA interfaces and the NVIDIAnForce430 MCP Southbridge. TheSerial ATA II 3 Gb/s specification provides twice the bandwidth of thecurrent Serial ATA products with a host of new features, including NativeCommand Queueing (NCQ), and Power Management (PM) ImplementationAlgorithm. Serial ATA allows for thinner, more flexible cables with lower pincount, reduced voltage requirement. See page 1-24 for details.

The Hot Swap function is supported only in RAID mode.


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S/PDIF digital sound readyS/PDIF digital sound readyS/PDIF digital sound readyS/PDIF digital sound readyS/PDIF digital sound ready

The motherboard supports the S/PDIF Out function through the S/PDIFinterface at midboard. The S/PDIF technology turns your computer into a

high-end entertainment system with digital connectivity to powerful audio andspeaker systems. See page 1-25 for details.

USB 2.0 technologyUSB 2.0 technologyUSB 2.0 technologyUSB 2.0 technologyUSB 2.0 technology

The motherboard implements the Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0specification, dramatically increasing the connection speed from the12 Mbps bandwidth on USB 1.1 to a fast 480 Mbps on USB 2.0. USB 2.0 isbackward compatible with USB 1.1. See pages 1-18 and 1-26 for details.

IEEE 1394a supportIEEE 1394a supportIEEE 1394a supportIEEE 1394a supportIEEE 1394a support

The IEEE 1394a interface provides high-speed and flexible PC connectivityto a wide range of peripherals and devices compliant to IEEE 1394astandards. The IEEE 1394a interface allows up to 400 Mbps transfer ratesthrough simple, low-cost, high-bandwidth asynchronous (real-time) datainterfacing between computers, peripherals, and consumer electronicdevices such as camcorders, VCRs, printers,TVs, and digital cameras. Seepage 1-27 for details.


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1.3.21.3.21.3.21.3.21.3.2 Innovative ASUS featuresInnovative ASUS featuresInnovative ASUS featuresInnovative ASUS featuresInnovative ASUS features

ASUS EZ Flash BIOSASUS EZ Flash BIOSASUS EZ Flash BIOSASUS EZ Flash BIOSASUS EZ Flash BIOS

With the ASUS EZ Flash, you can easily update the system BIOS evenbefore loading the operating system. No need to use a DOS-based utility orboot from a floppy disk. See page 2-3 for details.

ASUS Q-Fan technologyASUS Q-Fan technologyASUS Q-Fan technologyASUS Q-Fan technologyASUS Q-Fan technology

The ASUS Q-Fan technology smartly adjusts the CPU fan speed accordingto the system loading to ensure quiet, cool, and efficient operation. Seepage 2-31 for details.

ASUS MyLogo2ASUS MyLogo2ASUS MyLogo2ASUS MyLogo2ASUS MyLogo2

This feature allows you to personalize and add style to your system withcustomizable boot logos. See page 2-33 for details.

C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)

The C.P.R. feature of the motherboard BIOS allows automatic re-setting tothe BIOS default settings in case the system hangs due to overclocking.

When the system hangs due to overclocking, C.P.R. eliminates the need toopen the system chassis and clear the RTC data. Simply shut down andreboot the system, and the BIOS automatically restores the CPU defaultsetting for each parameter.

ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2

This feature allows you to restore the original BIOS data from the support CDin case when the BIOS codes and data are corrupted. This protectioneliminates the need to buy a replacement ROM chip.


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Onboard LEDOnboard LEDOnboard LEDOnboard LEDOnboard LED

The motherboard comes with a standby power LED that lights up toindicate 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 motherboardcomponent. The illustration below shows the location of the onboardLED.

1.4 Before you proceed

Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboardcomponents 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 ametal object, such as the power supply case, before handlingcomponents 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 groundedantistatic pad or in the bag that came with the component.

Before you insta l l o r remove any component , ensureBefore you insta l l o r remove any component , ensureBefore you insta l l o r remove any component , ensureBefore you insta l l o r remove any component , ensureBefore you insta l l o r remove any component , ensurethat the ATX power supp ly i s sw i tched of f o r thethat the ATX power supp ly i s sw i tched of f o r thethat the ATX power supp ly i s sw i tched of f o r thethat the ATX power supp ly i s sw i tched of f o r thethat the ATX power supp ly i s sw i tched of f o r thepower cord i s detached f rom the power supp ly .power cord i s detached f rom the power supp ly .power cord i s detached f rom the power supp ly .power cord i s detached f rom the power supp ly .powe r cor d is d etac hed f rom t he po wer s uppl y. Failureto do so may cause severe damage to the motherboard, peripherals,and/or components.

A8N-VMC

SM

A8N-VM CSM Onboard LED

SB_PWR

ON

StandbyPower

OFF

PoweredOff


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1.5.11.5.11.5.11.5.11.5.1 Motherboard layoutMotherboard layoutMotherboard layoutMotherboard layoutMotherboard layout

1.5 Motherboard overview

Bottom:Mic In

Center:Line Out

Top:Line In

PANEL

A8N

-VMC

SM

CR2032 3VLithium Cell

CMOS Power

AAFP

CHASSIS

PRI_IDE

SEC_

IDE

EATXPWR

COM1

24.5cm (9.6in)

24.5cm(

9.6

in)

CPU_FAN

Socket939

DDRDIMM_

B2

(64bit,184-pinmodule)

DDRDIMM_

A2


DDRDIMM_

A1


DDRDIMM_

B1


F_USB12

IE1394_1

FLOPPY

Super

I/O

VIAVT6307

4MbBIOS

PS/2KBMST: MouseB: Keyboard

LAN_USB34

CD

ADI

1986A

PCIEX16_1

PCIEX1_1

PCI1

PCI2

Marvell

88E8

053

CLRTC

USB78USB56

SATA3SATA1

SATA4SATA2

CHA_FAN

ATX12V

SB_PWR

BUZZER

TV_OUT

DVI

PARALLELPORT

VGA

USBPW34

US

BPW12

KBPWR

USBPW78USBPW56

SPDIF_OUT

nVIDIA

nForce430

nVIDIA

GeForce6150


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A8N-VMC

SM

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

1.5.21.5.21.5.21.5.21.5.2 Placement directionPlacement directionPlacement directionPlacement directionPlacement direction

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

P l ace th i s s i de towardsP l ace th i s s i de towardsP l ace th i s s i de towardsP l ace th i s s i de towardsP l ace th i s s i de towardsthe r ea r o f t he chass i sthe r ea r o f t he chass i sthe r ea r o f t he chass i sthe r ea r o f t he chass i sthe r ea r o f t he chass i s

1.5.31.5.31.5.31.5.31.5.3 Screw holesScrew holesScrew holesScrew holesScrew holes

Place eight (8) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure themotherboard to the chassis.


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1.6 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The motherboard comes with a surface mount 939-pin Zero Insertion Force(ZIF) socket designed for the AMD Athlon 64FX/AMD Athlon 64 /Athlon 64 X2 processor.

The 128-bit-wide data paths of these processors can run applicationsfaster than processors with only 32-bit or 64-bit wide data paths.

Take note of the marked corner (withgold triangle) on the CPU. This markshould match a specific corner on thesocket to ensure correct installation.

Installing the CPUInstall ing the CPUInstalling the CPUInstall ing the CPUInstalling the CPU

To install a CPU.

1. Locate the 939-pin ZIF socket on the motherboard.

Gold triangle

2. Unlock the socket by pressingthe lever sideways, then lift it up

to a 90-100 angle.

Make sure that the socket lever is lifted up to 90-100 angle, otherwisethe CPU does not fit in completely.

Socke t l e ve rSocke t l e ve rSocke t l e ve rSocke t l e ve rSocke t l e ve r

A8N-VMC

SM

A8N-VM CSM CPU Socket 939


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1 - 1 01 -101 - 1 01 -101 -10 Chapter 1 : P roduct int roduct ionChapter 1 : P roduct int roduct ionChapter 1 : P roduct int roduct ionChapter 1 : P roduct int roduct ionChapter 1 : P roduct int roduct ion

3. Position the CPU above thesocket such that the CPU cornerwith the gold triangle matches

the socket corner with a smalltriangle.

4. Carefully insert the CPU into thesocket until it fits in place.

The CPU fits only in one correct orientation. DO NOT force the CPU intothe socket to prevent bending the pins and damaging the CPU!

5. When the CPU is in place, pushdown the socket lever to securethe CPU. The lever clicks on theside tab to indicate that it islocked.

6. Install a CPU heatsink and fan

following the instructions thatcame with the heatsink package.

Go ld t r i ang l eGo l d t r i ang l eGo l d t r i ang l eGo l d t r i ang l eGo l d t r i ang l e

Sma l l t r i ang l eSma l l t r i ang l eSma l l t r i ang l eSma l l t r i ang l eSma l l t r i ang l e

7. Connect the CPU fan cable to the CPU_FAN connector on themotherboard.

Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoringerrors can occur if you fail to plug this connector.

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A8N-VM CSM CPU fan connector

CPU_FAN

GND

Rotation

+12V


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ASUS A8N-VM CSMASUS A8N-VM CSMASUS A8N-VM CSMASUS A8N-VM CSMASUS A8N-VM CSM 1-111 - 1 11 -111 - 1 11 - 1 1

1.7 System memory

1.7.11.7.11.7.11.7.11.7.1 OverviewOverviewOverviewOverviewOverview

The motherboard comes with four 184-pin Double Data Rate (DDR) DualInline Memory Modules (DIMM) sockets.

The following figure illustrates the location of the sockets:

1.7.21.7.21.7.21.7.21.7.2 Memory configurationsMemory configurationsMemory configurationsMemory configurationsMemory configurations

You may install 128 MB, 256 MB, 512 MB, and 1 GB unbuffered ECC/non-ECC DDR DIMMs into the DIMM sockets using the memory configurationsin this section.

Installing DDR DIMMs other than the recommended configurationsmay cause memory sizing error or system boot failure.

Install only identical (the same type and size) DDR DIMM pairs foreach channel.

Always install DIMMs with the same CAS latency. For optimumcompatibility, we recommend that you obtain memory modules fromthe same vendor.

Due to chipset limitation, this motherboard does not support DIMMmodules with less than or equal to 128 Mb memory chips.

If you are installing only one DIMM module for a Single-channelconfiguration, install the module on DIMM_A1 (blue slot).

A8N-VMC

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A8N-VM CSM 184-pin DDR DIMM socketsDIMM_

A2

DIMM_

A1

DIMM_

B2

DIMM_

B1

C hanne lC hanne lC hanne lC hanne lC hanne l S o c ke t sS o c ke t sS o c ke t sS o c ke t sS o c ke t s

Channel 1 DIMM_A1 and DIMM_B1

Channel 2 DIMM_A2 and DIMM_B2


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Recommended memory configurationsRecommended memory configurationsRecommended memory configurationsRecommended memory configurationsRecommended memory configurations

Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) for the latest DDR 400 QualifiedVendors List for this motherboard.

S o c ke t sS o c ke t sS o c ke t sS o c ke t sS o c ke t s

M o d eM o d eM o d eM o d eM o d e D IMM_ A2D IMM_ A2D IMM_ A2D IMM_ A2D IMM_ A2 D IMM_ A1D IMM_ A1D IMM_ A1D IMM_ A1D IMM_ A1 D IMM_ B 2D IMM_ B 2D IMM_ B 2D IMM_ B 2D IMM_ B 2 D IMM_ B 1D IMM_ B 1D IMM_ B 1D IMM_ B 1D IMM_ B 1(b l u e )( b l u e )( b l u e )( b l u e )( b l u e ) ( b l u e )( b l u e )( b l u e )( b l u e )( b l u e ) ( b l a c k )( b l a c k )( b l a c k )( b l a c k )( b l a c k ) ( b l a c k )( b l a c k )( b l a c k )( b l a c k )( b l a c k )

Single-channel (1)* Populated

Dual-channel (1)* Populated Populated

(2)* Populated Populated Populated Populated

* Use only identical DIMM pairs.


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1.7.41.7.41.7.41.7.41.7.4 Removing a DIMMRemoving a DIMMRemoving a DIMMRemoving a DIMMRemoving a DIMM

To remove a DIMM:

1. Simultaneously press theretaining clips outward to unlockthe DIMM.

2. Remove the DIMM from the socket.

Support the DIMM lightly with your fingers when pressing the retainingclips. The DIMM might get damaged when it flips out with extra force.

1.7.31.7.31.7.31.7.31.7.3 Installing a DIMMInstalling a DIMMInstalling a DIMMInstalling a DIMMInstalling a DIMM

3. Firmly insert the DIMM into the

socket until the retaining clipssnap back in place and the DIMMis properly seated.

1. Unlock a DIMM socket bypressing the retaining clipsoutward.

2. Align a DIMM on the socket suchthat the notch on the DIMMmatches the break on thesocket.

Locked Re ta i n i ng C l i pLocked Re ta i n i ng C l i pLocked Re ta i n i ng C l i pLocked Re ta i n i ng C l i pLocked Re ta i n i ng C l i p

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

to both the motherboard and the components.

A DDR DIMM is keyed with a notch so that it fits in only one direction.DO NOT force a DIMM into a socket to avoid damaging the DIMM.

Un locked r e ta i n i ng c l i pUn l ocked r e ta i n i ng c l i pUn l ocked r e ta i n i ng c l i pUn l ocked r e ta i n i ng c l i pUn l ocked r e ta i n i ng c l i p

DDR D IMM no tchDDR D IMM no tchDDR D IMM no tchDDR D IMM no tchDDR D IMM no tch

1

2

1

DDR D IMM no tchDDR D IMM no tchDDR D IMM no tchDDR D IMM no tchDDR D IMM no tch1

2

1


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1.8 Expansion slots

In the future, you may need to install expansion cards. The followingsub-sections describe the slots and the expansion cards that they support.

1.8.11.8.11.8.11.8.11.8.1 Installing an expansion cardInstalling an expansion cardInstalling an expansion cardInstalling an expansion cardInstalling an expansion card

To install an expansion card:

1. Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation thatcame with it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card.

2. Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is alreadyinstalled in a chassis).

3. Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keepthe screw for later use.

4. Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card iscompletely seated on the slot.

5. Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.

6. Replace the system cover.

1.8.21.8.21.8.21.8.21.8.2 Configuring an expansion cardConfiguring an expansion cardConfiguring an expansion cardConfiguring an expansion cardConfiguring an expansion card

After installing the expansion card, configure it by adjusting the softwaresettings.

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

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

3. Install the software drivers for the expansion card.

Make sure to unplug the power cord before adding or removingexpansion cards. Failure to do so may cause you physical injury anddamage motherboard components.


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Standard interrupt assignmentsStandard interrupt assignmentsStandard interrupt assignmentsStandard interrupt assignmentsStandard interrupt assignments

I R QI R QI R QI R QI R Q P r i o r i t yP r i o r i t yP r i o r i t yP r i o r i t yP r i o r i t y S tanda rd Func t i onS tanda rd Func t i onS tanda rd Func t i onS tanda rd Func t i onS tanda rd Func t i on

0 1 System Timer

1 2 Keyboard Controller2 Re-direct to IRQ#9

3 11 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 Time Clock9 4 IRQ holder for PCI steering*

10 5 IRQ holder for PCI steering*11 6 IRQ holder for PCI steering*

12 7 PS/2 Compatible Mouse Port*13 8 Numeric Data Processor14 9 Primary IDE Channel

15 10 Secondary IDE Channel

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

When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers supportShare IRQ or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments; otherwise,conflicts will arise between the two PCI groups, making the systemunstable and the card inoperable.

IRQ assignments for this motherboardIRQ assignments for this motherboardIRQ assignments for this motherboardIRQ assignments for this motherboardIRQ assignments for this motherboard

AAAAA BBBBB CCCCC DDDDD

PCI slot 1 used

PCI slot 2 used IEEE 1394 shared


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1.8.31.8.31.8.31.8.31.8.3 PCI slotsPCI slotsPCI slotsPCI slotsPCI slots

The PCI slots support cards such as aLAN card, SCSI card, USB card, andother cards that comply with PCI

specifications. The figure shows aLAN card installed on a PCI slot.

1.8.41.8.41.8.41.8.41.8.4 PCI Express x1 slotPCI Express x1 slotPCI Express x1 slotPCI Express x1 slotPCI Express x1 slot

This motherboard supports PCIExpress x1 network cards, SCSIcards and other cards that complywith the PCI Express specifications.The following figure shows anetwork card installed on the PCIExpress x1 slot.

1.8.51.8.51.8.51.8.51.8.5 PCI Express x16 slotPCI Express x16 slotPCI Express x16 slotPCI Express x16 slotPCI Express x16 slot

This motherboard has supports PCIExpress x16 graphic cards thatcomply with PCI Expressspecifications. The figure shows a

graphics card installed on the PCIExpress x16 slot.


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1.9 Jumpers

1 .1 .1 .1 .1 . Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC)Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC)Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC)Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC)Clear RTC RAM (CLRTC)

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

setup parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboardbutton cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which includesystem setup information such as system passwords.

To erase the RTC RAM:

1. Turn OFF the computer and unplug the power cord.

2. Remove the onboard battery.

3. Move the jumper cap from pins 1-2 (default) to pins 2-3. Keep thecap on pins 2-3 for about 5~10 seconds, then move the cap back to

pins 1-2.4. Reinstall the battery.

5. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.

6. Hold down the key during the boot process and enter BIOSsetup to re-enter data.

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

You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due tooverclocking. For system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPUParameter Recall) feature. Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOScan automatically reset parameter settings to default values.

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A8N-VM CSM Clear RTC RAM

CLRTC

Normal Clear CMOS(Default)

12 2

3


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2 .2 .2 .2 .2 . USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW12, USBPW34,USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW12, USBPW34,USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW12, USBPW34,USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW12, USBPW34,USB device wake-up (3-pin USBPW12, USBPW34,USBPW56, USBPW78)USBPW56, USBPW78)USBPW56, USBPW78)USBPW56, USBPW78)USBPW56, USBPW78)

Set these jumpers to +5V to wake up the computer from S1 sleep

mode (CPU stopped, DRAM refreshed, system running in low powermode) using the connected USB devices. Set to +5VSB to wake upfrom S3 and S4 sleep modes.

The USBPW12 and USBPW34 jumpers are for the rear USB ports. TheUSBPW56 and USBPW78 jumper is for the internal USB connectorsthat you can connect to additional USB ports.

The USB device wake-up feature requires a power supply that canprovide 500mA on the +5VSB lead for each USB port; otherwise,the system will not power up.

The total current consumed must NOT exceed the power supplycapability (+5VSB) whether under normal condition or in sleep mode.

A8N-VM

CSM

A8N-VM CSM USB device wake-up

1

2 23

+5V(Default)

+5VSB

USBPW34

1

2 23

+5V(Default)

+5VSB

USBPW12

USBPW78USBPW56

+5V(Default)

+5VSB

42

31 5

642

31 5

6


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3 .3 .3 .3 .3 . Keyboard power (3-p in KBPWR)Keyboard power (3-p in KBPWR)Keyboard power (3-p in KBPWR)Keyboard power (3-p in KBPWR)Keyboard power (3-p in KBPWR)

This jumper allows you to enable or disable the keyboard wake-upfeature. Set this jumper to pins 2-3 (+5VSB) to wake up the

computer when you press a key on the keyboard (the default is theSpace Bar). This feature requires an ATX power supply that can supplyat least 500 mA on the +5VSB lead, and a corresponding setting inthe BIOS.

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A8N-VM CSM Keyboard power setting

(Default)+5V +5VSB

KBPWR

2 31 2


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1.10 Connectors

1.10.11.10.11.10.11.10.11.10.1 Rear panel connectorsRear panel connectorsRear panel connectorsRear panel connectorsRear panel connectors

1 .1 .1 .1 .1 . PS/2 mouse port (green).PS/2 mouse port (green).PS/2 mouse port (green).PS/2 mouse port (green).PS/2 mo use port (g ree n). This port is for a PS/2 mouse.

2 .2 .2 .2 .2 . Para l le l port.Para l le l port.Para l le l port.Para l le l port.Para l le l port. This 25-pin port connects a parallel printer, a scanner,or other devices.

3 .3 .3 .3 .3 . IEEE 1394a port.IEEE 1394a port.IEEE 1394a port.IEEE 1394a port.IEEE 1394a port. This 6-pin IEEE 1394a port provides high-speedconnectivity for audio/video devices, storage peripherals, PCs, orportable devices.

4 .4 .4 .4 .4 . LAN (RJ-45) port.LAN (RJ-45) port.LAN (RJ-45) port.LAN (RJ-45) port.LAN (RJ-45) port . This port allows Gigabit connection to a LocalArea Network (LAN) through a network hub.

1

12 8

2 4

11

5

6

7

10

3

9

LAN port LED indicationsLAN port LED indicationsLAN port LED indicationsLAN port LED indicationsLAN port LED indications

LAN po r tLAN po r tLAN po r tLAN po r tLAN po r t

SPEEDSPEEDSPEEDSPEEDSPEEDL E DL E DL E DL E DL E D

ACT/LINKACT/LINKACT/LINKACT/LINKACT/LINKL E DL E DL E DL E DL E D

5 .5 .5 .5 .5 . L ine In port ( l ight b lue) .L ine In port ( l ight b lue) .L ine In port ( l ight b lue) .L ine In port ( l ight b lue) .L ine In port ( l igh t bl ue) . This port connects a tape, CD, DVDplayer, or other audio sources.

6 .6 .6 .6 .6 . L ine Out port ( l ime).L ine Out port ( l ime).L ine Out port ( l ime).L ine Out port ( l ime).L ine Ou t port (l ime) . This port connects a headphone or aspeaker. In 4-channel/ 6-channel configuration, the function of thisport becomes Front Speaker Out.

7 .7 .7 .7 .7 . Microphone port (p ink) .Microphone port (p ink) .Microphone port (p ink) .Microphone port (p ink) .Mi crophone port (p ink) . This port connects a microphone.

ACT/L INK LEDACT/L INK LEDACT/L INK LEDACT/L INK LEDACT/L INK LED SPEED LEDSPEED LEDSPEED LEDSPEED LEDSPEED LED

S t a t u sS t a t u sS t a t u sS t a t u sS t a t u s Desc r i p t i onDesc r i p t i onDesc r i p t i onDesc r i p t i onDesc r i p t i on S t a t u sS t a t u sS t a t u sS t a t u sS t a t u s Desc r i p t i onDesc r i p t i onDesc r i p t i onDesc r i p t i onDesc r i p t i on

OFF No link OFF 10 Mbps connection

GREEN Linked ORANGE 100 Mbps connection

BLINKING Data activity GREEN 1 Gbps connection


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8 .8 .8 .8 .8 . USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4.USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4.USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4.USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4.USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus

(USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.9 .9 .9 .9 .9 . USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2.USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2.USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2.USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2.USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These two 4-pin Universal Serial Bus

(USB) ports are available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.

1 0 .1 0 .1 0 .1 0 .10 . Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port.Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port.Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port.Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) port.Video Gr aphi cs Adapte r (VGA) po rt . This 15-pin port is for aVGA monitor or other VGA-compatible devices.

1 1 .1 1 .1 1 .1 1 .11 . DVI Out port.DVI Out port.DVI Out port.DVI Out port.DVI Out port. This port connects a Digital Visual Interface (DVI)card.

1 2 .1 2 .1 2 .1 2 .12 . PS/2 keyboard port (purp le) .PS/2 keyboard port (purp le) .PS/2 keyboard port (purp le) .PS/2 keyboard port (purp le) .PS /2 keyb oa rd po rt (pur pl e) . This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.

Audio 2, 4, or 6-channel configurationAudio 2, 4, or 6-channel configurationAudio 2, 4, or 6-channel configurationAudio 2, 4, or 6-channel configurationAudio 2, 4, or 6-channel configuration

Refer to the audio configuration table for the function of the audio portsin 2, 4, or 6,-channel configuration.

Light Blue Line In Surround Out Surround Out

Lime Line Out Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out

Pink Mic In Mic Center/Bass

P o r tP o r tP o r tP o r tP o r t He adse tHe adse tHe adse tHe adse tHe adse t 4 - spe ake r4 - spe ake r4 - spe ake r4 - spe ake r4 - spe ake r 6 - spe ake r6 - spe ake r6 - spe ake r6 - spe ake r6 - spe ake r2-2-2-2-2-spe ake rspe ake rspe ake rspe ake rspe ake r


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1.10.21.10.21.10.21.10.21.10.2 Internal connectorsInternal connectorsInternal connectorsInternal connectorsInternal connectors

1 .1 .1 .1 .1 . F loppy d isk dr ive connector (34-1 p in FLOPPY)F loppy d isk dr ive connector (34-1 p in FLOPPY)F loppy d isk dr ive connector (34-1 p in FLOPPY)F loppy d isk dr ive connector (34-1 p in FLOPPY)F loppy d isk dr ive connector (34-1 p in FLOPPY)

This connector is for the provided floppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable.

Insert one end of the cable to this connector, then connect the otherend to the signal connector at the back of the floppy disk drive.

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

2 .2 .2 .2 .2 . Chass is intrus ion connector (4-1 p in CHASSIS)Chass is intrus ion connector (4-1 p in CHASSIS)Chass is intrus ion connector (4-1 p in CHASSIS)Chass is intrus ion connector (4-1 p in CHASSIS)Chass is intrus ion connector (4-1 p in CHASSIS)

This connector is for a chassis-mounted intrusion detection sensor orswitch. Connect one end of the chassis intrusion sensor or switchcable to this connector. The chassis intrusion sensor or switch sends ahigh-level signal to this connector when a chassis component isremoved or replaced. The signal is then generated as a chassisintrusion event.

By default, the pins labeled Chassis Signal and Ground are shortedwith a jumper cap. Remove the jumper caps only when you intend touse the chassis intrusion detection feature.

A8N-VMC

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A8N-VM CSM Floppy disk drive connector

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

PIN 1

FLOPPY

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A8N-VM CSM Chassis intrusion connector

CHASSIS

+5VSB_MB

Chassis Signal

GND (Default)


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3 .3 .3 .3 .3 . IDE connectors (40-1 pin PRI_IDE, 40-1 pin SEC_IDE)IDE connectors (40-1 pin PRI_IDE, 40-1 pin SEC_IDE)IDE connectors (40-1 pin PRI_IDE, 40-1 pin SEC_IDE)IDE connectors (40-1 pin PRI_IDE, 40-1 pin SEC_IDE)IDE connectors (40-1 pin PRI_IDE, 40-1 pin SEC_IDE)

These connectors are for an Ultra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable. TheUltra DMA 133/100/66 signal cable has three connectors: a blue

connector for the primary IDE connector on the motherboard, a blackconnector for an Ultra DMA 133/100/66 IDE slave device (opticaldrive/hard disk drive), and a gray connector for an Ultra DMA 133/100/66 IDE master device (hard disk drive). If you install two hard diskdrives, you must configure the second drive as a slave device by settingits jumper accordingly. Refer to the hard disk documentation for the

jumper settings.

Pin 20 on the IDE connector is removed to match the covered holeon 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.

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A8N-VM CSM IDE connectors

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

RI_IDE

PIN 1

SEC_

IDE


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4 .4 .4 .4 .4 . Ser ia l ATA connectorsSer ia l ATA connectorsSer ia l ATA connectorsSer ia l ATA connectorsSer ia l ATA connectors(7-pin SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, SATA4)(7-pin SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, SATA4)(7-pin SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, SATA4)(7-pin SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, SATA4)(7-pin SATA1, SATA2, SATA3, SATA4)

These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA

hard disk drives. The current Serial ATA I interface allows up to 150MB/s data transfer rate while Serial ATA II allows up to 300 MB/s datatransfer rate, faster than the standard parallel ATA with 133 MB/s(Ultra DMA/133)

Important note on Ser ia l ATAImportant note on Ser ia l ATAImportant note on Ser ia l ATAImportant note on Ser ia l ATAImportant note on Ser ia l ATA

Install the Windows2000 Service Pack 4 or the WindowsXP ServicePack1 before using Serial ATA.

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A8N-VM CSM SATA connectorsSATA1

SATA2

GND

RSATA_

TXP4

RSATA_

TXN4

GND

RSATA_

RXP4

RSATA_

RXN4

GND

GND

RSATA_

TXP3

RSATA_

TXN3

GND

RSATA_

RXP3

RSATA_

RXN3

GND

GND

RSATA_

TXP2

RSATA_

TXN2

GND

RSATA_

RXP2

RSATA_

RXN2

GND

GND

RSATA_

TXP1

RSATA_

TXN1

GND

RSATA_

RXP1

RSATA_

RXN1

GND

SATA3

SATA4

For detailed instructions on how to configure RAID 0, 1, 0+1, and 5,refer to the RAID manual in the support CD.


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5 .5 .5 .5 .5 . CPU and Chass is fan connectorsCPU and Chass is fan connectorsCPU and Chass is fan connectorsCPU and Chass is fan connectorsCPU and Chass is fan connectors(3-pin CPU_FAN, 3-p in CHA_FAN)(3-pin CPU_FAN, 3-p in CHA_FAN)(3-pin CPU_FAN, 3-p in CHA_FAN)(3-pin CPU_FAN, 3-p in CHA_FAN)(3-pin CPU_FAN, 3-p in CHA_FAN)

The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350mA~740mA (8.88W

max.) or a total of 1A~2.22A (26.64W max.) at +12V. Connect the fancables to the fan connectors on the motherboard, making sure that theblack wire of each cable matches the ground pin of the connector.

Do not forget to connect the fan cables to the fan connectors.Insufficient air flow inside the system may damage the motherboardcomponents. These are not jumpers! DO NOT place jumper caps on thefan connectors.

6 .6 .6 .6 .6 . Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)Dig ita l audio connector (4-1 p in SPDIF_OUT)Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)Dig ita l audio connector (4-1 p in SPDIF_OUT)Dig ita l audio connector (4-1 p in SPDIF_OUT)

This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface(S/PDIF) port(s). Connect the S/PDIF module cable to this connector,then install the module to a slot opening at the back of the systemchassis.

The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.

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A8N-VM CSM Fan connectors

CPU_FAN

CHA_FAN

GND

Rotation

+12V

GN

D

Rotation

+12V

CPU_FAN

CHA_FAN

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A8N-VM CSM Digital audio connector

+5V

SPDIFOUT

GND

SPDIF_OUT


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Never connect a 1394 cab le1394 cab le1394 cab le1394 cab le1394 cab le to the USB connectors. Doing so willdamage the motherboard!

7 .7 .7 .7 .7 . USB connectors (10-1 p in USB56, USB78)USB connectors (10-1 p in USB56, USB78)USB connectors (10-1 p in USB56, USB78)USB connectors (10-1 p in USB56, USB78)USB connectors (10-1 pin USB56, USB78)

These connectors are for USB 2.0 ports. Connect the USB modulecable to any of these connectors, then install the module to a slot

opening at the back of the system chassis. These USB connectorscomply with USB 2.0 specification that supports up to 480 Mbpsconnection speed.

8 .8 .8 .8 .8 . Optica l dr ive audio in connector (4-p in CD)Optica l dr ive audio in connector (4-p in CD)Optica l dr ive audio in connector (4-p in CD)Optica l dr ive audio in connector (4-p in CD)Optica l dr ive audio in connector (4-p in CD)

These connectors allow you to receive stereo audio input from soundsources such as a CD-ROM, TV tuner, or MPEG card.

The USB 2.0 module is purchased separately.

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A8N-VM CSM USB 2.0 connectors

USB56

USB+

5V

USB_P6-

USB_P6+

GND

NC

USB+5V

USB_

P5-

USB_

P5+

GND

1USB78

USB+

5V

USB_P8-

USB_P8+

GND

NC

USB+5V

USB_

P7-

USB_

P7+

GND

1

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A8N-VM CSM Internal audio connector

CD(black)

RightAudioChannel

LeftAudioChannel

Ground

Ground


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A8N-VM CSM IEEE 1394a connector

IE1394_11

TPA1-

GND

TPB1-

+12V

GND

TPA1+

GND

TPB1+

+12V

9 .9 .9 .9 .9 . IEEE 1394a connector (10-1 pinIE1394_1 [orange])IEEE 1394a connector (10-1 pinIE1394_1 [orange])IEEE 1394a connector (10-1 pinIE1394_1 [orange])IEEE 1394a connector (10-1 pinIE1394_1 [orange])IEEE 1394a connector (10-1 pinIE1394_1 [orange])

This connector is for an additional IEEE 1394a port. Connect the IEEE1394a module cable (orange) to this connector, then install the

module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.

Never connect a USB port modu le cab leUSB port modu le cab leUSB port modu le cab leUSB port modu le cab leUS B po rt mo du le ca bl e to the IEEE 1394aconnector. Doing so will damage the motherboard!

A8N-VMC

SM

A8N-VM CSM COM port connector

PIN 1

COM1

The serial port bracket (COM1) is purchased separately.

1 0 .10 .1 0 .10 .1 0 . Ser ia l port connector (10-1 p in COM1)Ser ia l port connector (10-1 p in COM1)Ser ia l port connector (10-1 p in COM1)Ser ia l port connector (10-1 p in COM1)Ser ia l port connector (10-1 p in COM1)

This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial portmodule cable to this connector, then install the module to a slotopening at the back of the system chassis.


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1 1 .11 .1 1 .11 .11 . Front panel audio connector (10-1 p in AAFP)Front panel audio connector (10-1 p in AAFP)Front panel audio connector (10-1 p in AAFP)Front panel audio connector (10-1 p in AAFP)Front panel audio connector (10-1 p in AAFP)

This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O modulethat supports either High Definition Audio or AC `97 audio standard.

Connect one end of the front panel audio I/O module cable to thisconnector.

We recommend that you connect a high-definition front panel audiomodule to this connector to avail of the motherboard high-definitionaudio capability.

If you want to connect a high-definition front panel audio module tothis connector, make sure that the Onboard AUDIO item in the BIOSis set to [Enabled]. See page 2-25 for details.

A8N-VMC

SM

A8N-VM CSM TV out connector

TV_OUT

CVBSout

S-videoYout

S-videoCout

GN

D

GN

D1

12 .1 2 .12 .1 2 .12 . TV-out connector (6-1 p in TV_OUT)TV-out connector (6-1 p in TV_OUT)TV-out connector (6-1 p in TV_OUT)TV-out connector (6-1 p in TV_OUT)TV-out connector (6-1 p in TV_OUT)

This 6-1 pin connector is for the TV-out port module that allows youto connect a television to your system. Connect one end of theTV-out cable to this connector and the other end to the TV-outmodule.

The TV-out module is purchased separately.

A8N-VMC

SM

A8N-VM CSM Analog front panel connector

AAFP

Azalia-compliantpin definition

Legacy AC97-compliantpin definition

NC

MIC

2_

L

Lineout_R

Lineo

ut_L

NC

NC

MIC

2_

R

NC

AGND

PORT1R

SENSE2_

RETUR

POR

T1L

PORT2R

POR

T2L

SENSE1_

RETUR

SENSE_S

END

PRESENCE#

GND


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1 3 .1 3 .1 3 .1 3 .13 . ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-p in ATX12V)ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-p in ATX12V)ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-p in ATX12V)ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-p in ATX12V)ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR, 4-p in ATX12V)

These connectors are for an ATX power supply. The plugs from thepower supply are designed to fit these connectors in only one

orientation. Find the proper orientation and push down firmly until theconnectors completely fit.

We recommend that you use an ATX 12 V Specification2.0-compliant power supply unit (PSU) with a minimum of 300 Wpower rating. This PSU type has 24-pin and 4-pin power plugs.

If you intend to use a PSU with 20-pin and 4-pin power plugs, makesure that the 20-pin power plug can provide at least 15 A on +12 Vand that the PSU has a minimum power rating of 300 W. The systemmay become unstable or may not boot up if the power is

inadequate. Do not forget to connect the 4-pin ATX +12 V power plug;

otherwise, the system will not boot up.

We recommend that you use a PSU with higher power output whenconfiguring a system with more power-consuming devices. Thesystem may become unstable or may not boot up if the power isinadequate.

You must install a PSU with a higher power rating if you intend toinstall additional devices.

A8N-VMC

SM

A8N-VM CSM ATX power connectors

EATXPWR

ATX12V

+3 Volts

+3 Volts

Ground

+5 Volts

+5 Volts

Ground

Ground

Power OK

+5V Standby

+12 Volts

-5 Volts

+5 Volts

+3 Volts

-12 Volts

Ground

Ground

Ground

PSON#

Ground

+5 Volts

+12 Volts

+3 Volts

+5 Volts

Ground

+12V DC

GND

+12V DC

GND


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14 .1 4 .14 .1 4 .14 . System panel connector (20-1 p in PANEL)System panel connector (20-1 p in PANEL)System panel connector (20-1 p in PANEL)System panel connector (20-1 p in PANEL)System panel connector (20-1 p in PANEL)

This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.

The sytem panel connector is color-coded for easy connection. Refer tothe connector description below for details.

System power LED (Green 3-p in PLED)System power LED (Green 3-p in PLED)System power LED (Green 3-p in PLED)System power LED (Green 3-p in PLED)System power LED (Green 3-p in PLED)This 3-pin connector is for the system power LED. Connect thechassis power LED cable to this connector. The system power LEDlights up when you turn on the system power, and blinks when the

system is in sleep mode.

Hard d isk dr ive act iv ity (Red 2-p in IDE_LED)Hard d isk dr ive act iv ity (Red 2-p in IDE_LED)Hard d isk dr ive act iv ity (Red 2-p in IDE_LED)Hard d isk dr ive act iv ity (Red 2-p in IDE_LED)Hard disk drive activ ity (Red 2-pin IDE_LED)This 2-pin connector is for the HDD Activity LED. Connect the HDDActivity LED cable to this connector. The IDE LED lights up or flasheswhen data is read from or written to the HDD.

System warning speaker (Orange 4-p in SPEAKER)System warning speaker (Orange 4-p in SPEAKER)System warning speaker (Orange 4-p in SPEAKER)System warning speaker (Orange 4-p in SPEAKER)System warning speaker (Orange 4-p in SPEAKER)This 4-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted system warningspeaker. The speaker allows you to hear system beeps and warnings.

Power/Soft-off button (Ye l low 2-pin PWRSW)Power/Soft-off button (Ye l low 2-pin PWRSW)Power/Soft-off button (Ye l low 2-pin PWRSW)Power/Soft-off button (Ye l low 2-pin PWRSW)Power/Soft-off button (Ye l low 2-pin PWRSW)

This connector is for the system power button. Pressing the powerbutton turns the system ON or puts the system in SLEEP or SOFT-OFFmode depending on the BIOS settings. Pressing the power switch formore than four seconds while the system is ON turns the system OFF.

Reset button (B lue 2-p in RESET)Reset button (B lue 2-p in RESET)Reset button (B lue 2-p in RESET)Reset button (B lue 2-p in RESET)Reset button (B lue 2-p in RESET)This 2-pin connector is for the chassis-mounted reset button forsystem reboot without turning off the system power.

A8N-VMC

SM

A8N-VM CSM System panel connector* Requires an ATX power supply.

PANEL

PLED-

PWR

+5V

Speaker

Ground

RESET

Ground

Reset

Ground

Ground

PWRSW

PLED+

IDE_

LED-

IDE_

LED+

IDE_LED

PLED SPEAKER


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2This chapter tells how to change

the system settings through the BIOSSetup menus. Detailed descriptionsof the BIOS parameters are alsoprovided.

BIOS setup


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2 - 22 - 22 - 22 - 22 - 2 Chapter 2 : B IOS setupChapter 2 : B IOS setupChapter 2 : B IOS setupChapter 2 : B IOS setupChapter 2 : B IOS setup

2.1 Managing and updating your BIOS

The following utilities allow you to manage and update the motherboardBasic Input/Output System (BIOS) setup.

1. ASUS AFUDOSASUS AFUDOSASUS AFUDOSASUS AFUDOSASUS AFUDOS (Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable

floppy disk.)2. ASUS EZ F lashASUS EZ F lashASUS EZ F lashASUS EZ F lashASUS EZ F lash (Updates the BIOS using a floppy disk during POST.)

ASUS EZ Flash and ASUS CrashFree BIOS 2 only support VGA/RGBoutput. These utilities do not support VGA/DVI-D output.

3. ASUS UpdateASUS UpdateASUS UpdateASUS UpdateASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windowsenvironment.)

Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.

2.1.12.1.12.1.12.1.12.1.1 Creating a bootable floppy diskCreating a bootable floppy diskCreating a bootable floppy diskCreating a bootable floppy diskCreating a bootable floppy disk

1. Do either one of the following to create a bootable floppy disk.

DOS environment

a. Insert a 1.44MB floppy disk into the drive.b. At the DOS prompt, type formatA:/Sthen press .

WindowsXP environment

a. Insert a 1.44 MB floppy disk to the floppy disk drive.

b. Click StartStartStartStartStart from the Windowsdesktop, then select M yM yM yM yM yComputerComputerComputerComputerComputer.

c. Select the 3 1/2 Floppy Drive icon.

d. Click F i l eF i l eF i l eF i l eF i l e from the menu, then select FormatFormatFormatFormatFo rm at. A Format 3 1/2Format 3 1/2Format 3 1/2Format 3 1/2Format 3 1/2Floppy DiskF loppy DiskF loppy DiskF loppy DiskF loppy Disk window appears.

e. Select Create an MS-DOS startup d iskCreate an MS-DOS startup d iskCreate an MS-DOS startup d iskCreate an MS-DOS startup d iskCreate an MS-DOS startup disk from the formatoptions field, then click Sta r tSta r tSta r tSta r tStart.

Windows2000 environment

To create a set of boot disks for Windows2000:

a. Insert a formatted, high density 1.44 MB floppy disk into the drive.

b. Insert the Windows2000 CD to the optical drive.

c. Click Sta r tSta r tSta r tSta r tStar t, then select R unRunR unRunRun.

Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a bootable floppydisk in case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the originalmotherboard BIOS using the ASUS Update or AFUDOS utilities.


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d. From the Open field, type

D:\bootdisk\makeboot a:

assuming that D: is your optical drive.

e. Press , then follow screen instructions to continue.

2. Copy the original or the latest motherboard BIOS file to the bootablefloppy disk.

2.1.22.1.22.1.22.1.22.1.2 ASUS EZ Flash utilityASUS EZ Flash utilityASUS EZ Flash utilityASUS EZ Flash utilityASUS EZ Flash utility

The ASUS EZ Flash feature allows you to update the BIOS without having togo through the long process of booting from a floppy disk and using aDOS-based utility. The EZ Flash utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is

accessible by pressing + during the Power-On Self Tests(POST).

To update the BIOS using EZ Flash:

1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOSfile for the motherboard and rename the same to A8NVMCSM.ROMA8NVMCSM.ROMA8NVMCSM.ROMA8NVMCSM.ROMA8NVMCSM.ROM.

2. Save the BIOS file to a floppy disk, then restart the system.

3. Press + during POST to display the following.

EZFlash starting BIOS update

Checking for floppy...

4. Insert the floppy disk that contains the BIOS file to the floppy diskdrive. When the correct BIOS file is found, EZ Flash performs the BIOSupdate process and automatically reboots the system when done.

EZFlash starting BIOS update

Checking for floppy...

Floppy found!

Reading file A8NVMCSM.ROM. Completed.

Start erasing.......|

Start programming...|

Flashed successfully. Rebooting.

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

A Floppy not found! error message appears if there is no floppydisk in the drive. A A8NVMCSM.ROM not found! error messageappears if the correct BIOS file is not found in the floppy disk. Makesure that you rename the BIOS file to A8NVMCSM.ROM.


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2.1.32.1.32.1.32.1.32.1.3 AFUDOS utilityAFUDOS utilityAFUDOS utilityAFUDOS utilityAFUDOS utility

The AFUDOS utility allows you to update the BIOS file in DOS environmentusing a bootable floppy disk with the updated BIOS file. This utility alsoallows you to copy the current BIOS file that you can use as backup when

the BIOS fails or gets corrupted during the updating process.

Copying the current BIOSCopying the current BIOSCopying the current BIOSCopying the current BIOSCopying the current BIOS

To copy the current BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility:

The utility returns to the DOS prompt after copying the current BIOSfile.

3. Press . The utility copies the current BIOS file to the floppydisk.

A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.ROM

AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.10

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

Reading flash ..... done

A:\>

Ma in f i l e nameMa i n f i l e nameMa i n f i l e nameMa i n f i l e nameMa i n f i l e name Ex tens i on nameEx tens i on nameEx tens i on nameEx tens i on nameEx tens i on name

1. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard supportCD to the bootable floppy disk you created earlier.

2. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type:

afudos /o[filename]

where the [filename] is any user-assigned filename not more thaneight alphanumeric characters for the main filename and threealphanumeric characters for the extension name.

A:\>afudos /oOLDBIOS1.ROM

Make sure that the floppy disk is not write-protected and has atleast 600 KB free space to save the file.

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


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

A:\>afudos /iA8NVMCSM.ROM

AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.10

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

Reading file ..... done

Erasing flash .... done

Writing flash .... 0x0008CC00 (9%)

Verifying flash .. done

A:\>

2. Copy the AFUDOS utility (afudos.exe) from the motherboard supportCD to the bootable floppy disk you created earlier.

3. Boot the system in DOS mode, then at the prompt type:

afudos /i[filename]where [filename] is the latest or the original BIOS file on the bootablefloppy disk.


AMI Firmware Update Utility - Version 1.10Copyright (C) 2002 American Megatrends, Inc. All rights reserved.

Reading file ..... done

Erasing flash .... done

Writing flash .... 0x0008CC00 (9%)

Updating the BIOS fileUpdating the BIOS fileUpdating the BIOS fileUpdating the BIOS fileUpdating the BIOS file

To update the BIOS file using the AFUDOS utility:

1. Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) and download the latest BIOSfile for the motherboard. Save the BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk.


4. The utility verifies the file and starts updating the BIOS.

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

prevent system boot failure!

Write the BIOS filename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exactBIOS filename at the DOS prompt.


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Installing ASUS UpdateInstalling ASUS UpdateInstalling ASUS UpdateInstalling ASUS UpdateInstalling ASUS Update

To install ASUS Update:

1. Place the support CD in the optical drive. The Dr iversDr iversDr iversDr iversDr ivers menu appears.

2. Click the Ut i l i t iesUt i l i t iesUt i l i t iesUt i l i t iesUt i l i t ies tab, then click ASUS UpdateASUS UpdateASUS UpdateASUS UpdateASUS Update. See page 3-4 forthe Ut i l i t iesUt i l i t iesUt i l i t iesUt i l i t iesUt i li t ies screen menu.

3. The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system.

2.1.42.1.42.1.42.1.42.1.4 ASUS Update utilityASUS Update utilityASUS Update utilityASUS Update utilityASUS Update utility

The ASUS Update is a utility that allows you to manage, save, and updatethe motherboard BIOS in Windowsenvironment. The ASUS Update utilityallows you to:

Save the current BIOS file

Download the latest BIOS file from the Internet

Update the BIOS from an updated BIOS file

Update the BIOS directly from the Internet, and

View the BIOS version information.

This utility is available in the support CD that comes with the motherboardpackage.

ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a networkor an Internet Service Provider (ISP).

Quit all Windowsapplications before you update the BIOS using thisutility.


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3. Select the ASUS FTP sitenearest you to avoid networktraffic, or click Auto Se lectAuto Se lectAuto Se lectAuto Se lectAuto Select.Click NextNextNextNextNext.

Updating the BIOS through the InternetUpdating the BIOS through the InternetUpdating the BIOS through the InternetUpdating the BIOS through the InternetUpdating the BIOS through the Internet

To update the BIOS through the Internet:

1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windows

desktop by clickingStartStartStartStartStart >ProgramsProgramsProgramsProgramsProg rams > ASUSASUSASUSASUSAS US > ASUSUpdateASUSUpdateASUSUpdateASUSUpdateASUSU pdate > ASUSUpdateASUSUpdateASUSUpdateASUSUpdateASUSUpda te. TheASUS Update main window appears.

2. Select Update BIOS fromUpdate BIOS fromUpdate BIOS fromUpdate BIOS fromUpdate BIOS fromthe Internetthe Internetthe Internetthe Internetth e In te rne t option from thedrop-down menu, then clickNextNextNextNextNext.


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Updating the BIOS through a BIOS fileUpdating the BIOS through a BIOS fileUpdating the BIOS through a BIOS fileUpdating the BIOS through a BIOS fileUpdating the BIOS through a BIOS file

To update the BIOS through a BIOS file:

1. Launch the ASUS Update utility from the Windowsdesktop byclicking StartStartStartStartStart >ProgramsProgramsProgramsProgramsProg rams > ASUSASUSASUSASUSASU S > ASUSUpdateASUSUpdateASUSUpdateASUSUpdateASUSUpdate >ASUSUpdateASUSUpdateASUSUpdateASUSUpdateASUSUpdate. The ASUS Update main window appears.

2. Select Update BIOS from aUpdate BIOS from aUpdate BIOS from aUpdate BIOS from aUpdate BIOS from af i l ef i l ef i l ef i l ef i l e option from the drop-downmenu, then click NextNextNextNextNext.

4. From the FTP site, select theBIOS version that you wish todownload. Click Next.

5. Follow the screen instructions tocomplete the update process.

The ASUS Update utility iscapable of updating itselfthrough the Internet. Alwaysupdate the utility to avail allits features.

3. Locate the BIOS file from theOpenOpenOpenOpenOpen window, then click SaveSaveSaveSaveSave.

4. Follow the screen instructions tocomplete the update process.


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2.2 BIOS setup program

This motherboard supports a programmable firmware chip that you canupdate using the provided utility described in section 2.1 Managing andupdating your BIOS.

Use the BIOS Setup program when you are installing a motherboard,reconfiguring your system, or prompted to Run Setup. This sectionexplains how to configure your system using this utility.

Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can changethe configuration of your computer in the future. For example, you canenable the security password feature or change the power managementsettings. This requires you to reconfigure your system using the BIOSSetup program so that the computer can recognize these changes andrecord them in the CMOS RAM of the firmware hub.

The firmware hub on the motherboard stores the Setup utility. When youstart up the computer, the system provides you with the opportunity torun this program. Press during the Power-On-Self-Test (POST) toenter the Setup utility; otherwise, POST continues with its test routines.

If you wish to enter Setup after POST, restart the system by pressing, or by pressing the reset button on the system chassis.You can also restart by turning the system off and then back on. Do thislast option only if the first two failed.

The Setup program is designed to make it as easy to use as possible. Beinga menu-driven program, it lets you scroll through the various sub-menusand make your selections from the available options using the navigationkeys.

The default BIOS settings for this motherboard apply for mostconditions to ensure optimum performance. If the system becomesunstable after changing any BIOS settings, load the default settingsto ensure system compatibility and stability. Select the L o adL o adL o adL o adL o adDefau l t Sett ingsDefau l t Sett ingsDefau l t Sett ingsDefau l t Sett ingsDefau l t Sett ings item under the Exit Menu. See section 2.7 Exit

Menu. The BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference

purposes only, and may not exactly match what you see on yourscreen.

Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOSfile for this motherboard and .


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2 - 1 02 -102 - 1 02 -102 -10 Chapter 2 : B IOS setupChapter 2 : B IOS setupChapter 2 : B IOS setupChapter 2 : B IOS setupChapter 2 : B IOS setup

Select Screen Select Item

Enter Go to Sub ScreenTab Select Field

F1 General HelpF10 Save and ExitESC Exit

v02.58 (C)Copyright 1985-2004, American Megatrends, Inc.

BIOS SETUP UTILITY

Main Advanced Power Boot Exit

2.2.22.2.22.2.22.2.22.2.2 Menu barMenu barMenu barMenu barMenu bar

The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:

Ma inMa inMa inMa inMai n For changing the basic system configuration

AdvancedAdvancedAdvancedAdvancedAdvanced For changing the advanced system settings

PowerPowerPowerPowerPo we r For changing the advanced power management (APM)configuration

BootBootBootBootBoo t For changing the system boot configuration

Ex i tE x i tE x i tE x i tEx i t For selecting the exit options and loading defaultsettings

2.2.12.2.12.2.12.2.12.2.1 BIOS menu screenBIOS menu screenBIOS menu screenBIOS menu screenBIOS menu screen

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

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

2.2.32.2.32.2.32.2.32.2.3 Navigation keysNavigation keysNavigation keysNavigation keysNavigation keys

At the bottom right corner of a menu screen are the navigation keys forthat particular menu. Use the navigation keys to select items in the menuand change the settings.

System Time [10:55:25]System Date [Mon 08/29/2005

Documents

Asus A8N - Vmcsm Socket 939