Asus Computer Hardware M3N HT User Manual
M3N-HT  
Deluxe Series  
 
Contents  
Contents ...................................................................................................... iii  
Notices........................................................................................................ vii  
Safety information .................................................................................... viii  
About this guide ......................................................................................... ix  
M3N-HT Deluxe Series specifications summary...................................... xi  
Chapter 1:  
Product introduction  
1.1  
1.2  
1.3  
Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1  
Package contents......................................................................... 1-1  
Special features............................................................................ 1-2  
1.3.1  
1.3.2  
1.3.3  
Product highlights ........................................................... 1-2  
ASUS AI Lifestyle unique features.................................. 1-5  
ASUS intelligent performance  
and overclocking features............................................... 1-8  
Chapter 2:  
Hardware information  
2.1  
2.2  
Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1  
Motherboard overview................................................................. 2-2  
2.2.1  
2.2.2  
2.2.3  
2.2.4  
Placement direction ........................................................ 2-2  
Screw holes .................................................................... 2-2  
Motherboard layout......................................................... 2-3  
Layout contents............................................................... 2-4  
2.3  
2.4  
Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-6  
2.3.1  
2.3.2  
2.3.3  
Installing the CPU ........................................................... 2-6  
Installing the heatsink and fan ........................................ 2-8  
Installing the optional fans .............................................2-11  
System memory ......................................................................... 2-12  
2.4.1  
2.4.2  
2.4.3  
2.4.4  
2.4.5  
Overview....................................................................... 2-12  
Memory configurations.................................................. 2-13  
Installing a DIMM .......................................................... 2-14  
Removing a DIMM ........................................................ 2-14  
Installing ASUS Cool Mempipe (Mempipe Edition only)2-18  
2.5  
Expansion slots.......................................................................... 2-20  
2.5.1  
2.5.2  
2.5.3  
2.5.4  
Installing an expansion card ......................................... 2-20  
Configuring an expansion card ..................................... 2-20  
Interrupt assignments ................................................... 2-21  
PCI slots........................................................................ 2-22  
iii  
 
Contents  
2.5.5  
2.5.6  
PCI Express x1 slot....................................................... 2-22  
Three PCI Express x16 slots ........................................ 2-22  
2.6  
2.7  
Jumper ........................................................................................ 2-24  
Connectors ................................................................................. 2-25  
2.7.1  
2.7.2  
Rear panel connectors.................................................. 2-25  
Internal connectors ....................................................... 2-28  
Chapter 3:  
Powering up  
3.1  
Starting up for the first time........................................................ 3-1  
3.2  
Turning off the computer............................................................. 3-2  
3.2.1  
3.2.2  
Using the OS shut down function.................................... 3-2  
Using the dual function power switch.............................. 3-2  
Chapter 4:  
4.1  
BIOS setup  
Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 4-1  
4.1.1  
4.1.2  
4.1.3  
4.1.4  
4.1.5  
ASUS Update utility ........................................................ 4-1  
Creating a bootable floppy disk....................................... 4-4  
ASUS EZ Flash 2 utility................................................... 4-5  
Updating the BIOS.......................................................... 4-6  
Saving the current BIOS file............................................ 4-8  
4.2  
BIOS setup program .................................................................... 4-9  
4.2.1  
4.2.2  
4.2.3  
4.2.4  
4.2.5  
4.2.6  
4.2.7  
4.2.8  
BIOS menu screen........................................................ 4-10  
Menu bar....................................................................... 4-10  
Legend bar.....................................................................4-11  
Menu items ....................................................................4-11  
Sub-menu items.............................................................4-11  
Configuration fields ........................................................4-11  
Pop-up window ............................................................. 4-12  
General help ................................................................. 4-12  
4.3  
Main menu .................................................................................. 4-13  
4.3.1  
4.3.2  
4.3.3  
4.3.4  
4.3.5  
4.3.6  
System Time [xx:xx:xx] ................................................. 4-13  
System Date [Day xx/xx/xxxx]....................................... 4-13  
Language [English] ....................................................... 4-13  
Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]................................. 4-13  
Primary IDE Master/Slave............................................. 4-14  
SATA1/2/3/4....................................................................................4-16  
iv  
4.3.7  
4.3.8  
4.3.9  
HDD SMART Monitoring [Disabled].............................. 4-17  
Installed Memory [xxx MB]............................................ 4-17  
Usable Memory [XXX MB] ............................................ 4-17  
4.4  
Advanced menu ......................................................................... 4-18  
4.4.1  
4.4.2  
4.4.3  
4.4.4  
4.4.5  
4.4.6  
4.4.7  
JumperFree Configuration ............................................ 4-18  
AI NET2 ........................................................................ 4-20  
CPU Configuration........................................................ 4-20  
Chipset.......................................................................... 4-24  
PCIPnP ......................................................................... 4-26  
Onboard Device Configuration...................................... 4-27  
USB Configuration ........................................................ 4-29  
4.5  
4.6  
Power menu................................................................................ 4-30  
4.5.1  
4.5.2  
4.5.3  
ACPI Suspend Type [S1&S3]........................................ 4-30  
APM Configuration........................................................ 4-30  
Hardware Monitor ......................................................... 4-32  
Boot menu .................................................................................. 4-34  
4.6.1  
4.6.2  
4.6.3  
4.6.4  
4.6.5  
4.6.6  
Boot Device Priority ...................................................... 4-34  
Removable Drives......................................................... 4-34  
Hard Disk Drives........................................................... 4-35  
CDROM Drives ............................................................. 4-35  
Boot Settings Configuration ......................................... 4-36  
Security......................................................................... 4-37  
4.7  
4.8  
Tools menu ................................................................................. 4-39  
4.7.1  
4.7.2  
4.7.3  
ASUS O.C. Profile......................................................... 4-39  
ASUS EZ Flash 2.......................................................... 4-41  
ASUS Express Gate ..................................................... 4-42  
Exit menu.................................................................................... 4-43  
Chapter 5:  
Software support  
5.1  
5.2  
Installing an operating system ................................................... 5-1  
Support DVD information............................................................ 5-1  
5.2.1  
5.2.2  
5.2.3  
5.2.4  
5.2.5  
Running the support DVD............................................... 5-1  
Drivers menu................................................................... 5-2  
Utilities menu .................................................................. 5-3  
Make Disk menu ............................................................. 5-5  
Manual menu .................................................................. 5-6  
v
5.2.6  
5.2.7  
ASUS Contact information.............................................. 5-6  
Other information ............................................................ 5-7  
5.3  
Software information ................................................................... 5-9  
5.3.1  
5.3.2  
5.3.3  
5.3.4  
5.3.5  
5.3.6  
5.3.7  
5.3.9  
ASUS MyLogo2™ ............................................................ 5-9  
Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology ...........................................5-11  
AI Audio 2 (SoundMAX® High Definition Audio utility)... 5-13  
ASUS PC Probe II......................................................... 5-22  
ASUS AI Suite............................................................... 5-28  
ASUS AI Gear 2............................................................ 5-30  
ASUS AI Nap ................................................................ 5-31  
ASUS Q-Fan 2.............................................................. 5-32  
5.3.10 ASUS AI Booster 2........................................................ 5-33  
5.3.12 ASUS Express Gate ..................................................... 5-34  
RAID configurations .................................................................. 5-41  
5.4  
5.4.1  
RAID definitions ............................................................ 5-41  
5.4.2  
NVIDIA® RAID configurations........................................ 5-42  
5.5  
Creating a RAID driver disk....................................................... 5-49  
5.5.1  
5.5.2  
Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS.... 5-49  
Creating a RAID/SATA driver disk in Windows®............ 5-49  
Chapter 6:  
NVIDIA® SLI™ technology support  
6.1  
Overview ....................................................................................... 6-1  
Requirements................................................................................. 6-1  
Graphics card setup .................................................................... 6-2  
6.2  
6.2.1  
6.2.2  
6.2.3  
6.2.4  
Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards........................ 6-2  
Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards .......................... 6-5  
Installing the device drivers............................................. 6-6  
Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology in Windows® .... 6-6  
vi  
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 manufacturer’s  
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.  
The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card is  
required to assure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications  
to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance  
could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.  
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.  
vii  
 
Safety information  
Electrical safety  
•
To prevent electrical shock hazard, disconnect the power cable from the  
electrical outlet before relocating the system.  
•
When adding or removing devices to or from the system, ensure that the power  
cables for the devices are unplugged before the signal cables are connected. If  
possible, disconnect all power cables from the existing system before you add  
a device.  
•
•
•
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 fix it by yourself. Contact a qualified  
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.  
•
•
To 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 qualified  
service technician or your retailer.  
This symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the product (electrical,  
electronic equipment, and mercury-containing button cell battery) should not  
be placed in municipal waste. Check local regulations for disposal of electronic  
products.  
viii  
 
About this guide  
This user guide contains the information you need when installing and configuring  
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 DVD that comes with the  
motherboard package and the software.  
Chapter 6: NVIDIA® SLI™ support  
This chapter describes the NVIDIA SLI™ feature and shows the graphics  
card installation procedures.  
Where to find more information  
Refer to the following sources for additional information and for product and  
software updates.  
1.  
2.  
ASUS websites  
The ASUS website provides updated information on ASUS hardware and  
software products. Refer to the ASUS contact information.  
Optional documentation  
Your product package may include optional documentation, such as warranty  
flyers, that may have been added by your dealer. These documents are not  
part of the standard package.  
ix  
 
Conventions used in this guide  
To make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of the following  
symbols used throughout this manual.  
DANGER/WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself  
when trying to complete a task.  
CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the components  
when trying to complete a task.  
IMPORTANT: Instructions that you MUST follow to complete a  
task.  
NOTE: Tips and additional information to help you complete a  
task.  
Typography  
Bold text  
Italics  
Indicates a menu or an item to select.  
Used to emphasize a word or a phrase.  
<Key>  
Keys enclosed in the less-than and greater-than sign  
means that you must press the enclosed key.  
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 ��M3NHTDLX.BIN  
x
M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
specifications summary  
AMD® Socket AM2+ Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™ /  
CPU  
Sempron™ processor  
AMD® Socket AM2 Athlon 64 X2 / Athlon 64 FX /  
Athlon 64 / Sempron processor  
AMD® Cool’n’Quiet™ Technology  
NVIDIA® nForce 780a SLI  
Chipset  
Up to 5200 MT/s; HyperTransport™ 3.0 interface for  
AM2+ CPU  
System bus  
2000 / 1600 MT/s for AM2 CPU  
Dual-channel memory architecture  
Memory  
-
4 x 240-pin DIMM sockets support unbufferred  
�CC/non��CC DDR2 1066�/�00/667/533 MHz  
memory modules  
-
Supports up to 8 GB system memory  
*DDR2 1066 is supported by AM2+ CPUs only. Refer to  
www.asus.com for the supported CPU models and the  
Memory QVL (Qualified Vendors Lists).  
Integrated NVIDIA® GPU  
VGA  
Hybrid SLI Support (supports Windows® Vista only)  
Maximum shared memory of 512MB  
Supports HDMI™ Technology with max. resolution up to  
1920 x 1200  
Supports DVI with max. resolution up to 1920 x 1440  
@60Hz  
Supports D-Sub with max. resolution up to 1920 x 1440  
@75Hz  
HDMI/DVI/RGB support  
Supports Microsoft® DirectX® 10, OpenGL® 2.0,  
Pixel Shader 4.0  
Support PCIe 2.0/1.0 architecture  
3 x PCIe x16 support NVIDIA® 3-way SLI™ Tech @ dual  
x16 mode or triple x8  
1 x PCIe x1  
Expansion slots  
Storage  
2 x PCI 2.2  
Chipset:  
-
-
-
6 x SATA 3 Gb/s connectors  
(Use SATA 1-4 connectors for IDE mode)  
NVIDIA® MediaShield RAID supports RAID 0, RAID1,  
RAID 0+1, RAID 5 and JBOD  
.
1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66/33  
Marvell® 6111 SATA controller  
-
1 x External SATA 3Gb/s port (SATA-On-The-Go)  
(continued on the next page)  
xi  
 
M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
specifications summary  
NVIDIA Gigabit MAC  
LAN  
Atheros F1 Gigabit PHY featuring AI NET2  
LSI® FW322 controller supports 2 x IEEE 1394a  
connectors (at mid-board)  
IEEE 1394  
10 x USB 2.0 ports (6 at mid�board; 4 on the rear panel)  
USB  
ADI® AD19��B BH ��channel High Definition audio  
High Definition audio  
CODEC  
-
-
-
Supports Jack-Detection and Multi-Streaming  
ASUS AI Audio 2  
Coaxial/Optical S/PDIF Out ports at back I/O  
ASUS AI Lifestyle  
unique features  
ASUS Express Gate:  
�
-
�
Web browser, �file downloading and uploading  
Further free features upgradable on ASUS websites  
Onboard flash with �xpress Gate installed  
*File downloading and uploading progresses through  
USB devices only.  
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution:  
-
-
-
-
-
ASUS AI Cool Mempipe (Mempipe edition only)  
ASUS AI Gear 2  
ASUS 8+2 Phase Power Design  
ASUS AI Nap  
ASUS Fanless Design: Heat-pipe solution & Stack  
Cool 2  
-
-
ASUS Q-Fan 2  
ASUS Optional Fan for Water-cooling or  
Passive-cooling only  
ASUS Crystal Sound:  
-
-
ASUS Noise Filter  
ASUS AI Audio 2  
ASUS EZ DIY:  
-
-
�
-
ASUS Q-Shield  
ASUS Q-Connector  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
(continued on the next page)  
xii  
M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
specifications summary  
ASUS exclusive  
Intelligent overclocking tools:  
overclocking features  
-
-
AI Overclocking (Intelligent CPU frequency tuner)  
ASUS AI Booster 2 utility  
Precision Tweaker 2:  
-
vCore: Adjustable CPU voltage at 0.0125V  
increment  
-
-
vDIMM: 35-step DRAM voltage control  
vChipset: 16-step Chipset voltage control  
SFS (Stepless Frequency Selection):  
�
FSB tuning from 200 MHz up to 600 MHz at 1 MHz  
increment  
�
�
Memory tuning from 533 MHz up to 1066 MHz  
PCI �xpress frequency tuning from 100 MHz to 200  
MHz at 1 MHz increment  
Overclocking protection:  
ASUS C.P.R. (CPU Parameter Recall)  
-
Uses 100% All High-quality Conductive Polymer  
Capacitors!  
Other features  
ASUS MyLogo 2™  
Multi-language BIOS  
1 x PS/2 keyboard port (purple)  
1 x S/PDIF Out (Coaxial + Optical)  
1 x HDMI  
Rear panel I/O ports  
1 x D-Sub  
1 x External SATA  
1 x LAN (RJ-45)  
4 x USB 2.0/1.1  
8-channel audio I/O  
3 x USB connectors support additional 6 USB ports  
1 x Floppy disk drive connector  
1 x COM connector  
Internal I/O connectors  
1 x IDE connector  
6 x SATA connectors (Use SATA 1–4 for IDE mode)  
1 x CPU Fan connector  
2 x Chassis Fan connector  
1 x Power Fan connector  
2 x IEEE1394a connector  
Front panel audio connector  
1 x S/PDIF Out Header  
Chassis Intrusion connector  
CD audio in  
24-pin ATX Power connector  
1 x 8-pin ATX 12V Power connector  
System Panel (Q-Connector)  
(continued on the next page)  
xiii  
M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
specifications summary  
8 Mb Flash ROM, Award BIOS, PnP, DMI 2.0, WfM2.0,  
BIOS features  
SM BIOS 2.5, ACPI 2.0, ASUS EZ Flash 2  
Manageability  
WfM 2.0, DMI 2.0, WOL by PME, WOR by PME, PXE  
Drivers  
Support CD contents  
ASUS Express Gate  
ASUS AI Suite  
ASUS PC Probe II  
ASUS Update  
Anti-virus Utility (OEM version)  
ATX form factor: 12 in x 9.6 in (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm)  
Form factor  
*Specifications are subject to change without notice.  
xiv  
This chapter describes the motherboard  
features and the new technologies  
it supports.  
Product  
1
introduction  
Chapter summary  
1
1.1  
1.2  
1.3  
Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1-1  
Package contents......................................................................... 1-1  
Special features............................................................................ 1-2  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
1.1  
Welcome!  
Thank you for buying an ASUS® M3N�HT Deluxe Series 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.  
1.2  
Package contents  
Check your motherboard package for the following items.  
Motherboard  
I/O modules  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
1 x Multi-functional module (1-port IEEE 1394a  
module and 2-port USB 2.0 module)  
Cables  
1 x Serial ATA power cable for 2 devices  
6 x Serial ATA signal cables  
1 x Ultra DMA 133/100/66 cable  
1 x Floppy disk drive cable  
Accessories  
ASUS Cool Mempipe (Mempipe edition only)  
ASUS Q-Shield (I/O Shield)  
1 x HDMI-to-DVI converter  
1 x ASUS Q-Connector Kit (USB, 1394, system  
panel; Retail version only)  
1 x ASUS 3-way SLI bridge connector  
1 x ASUS SLI bridge  
Optional fan for Water-Cooling or Passive-cooling  
only  
Application DVD  
Documentation  
ASUS motherboard support DVD  
User guide  
If any of the above items is damaged or missing, contact your retailer.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
1-1  
1.3  
Special features  
1.3.1  
Product highlights  
Green ASUS  
This motherboard and its packaging comply with the �uropean Union’s Restriction  
on the use of Hazardous Substances (RoHS). This is in line with the ASUS vision  
of creating environment-friendly and recyclable products/packaging to safeguard  
consumers’ health while minimizing the impact on the environment.  
AMD® Socket AM2+ Phenom™ FX / Phenom /  
Athlon™ / Sempron™ CPU support  
This motherboard supports AMD® Socket AM2+ multi-core processors with  
unique L3 cache and delivers better overclocking capabilities with less power  
consumption. It features dual-channel DDR2 1066 memory support and  
accelerates data transfer rate up to 5200MT/s via HyperTransport™ 3.0 based  
system bus. See page 2-6 for details.  
HyperTransport™ 3.0 support  
HyperTransport™ 3.0 technology provides 2.6 times more bandwidth than  
HyperTransport™ 1.0, radically improving system efficiency to create a smoother,  
faster computing environment.  
AMD® Socket AM2 Athlon™ 64 X2 / Athlon™  
64 FX / Athlon™ 64 / Sempron™ CPU support  
This motherboard supports AMD® Socket AM2 single-core Athlon™ 64 /  
Sempron™ and dual-core Athlon™ 64 X2 / Athlon™ 64 FX processors with 2MB  
/ 1MB / 512KB L2 cache based on 64-bit architecture. It features 2000 / 1600  
MT/s HyperTransport™-based system bus, dual-channel un-buffered DDR2 800  
memory support, and AMD® Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ Technology. See page 2�6 for details.  
NVIDIA® nForce® 780a SLI chipset  
The NVIDIA® nForce 780a SLI chipset supports the NVIDIA® Scalable Link  
Interface (SLI™) technology that allows three graphics processing units (GPUs)  
in a single system. It’s designed for enthusiast, extreme overclocking capability,  
ultimate gaming performance with SLI technology support. It’s definitely one of the  
fastest platform in the world. The NVIDIA® nForce 780a SLI chipset also supports  
six (6) Serial ATA 3 Gb/s devices, PCI Express™ x16 slots with NVIDIA® SLI™  
support at dual x16 mode or at tripple x8 mode, and up to 10 USB 2.0 ports.  
1-2  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
Native DDR2 1066 support  
This motherboard natively supports DDR2 1066. It provides faster data transfer  
rate and more bandwidth to increase memory computing efficiency, enhancing  
system performance in 3D graphics and other memory demanding applications.  
See page 2-12 for details.  
DDR2 1066 is supported by some of the AM2+ CPUs only. Refer to www.asus.  
com for the supported CPU models.  
NVIDIA® 3-Way SLI™ (Scalable Link Interface)  
NVIDIA 3-Way SLI™ (Scalable Link Interface) takes advantage of the increased  
bandwidth of the PCI Express 2.0 bus architecture and features intelligent  
hardware and software that allows three graphics cards to efficiently work together  
to deliver earth-shattering, scalable performance. For some applications nearly  
triple performance!  
PCIe 2.0 support  
This motherboard supports the latest PCIe 2.0 devices for double speed and  
bandwidth which enhances system performance. See page 2-22 for details.  
Hybrid SLI™  
Hybrid SLI™ technology is a unique hybrid multi-GPU technology built upon  
NVIDIA. Hybrid SLI technology today includes two primary features: GeForce®  
Boost and HybridPower™. GeForce® Boost turbo-charges performance of NVIDIA  
discrete graphics cards when combined with this series motherboard GPUs.  
HybridPower™ unleashes graphics performance when needed and enables  
low-power operation when performance is not needed. You can switch from the  
discrete GeForce® GPU(s) to the motherboard GPU for a quiet, low power PC  
experience.  
GeForce® Boost and HybridPower™ are independent on selected GeForce®  
GPUs. Refer to www.nvidia.com/hybridsli for more information.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
1-3  
Serial ATA 3 Gb/s technology and SATA-On-The-Go  
This motherboard supports the next-generation hard disk drives based on the  
Serial ATA (SATA) 3Gb/s storage specifications, delivering enhanced scalability  
and doubling the bus bandwidth for high-speed data retrieval and save. The  
external SATA port located at the back I/O provides smart setup and hot-plug  
functions, enabling easy backup of media files to external devices. See pages 2�26  
and 2-30 for details.  
The NVIDIA® MediaShield™ RAID controller integrated in the NVIDIA® nForce®  
780a SLI™ chipset allows RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5, and JBOD  
configurations for six SATA 3 Gb/s connectors. See page 2�30 for details.  
HDMI Interface  
HDMI (High�Definition Multimedia Interface) is a set of digital video standards that  
delivers multi-channel audio and uncompressed digital video through a single  
cable for full HD 1080p visuals. Supporting HDCP copy protection such as HD  
DVD and Blu-ray Discs, HDMI provides you with the highest-quality home theater  
experience.  
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,  
and other PC portable devices. See pages 2-25 and 2-31 for details.  
S/PDIF digital sound ready  
This motherboard provides convenient connectivity to external home theater audio  
systems via coaxial and optical S/PDIF (SONY-PHILIPS Digital Interface) Out  
jacks.It allows digital audio transferring without converting it to analog format, and  
therefore well preserves signal quality. See page 2-36 for details.  
High Definition Audio  
�njoy high�end sound quality on your PC! The onboard ��channel HD audio (High  
Definition Audio, previously codenamed Azalia) COD�C enables high�quality  
192KHz/24�bit audio output that simultaneously sends different audio streams to  
different destinations. You can now talk to your partners on the headphones while  
playing multi-channel network games. See pages 2-25 and 2-26 for details.  
Gigabit LAN solution  
The NVIDIA® native Gigabit LAN controller delivers transfer speeds up to ten times  
faster than conventional 10/100/1000 Ethernet connections. Gigabit LAN is the  
networking standard for the early future and is ideal for handling large amounts of  
data such as video, audio, and voice. See page 2-25 for details.  
1-4  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
1.3.2  
ASUS AI Lifestyle unique features  
ASUS Quiet Thermal Solution  
ASUS Quiet Thermal solution makes system more stable and enhances the  
overclocking capability.  
ASUS Cool Mempipe (Mempipe Edition only)  
ASUS Cool Mempipe supports unparalleled memory overclocking via innovative  
thermal solutions. By lowering the memory and system temperatures, the Cool  
Mempipe contributes to a stable computing environment. See pages 2-18 and  
2-19 for details.  
ASUS Cool Mempipe supports the thermal dissipation of memory modules on  
DIMM_A1 and DIMM_B1 sockets only.  
8+2 Phase Power Design  
ASUS 8+2 Phase Power Design, with independent power to vital  
components, ultimately enhances memory performance and ensures quick  
response and stability of CPU under heavy loading or overclocking modes.  
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.  
AI Gear 2  
AI Gear 2 allows you to choose from profiles to adjust CPU frequency and  
vCore voltage, minimizing system noise and saving CPU power consumption  
at most. You can real-time chnage the mode under operating system to suit  
your needs.  
AI Nap  
With AI Nap, the system can continue running at minimum power and noise  
when you are temporarily away. To wake the system and return to the OS  
environment, simply click the mouse or press a key.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
1-5  
Fanless Design–Heat-pipe  
The Heat Pipe design effectively directs the heat generated by the chipsets to  
the heatsink near the back IO ports, where it can be carried away by existing  
airflow from CPU fan or bundled optional fan. The purpose of the innovative  
heat pipe design on this motherboard is that the groundbreaking fanless  
design does not have lifetime problems as a chipset fan does. Furthermore, it  
provides options for users to install side�flow fan or passive cooler. The Heat  
Pipe design is the most reliable fanless thermal solution to date.  
DO NOT uninstall the heat-pipe by yourself. Doing so may bend the tubing and  
affect the heat dissipation performance.  
Optional Fan (for Water-Cooling or Passive-Cooling only)  
The optional fan is specifically designed to provide sufficient airflow 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  
2-11 for details.  
Q-Fan 2  
ASUS Q-Fan2 technology intelligently adjusts both CPU fan and chassis fan  
speeds according to system loading to ensure quiet, cool and efficient operation.  
ASUS Crystal Sound  
This feature can enhance speech-centric applications like Skype, online game,  
video conference and recording.  
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.  
AI Audio 2  
AI Audio 2 creates a virtual center channel that expands the overall sound  
field without introducing a picket fencing effect. Preserving the dialogue  
or solo performances with downmixing from multi-channels allows you to  
experience true-to-life high quality audio. See page 5-13 for details.  
1-6  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
ASUS EZ DIY  
ASUS EZ DIY feature collection provides you easy ways to install computer  
components, update the BIOS or back up your favorite settings.  
ASUS Express Gate  
With only 5 seconds boot-up time, the ASUS Express Gate allows you to  
instantly surf the Internet without entering Windows or the Hard Disk. You  
can now enjoy Skype, IM, YouTube, webmail and internet file downloads and  
sharing whenever and wherever you want! See page 5�-34 for details.  
•
•
Systems with onboard GPU may take longer to boot up.  
File downloading and uploading progresses through USB devices only  
•
Due to Skype limitation under Linux OS, file downloading and uploading are  
not supported under Skype.  
ASUS Q-Shield  
The specially designed ASUS Q�Shield does without the usual “fingers”—  
making it convenient and easy to install. With better electric conductivity,  
it ideally protects your motherboard against static electricity and shields it  
against Electronic Magnetic Interference (EMI).  
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 2-38 for details.  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
The motherboard features the ASUS O.C. Profile that allows users to  
conveniently store or load multiple BIOS settings. The BIOS settings can be  
stored in the CMOS or a separate file, giving users freedom to share and  
distribute their favorite settings. See page 4-39 for details.  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
ASUS EZ Flash 2 is a user-friendly BIOS update utility. Simply press the  
predefined 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 flash utility. See pages 4�5 and 4�41 for details.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
1-7  
ASUS MyLogo 2™  
This feature allows you to convert your favorite photo into a 256-color boot logo for  
a more colorful and vivid image on your screen. See page 5-9 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 setup menu helps you configure your system  
easier and faster. See page 4-13 for details.  
1.3.3  
ASUS intelligent performance and overclocking  
features  
HDMI/DVI/RGB support  
With the bundled HDMI to DVI conversion adapter, this motherboard can  
support both DVI and HDMI output. DVI (Digital Visual Interface) provides high  
quality visuals for digital display devices like LCD monitors. The interface of this  
motherboard supports digital HDMI/DVI and analog D-Sub standards. See page  
2-27 for details.  
Precision Tweaker 2  
Precision Tweaker 2 allows the user to adjust the northbridge voltage, HT Bus, and  
DRAM voltage in 0.02V steps to achieve the most precise settings for th ultimate  
customized overclocking configuration.  
AI Booster 2  
Overclocking has never been so fun with a user-friendly utility under Window that  
provides accurate settings for the CPU, chipset and memory. Now it's even easier  
to achieve astounding overclocking results without any hassles!  
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.  
1-8  
Chapter 1: Product Introduction  
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.  
Hardware  
2
information  
Chapter summary  
2
2.1  
2.2  
2.3  
2.4  
2.5  
2.6  
2.7  
Before you proceed ..................................................................... 2-1  
Motherboard overview................................................................. 2-2  
Central Processing Unit (CPU) ................................................... 2-6  
System memory ......................................................................... 2-12  
Expansion slots.......................................................................... 2-20  
Jumper ........................................................................................ 2-24  
Connectors ................................................................................. 2-25  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2.1  
Before you proceed  
Take note of the following precautions before you install motherboard components  
or change any motherboard settings.  
•
•
Unplug the power cord from the wall socket before touching any  
component.  
Use a grounded wrist strap or touch a safely grounded object or to 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 ATX 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.  
Onboard LED  
The motherboard comes with a standby power LED. The green LED 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 LED.  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
SB_PWR  
ON  
Standy Power  
OFF  
Powered Off  
M3N-HT DELUXE Onboard LED  
2-1  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2.2  
Motherboard overview  
Before you install the motherboard, study the configuration of your chassis to  
ensure that the motherboard fits into it.  
Make sure to unplug the power cord before installing or removing the  
motherboard. Failure to do so can cause you physical injury and damage  
motherboard components.  
2.2.1  
Placement direction  
When installing the motherboard, make sure that you place it into the chassis in  
the correct orientation. The edge with external ports goes to the rear part of the  
chassis as indicated in the image below.  
2.2.2  
Screw holes  
Place nine (9) screws into the holes indicated by circles to secure the motherboard  
to the chassis.  
Do not overtighten the screws! Doing so can damage the motherboard.  
Place this side towards  
the rear of the chassis  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
2-2  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.2.3  
Motherboard layout  
24.4cm (9.6in)  
KB_USB56  
CPU_FAN  
EATX12V  
SPDIF_O12  
VGA_HDMI  
LAN1_USB12  
ESATA  
EATXPWR  
AUDIO  
®
nVidia  
nForce 780a SLI  
Attansic  
F1  
PCIEX16_1  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
PCI1  
SF200  
PCIEX16_2  
PCI2  
Lithium Cell  
CMOS Power  
88SE6111  
CHA_FAN2  
agere  
L-FW3227  
CLRTC  
CHASSIS  
CD  
Super  
PCIEX16_3  
I/O  
CHA_FAN1  
AD1988B  
BIOS  
PWR_FAN  
PCIEX1_1  
SPDIF_OUT  
SB_PWR  
PANEL  
FLOPPY COM1  
IE1394_2  
IE1394_1  
USB34  
USB78  
USB910  
AAFP  
Refer to 2.7 Connectors for more information about rear panel connectors and  
internal connectors.  
2-3  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2.2.4  
Layout contents  
Slots  
Page  
2-12  
2-22  
2-2  
1.  
2.  
3.  
3.  
DDR2 DIMM slots  
PCI slots  
PCI Express x1 slot  
PCI Express x16 slots  
2-22  
Jumper  
Page  
2-24  
1.  
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)  
Rear panel connectors  
Page  
2-25  
2-25  
2-25  
2-25  
2-25  
2-25  
2-25  
2-25  
2-25  
2-25  
2-26  
2-26  
2-26  
2-27  
2-27  
1.  
PS/2 keyboard port (purple)  
2.  
Coaxial S/PDIF Out port  
VGA port  
3.  
4.  
LAN (RJ-45) port.  
5.  
Center/Subwoofer port (orange)  
Rear Speaker Out port (black)  
Line In port (light blue)  
Line Out port (lime)  
6.  
7.  
8.  
9.  
Microphone port (pink)  
Side Speaker Out port (gray)  
External SATA port  
10.  
11.  
12.  
13.  
14.  
15.  
USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2  
HDMI port  
Optical S/PDIF Out port  
USB 2.0 ports 3 and 4  
2-4  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
Internal connectors  
Page  
2-28  
2-29  
2-30  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY)  
IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE)  
NVIDIA® nForce 780a SLI Serial ATA connectors  
(7�pin SATA1–4 [red]; SATA5–6 [black])  
4.  
5.  
6.  
USB connectors  
(10�1 pin USB34; 10�1 pin USB7�; 10�1 pin USB910)  
2-31  
2-31  
2-32  
IEEE 1394a port connector  
(10�1 pin I�1394_1; 10�1 pin I�1394_2)  
CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors (4�pin CPU_FAN;  
3�pin CHA_FAN1; 3�pin CHA_FAN2; 3�pin PWR_FAN)  
7.  
Chassis intrusion connector (4-1 pin CHASSIS)  
Optical drive audio connector (4-pin CD)  
2-33  
2-33  
2-34  
2-36  
2-37  
2-37  
2-38  
8.  
9.  
ATX power connectors (24�pin �ATXPWR; ��pin ATX12V)  
Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)  
Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)  
10.  
11.  
12.  
13.  
Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)  
System panel connector (20-8-pin PANEL)  
•
•
•
•
•
System power LED (2-pin PLED)  
Hard disk drive activity LED (2-pin IDE_LED)  
System warning speaker (4-pin SPEAKER)  
ATX power button/soft-off button (2-pin PWRSW)  
Reset button (2-pin RESET)  
ASUS Q-Connector (system panel)  
2-39  
2-5  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2.3  
Central Processing Unit (CPU)  
The motherboard comes with an AM2+/AM2 socket designed for AMD® Socket  
AM2+ Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processor or for Socket  
AM2 Athlon 64 X2 / Athlon 64 FX / Athlon 64 / Sempron processor.  
The AM2+/AM2 socket has a different pinout from the 940-pin socket designed  
for the AMD Opteron processor. Make sure you use a CPU designed for the  
AM2+/AM2 socket. The CPU fits 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!  
2.3.1  
Installing the CPU  
To install a CPU:  
1. Locate the CPU socket on the motherboard.  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
M3N-HT DELUXE CPU SOCKET AM2+/AM2  
2.  
Unlock the socket by pressing the  
lever sideways, then lift it up to a  
90º angle.  
Socket lever  
Make sure that the socket lever is lifted up to a 90º angle; otherwise, the CPU  
will not fit in completely.  
2-6  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
3.  
4.  
Position the CPU above the socket  
such that the CPU corner with the  
gold triangle matches the socket  
corner with a small triangle.  
Carefully insert the CPU into the  
socket until it fits in place.  
Gold triangle  
Small triangle  
5.  
6.  
When the CPU is in place, push  
down the socket lever to secure the  
CPU. The lever clicks on the side tab  
to indicate that it is locked.  
Install a CPU heatsink and fan  
following the instructions that came  
with the heatsink package.  
2-7  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2.3.2  
Installing the heatsink and fan  
The AMD® AM2+ Phenom™ FX / Phenom / Athlon™ / Sempron™ processor or  
AMD® AM2 Athlon 64 X2 / Athlon 64 FX / Athlon 64 / Sempron processor requires a  
specially designed heatsink and fan assembly to ensure optimum thermal condition  
and performance.  
Make sure that you use only AMD�certified heatsink and fan assembly.  
To install the CPU heatsink and fan:  
1.  
Place the heatsink on top of the installed CPU, making sure that the heatsink  
fits properly on the retention module base.  
•
•
•
The retention module base is already installed on the motherboard upon  
purchase.  
You do not have to remove the retention module base when installing the  
CPU or installing other motherboard components.  
If you purchased a separate CPU heatsink and fan assembly, make sure  
that a Thermal Interface Material is properly applied to the CPU heatsink or  
CPU before you install the heatsink and fan assembly.  
CPU fan  
CPU heatsink  
Retention module base  
Retention bracket  
Retention bracket lock  
Your boxed CPU heatsink and fan assembly should come with installation  
instructions for the CPU, heatsink, and the retention mechanism. If the  
instructions in this section do not match the CPU documentation, follow the  
latter.  
2-8  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.  
Attach one end of the retention bracket  
to the retention module base.  
3.  
Align the other end of the retention  
bracket (near the retention bracket  
lock) to the retention module base.  
A clicking sound denotes that the  
retention bracket is in place.  
Make sure that the fan and  
heatsink assembly perfectly fits  
the retention mechanism module  
base, otherwise you cannot snap  
the retention bracket in place.  
4.  
Push down the retention bracket lock  
on the retention mechanism to secure  
the heatsink and fan to the module  
base.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2-9  
5.  
When the fan and heatsink assembly is in place, connect the CPU fan cable  
to the connector on the motherboard labeled CPU_FAN.  
CPU_FAN  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
M3N-HT DELUXE CPU fan connector  
•
Do not forget to connect the CPU fan connector! Hardware monitoring  
errors can occur if you fail to plug this connector.  
•
This connector is backward compatiable with old 3-pin CPU fan.  
2-10  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.3.3  
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 airflow  
and destabilize the system.  
2.  
Fit the fan to the grooved edge of  
the heatsink.  
1.  
Position the fan above the pipe  
and heatsink assembly.  
Make sure that the ASUS logo  
faces to the CPU socket.  
3.  
Carefully push down the fan until  
it snugly fits the heatsink, then  
connect the fan cable.  
4.  
The photo shows the fan installed  
on the motherboard.  
•
•
Plug the optional fan cable to the CHA_FAN1/2 connector on the  
motherboard.  
Make sure the optional fan is installed correctly to prevent damage to the  
fan and motherboard components.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2-11  
2.4  
System memory  
2.4.1  
Overview  
The motherboard comes with four Double Data Rate 2 (DDR2) Dual Inline Memory  
Modules (DIMM) sockets.  
The figure illustrates the location of the DDR2 DIMM sockets:  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
M3N-HT DELUXE 240-pin DDR2 DIMM sockets  
Channel  
Sockets  
Channel A  
Channel B  
DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2  
DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2  
2-12  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.4.2  
Memory configurations  
You may install 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB unbuffered ECC and non-ECC  
DDR2 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets.  
Recommended Memory Configurations  
Sockets  
Mode  
DIMM_A1  
(yellow)  
DIMM_A2  
(black)  
DIMM_B1  
(yellow)  
DIMM_B2  
(black)  
–
–
–
Populated  
–
–
–
Single-Channel  
Populated  
Dual-channel (1)  
Dual-channel (2)  
Populated  
Populated  
–
Populated  
Populated  
–
Populated  
Populated  
•
You 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  
configuration. 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.  
•
If you install four 1 GB memory modules, the system may only recognize less  
than 3GB because the address space is reserved for other critical functions.  
This limitation appears on Windows® XP/Vista 32-bit operation system which  
does not support Physical Address Extension (PAE).  
•
•
If you install Windows® XP/Vista 32-bit operation system, a total memory of  
less than 3GB is recommended.  
This motherboard does not support memory modules made up of 128 Mb  
chips.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2-13  
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.  
2
To install a DIMM:  
DDR2 DIMM notch  
3
1.  
2.  
3.  
Unlock a DIMM socket by  
pressing the retaining clips  
outward.  
Align a DIMM on the socket  
such that the notch on the DIMM  
matches the break on the socket.  
1
Firmly insert the DIMM into the  
socket until the retaining clips  
snap back in place and the  
DIMM is properly seated.  
Unlocked retaining clip  
•
A DDR2 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.  
•
The DDR2 DIMM sockets do not support DDR DIMMs. DO not install DDR  
DIMMs to the DDR2 DIMM sockets.  
2.4.4  
Removing a DIMM  
To remove a DIMM:  
2
1. Simultaneously press the retaining  
clips outward to unlock the DIMM.  
Support the DIMM lightly with  
your fingers when pressing the  
retaining clips. The DIMM might  
get damaged when it flips out  
with extra force.  
1
DDR2 DIMM notch  
1
2.  
Remove the DIMM from the socket.  
2-14  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
M3N-HT Deluxe Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR2-800MHz capability  
Size  
Vendor  
Chip No.  
SS/DS  
Part No.  
DIMM support  
A*  
•
B*  
•
C*  
•
512MB  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
Qimonda  
Qimonda  
Hynix  
K4T51083QC  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
KVR800D2N5/512  
1024MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
2048MB  
512MB  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
V59C1512804QBF25  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
HYB18T512800BF25F  
HYB18T512800BF25F  
HY5PS12821CFP-S5  
D9GKX  
KHX6400D2LL/1G  
•
•
•
KHX6400D2LLK2/1GN  
KVR800D2N5/1G  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
KHX6400D2ULK2/1G  
KHX6400D2ULK2/2G  
HYS64T64000HU-25F-B  
HYS64T128020HU-25F-B  
HYMP512U64CP8-S5  
MT8HTF6464AY-80ED4  
CM2X512A-6400  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
1024MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
MICRON  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
ELPIDA  
512MB  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
E1108AB-8E-E(ECC)  
E1108AB-8E-E(ECC)  
Heat-Sink Package  
•
•
•
1024MB  
1024MB  
2048MB  
512MB  
CM2X1024-6400C4  
EBE10EE8ABFA-8E-E  
EBE21EE8ABFA-8E-E  
BL6464AA804.8FD  
•
•
•
•
ELPIDA  
Crucial  
•
•
512MB  
Crucial  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
AM4B5808CQJS8E  
AD26908A8A-25EG  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
NT5TU64M8BE-25C  
NT5TU64M8BE-25C  
NT5TU64M8CE-25D  
A3R12E3HEF641B9A05  
A3R12E3HEF641B9A05  
E2508AB-GE-E  
SS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
BL6464AA804.8FD3  
BL12864AL804.16FD3  
BL12864AA804.16FD3  
78.A1GA0.9K4  
1024MB  
1024MB  
2048MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
Crucial  
•
Crucial  
•
•
•
Apacer  
A-DATA  
Super Talent  
Super Talent  
NANYA  
NANYA  
NANYA  
PSC  
•
•
M2OAD6G3I4170I1E58  
T800UA12C4  
•
•
1024MB  
512MB  
T800UB1GC4  
•
•
NT512T64U880BY-25C  
NT1GT64U8HB0BY-25C  
NT1GT64U8HCOBY-25D  
AL6E8E63B8E1K  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
1024MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
•
•
•
•
•
•
1024MB  
256MB  
PSC  
AL7E8E63B-8E1K  
8G-24IK2-EBT  
TwinMOS  
Elixir  
1024MB  
N2TU51280BE-25C  
M2Y1G64TU8HB0B-25C  
•
•
SS - Single-sided / DS - Double-sided  
DIMM support:  
•
•
•
A*: Supports one module inserted in any slot as Single-channel  
memory configuration.  
B*: Supports one pair of modules inserted into either the yellow slots  
or the black slots as one pair of Dual�channel memory configuration.  
C*: Supports four modules inserted into both the yellow and black slots  
as two pairs of Dual�channel memory configuration.  
Visit the ASUS website for the latest DDR2��00/667/533 MHz QVL.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2-15  
M3N-HT Deluxe Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR2-667MHz capability  
Size  
Vendor  
Chip No.  
SS/DS  
Part No.  
DIMM support  
A*  
•
B*  
•
C*  
512MB  
256MB  
256MB  
1024MB  
2048MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
256MB  
1024MB  
256MB  
1024MB  
256MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
256MB  
512MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
2048MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
Qimonda  
Qimonda  
Qimonda  
Qimonda  
SAMSUNG  
SAMSUNG  
SAMSUNG  
Hynix  
D6408TEBGGL3U  
HYB18T256800AF3S  
6SBI2D9DCG  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
KVR667D2N5/512  
•
KVR667D2N5/256  
•
•
KVR667D2N5/256  
•
•
E5108AGBG-6E-E  
E1108AB-6E-E  
KVR667D2N5/1G  
•
•
•
KVR667D2N5/2G  
•
•
HYB18T512800BF3S(ECC)  
HYB18T512800BF3S(ECC)  
HYB18T512800BF3S  
HYB18T512800BF3S  
K4T51163QE-ZCE6  
K4T51083QE  
HYS72T64000HU-3S-B  
HYS72T128020HU-3S-B  
HYS64T64000HU-3S-B  
HYS64T128020HU-3S-B  
M378T3354EZ3-CE6  
M378T6553EZS-CE6  
M378T2953EZ3-CE6  
HYMP532U64CP6-Y5  
HYMP512U64CP8-Y5  
VS256MB667D2  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
K4T51083QE  
•
•
•
HY5PS121621CFP-Y5  
HY5PS12821CFP-Y5  
MIII00605  
•
Hynix  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
ELPIDA  
64M8CFEG  
VS512MB667D2  
•
•
•
•
•
•
64M8CFEG  
VS1GB667D2  
•
•
E2508AB-6E-E  
EBE25UC8ABFA-6E-E  
EBE51UD8AEFA-6E-E  
M2OAD5G3H3166I1C52  
M2OAD5G3I4176I1C52  
M2ONY5H3J4170I1C5Z  
BL6464AA663.8FD  
BL12864AA663.16FD  
BL12864AL664.16FD  
ELPIDA  
E5108AE-6E-E  
A-DATA  
AD29608A8A-3EG  
AD29608A8A-3EG  
NT5TU128M8BJ-3C  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
•
•
•
•
•
•
A-DATA  
A-DATA  
•
•
•
•
crucial  
•
•
•
crucial  
•
•
crucial  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
256MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
2048MB  
512MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
crucial  
Heat-Sink Package  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
BL12864AA663.16FD2  
AU512E667C5KBGC  
AU01GE667C5KBGC  
KLCB68F-36KH5  
KLCC28F-A8KB5  
KLCD48F-A8KB5  
T6UA512C5  
•
•
•
•
•
Apacer  
AM4B5708GQJS7E0628F  
AM4B5708GQJS7E  
N2TU51216AG-3C  
Apacer  
Kingmax  
Kingmax  
Kingmax  
Super Talent  
Super Talent  
NANYA  
NANYA  
PSC  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX  
KKEA88B4LAUG-29DX  
Heat-Sink Package  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Heat-Sink Package  
T6UB1GC5  
NT5TU128M8BJ-3C  
NT5TU64M8BE-3C  
NT2GT64U8HB0JY-3C  
NT512T64U88B0BY-3C  
AL6E8E63B-6E1K  
AL7E8E63B-6E1K  
•
•
•
A3R12E3GEF637BLC5N  
A3R12E3GEF637BLC5N  
PSC  
2-16  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
M3N-HT Deluxe Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR2-667MHz capability  
Size  
Vendor  
Chip No.  
SS/DS  
Part No.  
DIMM support  
A*  
•
B*  
C*  
•
512MB  
512MB  
TwinMOS  
TwinMOS  
E5108AE-GE-E  
SS  
SS  
8G-25JK5-EBT  
TMM6208G8M30C  
8D-23JK5M2ETP  
•
•
•
M3N-HT Deluxe Motherboard Qualified Vendors Lists (QVL)  
DDR2-533MHz capability  
Size  
Vendor  
Chip No.  
SS/DS  
Part No.  
DIMM support  
A*  
•
B*  
•
C*  
512MB  
1024MB  
2048MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
256MB  
1024MB  
256MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
1024MB  
1024MB  
512MB  
512MB  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
KINGSTON  
Qimonda  
Qimonda  
Hynix  
HYB18T512800AF37  
D6408TPAGGL3U  
E1108AB-6E-E  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
SS  
DS  
DS  
SS  
SS  
KVR533D2N4/512  
KVR533D2N4/1G  
KVR533D2N4/2G  
HYS64T64000HU-3.7-B  
HYS64T128020HU-3.7-B  
HYMP532U64CP6-C4  
HYMP512U64CP8-C4  
VS256MB533D2  
•
•
•
•
•
HYB18T512800BF37  
HYB18T512800BF37  
HY5PS121621CFP-C4  
HY5PS12821CFP-C4  
32M16CEDG  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Hynix  
•
•
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
CORSAIR  
ELPIDA  
•
•
MI110052432M8CEC  
64M8CEDG  
VS512MB533D2  
•
•
•
VS1GB533D2  
•
E5108AB-5C-E  
EBE51UD8ABFA-5C  
EBE51UD8ABFA-5C-E  
EBE11UD8ABFA-5C-E  
KLBC28F-A8EB4  
KLBD48F-A8EB4  
KLBC28F-A8KE4  
KLBD48F-A8ME4  
AU512E533C4KBGC  
AU01GE533C4KBGC  
T5UA512C4  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
ELPIDA  
E5108AB-5C-E  
•
ELPIDA  
E5108AB-5C-E  
•
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
KINGMAX  
Apacer  
E5108AE-5C-E  
E5108AE-5C-E  
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
KKEA88E4AAK-37  
5MB22D9DCN  
AM4B5708GQJS5D  
AM4B5708GQJS5D  
Heat-Sink Package  
Heat-Sink Package  
64MX8D2-E  
•
•
•
•
Apacer  
Super Talent  
Super Talent  
PQI  
T5UB1G8C4  
MEAB-323LA  
PQI  
64MX8D2-E  
MEAB-423LA  
TwinMOS  
K4T51083QB-GCD5  
8D-22JB5-K2T  
•
•
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2-17  
2.4.5  
Installing ASUS Cool Mempipe (Mempipe Edition only)  
Install ASUS Cool Mempipe to your motherboard to achieve excellent thermal  
dissipation for your memory modules.  
To install ASUS Cool Mempipe:  
1.  
Secure the motherboard to your  
chassis with nine screws.  
2.  
Install memory modules to  
sockets DIMM_A1/B1 first.  
3.  
Loosen the four nuts to part the  
heat spreaders.  
4.  
Remove the four pieces of  
protective film on the heat  
spreaders.  
5.  
Align the Cool Mempipe with the  
northbridge heatsink and ensure  
the memory modules are located  
between the heat spreaders.  
6.  
Fasten the Cool Mempipe to the  
northbridge heatsink with four  
screws.  
2-18  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
7.  
Adjust the heatpipe until the  
heat spreaders contact the  
memory modules.  
8.  
Firmly press the heat spreaders  
against the memory modules.  
9.  
Hold the heat spreaders and  
secure the four nuts. DO NOT  
overtighten the nuts.  
10. Install another two memory  
modules to sockets DIMM_A2/  
B2 if necessary.  
Install memory modules to sockets DIMM_A2 and DIMM_B2 after the  
completion of Cool Mempipe installation.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2-19  
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.  
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.  
2.5.1  
Installing an expansion card  
To install an expansion card:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
Before installing the expansion card, read the documentation that came with  
it and make the necessary hardware settings for the card.  
Remove the system unit cover (if your motherboard is already installed in a  
chassis).  
Remove the bracket opposite the slot that you intend to use. Keep the screw  
for later use.  
Align the card connector with the slot and press firmly until the card is  
completely seated on the slot.  
5.  
6.  
Secure the card to the chassis with the screw you removed earlier.  
Replace the system cover.  
2.5.2  
Configuring an expansion card  
After installing the expansion card, configure the it by adjusting the software  
settings.  
1.  
Turn on the system and change the necessary BIOS settings, if any. See  
Chapter 4 for information on BIOS setup.  
2.  
3.  
Assign an IRQ to the card. Refer to the tables on the next page.  
Install the software drivers for the expansion card.  
When using PCI cards on shared slots, ensure that the drivers support “Share  
IRQ” or that the cards do not need IRQ assignments; otherwise, conflicts will  
arise between the two PCI groups, making the system unstable and the card  
inoperable.  
2-20  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.5.3  
Interrupt assignments  
Standard interrupt assignments  
IRQ  
0
Priority Standard function  
1
2
System Timer  
1
Keyboard Controller  
2
–
Redirect to IRQ#9  
4
12  
13  
14  
15  
3
Communications Port (COM1)*  
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering*  
Floppy Disk Controller  
Reserved  
5
6
7
8
System CMOS/Real Time Clock  
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering*  
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering*  
IRQ Holder for PCI Steering*  
Reserved  
9
4
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
5
6
7
8
Numeric Data Processor  
Primary IDE Channel  
9
* These IRQs are usually available for ISA or PCI devices.  
IRQ assignments for this motherboard  
A
B
C
D
E
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
F
G
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
H
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
PCIE x16_1  
shared shared shared shared  
shared shared shared shared  
shared shared shared shared  
–
PCIE x16_2  
–
PCIE x16_3  
–
USB 1.0 controller 1  
USB 1.0 controller 2  
USB 1.0 controller 3  
USB 1.0 controller 4  
USB 2.0 controller  
HD audio  
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared  
shared  
shared  
shared  
shared  
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
shared  
–
–
–
Onboard SATA  
–
shared  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2-21  
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 specifications. Refer to the figure below for the location  
of the slots.  
2.5.5  
PCI Express x1 slot  
This motherboard supports PCI Express x1 network cards, SCSI cards and other  
cards that comply with the PCI �xpress specifications. Refer to the figure below for  
the location of the slot.  
2.5.6  
Three PCI Express x16 slots  
This motherboard has three PCI Express x16 slots that support PCI Express x16  
graphic cards complying with the PCI �xpress specifications. With three graphics  
cards installed, the motherboard can enable multi-display. All of the three PCI  
Express x16 slots support PCIe 2.0 devices.  
This motherboard supports 3 SLI-ready Express x16 graphics cards that comply  
with the PCI �xpress specifications.  
PCI Express x16_1 slot  
PCI Express x1_1 slot  
PCI Express x16_3 slot  
PCI1 slot  
PCI Express x 16_2 slot  
PCI2 slot  
Primary PCI Express x16 slot  
The primary PCI Express x16 slots support PCI Express x16 graphic cards that  
comply with the PCI �xpress specifications.  
2-22  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
Universal PCI Express slot (max. x8 mode)  
This motherboard also supports a Universal PCI Express slot with a maximum  
speed of 2 GB/s. The operating frequency of this slot changes, depending on the  
type of PCI Express card you install. Refer to the table below for details.  
The figure shows two graphics cards installed on the primary PCI �xpress x16 slot  
and the Universal PCI Express slot.  
•
We recommend that you install a VGA card on the primary (blue) PCI  
Express slots, and install any other PCI Express device on the PCI Express  
slot (black).  
•
•
•
Currently, only NVIDIA® SLI™-Ready GeForce® 8800 Ultra and GeForce®  
8800 GTX graphics cards support 3-Way SLI™ mode.  
3-Way SLI™ mode is supported only under Windows® Vista OS. For more  
information, go to the NVIDIA® official website (www.nvidia.com).  
Currently, only NVIDIA® GeForce® 8500 GT, GeForce® 8400 GS, and  
GeForce® 8400 graphics cards support GeForce Boost function under  
Hybrid SLI™ mode.  
•
•
•
Currently, only NVIDIA® GeForce® 9800 GX2 graphics card supports  
HybridPower™ function under Hybrid SLI™ mode.  
Hybrid SLI™ mode is supported only under Windows® Vista OS. For more  
information, go to www.nvidia.com/hybridsli.  
Before enabling the HybridPower™ function, ensure that you have  
connected your display to the onboard VGA port or the HDMI/DVI port at  
the rear panel. Refer to 2.7.1 Rear panel connectors for details.  
•
Connect a rear chassis fan to the chassis (CHA_FAN1 or CHA_FAN2)  
connector when using two (or three) graphics cards for better thermal  
environment. See page 2-32 for details.  
•
We recommend that you provide sufficient power when running NVIDIA®  
SLI™ mode. See pages 2-34 to 2-37 for details.  
PCI Express operating mode  
VGA configuration  
PCIex16_1  
Single VGA/PCIe card x16  
Dual VGA/PCIe card  
x16  
Triple VGA/PCIe card x8  
PCIex16_2  
PCIex16_3  
x1  
x1  
x8  
x16  
x16  
x8  
•
•
When using one VGA card and a x4 PCIe card at the same time, install  
them to the blue slots.  
If you install two VGA cards to the blue slots and use other x4 PCIe cards  
simultaneously, the x4 PCIe cards will downgrade to x1 mode for optimum  
VGA performance.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2-23  
2.6  
Jumper  
Clear RTC RAM (3-pin CLRTC)  
This jumper allows you to clear the Real Time Clock (RTC) RAM in  
CMOS. You can clear the CMOS memory of date, time, and system setup  
parameters by erasing the CMOS RTC RAM data. The onboard button  
cell battery powers the RAM data in CMOS, which include system 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 the cap on  
pins 2-3 for about 5~10 seconds, then move the cap back to pins 1-2.  
4. Reinstall the battery.  
5. Plug the power cord and turn ON the computer.  
6. Hold down the <Del> key during the boot process and enter BIOS setup  
to re-enter data.  
Except when clearing the RTC RAM, never remove the cap on CLRTC jumper  
default position. Removing the cap will cause system boot failure!  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
CLRTC  
1
2
2
3
Disable  
Enable  
(Default)  
M3N-HT DELUXE Clear RTC RAM  
•
•
You do not need to clear the RTC when the system hangs due to  
overclocking. For system failure due to overclocking, use the C.P.R. (CPU  
Parameter Recall) feature. Shut down and reboot the system so the BIOS  
can automatically reset parameter settings to default values.  
Due to the chipset limitation, AC power off is required prior using C.P.R.  
function. You must turn off and on the power supply or unplug and plug the  
power cord before reboot the system.  
2-24  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.7  
Connectors  
2.7.1  
Rear panel connectors  
1
2
3
4
5 6 7 8  
15  
12  
14  
13  
11 10  
9
1.  
2.  
PS/2 keyboard port (purple). This port is for a PS/2 keyboard.  
Coaxial S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device  
via a coaxial S/PDIF cable.  
3.  
4.  
VGA port. This port is for a VGA monitor or other VGA-compatible devices.  
LAN (RJ-45) port. Supported by Gigabit LAN controller, 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.  
5.  
Center/Subwoofer port (orange). This port connects the center/subwoofer  
speakers.  
LAN port LED indications  
ACT/LINK SPEED  
LED LED  
Activity/Link LED  
Speed LED  
Status  
Status  
Description  
No link  
Description  
OFF  
OFF  
10 Mbps connection  
100 Mbps connection  
1 Gbps connection  
ORANGE  
BLINKING  
Linked  
ORANGE  
GREEN  
Data activity  
LAN port  
6.  
7.  
8.  
Rear Speaker Out port (black). This port connects the rear speakers in a  
4�channel, 6�channel, or ��channel audio configuration.  
Line In port (light blue). This port connects the tape, CD, DVD player, or  
other audio sources.  
Line Out port (lime). This port connects a headphone or a speaker. In  
4�channel, 6�channel, and ��channel configuration, the function of this port  
becomes Front Speaker Out.  
9.  
Microphone port (pink). This port connects a microphone.  
10. Side Speaker Out port (gray). This port connects the side speakers in an  
��channel audio configuration.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2-25  
Refer to the audio configuration table below for the function of the audio ports in  
2, 4, 6, or ��channel configuration.  
Audio 2, 4, 6, or 8-channel configuration  
Headset  
2-channel  
Light Blue Line In  
Port  
4-channel  
6-channel  
8-channel  
Line In  
Line In  
Line In  
Lime  
Line Out  
Front Speaker Out Front Speaker Out  
Front Speaker Out  
Mic In  
Pink  
Mic In  
Mic In  
Mic In  
Orange  
Black  
Gray  
–
–
–
–
Center/Subwoofer  
Rear Speaker Ou  
–
Center/Subwoofer  
Rear Speaker Out  
Side Speaker Out  
Rear Speaker Out  
–
11. External SATA port. This port connects an external Serial ATA hard disk  
drive.  
The external SATA port supports  
external Serial ATA 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.  
DO NOT insert a different connector to this port.  
12. USB 2.0 ports 1 and 2. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are  
available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
13. HDMI port. This port is for a high�definition multimedia interface (HDMI)  
connector.  
•
This motherboard comes with  
dual-VGA output that features  
different displays on 2 monitors  
at the same time if you connect  
2 monitors to both the onboard  
VGA and HDMI ports.  
•
With the bundled HDMI-to-DVI  
converter, this motherboard  
can also support DVI output.  
2-26  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
Before enabling the HybridPower™ function, ensure that you have connected  
your display to the onboard VGA port or the HDMI/DVI port at the rear panel.  
Playback of HD DVD and Blu-Ray Discs  
The speed and bandwidth of the CPU/Memory, DVD player, and drivers will  
affect the playback quality. Following is a configuration example for your  
reference. Using the CPU/Memory of higher speed and bandwidth with the  
higher-version DVD player and drivers will upgrade the playback quality.  
CPU: AMD Athlon 4400+  
DIMM: DDR2-800 512MB  
Playback software: PowerDVD Ultra v7.3  
14. Optical S/PDIF Out port. This port connects an external audio output device  
via an optical S/PDIF cable.  
15. USB 2.0 ports 5 and 6. These 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports are  
available for connecting USB 2.0 devices.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2-27  
2.7.2  
Internal connectors  
1.  
Floppy disk drive connector (34-1 pin FLOPPY)  
This connector is for the provided floppy disk drive (FDD) signal cable. Insert  
one end of the cable to this connector, then connect the other end to the  
signal connector at the back of the floppy disk drive.  
Pin 5 on the connector is removed to prevent incorrect cable connection when  
using a FDD cable with a covered Pin 5.  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
FLOPPY  
PIN1  
NOTE:Orient the red markings  
on the floppy ribbon cable to PIN 1.  
M3N-HT DELUXE Floppy disk drive connector  
2-28  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
2.  
IDE connector (40-1 pin PRI_IDE)  
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 motherboard’s ID�  
connector, then select one of the following modes to configure your device.  
Drive jumper setting  
Mode of  
Cable connector  
device(s)  
Single device  
Two devices  
Cable-Select or Master  
Cable-Select  
–
Black  
Master  
Slave  
Master  
Slave  
Black  
Gray  
Master  
Slave  
Black or gray  
•
•
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 100/66 IDE devices.  
If any device jumper is set as “Cable-Select,” make sure all other device  
jumpers have the same setting.  
PRI_IDE  
NOTE:Orient the red markings  
on the IDE ribbon cable to PIN 1.  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
PIN1  
M3N-HT DELUXE IDE connector  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2-29  
3.  
NVIDIA® nForce 780a SLI Serial ATA connectors  
(7-pin SATA1–4 [red]; 7-pin SATA5–6 [black])  
These connectors are for the Serial ATA signal cables for Serial ATA hard disk  
and optical disk drives.  
If you install SATA hard disk drives to the SATA1/2/3/4/5/6 connectors, you  
can create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5 and JBOD configuration  
through the onboard NVIDIA® nForce 780a SLI controller.  
•
SATA1–4 connectors are set to [IDE] by default. If you intend to create a  
Serial ATA RAID set using these connectors, set the Onchip SATA Type  
item in the BIOS to [RAID].  
•
Before creating a RAID set, refer to the manual bundled in the motherboard  
support DVD.  
SATA1  
SATA3  
SATA5  
SATA2  
SATA4  
SATA6  
GND  
RSATA_TXP1  
RSATA_TXN1  
GND  
RSATA_RXP1  
RSATA_RXN1  
GND  
GND  
RSATA_TXP2  
RSATA_TXN2  
GND  
RSATA_RXP2  
RSATA_RXN2  
GND  
GND  
RSATA_TXP3  
RSATA_TXN3  
GND  
RSATA_RXP3  
RSATA_RXN3  
GND  
GND  
RSATA_TXP4  
RSATA_TXN4  
GND  
RSATA_RXP4  
RSATA_RXN4  
GND  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
GND  
RSATA_TXP5  
RSATA_TXN5  
GND  
GND  
RSATA_TXP6  
RSATA_TXN6  
GND  
RSATA_RXP5  
RSATA_RXN5  
GND  
RSATA_RXP6  
RSATA_RXN6  
GND  
M3N-HT DELUXE SATA connectors  
•
SATA 5–6 connectors support AHCI mode and RAID mode only. Make sure  
to install the AHCI driver or RAID driver in the bundled support DVD before  
connecting devices to SATA 5–6 connectors. Otherwise, the devices will not  
work.  
•
You must install the Windows® XP Service Pack 1 before using Serial ATA  
hard disk drives. The Serial ATA RAID feature (RAID 0 and RAID 1) is  
available only if you are using Windows® XP or later version.  
right angle side  
Connect the right-angle side  
of SATA signal cable to SATA  
device. Or you may connect the  
right-angle side of SATA cable to  
the onboard SATA port to avoid  
mechanical conflict with huge  
graphics cards.  
2-30  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
4.  
USB connectors (10-1 pin USB34; 10-1 pin USB78; 10-1 pin USB910)  
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  
specification that supports up to 4�0 Mbps connection speed.  
USB34  
USB78  
USB910  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
PIN  
1
PIN  
1
PIN  
1
M3N-HT DELUXE USB 2.0 connectors  
Never connect a 1394 cable to the USB connectors. Doing so will damage the  
motherboard!  
You can connect the front panel USB cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (USB,  
blue) first, and then install the Q�Connector (USB) to the USB connector  
onboard if your chassis supports front panel USB ports.  
5.  
IEEE 1394a port connector (10-1 pin IE1394_1; 10-1 pin IE1394_2)  
These connectors are for IEEE 1394a ports. Connect the IEEE 1394a  
module cable to one of the connectors, then install the module to a slot  
opening at the back of the system chassis.  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
IE1394_2  
IE1394_1  
PIN  
1
PIN  
1
M3N-HT DELUXE IEEE 1394 connectors  
Never connect a USB cable to the IEEE 1394a connector. Doing so will damage  
the motherboard!  
You can connect the front panel 1394 cable to the ASUS Q-Connector (1394,  
red) first, and then install the Q�Connector (1394) to the 1394 connector  
onboard if your chassis supports front panel 1394 ports.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2-31  
6.  
CPU, chassis, and power fan connectors  
(4-pin CPU_FAN; 3-pin CHA_FAN1; 3-pin CHA_FAN2; 3-pin PWR_FAN)  
The fan connectors support cooling fans of 350 mA~2000 mA (24 W max.)  
or a total of 1 A~7 A (84 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. Insufficient air  
flow inside the system may damage the motherboard components. These are  
not jumpers! Do not place jumper caps on the fan connectors!  
CPU_FAN  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
CHA_FAN2  
PWR_FAN  
CHA_FAN1  
GND  
+12V  
Rotation  
M3N-HT DELUXE Fan connectors  
•
Only the CPU_FAN and CHA_FAN 1/2 connectors support the ASUS  
Q-FAN 2 feature.  
•
If you install two graphics cards, we recommend that you plug the rear  
chassis fan cable to the motherboard connector labled CHA_FAN1 or  
CHA_FAN2 for better themal environment.  
2-32  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
7.  
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 “Chassis Signal” and “Ground” are shorted with  
a jumper cap. Remove the jumper caps only when you intend to use the  
chassis intrusion detection feature.  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
CHASSIS  
M3N-HT DELUXE Chassis intrusion connector  
8.  
Optical drive audio connector (4-pin CD)  
These connectors allow you to receive stereo audio input from sound sources  
such as a CD-ROM, TV tuner, or MPEG card.  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
CD  
Right Audio Channel  
GND  
GND  
Left Audio Channel  
M3N-HT DELUXE Internal audio connector  
2-33  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
9.  
ATX power connectors (24-pin EATXPWR; 8-pin ATX12V)  
These connectors are for ATX power supply plugs. The power supply plugs  
are designed to fit these connectors in only one orientation. Find the proper  
orientation and push down firmly until the connectors completely fit.  
EATX12V  
GND  
GND  
GND  
GND  
+12V DC  
+12V DC  
+12V DC  
+12V DC  
PIN  
1
EATXPWR  
+3 Volts  
GND  
+12 Volts  
+12 Volts  
+5V Standby  
Power OK  
GND  
+5 Volts  
+5 Volts  
+5 Volts  
-5 Volts  
GND  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
+5 Volts  
GND  
GND  
GND  
+5 Volts  
GND  
PSON#  
GND  
+3 Volts  
+3 Volts  
-12 Volts  
+3 Volts  
PIN  
1
M3N-HT DELUXE ATX power connectors  
•
For a fully configured system, we recommend that you use a power supply  
unit (PSU) that complies with ATX 12 V Specification 2.0 (or later version)  
and provides a minimum power of 600 W.  
•
Do not forget to connect the ��pin ATX +12 V power plug; otherwise, the  
system will not boot.  
•
Use of a PSU with a higher power output is recommended when  
configuring a system with more power�consuming devices. The system  
may become unstable or may not boot up if the power is inadequate.  
•
•
If you are uncertain about the minimum power supply requirement for your  
system, refer to the Recommended Power Supply Wattage Calculator  
at http://support.asus.com/PowerSupplyCalculator/PSCalculator.  
aspx?SLanguage=en-us for details.  
If you want to use two or more high-end PCI Express x16 cards, use a PSU  
with 1000 W power or above to ensure the system stability.  
PSU suggested list  
PSU suggested list  
SilverStone ST1000  
Seasonic SS-600HT  
Thermaltake W0083RE  
Thermaltake PUREPower-600AP  
Silverstone SST-ST75ZF  
EnerMAX EG701AX-VE (E)(24P)  
•
If you want to use 3�Way SLI™ configuration, visit the NVIDIA website  
(www.nvidia.com) for the qualified PSU vendor list.  
2-34  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
Power supply requirements  
Heavy Loading  
SMF 3.2XE  
CPU  
1 GB*4  
Memory  
VGA  
8800 Ultra*3  
6
1
1
1
4
SATA-HDD  
eSATA-HDD  
IDE-CDROM  
IDE-HDD  
USB  
+12V_8Pin +12V_24pin +5V_24pin  
+3V_24pin +12V_VGA1 +12V_VGA2 +12V_VGA3  
Voltage (V) 12.14  
Current (A) 11.32  
Power (W) 137.425  
12.21  
5.22  
3.456  
6.98  
12.2  
12.2  
12.2  
6.6  
13.71  
6.41  
6.51  
6.59  
167.399  
33.460  
24.123  
79.422  
80.398  
80.52  
SATA-HDD eSATA-HDD IDE-CDROM IDE-HDD USB  
Total PSU  
Voltage (V)  
6
1
1
1
4
Po_max(w)  
Current (A) 10.45  
Power (W) 62.7  
10.45  
10.45  
10  
10  
12.68  
12.68  
2.5  
10  
708.577  
Normal Loading  
CPU  
KSF 3.0XE  
1 GB*4  
Memory  
8800 Ultra*2  
VGA  
4
1
1
0
4
SATA-HDD  
eSATA-HDD  
IDE-CDROM  
IDE-HDD  
USB  
+12V_8Pin +12V_24pin +5V_24pin  
+3V_24pin +12V_VGA1 +12V_VGA2 +12V_VGA3  
Voltage (V) 12.14  
Current (A) 6.74  
Power (W) 81.824  
12.21  
8.92  
5.225  
6.22  
3.455  
6.87  
12.2  
12.2  
6.52  
6.82  
108.913  
32.500  
23.736  
79.544  
83.204  
0
SATA-HDD eSATA-HDD IDE-CDROM IDE-HDD USB  
Total PSU  
Po_max(w)  
Voltage (V)  
4
1
1
0
4
Current (A) 10.45  
Power (W) 41.8  
10.45  
10.45  
10  
10  
12.68  
0
2.5  
10  
481.970  
2-35  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
Light Loading  
CPU  
Conroe  
3.0+EM64T  
1 GB*2  
Memory  
VGA  
8800 Ultra*1  
2
1
1
0
4
SATA-HDD  
eSATA-HDD  
IDE-CDROM  
IDE-HDD  
USB  
+12V_8Pin +12V_24pin +5V_24pin  
+3V_24pin +12V_VGA1 +12V_VGA2 +12V_VGA3  
Voltage (V) 12.19  
Current (A) 3.19  
Power (W) 38.886  
12.21  
5.55  
5.22  
3.456  
5.36  
12.16  
6.5  
5.04  
67.766  
26.309  
18.524  
79.04  
0
0
SATA-HDD eSATA-HDD IDE-CDROM IDE-HDD USB  
Total PSU  
Po_max(w)  
Voltage (V)  
2
1
1
0
4
Current (A) 10.45  
Power (W) 20.9  
10.45  
10.45  
10  
10  
12.68  
0
2.5  
10  
281.875  
10. Front panel audio connector (10-1 pin AAFP)  
This connector is for a chassis-mounted front panel audio I/O module that  
supports either HD Audio or legacy AC`97 audio standard. Connect one end  
of the front panel audio I/O module cable to this connector.  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
AAFP  
PIN  
1
PIN  
1
HD-audio-compliant  
pin definition  
Legacy AC’97  
compliant definition  
M3N-HT DELUXE Analog front panel connector  
•
•
We recommend that you connect a high�definition front panel audio  
module to this connector to avail of the motherboard’s high�definition audio  
capability.  
If you want to connect a high�definition front panel audio module to this  
connector, set the Front Panel Support Type item in the BIOS setup to  
[HD Audio]; if you want to connect an AC'97 front panel audio module to  
this connector, set the item to [AC97]. By default, this connector is set to  
[HD Audio].  
2-36  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
11. Serial port connector (10-1 pin COM1)  
This connector is for a serial (COM) port. Connect the serial port module  
cable to this connector, then install the module to a slot opening at the back  
of the system chassis.  
COM1  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
M3N-HT DELUXE Serial port2(COM1) connector  
The COM module is purchased separately.  
12. Digital audio connector (4-1 pin SPDIF_OUT)  
This connector is for an additional Sony/Philips Digital Interface (S/PDIF)  
port(s). Connect the S/PDIF Out module cable to this connector, then install  
the module to a slot opening at the back of the system chassis.  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
SPDIF_OUT  
M3N-HT DELUXE Digital audio connector  
The S/PDIF module is purchased separately.  
2-37  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
13. System panel connector (20-8 pin PANEL)  
This connector supports several chassis-mounted functions.  
PLED  
SPEAKER  
M3N-HT DELUXE  
PANEL  
PIN  
1
IDE_LED  
PWRSW RESET  
* Requires an ATX power supply  
M3N-HT DELUXE System panel connector  
•
•
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  
L�D cable to this connector. The ID� L�D lights up or flashes 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.  
ATX 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.  
2-38  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
ASUS Q-Connector (system panel)  
You can use the ASUS Q-Connector to connect/disconnect chassis front panel  
cables in a few steps. Refer to the instructions below to install the ASUS Q-  
Connector.  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Connect the front panel cables to the  
ASUS Q-Connector.  
Refer to the labels on the Q-Connector  
to know the detailed pin definitions, then  
match them to the respective front panel  
cable labels.  
Install the ASUS Q-Connector to the  
system panel connector, making sure  
the orientation matches the labels on the  
motherboard.  
The front panel functions are now enabled.  
The figure shows the Q�Connector properly  
installed on the motherboard.  
2-39  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
2-40  
Chapter 2: Hardware information  
This chapter describes the power up  
sequence, the vocal POST messages,  
and ways of shutting down the system.  
Powering up  
3
Chapter summary  
3
3.1  
Starting up for the first time........................................................ 3-1  
3.2  
Turning off the computer............................................................. 3-2  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
3.1  
Starting up for the first time  
1.  
2.  
3.  
After making all the connections, replace the system case cover.  
Be sure that all switches are off.  
Connect the power cord to the power connector at the back of the system  
chassis.  
4.  
5.  
Connect the power cord to a power outlet that is equipped with a surge  
protector.  
Turn 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 ATX power supplies, the system LED lights up  
when you press the ATX power button. If your monitor complies with “green”  
standards or if it has a “power standby” 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 turned on the power, the system may have failed a  
power-on test. Check the jumper settings and connections or call your retailer  
for assistance.  
BIOS beep codes  
BIOS Beep  
Description  
One short beep  
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  
7.  
At power on, hold down the <Delete> key to enter the BIOS Setup.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
3-1  
3.2  
Turning off the computer  
3.2.1  
Using the OS shut down function  
If you are using Windows® XP:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Click the Start button then select Turn Off Computer.  
Click the Turn Off button to shut down the computer.  
The power supply should turn off after Windows® shuts down.  
If you are using Windows® Vista™:  
1.  
2.  
Click the Start button then select ShutDown.  
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.  
3-2  
Chapter 3: Powering up  
This chapter tells how to change  
the system settings through the BIOS  
Setup menus. Detailed descriptions  
of the BIOS parameters are also  
provided.  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4
Chapter summary  
4
4.1  
4.2  
4.3  
4.4  
4.5  
4.6  
4.7  
4.8  
Managing and updating your BIOS ............................................ 4-1  
BIOS setup program .................................................................... 4-9  
Main menu .................................................................................. 4-13  
Advanced menu ......................................................................... 4-18  
Power menu................................................................................ 4-30  
Boot menu .................................................................................. 4-34  
Tools menu ................................................................................. 4-39  
Exit menu.................................................................................... 4-43  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
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.  
2.  
ASUS Update (Updates the BIOS in Windows® environment.)  
ASUS EZ Flash 2 (Updates the BIOS in DOS using a floppy disk or a USB  
flash disk.)  
3.  
Award BIOS Flash Utility (Updates the BIOS in DOS mode using a bootable  
floppy disk.)  
Refer to the corresponding sections for details on these utilities.  
Save a copy of the original motherboard BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk in  
case you need to restore the BIOS in the future. Copy the original motherboard  
BIOS using the ASUS Update or Award BIOS Flash utilities.  
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 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 DVDthat comes with the motherboard  
package.  
ASUS Update requires an Internet connection either through a network or an  
Internet Service Provider (ISP).  
Installing ASUS Update  
To install ASUS Update:  
1.  
2.  
Place the support DVDin the optical drive. The Drivers menu appears.  
Click the Utilities tab, then click Install ASUS Update VX.XX.XX. See page  
5-3 for the Utilities screen menu.  
3.  
The ASUS Update utility is copied to your system.  
Quit all Windows® applications before you update the BIOS using this utility.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-1  
Updating the BIOS through the Internet  
To 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.  
3.  
Select the ASUS FTP site nearest  
you to avoid network traffic, or  
click Auto Select. Click Next.  
2.  
Select Update BIOS from the  
Internet option from the drop-down  
menu, then click Next.  
4-2  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.  
5.  
From the FTP site, select the BIOS  
version that you wish to download.  
Click Next.  
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.  
Updating the BIOS through a BIOS file  
To update the BIOS through a BIOS file:  
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 file  
option from the drop-down menu,  
then click Next.  
3.  
Locate the BIOS file from the Open  
window, then click Open.  
M3NHTDLX.BIN  
4.  
Follow the screen instructions to  
complete the update process.  
M3NHTDLX  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-3  
4.1.2  
Creating 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 format A:/Sthen press <Enter>.  
Windows® XP environment  
a. Insert a 1.44 MB floppy disk to the floppy 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 field,  
then click Start.  
4-4  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
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 floppy disk and using a DOS�based  
utility. The EZ Flash 2 utility is built-in the BIOS chip so it is accessible by pressing  
<Alt> + <F2> during the Power-On Self Tests (POST).  
To update the BIOS using EZ Flash 2:  
1.  
2.  
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS file for  
the motherboard.  
Save the BIOS file to a floppy disk or a USB flash disk, then restart the  
system.  
3.  
You can launch the EZ Flash 2 by two methods.  
(1) Insert the floppy disk / USB flash disk that contains the BIOS file to the  
floppy disk drive or the USB port.  
Press <Alt> + <F2> during POST to display the following.  
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility B325  
FLASH TYPE: SST 25VF020B /3.3V  
Current ROM  
BOARD: M3N-HT DELUXE  
VER: 0110  
Update ROM  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
DATE: Unknown  
DATE: 01/04/2008  
PATH: A:\  
A:  
Note  
[Enter] Select  
[S] Save  
[ESC] Exit  
[Tab] Switch  
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move  
(2) Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the Tools menu to select EZ Flash 2  
and press <Enter> to enable it.  
You can switch between drives by pressing <Tab> before the correct file  
is found. Then press <Enter>.  
4.  
When the correct BIOS file is found, �Z Flash 2 performs the BIOS update  
process and automatically reboots the system when done.  
•
This function can support devices such as USB flash disk, or floppy disk  
with FAT 32/16 format and single partition only.  
•
DO NOT shut down or reset the system while updating the BIOS to prevent  
system boot failure!  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-5  
4.1.4  
Updating the BIOS  
The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) can be updated using the AwardBIOS  
Flash Utility. Follow these instructions to update the BIOS using this utility.  
1.  
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) and download the latest BIOS file for  
the motherboard. Save the BIOS file to a bootable floppy disk.  
Write the BIOS filename on a piece of paper. You need to type the exact BIOS  
filename at the DOS prompt.  
2.  
Copy the AwardBIOS Flash Utility (awdflash.exe) from the Software folder  
of the support DVDto the floppy disk, DVDROM or a USB flash disk with the  
latest BIOS file.  
3.  
Boot the system in DOS mode using the bootable floppy disk, DVDROM or a  
USB flash disk you created earlier.  
4.  
Under the DOS mode,  
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.17  
(C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved  
use <X:> (X stands for  
the name of the disk  
assignment) to switch to  
the folder of floppy disk,  
DVDROM or USB flash  
disk you saved the BIOS  
fileand AwardBIOS Flash  
Utility.  
For MCP72XE-M3N-HT-D-00  
Flash Type -  
DATE:01/04/2008  
File Name to Program:  
5.  
At the prompt, type  
Message: Please input File Name!  
awdflash then press  
<Enter>. The Award BIOS  
Flash Utility screen appears.  
4-6  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
6.  
Type the BIOS file name in  
the File Name to Program  
field, then press <�nter>.  
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.17  
(C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved  
For MCP72XE-M3N-HT-D-00  
Flash Type -  
DATE:01/04/2008  
File Name to Program: M3NHTDLX.bin  
Message: Do You Want To Save Bios (Y/N)  
7.  
Press <N> when the utility prompts you to save the current BIOS file. The  
following screen appears.  
�.  
The utility verifies the  
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.17  
(C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved  
BIOS file in the floppy disk,  
DVDROM or a USB flash  
disk and starts flashing the  
BIOS file.  
For MCP72XE-M3N-HT-D-00  
Flash Type -  
DATE:01/04/2008  
File Name to Program: M3NHTDLX.bin  
Programming Flash Memory - OFE00 OK  
Write OK  
No Update  
Write Fail  
Warning: Don’t Turn Off Power Or Reset System!  
Do not turn off or reset the system during the flashing process!  
9.  
The utility displays a  
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.17  
Flashing Complete  
message indicating that  
you have successfully  
flashed the BIOS file.  
Remove the disk then  
press <F1> to restart the  
system.  
(C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved  
For MCP72XE-M3N-HT-D-00  
Flash Type -  
DATE:01/04/2008  
File Name to Program: M3NHTDLX.bin  
Flashing Complete  
Press <F1> to Continue  
Write OK  
F1 Reset  
No Update  
Write Fail  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-7  
4.1.5  
Saving the current BIOS file  
You can use the AwardBIOS Flash Utility to save the current BIOS file. You can  
load the current BIOS file when the BIOS file gets corrupted during the flashing  
process.  
Make sure that the floppy disk, DVD ROM, or a USB flash disk has enough disk  
space to save the file.  
To save the current BIOS file using the AwardBIOS Flash Utility:  
1.  
2.  
Follow steps 1 to 6 of the  
previous section.  
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.17  
(C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved  
For MCP72XE-M3N-HT-D-00  
Flash Type -  
DATE:01/04/2008  
Press <Y> when the utility  
prompts you to save the  
current BIOS file. The  
File Name to Program: 0112.bin  
Save current BIOS as:  
following screen appears.  
Message:  
3.  
Type a filename for the  
current BIOS file in the  
Save current BIOS as field,  
then press <Enter>.  
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.17  
(C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved  
For MCP72XE-M3N-HT-D-00  
Flash Type -  
DATE:01/04/2008  
File Name to Program: 0112.bin  
Checksum: 810DH  
Save current BIOS as: 0113.bin  
Message: Please Wait!  
4.  
The utility saves the  
AwardBIOS Flash Utility for ASUS V1.17  
(C) Phoenix Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved  
current BIOS file to the  
floppy disk, then returns to  
the BIOS flashing process.  
For MCP72XE-M3N-HT-D-00  
Flash Type -  
DATE:01/04/2008  
File Name to Program: 0113.bin  
Now Backup System BIOS to  
File!  
Message: Please Wait!  
4-8  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.2  
BIOS setup program  
This motherboard supports a programmable Low-Pin Count (LPC) 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, reconfiguring  
your system, or prompted to“Run Setup.” This section explains how to configure  
your system using this utility.  
Even if you are not prompted to use the Setup program, you can change the  
configuration 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 reconfigure your system using the BIOS Setup program so that the  
computer can recognize these changes and record them in the CMOS RAM of the  
LPC chip.  
The LPC 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�Test (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. You can  
also restart by turning the system off and then back on. Do this last option only if  
the first 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 Default Settings item under the  
Exit Menu. See section “4.8 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 file for  
this motherboard.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-9  
4.2.1  
BIOS menu screen  
Menu items  
Menu bar  
Configuration fields  
General help  
Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Boot Tools Exit  
Main  
Advanced  
Power  
System Time  
System Date  
Language  
15 : 30 : 36  
Sat, Oct 26 2007  
[English]  
Select Menu  
Item Specific Help  
Legacy Diskette A:  
[1.44M, 3.5 in.]  
Change the day, month,  
year and century.  
Primary IDE Master  
Primary IDE Slave  
SATA1  
[ST321122A]  
[ASUS CDS520/A]  
[None]  
SATA2  
[None]  
SATA3  
[None]  
SATA4  
[None]  
HDD SMART Monitoring  
[Disabled]  
Installed Memory  
Usable Memory  
512MB  
511MB  
F1:Help  
ESC: Exit  
�ꢀ : Select Item  
-/+: Change Value  
F5: Setup Defaults  
F10: Save and Exit  
��: Select Menu Enter: Select SubMenu  
Sub-menu items  
Legend bar  
4.2.2  
Menu bar  
The menu bar on top of the screen has the following main items:  
Main  
For changing the basic system configuration  
Advanced  
Power  
For changing the advanced system settings  
For changing the advanced power management (APM)  
configuration  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
For changing the system boot configuration  
For configuring options for special functions  
For selecting the exit options and loading default  
settings  
To select an item on the menu bar, press the right or left arrow key on the keyboard  
until the desired item is highlighted.  
•
•
The BIOS setup screens shown in this chapter are for reference purposes  
only, and may not exactly match what you see on your screen.  
Visit the ASUS website (www.asus.com) to download the latest BIOS  
information.  
4-10  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.2.3  
Legend bar  
At the bottom of the Setup screen is a legend bar. The keys in the legend bar allow  
you to navigate through the various setup menus. The following table lists the keys  
found in the legend bar with their corresponding functions.  
Navigation Key  
<F1>  
Function  
Displays the General Help screen  
Loads setup default values  
<F5>  
<Esc>  
Exits the BIOS setup or returns to the main menu from a  
sub‑menu  
Left or Right arrow  
Up or Down arrow  
Page Down or – (minus)  
Page Up or + (plus)  
<Enter>  
Selects the menu item to the left or right  
Moves the highlight up or down between fields  
Scrolls backward through the values for the highlighted field  
Scrolls forward through the values for the highlighted field  
Brings up a selection menu for the highlighted field  
Saves changes and exit  
<F10>  
4.2.4  
Menu items  
The highlighted item on the menu bar displays the specific 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 item has a  
sub-menu. To display the sub-menu, select the item and press <Enter>.  
4.2.6  
Configuration fields  
These fields show the values for the menu items. If an item is user�configurable,  
you can change the value of the field opposite the item. You cannot select an item  
that is not user�configurable.  
A configurable field is enclosed in brackets, and is highlighted when selected. To  
change the value of a field, select it then press <�nter> to display a list of options.  
Refer to “4.2.7 Pop-up window.”  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-11  
4.2.7  
Pop-up window  
Select a menu item then press <Enter> to display a pop-up window with the  
configuration options for that item.  
Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Main  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
System Time  
System Date  
Language  
15 : 30 : 36  
Thu, Apr 6 2006  
[English]  
Select Menu  
Item Specific Help  
Specifies the  
Legacy Diskette A:  
[1.44M, 3.5 in.]  
apacity and  
Legacy Diskette A:  
hysical size of  
iskette drive A.  
Primary IDE Ma
Primary IDE Sl
Disabled ..... [ ]  
SATA1  
720K , 3.5 in. ..... [ ]  
SATA2  
..... [ ]  
1.44M, 3.5 in.  
SATA3  
SATA4  
HDD SMART Monitor
Installed Memo
Usable Memory
�ꢀ :Move ENTER:Accept ESC:Abort  
F1:Help  
ESC: Exit  
�ꢀ : Select Item  
-/+: Change Value  
F5: Setup Defaults  
F10: Save and Exit  
��: Select Menu Enter: Select SubMenu  
Pop-up menu  
4.2.8  
General help  
At the top right corner of the menu screen is a brief description of the selected  
item.  
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.  
Refer to section “4.2.1 BIOS menu screen” for information on the menu screen  
items and how to navigate through them.  
Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Main  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
System Time  
System Date  
Language  
15 : 30 : 36  
Select Menu  
Sat, Oct 26 2007  
[English]  
Item Specific Help  
Change the day,  
month, year and  
century.  
Legacy Diskette A:  
[1.44M, 3.5 in.]  
Primary IDE Master  
Primary IDE Slave  
SATA1  
[ST321122A]  
[ASUS CDS520/A]  
[None]  
SATA2  
[None]  
SATA3  
[None]  
SATA4  
[None]  
HDD SMART Monitoring  
[Disabled]  
Installed Memory  
Usable Memory 511MB  
512MB  
F1:Help  
ESC: Exit  
�ꢀ : Select Item  
-/+: Change Value  
F5: Setup Defaults  
F10: Save and Exit  
��: Select Menu Enter: Select SubMenu  
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  
Language [English]  
Allows you to choose the BIOS language version from the options. Configuration  
options: [English] [French] [Deutsch] [Chinese (Trad.)] [Chinese (Simp.)]  
[Japanese]  
4.3.4  
Legacy Diskette A [1.44M, 3.5 in.]  
Sets the type of floppy drive installed.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [720K , 3.5 in.] [1.44M, 3.5 in.]  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-13  
4.3.5  
Primary IDE Master/Slave  
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of IDE devices.  
There is a separate sub-menu for each IDE device. Select a device item then  
press <Enter> to display the IDE device information.  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Main  
Select Menu  
Primary IDE Master  
Item Specific Help  
PIO Mode  
UDMA Mode  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
Set a PIO mode  
for IDE device.  
Mode0 through 4  
successive increase  
in performance.  
Primary IDE Master  
Access Mode  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
Capacity  
82 GB  
Cylinder  
Head  
39420  
16  
Sector  
255  
Transfer Mode UDMA 5  
F1:Help  
ESC: Exit  
�ꢀ : Select Item  
-/+: Change Value  
F5: Setup Defaults  
F10: Save and Exit  
��: Select Menu Enter: Select SubMenu  
The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items  
(Capacity, Cylinder, Head, Sector and Transfer Mode). These values are not  
user�configurable. These items show N/A if no ID� device is installed in the  
system.  
PIO Mode [Auto]  
Sets the PIO mode for the IDE device.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Mode 0] [Mode 1] [Mode 2] [Mode 3] [Mode 4]  
UDMA Mode [Auto]  
Disables or sets the UDMA mode. Configuration options: [Disable] [Auto]  
Primary IDE Master/Slave [Auto]  
Select [Auto] to automatically detect an IDE hard disk drive. If automatic detection  
is successful, the BIOS automatically fills in the correct values for the remaining  
fields on this sub�menu. If the hard disk was already formatted on a previous  
system, the setup BIOS may detect incorrect parameters. Select [Manual] to  
manually enter the IDE hard disk drive parameters. If no drive is installed select  
[None]. Configuration options: [None] [Auto] [Manual]  
4-14  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
Access Mode [Auto]  
The default [Auto] allows automatic detection of an IDE hard disk drive.  
Select [CHS] for this item if you set the IDE Primary Master/Slave to [Manual].  
Configuration options: [CHS] [LBA] [Large] [Auto]  
Before attempting to configure a hard disk drive, make sure you have the  
correct configuration information supplied by the drive manufacturer. Incorrect  
settings may cause the system to fail to recognize the installed hard disk.  
Capacity  
Displays the auto�detected hard disk capacity. This item is not configurable.  
Cylinder  
Shows the number of the hard disk cylinders. This item is not configurable.  
Head  
Shows the number of the hard disk read/write heads. This item is not configurable.  
Sector  
Shows the number of sectors per track. This item is not configurable.  
Transfer Mode  
Shows the Transfer mode. This item is not configurable.  
After entering the IDE hard disk drive information into BIOS, use a disk utility,  
such as FDISK, to partition and format new IDE hard disk drives. This is  
necessary so that you can write or read data from the hard disk. Make sure to  
set the partition of the Primary IDE hard disk drives to active.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-15  
4.3.6  
SATA1/2/3/4  
While entering Setup, the BIOS automatically detects the presence of Serial ATA  
devices. There is a separate sub-menu for each SATA device. Select a device item  
then press <Enter> to display the SATA device information.  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Main  
SATA 1  
Select Menu  
Extended IDE Drive  
Access Mode  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
Item Specific Help  
Selects the type of  
fixed disk connected  
to the system.  
Capacity  
80 GB  
Cylinder  
Head  
Landing Zone  
Sector  
0
0
0
0
F1:Help  
ESC: Exit  
�ꢀ : Select Item  
-/+: Change Value  
F5: Setup Defaults  
F10: Save and Exit  
��: Select Menu Enter: Select SubMenu  
The BIOS automatically detects the values opposite the dimmed items (Capacity,  
Cylinder, Head, Landing Zone and Sector). These values are not  
user�configurable. These items show 0 if no SATA device is installed in the system.  
Only SATA 1–4 connectors support IDE mode. If you want to use SATA 5–6  
connectors, set the SATA Operation Mode item to [AHCI] or [RAID]. Refer to  
page 4-28 for more details.  
Extended IDE Drive [Auto]  
Selects the type of fixed disk connected to the system.  
Configuration options: [None] [Auto]  
Access Mode [Auto]  
Sets the sector addressing mode. Configuration options: [Large] [Auto]  
Before attempting to configure a hard disk drive, make sure you have the  
correct configuration information supplied by the drive manufacturer. Incorrect  
settings may cause the system to fail to recognize the installed hard disk.  
Capacity  
Displays the auto�detected hard disk capacity. This item is not configurable.  
Cylinder  
Shows the number of the hard disk cylinders. This item is not configurable.  
4-16  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
Head  
Shows the number of the hard disk read/write heads. This item is not configurable.  
Landing Zone  
Shows the number of landing zone per track. This item is not configurable.  
Sector  
Shows the number of sectors per track. This item is not configurable.  
After entering the IDE hard disk drive information into BIOS, use a disk utility,  
such as FDISK, to partition and format new IDE hard disk drives. This is  
necessary so that you can write or read data from the hard disk. Make sure to  
set the partition of the Primary IDE hard disk drives to active.  
4.3.7  
HDD SMART Monitoring [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the HDD Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting  
Technology (SMART) feature. Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
4.3.8  
Installed Memory [xxx MB]  
Shows the size of installed memory.  
4.3.9  
Usable Memory [XXX MB]  
Shows the size of usable memory.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-17  
4.4  
Advanced menu  
The Advanced menu items allow you to change the settings for system devices.  
Take caution when changing the settings of the Advanced menu items. Incorrect  
field values can cause the system to malfunction.  
Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Main  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
JumperFree Configuration  
Select Menu  
AI NET 2  
Item Specific Help  
CPU Configuration  
Chipset  
PCIPnP  
Onboard Device Configuration  
USB Configuration  
Adjust system  
frequency/voltage.  
F1:Help  
�ꢀ : Select Item  
-/+: Change Value  
Enter: Select SubMenu  
F5: Setup Defaults  
F10: Save and Exit  
ESC: Exit ��: Select Menu  
4.4.1  
JumperFree Configuration  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Advanced  
JumperFree Configuration  
Select Menu  
AI Tuning  
[Auto]  
Disabled  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
Auto  
Item Specific Help  
x
Overclocking Options  
CPU Voltage  
Press [Enter] to  
select overclock  
profile  
VDDA Voltage  
Memory Voltage  
NB BR04 CHIP Voltage  
1.2V HT Voltage  
NB CHIP Voltage  
CPU Multiplier  
CPU Frequency  
x
x
200  
AI Tuning [Auto]  
Allows selection of CPU overclocking options to achieve desired CPU internal  
frequency. Selct either one of the preset overclocking configuration options:  
Manual  
Allows you to individually set overclocking parameters.  
Loads the optimal settings for the system.  
Auto  
Standard  
AI Overclock  
Loads the standard settings for the system.  
Loads overclocking profiles with optimal parameters for  
stability when overclocking.  
4-18  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
The following item becomes user�configurable when you set AI Tuning to  
AI Overclock].  
[
Overclock Options [Disabled]  
Allows you to set the overclocking options.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Overclock 3%] [Overclock 5%] [Overclock �%]  
[Overclock 10%]  
CPU Voltage [AUTO]  
Allows you to set the CPU voltage.  
Configuration options: [AUTO] [0.�000v] [0.�125v]...[1.6750v] [1.6�75v]  
VDDA Voltage [AUTO]  
Allows you to set the VDDA voltage.  
Configuration options: [AUTO] [2.52V] [2.622V].[2.72�V] [2.�3V]  
Memory Voltage [Auto]  
Allows you to set the memory voltage.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.�00V] [1.�20V]...[2.4�0V] [2.500V]  
NB BR04 CHIP Voltage [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.20V] [1.22V]...[1.54V] [1.56V]  
1.2V HT Voltage [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.20V] [1.22V]...[1.4�V] [1.50V]  
NB CHIP Voltage [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.10V] [1.12V]...[1.6�V] [1.70V]  
The following items become user�configurable when you set AI Tuning to  
[Manual].  
CPU Multiplier [Auto]  
This item appears when you are using an unlocked CPU.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [5x] [5.5x] [6x] [6.5x]...[10.5x] [11x]  
CPU Frequency [200]  
Allows you to set the CPU frequency. Key in the desired value using the numeric  
keypad and press the <Enter> key.  
Configuration options: [200]–[600]  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-19  
4.4.2  
AI NET2  
Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Advanced  
AI NET2  
Select Menu  
POST Check LAN Cable  
Pair  
[Disabled]  
Item Specific Help  
Status  
Open  
Length  
N/A  
Enable or Disable LAN  
cable check during  
POST.  
LAN1(1-2)  
LAN1(3-6)  
LAN1(4-5)  
LAN1(7-8)  
Open  
Open  
Open  
N/A  
N/A  
N/A  
F1:Help  
ESC: Exit  
�ꢀ : Select Item  
��: Select Menu  
-/+: Change Value  
F5: Setup Defaults  
Enter: Select Sub-menu F10: Save and Exit  
POST Check LAN Cable [Disabled]  
Enables or disables checking of the LAN cable during the Power-On Self-Test  
(POST). Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
4.4.3  
CPU Configuration  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Advanced  
CPU Configuration  
Select Menu  
CPU Type  
CPU Speed  
Cache RAM(L2) 512K x4  
Cache RAM(L3) 2048K  
DRAM Configuration  
AMD Virtualization  
AMD Live!  
AMD Cool “n” Quiet Function  
Cache Mapping Cycle  
AMD Phenom(tm) 9500 Quad-Core  
Processor  
Item Specific Help  
Thermal Monitor 1  
(On-die throtting)  
2200MHz  
Thermal Monitor  
2 (Ratio & VID  
transition)  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Auto]  
DRAM Configuration  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Advanced  
DRAM Configuration  
Select Menu  
Memory Clock Frequency  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
[Enabled]  
Item Specific Help  
Tcl  
Trcd  
Setting platform  
Memclock or limit  
value.  
Trp  
Tras  
1T/T Memory Timing  
Memory Hole Remapping  
Bottom of UMA DRAM [31:24][FC]  
AI Clock Skew  
[Auto]  
Advance 300ps  
Advance 300ps  
x
x
Channel A Clock Skew  
Channel B Clock Skew  
Advance Memory Settings  
DRAM Timing Control  
Output Driver Control  
4-20  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
Memory Clock Frequency [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [DDR2 553] [DDR2 667] [DDR2 �00]  
[DDR2 1066]  
Tcl [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [3] [4] [5] [6]  
Trcd [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [3] [4] [5] [6]  
Trp [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [3] [4] [5] [6]  
Tras [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [5] [6] [7] [�]...[1�]  
1T/2T Memory Timing [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1T] [2T]  
Memory Hole Remapping [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the remapping of the overlapped PCI memory  
above the total physical memory. Configuration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]  
AI Clock Skew [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]  
The following items become user�configurable when you set AI Clock Skew to  
[Manual].  
Channel A Clock Skew [Normal]  
Allows you to adjust the DRAM clock skew for Channel A.  
Configuration options: [Advance 900ps] [Advance 750ps] [Advance 600ps]  
[Advance 450ps] [Advance 300ps] [Advance 150ps] [Normal] [Delay 150ps]  
[Delay 300ps] [Delay 450ps] [Delay 600ps] [Delay 750ps] [Delay 900ps]  
Channel B Clock Skew [Normal]  
Allows you to adjust the DRAM clock skew for Channel B.  
Configuration options: [Advance 900ps] [Advance 750ps] [Advance 600ps]  
[Advance 450ps] [Advance 300ps] [Advance 150ps] [Normal] [Delay 150ps]  
[Delay 300ps] [Delay 450ps] [Delay 600ps] [Delay 750ps] [Delay 900ps]  
Advanced Memory Settings  
CPU On-die Termination [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [300 ohm] [150 ohm] [75 ohm]  
Trc [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [11] [12] [13] [14] [15] [16] [17]...[26]  
Twr [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [3] [4] [5] [6]  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-21  
Trrd[Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [2] [3] [4] [5]  
Trwt [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [�]  
Twtr [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3]  
Trtp [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [2/4] [3/5]  
Twrrd [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3]  
Twrwr [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1] [2] [3]  
Trdrd [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [2] [3] [4] [5]  
Tref [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [7.� us] [3.9 us]  
Trfc [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0] [1] [2] [3]  
DRAM Termination [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [75 ohms] [150 ohms] [50 ohms]  
Dynamic Idle Cycle Counter [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [�nabled]  
Idle Cycle Limit [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [16 cycles] [32 cycles] [64 cycles] [96 cycles]  
DCQ Bypass Maximum [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0x] [1x] [2x] [3x] [4x] [5x] [6x]...[15x]  
DRAM Burst Length [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [64�byte] [32�byte]  
DRAM Bank Interleaving [Enabled]  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
Bank Swizzle Mode [�nabled]  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
4-22  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
DRAM Timing Control  
CKE Fine Delay [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [No delay] [1/64 M�MCLK delay] [2/64 M�MCLK delay]  
[3/64 MEMCLK delay] [4/64 MEMCLK delay]...[31/64 MEMCLK delay]  
CKE Setup Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1/2 M�MCLK] [1 M�MCLK]  
CS/ODT Fine Delay [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [No delay] [1/64 M�MCLK delay] [2/64 M�MCLK delay]  
[3/64 MEMCLK delay] [4/64 MEMCLK delay]...[31/64 MEMCLK delay]  
CS/ODT Setup Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1/2 M�MCLK] [1 M�MCLK]  
Address/Command Fine Delay [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [No delay] [1/64 M�MCLK delay] [2/64 M�MCLK delay]  
[3/64 MEMCLK delay] [4/64 MEMCLK delay]...[31/64 MEMCLK delay]  
Address/Command Setup Time [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1/2 M�MCLK] [1 M�MCLK]  
Read DQS Timing Control [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [no delay] [1/96 M�MCLK delay] [2/96 M�MCLK delay]  
[3/96 MEMCLK delay] [4/96 MEMCLK delay]...[47/96 MEMCLK delay]  
Write Data Timing Control [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [no delay] [1/96 M�MCLK delay] [2/96 M�MCLK delay]  
[3/96 MEMCLK delay] [4/96 MEMCLK delay]...[47/96 MEMCLK delay]  
DQS Receiver Enable Timing [Auto]  
Configuration options: [0 ps] [50 ps] [100 ps] [150 ps] [200 ps]...[�650 ps] [�700 ps]  
Output Driver Control  
CKE Drive Strength [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.00x] [1.25x] [1.50x] [2.00x]  
CS/ODT Drive Strength [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.00x] [1.25x] [1.50x] [2.00x]  
Add/CMD Drive Strength [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [1.00x] [1.25x] [1.50x] [2.00x]  
MEMCLK Drive Strength [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0.75x] [1.00x] [1.25x] [1.50x]  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-23  
Data Drive Strength [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0.75x] [1.00x] [1.25x] [1.50x]  
DQS Drive Strength [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [0.75x] [1.00x] [1.25x] [1.50x]  
DRAM Drivers Weak Mode [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Normal] [Weak]  
AMD Virtualization [Enabled]  
Enabling this functions allows hardware facilitated capacities for running several  
386 virtual machines on the system simultaneously.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
AMD Live! [Disabled]  
�nables or disables the AMD Live! technology.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
AMD Cool “n” Quiet Function [Disabled]  
Enables the AMD Cool “n” Quiet technology which supports P-state transitions in  
AMD processors. Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
Cache Mapping Cycle [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Disabled] [�nabled]  
4.4.4  
Chipset  
Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Advanced  
Chipset  
Select Menu  
iGPU Frame Buffer Control [Auto]  
Item Specific Help  
x Frame Buffer Size  
32M  
Onboard GPU  
[Auto]  
[Auto]  
K8<->NB HT Speed  
K8<->NB HT Width  
[Auto]  
CPU Spread Spectrum  
PCIE Spread Spectrum  
SATA Spread Spectrum  
Primary Display Adapter  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Down Spread]  
[PCI-E]  
iGPU Frame Buffer Control [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]  
Frame Buffer Size [32M]  
Configuration options: [16M] [32M] [64M] [12�M] [256M] [512M]  
4-24  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
Onboard GPU [Auto]  
Setting this item to [Auto] will disable onboard GPU and frame buffer if system  
detects any external graphics card.  
Configuration options: [Auto] [Always �nable]  
K8<->NB HT Speed [Auto]  
Configuration options: [Auto] [200 MHz] [400 MHz] [600 MHz] [�00 MHz]  
[1 GHz]  
If you are using an AM2+ CPU, the configuration options will be as follows:  
[Auto] [200 MHz] [400 MHz] [600 MHz] [�00 MHz] [1 GHz] [1.2 GHz]...[2.6GHz]  
K8<->NB HT Width [Auto]  
Configuration options: [ ꢀ8�8] [ ꢀ16�16] [Auto]  
CPU Spread Spectrum [Disabled]  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
PCIE Spread Spectrum [Disabled]  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
SATA Spread Spectrum [Down Spread]  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [Down Spread]  
Primary Display Adapter [Disabled]  
Allows you to select which graphics controller to use as the primary boot device.  
Configuration options: [PCI] [Onboard] [PCI��]  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-25  
4.4.5  
PCIPnP  
Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Advanced  
PCIPnP  
Plug & Play O/S  
Select Menu  
[No]  
[Auto]  
Item Specific Help  
Resources Controlled By  
IRQ Resources  
Select Yes if you are  
using a Plug and Play  
capable operating  
system. Select No if  
you need the BIOS to  
configure non-boot  
devices.  
x
** PCI Express relative items **  
Maximum payload Size [4096]  
Plug & Play O/S [No]  
When set to [No], the BIOS configures all the devices in the system. When set to  
[Yes] and if you install a Plug and Play operating system, the operating system  
configures the Plug and Play devices not required for boot.  
Configuration options: [No] [Yes]  
Resources Controlled By [Auto]  
When set to [Auto], the BIOS automatically configures all the boot and Plug and  
Play compatible devices. Set to [Manual] if you want to assign the IRQ DMA and  
memory base address fields. Configuration options: [Auto] [Manual]  
The item IRQ Resources becomes user�configurable when you set Resources  
Controlled By to [Manual].  
IRQ Resources  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Advanced  
IRQ Resources  
Select Menu  
Item Specific Help  
IRQ-5 assigned to  
IRQ-7 assigned to  
IRQ-9 assigned to  
IRQ-10 assigned to  
IRQ-11 assigned to  
IRQ-14 assigned to  
[PCI Device]  
[PCI Device]  
[PCI Device]  
[PCI Device]  
[PCI Device]  
[PCI Device]  
Legacy ISA for devices  
compliant with the original  
PC AT bus specification,  
PCI/ISA PnP for devices  
compliant with the Plug  
and Play standard whether  
designed for PCI or ISA  
bus architecture.  
IRQ-xx assigned to  
When set to [PCI Device], the specific IRQ is free for use of PCI/PnP  
devices. When set to [Reserved], the IRQ is reserved for legacy ISA devices.  
Configuration options: [PCI Device] [Reserved]  
Maximum Payload Size [4096]  
Sets maximum TLP payload size for the PCI �xpress devices.  
Configuration options: [12�] [256] [512] [1024] [204�] [4096]  
4-26  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.4.6  
Onboard Device Configuration  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Advanced  
Onboard Device Configuration  
Select Menu  
IDE Function Setup  
MCP Storage Config  
Onboard 1394  
Item Specific Help  
[Enabled]  
[Auto]  
HD Audio  
Front Panel Support Type [HD Audio]  
HDMI Audio  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[3F8/IRQ4]  
Onboard LAN Device  
Onboard LAN Boot ROM  
Serial Port1 Address  
F1:Help  
ESC: Exit  
�ꢀ : Select Item  
��: Select Menu  
-/+: Change Value  
F5: Setup Defaults  
Enter: Select SubMenu F10: Save and Exit  
IDE Function Setup  
This sub-menu contains IDE function-related items. Select an item then press  
<Enter> to edit.  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Advanced  
IDE Function Setup  
Select Menu  
Item Specific Help  
OnChip IDE Channel0  
IDE DMA transfer access  
SATA Controller  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
Disable/Enable Onchip  
IDE Channel0  
IDE Prefetch Mode  
OnChip IDE Channel0 [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the onchip IDE channel 0 controller .  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
IDE DMA transfer access [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the IDE DMA transfer access.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
SATA Controller [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the SATA controller.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
IDE Prefetch Mode [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the IDE PIO read prefetch mode.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-27  
MCP Storage Config  
This sub-menu allows you to change Serial ATA settings. Select an item then press  
<Enter> to edit.  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Advanced  
MCP Storage Config  
Select Menu  
Item Specific Help  
SATA Operation Mode  
[IDE]  
SATA Operation Mode [IDE]  
Sets the configuration for the Serial ATA connectors supported by the  
Southbridge chip. Configuration options: [ID�] [RAID] [AHCI]  
The AHCI allows the onboard storage driver to enable advanced Serial  
ATA features that increases storage performance on random workloads by  
allowing the drive to internally optimize the order of commands.  
If you want to create a RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, or RAID 10 configuration  
from the Serial ATA hard disk drives, set this item to [RAID].  
If you want to use the Serial ATA hard disk drives as Parallel ATA physical  
storage devices, keep the default setting [IDE].  
If you want the Serial ATA hard disk drives to use the Advanced Host Controller  
Interface (AHCI), set this item to [AHCI].  
SATA 5–6 connectors support AHCI mode and RAID mode only. Make sure  
to install the AHCI driver or RAID driver in the bundled support DVD before  
connecting devices to SATA 5–6 connectors. Otherwise, the devices will not  
work.  
Onboard 1394 [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard 1394 device support.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [E�nnabled]  
HD Audio [Enabled]  
Allows you to disable or set the High�Definition audio function.  
Configuration options: [�Enabled] [Dissabled]  
Front Panel Support Type [HD Audio]  
Allows you to set the front panel audio connector (AAFP) mode to legacy AC`97  
or high�definition audio depending on the audio standard that the front panel audio  
module supports. Configuration options: [AC97] [HD Audio]  
4-28  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
HDMI Audio [Auto]  
Allows you to disable or set the HDMI audio function.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [E�nnabled]  
Onboard LAN Device [Enabled]  
Enables or disables the onboard NVIDIA® LAN controller.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
Onboard LAN Boot ROM [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the onboard LAN boot ROM.  
Configuration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]  
Serial Port1 Address [3F8/IRQ4]  
Allows you to select the Serial Port1 base address.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [3F�/IRQ4] [2F�/IRQ3] [3��/IRQ4] [2��/IRQ3]  
[Auto]  
4.4.7  
USB Configuration  
The items in this menu allows you to change the USB-related features. Select an  
item then press <�nter> to display the configuration options.  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Advanced  
USB Configuration  
Select Menu  
USB Controller  
USB2.0 Controller  
USB Legacy support  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
Item Specific Help  
Enable or Disable USB  
1.1 and 2.0 Controller  
USB Controller [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the onchip USB controller.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
USB 2.0 Controller [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the USB 2.0 controller.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
USB Legacy Support [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable support for USB devices on legacy operating  
systems (OS). Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-29  
4.5  
Power menu  
The Power menu items allow you to change the settings for the Advanced  
Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) and the Advanced Power Management  
(APM). Select an item then press <�nter> to display the configuration options.  
Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Main  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
ACPI Suspend Type  
APM Configuration  
Hardware Monitor  
[S1&S3]  
Select Menu  
Item Specific Help  
Select the ACPI state  
used for System  
Suspend.  
F1:Help  
�ꢀ : Select Item  
-/+: Change Value  
Enter: Select SubMenu  
F5: Setup Defaults  
F10: Save and Exit  
ESC: Exit ��: Select Menu  
4.5.1  
ACPI Suspend Type [S1&S3]  
Allows you to select the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) state  
to be used for system suspend.  
Configuration options: [S1 (POS)] [S3(STR)] [S1&S3]  
4.5.2  
APM Configuration  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Power  
APM Configuration  
Select Menu  
Restore on AC Power Loss  
PWR Button < 4 secs  
[Power-Off]  
[Instant-Off]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
[Disabled]  
0
0 : 0 : 0  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
Item Specific Help  
Power On By PCI/PCIE Devices  
Power On By External Modems  
Power On by RTC Alarm  
Date(of Month) Alarm  
Alarm Time(hh:mm)  
Press [Enter] to  
select whether or not  
to restart the system  
after AC power loss  
x
x
HPET Support  
Power Up By PS/2 Keyboard  
F1:Help  
ESC: Exit  
�ꢀ : Select Item  
-/+: Change Value  
F5: Setup Defaults  
F10: Save and Exit  
��: Select Menu Enter: Select SubMenu  
Restore on AC Power Loss [Power-Off]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Restore on AC Power Loss function.  
Configuration options: [Power�Off] [Power�On] [Last State]  
4-30  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
PWR Button < 4 secs [Instant-Off]  
When set to [Instant-Off], the system goes into Soft-off mode after you press the  
power button for less than 4 seconds. When set to [Suspend], the system goes  
into Suspend mode after you press the power button for less than 4 seconds.  
Configuration options: [Suspend] [Instant�Off]  
Power On By PCI/PCIE Devices [Disabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the PME to wake up from S5 by PCI/PCIE devices  
and the NVIDIA® onboard LAN. Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
Power On By External Modem [Disabled]  
This allows either settings of [Enabled] or [Disabled] for powering up the computer  
when the external modem receives a call while the computer is in Soft-off mode.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
The computer cannot receive or transmit data until the computer and  
applications are fully running. Thus, connection cannot be made on the first  
try. Turning an external modem off and then back on while the computer is off  
causes an initialization string that turns the system power on.  
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 Date (of Month) Alarm and Alarm Time (hh:mm)  
become user�configurable with set values.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
Date (of Month) Alarm [XX]  
To set the date of alarm, highlight this item and press <Enter> to display the Date  
(of Month) Alarm pop�up menu. Key�in a value within the specified range then  
press <�nter>. Value ‘0’ means everyday. Configuration options: [Min=0] [Max=31]  
Alarm Time (hh:mm) [ XX: XX: XX]  
To set the time of alarm, highlight this item and press <Enter> to display the Alarm  
Time pop�up menu. Key�in a value within the specified range then press <�nter>.  
Configuration options: [Min=0] [Max=23]���hour  
[Min=0] [Max=59]---minute  
[Min=0] [Max=59]---second  
HPET Support [Enabled]  
The hardware high precision efficient timer (HP�T) is to increase the performance  
of the Vista Multimedia player and can meet Vista’s requirement. Disable this  
feature if your system is running under XP environment.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-31  
Power Up By PS/2 Keyboard [Disabled]  
Allows you to disable the Power On by PS/2 keyboard function or set specific keys  
on the PS/2 keyboard to turn on the system. This feature requires an ATX power  
supply that provides at least 1A on the +5VSB lead.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [SSpace BBaar] [Cttrl-�E�SCC] [Powweer Key]  
4.5.3  
Hardware Monitor  
The items in this sub-menu displays the hardware monitor values automatically  
detected by the BIOS. It also allows you to change CPU Q-Fan feature-related  
parameters. Select an item then press <�nter> to display the configuration options.  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Power  
Hardware Monitor  
CPU Fan Type  
Select Menu  
[DC]  
Item Specific Help  
CPU Q-Fan Control  
CPU Q-Fan Profile  
Chassis Q-Fan Control  
Chassis Q-Fan Profile  
Vcore Voltage  
[Disabled]  
Performance  
[Disabled]  
Performance  
[ 1.34V]  
[ 3.20V]  
[ 4.83V]  
[11.52V]  
x
x
Press [Enter] to  
enable or disable  
3.3V Voltage  
5V Voltage  
12V Voltage  
CPU Temperature  
M/B Temperature  
CPU Fan Speed  
48ºC  
36ºC  
1464 RPM  
0 RPM  
CHA_FAN1 Speed  
CHA_FAN2 Speed  
PWR_FAN Speed  
0 RPM  
0 RPM  
CPU Fan Speed Warning  
[800 RPM]  
F1:Help  
ESC: Exit  
�ꢀ : Select Item  
-/+: Change Value  
F5: Setup Defaults  
F10: Save and Exit  
��: Select Menu Enter: Select SubMenu  
CPU Fan Type [DC]  
Allows you to select the CPU fan type.  
Configuration options: [DC] [PWM]  
CPU Q-Fan Control [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the CPU Q-Fan controller.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
The CPU Fan Profile item becomes user�configurable when you enable the  
CPU Q-Fan Control feature.  
CPU Q-Fan Profile [Performance]  
Allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the CPU Q-Fan. When  
set to [Optimal], the CPU fan automatically adjusts depending on the CPU  
temperature. Set this item to [Silent Mode] to minimize fan speed for quiet CPU fan  
operation, or [Performance Mode] to achieve maximum CPU fan speed.  
Configuration options: [Performance] [Optimal] [Silent]  
4-32  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
Chassis Q-Fan Control [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the Chassis Q-fan.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
The Chassis Q-Fan Profile item becomes user�configurable when you enable  
the Chassis Q-Fan Control feature.  
Chassis Q-Fan Profile [Performance]  
Allows you to set the appropriate performance level of the Chassis Q-Fan.  
Configuration options: [Performance] [Optimal] [Silent]  
Vcore Voltage, 3.3V Voltage, 5V Voltage, 12V Voltage  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects the voltage output through  
the onboard voltage regulators. Select [Ignored] if you do not want to detect this  
item.  
CPU Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]  
M/B Temperature [xxxºC/xxxºF]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the motherboard  
and CPU temperatures. Select [Ignored] if you do not wish to display the detected  
temperatures.  
CPU Fan Speed [xxxxRPM]  
CHA_FAN 1/2 Speed [xxxxRPM]  
PWR_FAN Speed [xxxxRPM]  
The onboard hardware monitor automatically detects and displays the CPU/  
Chassis/Power fan speed in rotations per minute (RPM). If the fan is not connected  
to the motherboard, the field shows 0 RPM.  
CPU Fan Speed warning [800 RPM]  
Allows you to set the CPU fan warning speed function, which gives off a warning  
when the CPU fan speed is too low. If you set this item to [Disabled], the system  
will not warn you even if no fan is installed or if the fan is not functioning properly.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�00 RPM] [1200 RPM] [1600 RPM]  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-33  
4.6  
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.  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Main  
Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Boot Device Priority  
Removable Drives  
Hard Disk Drives  
CDROM Drives  
Select Menu  
Item Specific Help  
Boot Settings Configuration  
Select Boot Device  
Priority  
Security  
F1:Help  
ESC: Exit  
�ꢀ : Select Item  
-/+: Change Value  
F5: Setup Defaults  
F10: Save and Exit  
��: Select Menu Enter: Select Sub-menu  
4.6.1  
Boot Device Priority  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Boot  
Boot Device Priority  
Select Menu  
1st Boot Device  
[Removable]  
[Hard Disk]  
[CDROM]  
Item Specific Help  
2nd Boot Device  
3rd Boot Device  
4th Boot Device  
Select Your Boot  
Device Priority  
[Disabled]  
1st ~ 4th Boot Device [Removable]  
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.  
Configuration options: [Removable] [Hard Disk] [CDROM] [Disabled]  
4.6.2  
Removable Drives  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Boot  
Removable Drives  
Select Menu  
1. Floppy Disks  
Item Specific Help  
1. Floppy Disks  
Allows you to assign a removable drive attached to the system.  
4-34  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.6.3  
Hard Disk Drives  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Boot  
Hard Disk Drives  
1. SATA X: XXXXXXXXX  
Select Menu  
Item Specific Help  
1. SATA X: XXXXXXXXX  
Allows you to assign hard disk drives attached to the system.  
4.6.4  
CDROM Drives  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Boot  
CDROM Drives  
Select Menu  
1. 1st Slave: XXXXXXXXX  
Item Specific Help  
1. 1st Slave: XXXXXXXXX  
Allows you to assign optical drives attached to the system.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-35  
4.6.5  
Boot Settings Configuration  
Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Boot  
Boot Settings Configuration  
Select Menu  
Case Open Warning  
[Enabled]  
[Enabled]  
[Disabled]  
[On]  
Item Specific Help  
Quick Boot  
Boot Up Floppy Seek  
Bootup Num-Lock  
Typematic Rate Setting  
Press [Enter] to  
enable or disable.  
[Disabled]  
x
x
Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec) 6  
Typematic Delay (Msec)  
250  
OS Select For DRAM > 64MB [Non-OS2]  
Full Screen LOGO  
Halt On  
[Enabled]  
[All, But Keyboard]  
F1:Help  
ESC: Exit  
�ꢀ : Select Item  
-/+: Change Value  
F5: Setup Defaults  
F10: Save and Exit  
��: Select Menu Enter: Select Sub-menu  
Case Open Warning [Enabled]  
Enables or disables the chassis open status feature. Setting to Enabled, clears the  
chassis open status. Refer to section “2.7.2 Internal connectors” for setting details.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
Quick Boot [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the system quick boot feature. When Enabled, the  
system skips certain tests while booting.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
Boot Up Floppy Seek [Disabled]  
Enables or disables the chassis open status feature. Setting to Enabled, clears the  
chassis open status. Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
Bootup Num-Lock [On]  
Allows you to select the power-on state for the NumLock.  
Configuration options: [Off] [On]  
Typematic Rate Setting [Disabled]  
Allows you to set the keystroke rate. �nable this item to configure the Typematic  
Rate (Chars/Sec) and the Typematic Delay (Msec).  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
The items Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec) and Typematic Delay (Msec) become  
user�configurable only when the item Typematic Rate Setting is enabled.  
Typematic Rate (Chars/Sec) [6]  
Allows you to select the rate at which a character repeats when you hold a key.  
Configuration options: [6] [�] [10] [12] [15] [20] [24] [30]  
4-36  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
Typematic Delay (Msec) [250]  
Allows you to set the delay before keystrokes begin to repeat.  
Configuration options: [250] [500] [750] [1000]  
OS Select for DRAM > 64MB [Non-OS2]  
Set this item to [OS2] only when you are running on an OS/2 operating system with  
an installed RAM of greater than 64 MB. Configuration options: [Non�OS2] [OS2]  
Full Screen LOGO [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the full screen logo display feature.  
Configuration options: [Disabled] [�nabled]  
Make sure that the above item is set to [Enabled] if you want to use the ASUS  
MyLogo 3 feature.  
Halt On [All Errors]  
Allows you to set the error report type.  
Configuration options: [All �rrors] [No �rrors] [All, But Keyboard] [All, But Diskette]  
[All, But Disk/Key]  
4.6.6  
Security  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Boot  
Security  
Select Menu  
Supervisor Password  
User Password  
Password Check  
Clear  
Item Specific Help  
Clear  
[Setup]  
Supervisor Password  
User Password  
These fields allow you to set passwords:  
To set a password:  
1.  
2.  
Select an item then press <Enter>.  
Type in a password using a combination of a maximum of eight (8)  
alpha-numeric characters, then press <Enter>.  
3.  
When prompted, confirm the password by typing the exact characters again,  
then press <�nter>. The password field setting is changed to Set.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-37  
To clear the password:  
1.  
Select the password field and press <�nter> twice. The following message  
appears:  
PASSWORD DISABLED !!!  
Press any key to continue...  
2.  
Press any key to continue. The password field setting is changed to Clear.  
A note about passwords  
The Supervisor password is required to enter the BIOS Setup program  
preventing unauthorized access. The User password is required to boot the  
system preventing unauthorized use.  
Forgot your password?  
If you forget your password, you can clear it by erasing the CMOS Real Time  
Clock (RTC) RAM. The RAM data containing the password information is  
powered by the onboard button cell battery. If you need to erase the CMOS  
RAM, refer to section “2.6 Jumper” for instructions.  
Password Check  
This field requires you to enter the password before entering the BIOS setup or the  
system. Select [Setup] to require the password before entering the BIOS Setup.  
Select [System] to require the password before entering the system.  
Configuration options: [Setup] [System]  
4-38  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.7  
Tools menu  
The Tools menu items allow you to configure options for special functions. Select  
an item then press <Enter> to display the sub-menu.  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Main Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
Select Menu  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
Express Gate  
Item Specific Help  
F1:Help  
ESC: Exit  
�ꢀ : Select Item  
-/+: Change Value  
F5: Setup Defaults  
F10: Save and Exit  
��: Select Menu Enter: Select Sub-menu  
4.7.1  
ASUS O.C. Profile  
This item allows you to store or load multiple BIOS settings.  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Tools  
ASUS BIOS Profile  
Select Menu  
Load BIOS Profile  
Save BIOS Profile  
Item Specific Help  
Press [Enter] to  
select.  
Load BIOS Profile  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Tools  
Load BIOS Profile  
Select Menu  
Load from Profile 1  
Load from Profile 2  
Load from File  
Item Specific Help  
Load BIOS Profile  
from Profile 1.  
Load from Profile 1/2  
Allows you to load the previous BIOS settings saved in the BIOS Flash. Press  
<�nter> to load the file.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-39  
Load from File  
Allows you to load the previous BIOS file saved in the hard disk/floppy disk/USB  
flash disk with the FAT32/16/12 format. Follow the instructions below to load the  
BIOS file.  
1. Insert the storage devices that contains the “xxx.CMO” file.  
2. Turn on the system.  
3. Enter BIOS setup program. Go to the “Tools” menu to select ASUS O.C.  
Profile > Load from File. Press <Enter> then the setup screen will  
appear.  
4. Press <Tab> to switch between drives before the correct “xxx.CMO” file  
is found. Then press <�nter> to load the file.  
5. A pop�up message will inform you when the loading process finishes.  
•
•
Suggest only to update the BIOS file coming from the same memory/CPU  
configuration and BIOS version.  
Only the “xxx.CMO” file can be loaded.  
Save BIOS Profile  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Tools  
Save BIOS Profile  
Select Menu  
Save to Profile 1  
Save to Profile 2  
Save to File  
Item Specific Help  
Save current BIOS  
Profile to Profile 1.  
Save to Profle 1/2  
Allows you to save the current BIOS file to the BIOS Flash. Press <�nter> to save  
the file.  
Save to File  
Allows you to save the current BIOS file to the hard disk/floppy disk/USB flash disk  
with FAT32/16/12 format. Follow the instructions below to save the BIOS file.  
1. Insert the storage devices with enough space.  
2. Turn on the system.  
3. Enter the BIOS setup program. Go to the “Tools” menu to select “Save to  
File.” Press <Enter> then the setup screen will appear.  
4. Press <Tab> to switch between the drives. Press hot-key <S> to save  
the file.  
5. Key in the file name. Then press <�nter>.  
6. A pop�up message will inform you when the saving process finishes.  
4-40  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
ASUSTek O.C. Profile Utility B325  
Current CMOS  
Update CMOS  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
BOARD: M3N-HT Deluxe  
VER: 0110  
DATE: 01/04/2008  
DATE: Unknown  
PATH: A:\  
A:  
CMOS backup is done! Press any key to Exit.  
Note  
[Enter] Select  
[S] Save  
[ESC]: Exit  
[Tab] Switch  
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move  
The BIOS file will be saved as “xxx.CMO“.  
4.7.2  
ASUS EZ Flash 2  
Allows you to run ASUS �Z Flash 2. When you press <�nter>, a confirmation  
message appears. Use the left/right arrow key to select between [Yes] or [No],  
then press <�nter> to confirm your choice.  
ASUSTek EZ Flash 2 BIOS ROM Utility B325  
FLASH TYPE: SST 25VF020B /3.3V  
Current ROM  
BOARD: M3N-HT DELUXE  
VER: 0110  
Update ROM  
BOARD: Unknown  
VER: Unknown  
DATE: Unknown  
DATE: 01/04/2008  
PATH: A:\  
A:  
Note  
[Enter] Select  
[S] Save  
[ESC] Exit  
[Tab] Switch  
[Up/Down/Home/End] Move  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-41  
4.7.3  
ASUS Express Gate  
This item allows you to configure related ASUS �xpress Gate settings.  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Tools  
ASUS Express Gate  
[Enabled]  
Select Menu  
Express Gate  
Enter OS Timer  
Reset User Data  
Item Specific Help  
[10 Seconds]  
[No]  
Express Gate [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Express Gate feature. The ASUS  
Express Gate feature is a unique instant-on environment that provides quick  
access to the Internet browser and Skype. Refer to section 5.3.12 for details.  
Configuration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]  
Enter OS Timer [10 Seconds]  
Sets the amount of time the system waits at the �xpress Gate’s first screen  
before starting Windows or other installed OS. Set this item to [Prompt User]  
to stay at the first screen of the �xpress Gate for user action.  
Configuration options: [Prompt User] [1 second] [3 second] [5 second]  
[10 second] [15 second] [20 second] [30 seconds]  
Reset User Data [No]  
Allows you to clear �xpress Gate’s user data.  
Configuration options: [No] [Reset]  
When set to [Reset], the user data will be cleared and this item will return to  
the default setting. Set to [No] to keep the user data and personal information  
you have saved under the Express Gate.  
The first time wizard will run again when you enter the �xpress Gate  
environment after clearing its settings.  
4-42  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
4.8  
Exit menu  
The Exit menu items allow you to load the optimal or failsafe default values for the  
BIOS items, and save or discard your changes to the BIOS items.  
Phoenix-AwardBIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Main Advanced  
Power  
Boot  
Tools  
Exit  
Exit & Save Changes  
Select Menu  
Exit & Discard Changes  
Load Setup Default  
Discard Changes  
Item Specific Help  
This option save data  
to CMOS and exiting  
the setup menu.  
F1:Help  
ESC: Exit  
�ꢀ : Select Item -/+: Change Value  
��: Select Menu Enter: Select SubMenu  
F5: Setup Defaults  
F10: Save and Exit  
Pressing <Esc> does not immediately exit this menu. Select one of the options  
from this menu or <F10> from the legend bar to exit.  
Exit & Save Changes  
Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the �xit  
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 confirmation 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 fields other than System Date, System  
Time, and Password, the BIOS asks for a confirmation before exiting.  
Load Setup Default  
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 confirmation  
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.  
Discard Changes  
This option allows you to discard the selections you made and restore the  
previously saved values. After selecting this option, a confirmation appears. Select  
YES to discard any changes and load the previously saved values.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
4-43  
4-44  
Chapter 4: BIOS setup  
This chapter describes the contents of  
the support DVD that comes with the  
motherboard package.  
Chapter 5: Software  
5
support  
Chapter summary  
5
5.1  
5.2  
5.3  
5.4  
5.5  
Installing an operating system ................................................... 5-1  
Support DVD information............................................................ 5-1  
Software informtion ..................................................................... 5-9  
RAID configurations .................................................................. 5-41  
Creating a RAID driver disk....................................................... 5-49  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
5.1  
Installing an operating system  
This motherboard supports Windows® XP / Vista operating systems (OS). Always  
install the latest OS version and corresponding updates to maximize the features  
of your hardware.  
•
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 Windows® XP Service Pack 2 or later versions  
before installing the drivers for better compatibility and system stability.  
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.  
The contents of the support DVD are subject to change at any time without  
notice. Visit the ASUS website(www.asus.com) for updates.  
5.2.1  
Running the support DVD  
Place the support DVD to the optical drive. The DVD automatically displays the  
Drivers menu if Autorun is enabled in your computer.  
Click an icon to  
display support  
DVD/motherboard  
information  
Click an item to install  
If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of the support  
DVD to locate the file ASS�TUP.�X� from the BIN folder. Double�click the  
ASSETUP.EXE to run the DVD.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
5-1  
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.  
NVIDIA Chipset Program Driver  
Installs the NVIDIA® chipset drivers for the NVIDIA® nForce 780a SLI chipset.  
AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet Driver  
Installs the AMD® Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ technology driver.  
USB 2.0 Driver  
Installs the Universal Serial Bus 2.0 (USB 2.0) driver.  
5-2  
Chapter 5: Software support  
5.2.3  
Utilities menu  
The Utilities menu shows the applications and other software that the motherboard  
supports.  
Click to display  
the next screen  
Click to display  
the previous  
screen  
ASUS InstAll - Installation Wizard for Utilities  
Installs all of the utilities through the installation wizard.  
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.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
5-3  
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).  
Before using the ASUS Update, make sure that you have an Internet connection  
so that you can connect to the ASUS website.  
ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet Utility  
Installs the ASUS Cool ‘n’ Quiet™ software.  
ASUS Express Gate Updater  
Installs the ASUS Express Gate™ update application.  
Adobe 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, identifies, and removes computer viruses. View  
the online help for detailed information.  
WinDVD Copy5 Trial  
Installs the WinDVD Copy5 Trial version.  
InterVideo MediaOne Gallery  
Installs the InterVideo MediaOne Gallery software.  
Ulead PhotoImpact 12 SE  
Installs the Ulead PhotoImpact 12 SE software.  
CyberLink PowerBackup  
Installs the CyberLink PowerBackup software.  
5-4  
Chapter 5: Software support  
Corel Snapfire Plus SE  
Installs the Corel Snapfire Plus S� software.  
5.2.4  
Make Disk menu  
The Make Disk menu contains items to create the NVIDIA® nForce 780a SLI  
SATA/RAID driver disk.  
NVIDIA 32bit/64bit XP SATA RAID Driver  
Allows you to create an NVIDIA SATA RAID driver disk for Windows®XP.  
NVIDIA 32bit/64bit XP AHCI Driver  
Allows you to create an NVIDIA AHCI driver disk for Windows®XP.  
Due to floppy disk capacity limitation, when creating a RAID configuration under  
Windows® Vista, install the AHCI/RAID driver through the motherboard support  
CD/DVD or a USB device.  
Find RAID driver in the support CD/DVD through the path below:  
Drivers\Chipset\Disk\RAID  
Find AHCI driver in the support CD/DVD through the path below:  
Drivers\Chipset\Disk\AHCI  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
5-5  
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.  
Most user manual files are in Portable Document Format (PDF). Install the  
Adobe® Acrobat® Reader from the Utilities menu before opening a user manual  
file.  
5.2.6  
ASUS Contact information  
Click the Contact tab to display the ASUS contact information. You can also find  
this information on the inside front cover of this user guide.  
5-6  
Chapter 5: Software support  
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  
specified information.  
Motherboard Info  
Displays the general specifications of the motherboard.  
Browse this DVD  
Displays the support DVD contents in graphical format.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
5-7  
Technical support Form  
Displays the ASUS Technical Support Request Form that you have to fill out when  
requesting technical support.  
Filelist  
Displays the contents of the support DVD and a brief description of each in text  
format.  
5-8  
Chapter 5: Software support  
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 file that came  
with the software application for more information.  
5.3.1  
ASUS MyLogo2™  
The ASUS MyLogo2™ utility lets you customize the boot logo. The boot logo is the  
image that appears on screen during the Power-On Self-Tests (POST). The ASUS  
MyLogo2™ is automatically installed when you install the ASUS Update utility from  
the support DVD. See section “5.2.3 Utilities menu” for details.  
•
•
Before using the ASUS MyLogo2™, use the Award BIOS Flash utility to  
make a copy of your original BIOS file, or obtain the latest BIOS version  
from the ASUS website. See section 4.1.4 Updating the BIOS.  
Make sure that the BIOS item Full Screen Logo is set to [Enabled] if  
you wish to use ASUS MyLogo2. See section 4.6.5 Boot Settings  
Configuration.  
•
•
You can create your own boot logo image in GIF, or BMP file formats.  
The file size should be smaller than 150 K.  
To launch the ASUS MyLogo2™:  
1.  
Launch the ASUS Update utility. Refer to section “4.1.1 ASUS Update utility”  
for details.  
2.  
3.  
Select Options from the drop down menu, then click Next.  
Check the option Launch MyLogo to replace system boot logo before  
flashing BIOS, then click Next.  
4.  
5.  
Select Update BIOS from a file from the drop down menu, then click Next.  
When prompted, locate the new  
BIOS file, then click Next. The ASUS  
MyLogo window appears.  
6.  
From the left window pane, select the  
folder that contains the image you  
intend to use as your boot logo.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
5-9  
7.  
8.  
9.  
When the logo images appear on the  
right window pane, select an image to  
enlarge by clicking on it.  
Adjust the boot image to your desired  
size by selecting a value on the Ratio  
box.  
When the screen returns to the ASUS Update utility, flash the original BIOS to  
load the new boot logo.  
10. After flashing the BIOS, restart the computer to display the new boot logo  
during POST.  
5-10  
Chapter 5: Software support  
5.3.2  
Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology  
The motherboard supports the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology that dynamically  
and automatically change the CPU speed, voltage, and amount of power  
depending on the task the CPU performs.  
Enabling Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology  
To enable Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ Technology:  
1.  
2.  
Turn on the system and enter BIOS by pressing the <Del> key during the  
Power On Self-Tests (POST).  
Go to Advanced > CPU Configuration > AMD Cool ‘n’Quiet function and  
set it to [Enabled]. See section “4.4 Advanced Menu.”  
3.  
4.  
Save your changes and exit BIOS Setup.  
Reboot your computer and set your Power Option Properties depending on  
your operating system.  
Windows® 2000/XP  
1.  
From the Windows® 2000/XP operating system, click Start. Select Settings >  
Control Panel.  
2.  
3.  
Make sure the Control Panel is set to Classic View.  
Double-click the Display icon in the Control Panel then select the Screen  
Saver tab.  
4.  
5.  
Click the Power button. The following dialogue box appears.  
From the Power schemes combo list box, select Minimal Power  
Management.  
6.  
Click OK to effect settings.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
5-11  
•
•
•
Make sure to install the AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ driver and application before  
using this feature.  
The AMD Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ technology feature works only with the AMD  
heatsink and fan assembly with monitor chip  
If you purchased a separate heatsink and fan package, use the ASUS  
Q-Fan technology feature to automatically adjust the CPU fan speed  
according to your system loading.  
Launching the Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ software  
The motherboard support DVD includes the Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ software that enables  
you to view your system’s real�time CPU Frequency and voltage.  
Make sure to install the Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ software from the motherboard support  
DVD. Refer to section 5.2.3 Utilities menu for details.  
To launch the Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ program:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
If you are using Windows® 2000, click the Start button. Select Programs >  
ASUS > Cool & Quiet > Cool & Quiet.  
If you are using Windows® XP, click the Start button. Select All Programs >  
ASUS > Cool & Quiet > Cool & Quiet.  
The Cool ‘n’ Quiet!™ technology screen appears and displays the current  
CPU Frequency and CPU Voltage.  
5-12  
Chapter 5: Software support  
5.3.3  
AI Audio 2 (SoundMAX® High Definition Audio utility)  
The ADI AD19�� High Definition Audio COD�C provides ��channel audio  
capability through the SoundMAX® audio utility with AudioESP™ software to  
deliver the ultimate audio experience on your PC. The software implements high  
quality audio synthesis/rendering, 3D sound positioning, and advanced voice-input  
technologies.  
Follow the installation wizard to install the ADI AD19�� Audio Driver from the  
support DVD that comes with the motherboard package to activate the  
SoundMAX® audio utility.  
You must use 4-channel, 6-channel or 8-channel speakers for this setup.  
If the SoundMAX® audio utility is correctly installed, you  
will find the SoundMAX®/ SoundMAX® BlackHawk icon  
on the taskbar.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
5-13  
A.  
SoundMAX BlackHawk (AI Audio 2)  
If you are using Windows Vista™ operating system, from the taskbar, double-click  
on the SoundMAX® BlackHawk icon to display the SoundMAX® control panel.  
Enabling AI Audio 2  
Click the power button  
to activate digital signal processing. AI Audio 2,  
with the new SoundMAX® BlackHawk by Sonic Focus, brings you more multi-  
media enjoyment.  
Fidelity Compensation  
After you click the power button, the utility will compensate for the fidelity lost in the  
compression process and make the audio output quasi-original when reverting the  
compressed audio streams back to the uncompressed condition.  
Sound Field Expansion  
AI Audio 2 also expands the stereophonic sound field to a multi�channel one with  
realistic front and rear environment.  
Surround Virtualization  
Activating this function virtualizes surround sound with the vocal clarity added for  
use with stereo speakers or headphones.  
SoundMAX BlackHawk (AI Audio2) is available only under the Windows®  
Vista™ operating system.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
Playback Settings  
To configure the playback settings, click the Playback button on the control  
panel. You can adjust the volume of the Speakers and SPDIF Interface or  
mute the audio.  
Preset settings  
Click and expand the drop-down menu  
to select your preferred Digital Signal  
Processing (DSP) preset. Move the sliders  
to customize the values of Voice Clarity,  
Dynamics, Brilliance, and Deep Bass  
of each preset. Click Save to save the  
changes to the current preset. Or, click  
Reset to discard the changes and restore  
the preset to the factory defaults.  
Surround settings  
Allows you to change the settings of the  
stereo speakers. Move the sliders to  
change the listener position or adjust the  
center channel volume. Press the Test  
Speakers button to perform speaker test.  
Port settings  
Click this port settings tab to display the rear panel ports configuration for the  
speakers or rear panel digital port configuration for the SPDIF interface.  
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Recording Settings  
To change the recording settings, click the Recording button on the control  
panel. You can adjust the speaker delay of Microphone or Line In by moving  
the slider rightward or leftward.  
Record testing  
Port settings  
Click the tab to perform test recording  
and play the test sample through the  
speakers or the SPDIF interface.  
Click the tab to display the rear panel  
ports for Microphone or Line In.  
ANDREA settings  
Allows you to select an enhanced  
microphone input features, including  
No Filtering, Speakerphone, Voice  
Recording, and Directional Beam.  
More Settings  
Click  
for the further configurations.  
Equalizer  
Allows you to  
configure and  
customize all  
the DSP presets  
frequencies.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
Speakers  
Allows you to adjust the Speaker Trim and Speaker Delay.  
Bass  
Allows you to do the Bass management.  
Preferences  
Displays the preference options for this utility, version information, AudioESP, etc.  
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B.  
SoundMAX  
If you are using Windows XP operating system, 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 configure your audio settings. Simply follow the succeeding screen  
instructions and begin enjoying High Definition Audio.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
Jack configuration  
Adjust speaker volume  
This screen helps you adjust  
speaker volume. Click the Test  
button to hear the changes you  
have made.  
This screen helps you configure  
your computer’s audio ports,  
depending on the audio devices  
you have installed.  
Adjust microphone volume  
This screen helps you adjust microphone volume. You will be asked to read  
pre�written text to allow the AudioWizard to adjust the volume as you speak.  
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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.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
Microphone options  
Click the Microphone tab allows you to optimize your microphone input  
settings.  
Enhanced Microphone Features  
Noise Filtering  
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. You 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. You 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. You can enable it when you have conference call to  
reduce echoes in the other side.  
•
•
The directional Array and Speaker Phone  
are purchased separately and 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.  
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5.3.4  
ASUS PC Probe II  
PC Probe II is a utility that monitors the computer’s 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. Refer to page 1-9 for the OS that supports this utility.  
Installing PC Probe II  
To 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 file from the ASUS PC Probe II folder. Double�click  
the setup.exe file to start installation.  
2.  
3.  
Click the Utilities tab, then click ASUS PC Probe II.  
Follow the screen instructions to complete installation.  
Launching PC Probe II  
You can launch the PC Probe II right after installation or anytime from the  
Windows® desktop.  
To 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 configuration. By  
default, the main window displays  
the Preference section. You can  
close or restore the Preference  
section by clicking on the triangle on the main window right handle.  
Click to close the  
Preference panel  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
Button  
Function  
Opens the Configuration window  
Opens the Report window  
Opens the Desktop Management Interface window  
Opens the Peripheral Component Interconnect window  
Opens the Windows Management Instrumentation window  
Opens the hard disk drive, memory, CPU usage window  
Shows/Hides the Preference section  
Minimizes the application  
Closes the application  
Sensor alert  
When a system sensor detects a problem, the main window right handle  
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.  
Preference  
You can customize the application using  
the Preference section in the main window.  
Click the box before each preference to  
activate or deactivate.  
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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 computer’s desktop.  
Small display  
Large display  
Changing the monitor panels position  
To 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 finished.  
Moving the monitor panels  
All monitor panels move together using a magnetic effect. If  
you want to detach a monitor panel from  
the group, click the horseshoe magnet  
icon. You can now move or reposition the  
panel independently.  
Adjusting the sensor threshold value  
You can adjust the sensor threshold  
value in the monitor panel by  
clicking the or buttons. You can  
also adjust the threshold values  
Click to  
increase  
value  
using the Config window.  
Click to  
You cannot adjust the sensor  
threshold values in a small  
monitoring panel.  
decrease  
value  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
Monitoring sensor alert  
The monitor panel turns red when a component value exceeds or is lower  
than the threshold value. Refer to the illustrations below.  
Small display  
Large display  
WMI browser  
Click to display the  
WMI (Windows Management  
Instrumentation) browser. This  
browser displays various Windows®  
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.  
You 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.  
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5-25  
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  
(blue) and the available HDD  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
Memory usage  
The Memory tab shows both used  
and available physical memory. The  
pie chart at the bottom of the window  
represents the used (blue) and the  
available physical memory.  
Configuring PC Probe II  
Click  
to view and adjust the sensor threshold values.  
The Config window has two tabs: Sensor/Threshold and Preference. 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  
Loads your saved  
configuration  
threshold values for  
each sensor  
Cancels or  
ignores your  
changes  
Applies your  
changes  
Saves your  
configuration  
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5.3.5  
ASUS AI Suite  
ASUS AI Suite allows you to launch AI Gear 2, AI N.O.S., AI Booster, AI Nap, and  
Q-Fan 2 utilities easily.  
Installing AI Suite  
To 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.  
3.  
Click the Utilities tab, then click AI Suite.  
Follow the screen instructions to complete installation.  
Launching AI Suite  
You can launch the AI Suite right after installation or anytime from the Windows®  
desktop.  
To 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 2 icon to launch the  
utility, or click the Normal icon to restore the system to normal state.  
Press to restore to normal  
Press to launch AI Nap  
Press to launch AI Gear 2  
Press to launch  
AI Booster 2  
Press to launch Q-Fan 2  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
Other feature buttons  
Click on right corner of the main window to open the monitor window.  
Displays the CPU/  
system temperature,  
CPU/memory/PCIE  
voltage, and CPU/  
chassis fan speed  
Displays the FSB/CPU  
frequency  
Click  
on right corner of the expanded window to switch the temperature from  
degrees Centigrade to degrees Fahrenheit.  
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5.3.6  
ASUS AI Gear 2  
ASUS AI Gear 2 provides four system performance options that allows you to  
select the best performance setting for your computing needs. This easy-to-use  
utility adjusts the processor frequency and vCore voltage to minimize system noise  
and power consumption.  
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  
Medium  
Performance  
Performance  
High  
Maximum  
Performance  
Power Saving  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
5.3.7  
ASUS AI Nap  
This feature allows you to minimize the power consumption of your computer  
whenever you are away. Enable this feature for minimum power consumption and  
a 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 Yes on the confirmation screen.  
To exit AI Nap mode, press the system power or mouse button then click Yes on  
the confirmation screen.  
To 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.  
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5.3.9  
ASUS Q-Fan 2  
This ASUS Q-Fan 2 Control feature allows you to set the appropriate performance  
level of the CPU Q�Fan 2 or the Chassis Q�Fan 2 for more efficient system  
operation. After enabling the Q-Fan 2 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  
2 button on the AI Suite maIn window.  
Click the drop-down menu button and display the fan names. Select CPU Q-Fan 2  
or CHASSIS Q-Fan 2. Click the box of Enable Q-Fan 2 to activate this function.  
drop-down list  
button  
Enable Q-Fan 2 box  
Profile list appears after clicking the Enable Q-Fan 2 box. Click the drop-down  
list button and select a profile. 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 2 mode  
Click Apply at the bottom to save the setup.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
5.3.10  
ASUS AI Booster 2  
The ASUS AI Booster 2 application allows you to overclock the CPU speed in  
WIndows® environment without the hassle of booting the BIOS.  
After installing AI Suite from the bundled support DVD, you can launch the utility  
by double-clicking the AI Suite icon on the Windows® OS taskbar and click the AI  
Booster 2 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  
configurations.  
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5.3.12  
ASUS Express Gate  
ASUS Express Gate is an instant-on environment that gives you quick access to  
web and Skype. Within a few seconds of powering on your computer, you will be  
at the Express Gate menu where you can start the web browser, Skype, or other  
Express Gate applications.  
Express Gate is entirely self-contained on the motherboard, so you can use it at  
any time, even without a hard drive attached!  
The First Screen  
�xpress Gate’s first screen appears within a few seconds after you power on.  
From here, you can immediately start the web browser or Skype.  
You can also choose to continue booting normally (e.g. to your installed OS such  
as Windows), enter BIOS setup, or power off.  
If you don’t make any selection, �xpress Gate will automatically exit and boot to  
your normal OS after a certain amount of time. The timer countdown is shown  
on-screen inside the “boot to OS” button. As you move the mouse or type a key,  
the countdown stops and the timer disappears, so you can take your time to make  
a selection.  
The Express Gate Environment  
The very first time you enter the �xpress Gate environment (by launching either  
web or Skype from the first screen), a first time wizard will guide you through basic  
�xpress Gate configurations. Basic configurations include language, date and time  
and screen resolution.  
Once inside the Express Gate environment, click on the icons on the LaunchBar,  
by default at bottom of the screen, to launch or switch between applications. You  
can re�arrange, re�size and move windows. Bring a window to the foreground by  
clicking within it or by clicking on its corresponding application icon. Re�size a  
window by dragging any of its four corners. Move a window by dragging its title bar.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
Besides using the LaunchBar, you can also switch between applications by  
pressing <Alt> +<Tab> on the keyboard. You can also right-click anywhere on the  
desktop to bring up a menu of applications.  
The red triangle on an application icon in the LaunchBar denotes that the  
application is already running. This means that you can switch to it without any  
delay. In the rare case where an application stops responding, right-click on its icon  
to force close it.  
Configuration Panel  
Use the configuration panel to change various �xpress Gate settings.  
Click on an icon to open a particular configuration tool. The following tools are  
available:  
Date and Time: set current date and time as well as time zone.  
Input Method: choose your preferred input language and method.  
Language and Keyboard: choose your language and keyboard preferences.  
LaunchBar Setting: customize your LaunchBar (where it docks, whether it auto�  
hides, etc.)  
Network Configuration  
Specify how your computer connects to the Internet. Enable all the network ports  
that you may use (LAN1, LAN2, and/or wireless [optional]). LAN1 and LAN2 refer  
to the two RJ-45 network ports on your computer.  
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5-35  
•
•
The number of the LAN ports may differ from motherboards.  
You can connect the LAN cable to either port, and Express Gate will  
automatically use the connected port.  
Also specify whether each port uses DHCP (most common) or static IP. For PPPoE  
and wireless (optional), set the login credentials (user name, password, SSID, etc.)  
as well.  
Reset Express Gate  
This function allows you to clear the Express Gate settings, as well as any  
personal information stored by the web browser (Bookmarks, Cookies, History,  
etc.). The user data will be reset to the original default configuration.  
After you click Restore System, a confirmation dialog box will open. If you click  
“Yes” in the confirmation dialog box, your system will immediately restart and then  
re�enter �xpress Gate, in order to finish clearing the settings. This is also useful in  
the rare case where settings might become corrupted.  
The first�time Wizard will run again when you enter the �xpress Gate  
environment after clearing its settings.  
Screen Resolution  
Choose the most optimal screen resolution for your display.  
Volume Control  
Control the volume for your speaker output, microphone input, etc.  
LaunchBar  
The LaunchBar has several system icons that show you various system statuses  
and let you configure individual �xpress Gate settings. The LaunchBar can be  
configured to auto�hide, if you want more screen space for the applications. It can  
also be configured to dock on any of the four sides of the screen.  
This icon tells you whether or not a removable USB device is inserted  
into the system. If a USB device is detected, the icon contains a  
green arrow  
. Click this icon to open the File Manager window,  
which lets you conveniently access the folders/files in the USB device. If  
no USB device is detected, then the icon will display as  
.
click to show network status; click to configure network.  
click to show mute status; click to change volume.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
click to choose input language and method as well as keyboard shortcuts  
(Ctrl-Space by default)  
click to change LaunchBar options (auto-hide, docking position, etc).  
click to show ”About Express Gate”.  
click to open Express Gate Help.  
click to bring up power options window to boot to OS, restart or power  
down.  
left�click to set date and time; right�click to choose between 12�hour and  
24-hour display formats.  
This power option window is also shown when you press Ctrl-Alt-Del on the  
keyboard.  
How Do I Get on to the Internet  
If Internet does not work in the Express Gate environment, check the following:  
1.  
Open the Configuration Panel.  
2.  
Open Network tool.  
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5-37  
3.  
Make the proper network configurations in the Network dialog box.  
Each network interface is enabled immediately when you check the box next  
to it.  
•
If you use a network cable connected to a home router (which is then  
connected to your DSL/cable modem), enable both LAN1 and LAN2.  
Express Gate will automatically use whichever port (LAN1 or LAN2) is  
connected.  
If you plug the network cable into a different port while Express Gate is running  
(e.g. move the cable from LAN1 to LAN2), you may need to restart Express  
Gate for it to detect the change.  
•
•
The most common scenario is for your computer to automatically obtain  
network settings (i.e. DHCP). If this is the case, you don’t need to go into  
“Setup” for any LAN port. If this is not the case, enter “Setup”  
to configure the static IP settings manually.  
If you use wireless, go into “Setup” for the WiFi option. Under the WiFi  
tab, enter the SSID (name of your wireless access point). If your wireless  
access point has security enabled, select the security algorithm from the  
pulldown menu (e.g. WEPAUTO) and enter the password.  
Then enable WiFi to establish the wireless connection.  
•
If you use a network cable connected directly to your DSL/cable modem  
(no router in between), go into “Setup” for xDSL/cable dial-up. This  
method is also referred to as PPPoE. Choose whether the DSL/cable  
modem is connected to your computer’s LAN port. (Refer to  
the drawing in the Network tool to figure out which is LAN1 or LAN2.)  
Then enter the username and password for your dial-up account.  
Then enable xDSL/cable dial-up to establish the PPPoE connection.  
When PPPoE is enabled, the LAN port it uses will automatically be  
unchecked and grayed out.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
Configuring Express Gate in BIOS Setup  
Enter BIOS setup by pressing DEL key after powering on or by clicking on the  
BIOS setup icon on �xpress Gate’s first screen. �xpress Gate configuration  
options are under Tools configuration menu page.  
Phoenix-Award BIOS CMOS Setup Utility  
Tools  
ASUS Express Gate  
[Enabled]  
Select Menu  
Express Gate  
Enter OS Timer  
Reset User Date  
Item Specific Help  
[10 Seconds]  
[No]  
Express Gate [Enabled]  
Allows you to enable or disable the ASUS Express Gate feature. The ASUS  
Express Gate feature is a unique instant-on environment that provides quick  
access to the Internet browser and Skype.  
Configuration options: [�nabled] [Disabled]  
Enter OS Timer [10]  
Sets the amount of time the system waits at the �xpress Gate’s first screen before  
starting Windows or other installed OS. Set this item to [Prompt User] to stay at the  
first screen of the �xpress Gate for user action.  
Configuration options: [Prompt User] [1 second] [3 second] [5 second]  
[10 second] [15 second] [20 second] [30 seconds]  
Reset User Data [No]  
Allows you to clear �xpress Gate’s user data.  
Configuration options: [No] [Reset]  
When set to [Reset], the user data will be cleared and this item will return to the  
default setting. Set to [No] to keep the user data and personal information you have  
saved under the Express Gate.  
The first time wizard will run again when you enter the �xpress Gate  
environment after clearing its settings.  
Express Gate Updater  
Use the Express Gate Updater to update your existing Express Gate software to  
new versions or to restore the Express Gate software if it is ever corrupted. You  
can find Express Gate Updater Installer on the support DVD or download it from  
the ASUS support website. It runs on Windows.  
New versions of the Express Gate software will be released regularly, adding  
refinements or new applications. You can find original version of the software  
on the support DVD or download new versions from the ASUS support website.  
�xpress Gate software is released as an image file with .DFI extension.  
To install the Express Gate Updater, launch the installer and follow on-screen  
prompts.  
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5-39  
To use the Express Gate Updater, launch the application and follow on-screen  
prompts.  
The Updater can preserve your Express Gate settings and personal data (web  
browser bookmarks, etc.) while doing an update. Use the checkbox “Keep user  
profile” to decide whether the Updater should do so.  
Clearing the user data is useful in the rare case where corrupt settings prevent the  
Express Gate environment from launching properly.  
The first time wizard will run again when you enter the �xpress Gate  
environment after clearing its settings.  
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Chapter 5: Software support  
5.4  
RAID configurations  
The motherboard comes with one RAID controllers that allow you to configure  
Serial ATA hard disk drives as RAID sets.  
•
The NVIDIA® nForce™ 780a SLI Southbridge includes a high performance SATA  
RAID controller that supports RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 0+1, RAID 5 and JBOD for  
six independent Serial ATA channels.  
5.4.1  
RAID definitions  
RAID 0 (Data striping) optimizes two identical hard disk drives to read and write  
data in parallel, interleaved stacks. Two 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 configuration 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 5 stripes both data and parity information across three or more hard  
disk drives. Among the advantages of RAID 5 configuration include better  
HDD performance, fault tolerance, and higher storage capacity. The RAID  
5 configuration 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.  
RAID 0+1 (RAID 10) is data striping and data mirroring combined without parity  
(redundancy data) having to be calculated and written. With the RAID 10*  
configuration you get all the benefits of both RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations.  
Use four new hard disk drives or use an existing drive and three new drives for this  
setup.  
JBOD (Spanning) stands for Just a Bunch of Disks and refers to hard disk drives  
that are not yet configured as a RAID set. This configuration stores the same data  
redundantly on multiple disks that appear as a single disk on the operating system.  
Spanning does not deliver any advantage over using separate disks independently  
and does not provide fault tolerance or other RAID performance benefits.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
5-41  
For Windows® XP, if you want to boot the system from a hard disk drive  
included in a RAID set, first copy the RAID driver from the Support DVD to a  
floppy disk before you install an operating system to a selected hard disk drive.  
Refer to section “5.5 Creating a RAID driver disk” for details.  
5.4.2  
NVIDIA® RAID configurations  
The motherboard includes a high performance SATA RAID controller integrated in  
the NVIDIA® nForce™ 780a SLI southbridge chipset. It supports RAID 0, RAID 1,  
RAID 0+1, RAID 5 and JBOD for six independent Serial ATA channels.  
Installing Serial ATA (SATA) hard disks  
The motherboard supports Ultra DMA 133/100/66 and Serial ATA hard disk drives.  
For optimal performance, install identical drives of the same model and capacity  
when creating a disk array.  
To install the SATA hard disks for a RAID configuration:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Install the SATA hard disks into the drive bays.  
Connect the SATA signal cables.  
Connect a SATA power cable to the power connector on each drive.  
Refer to the RAID controllers user manual in the motherboard support DVD for  
detailed information on RAID configurations. See section “5.2.5 Manuals menu.”  
Setting the BIOS RAID items  
After installing the hard disk drives, make sure to set the necessary RAID items in  
the BIOS before setting your RAID configuration.  
To set the BIOS RAID items:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Boot the system and press <Del> during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) to  
enter the BIOS Setup Utility.  
Enable the RAID Enabled item in the BIOS. See section “4.5.3 Onboard  
Device Configuration > Serial-ATA Configuration” for details.  
Select and enable the SATA drive(s) that you want to configure as RAID. See  
section “4.5.3 Onboard Device Configuration > Serial-ATA Configuration”  
for details.  
4.  
Save your changes and Exit Setup.  
5-42  
Chapter 5: Software support  
Make sure to re�enter your NVRAID settings after the CMOS is cleared;  
otherwise, the system will not recognize your RAID setup.  
•
•
For detailed descriptions on the NVIDIA® RAID configuration, refer to the  
“NVIDIA® RAID User Guide” found in your motherboard Support DVD.  
When using Windows® XP operating system, make sure to install the  
Windows® XP Service Pack 2 or later versions.  
Entering the NVIDIA® RAID utility  
To enter the NVIDIA® RAID utility:  
1.  
2.  
Boot up your computer.  
During POST, press <F10> to display the main menu of the utility.  
The RAID BIOS setup screens shown in this section are for reference only, and  
may not exactly match the items on your screen.  
NVIDIA RAID Utility Oct 5 2004  
- Define a New Array -  
RAID Mode: Striping  
Free Disks  
Striping Block:  
Array Disks  
Optimal  
Loc  
Disk Model Name  
Loc  
Disk Model Name  
1.0.M XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
1.1.M XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
2.0.M XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
2.1.M XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
[�] Add  
[�] Del  
[F6] Back [F7] Finish [TAB] Navigate [�ꢀ] Select [ENTER] Popup  
At the bottom of the screen are the navigation keys. These keys allow you to move  
through and select menu options.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
5-43  
Creating a RAID Volume  
To create a RAID volume:  
1.  
From the NVIDIA® RAID utility Define a New Array menu, select RAID Mode  
then press <Enter>. The following submenu appears.  
Use the up or down arrow keys to select a  
RAID mode then press <Enter>.  
Mirroring  
Striping  
Stripe Mirroring  
Spanning  
2.  
Press <TAB> select the Striping  
Block then press <Enter>. The  
following submenu appears:  
8K  
�
16K  
32K  
64K  
128K  
Optimꢀ  
If you selected Striping or Stripe Mirroring, use the up or down arrow keys to  
select the stripe size for your RAID 0 array then press <�nter>.The available  
values range from 8 KB to 128 KB. The default selection is 128 KB. The strip  
value should be chosen based on the planned drive usage.  
• 8 /16 KB - low disk usage  
• 64 KB - typical disk usage  
• 128 KB - performance disk usage  
TIP: For server systems, we recommend using a lower array block size. For  
multimedia computer systems used mainly for audio and video editing, we  
recommend a higher array block size for optimum performance.  
3.` Press <TAB> to select the Free Disks area. Use the left or right arrow keys to  
assign the array disks.  
4.  
Press <F7> to create RAID set. The following message box appears.  
Clear disk data?  
[Y] YES  
[N] NO  
5.  
Press <Y> to clear the selected disks or <N> to proceed without clearing the  
disks. The following screen appears.  
Take caution in using this option. All data on the RAID drives will be lost!  
5-44  
Chapter 5: Software support  
NVIDIA RAID Utility Oct 5 2004  
- Array List -  
Boot  
No  
Id Status  
Healthy  
Vendor  
NVIDIA  
Array Model Name  
MIRROR XXX.XXG  
4
[Ctrl-X]Exit [�ꢀ]Select [B]Set Boot [N]New Array [ENTER]Detail  
A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen.  
Press <Ctrl+X> to save settings and exit.  
6.  
Rebuilding a RAID array  
To rebuild a RAID array:  
1.  
From the Array List menu, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID  
array then press <Enter>. The RAID Array details appear.  
Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG  
- Array Detail -  
RAID Mode: Mirroring  
Striping Width: 1  
Striping Block: 64K  
Adapt Channel M/S  
Index Disk Model Name  
Capacity  
2
1
1
0
Master  
Master  
0
1
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
XXX.XXGB  
XXX.XXGB  
[R] Rebuild [D] Delete [C] Clear Disk [ENTER] Return  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
5-45  
A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen.  
Press <R> to rebuild a RAID array. The following screen appears.  
2.  
Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG  
- Select Disk Inside Array -  
RAID Mode: Mirroring  
Striping Width: 1  
Striping Block: 64K  
Adapt Channel M/S  
Index Disk Model Name  
Capacity  
2
1
1
0
Master  
Master  
0
1
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
XXX.XXGB  
XXX.XXGB  
[�ꢀ] Select [F6] Back [F7] Finish  
3.  
Use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID array to rebuild, then press  
<F7>. The following confirmation message appears.  
Rebuild array?  
[ENTER] OK [ESC] Cancel  
4.  
5.  
Press <Enter> to start rebuilding array or press <Esc> to cancel.  
After the rebuild process, the Array list menu appears.  
You will need to enter Window® XP and run the NVIDIA utility in order to  
complete the rebuilt process.  
5-46  
Chapter 5: Software support  
Deleting a RAID array  
To delete a RAID array:  
1.  
From the Array List menu, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID  
array then press <Enter>. The RAID Array details appear.  
Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG  
- Array Detail -  
RAID Mode: Mirroring  
Striping Width: 1  
Striping Block: 64K  
Adapt Channel M/S  
Index Disk Model Name  
Capacity  
2
1
1
0
Master  
Master  
0
1
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
XXX.XXGB  
XXX.XXGB  
[R] Rebuild [D] Delete [C] Clear Disk [ENTER] Return  
A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen.  
2.  
Press <D> to delete a RAID array. The following confirmation message  
appears.  
Delete this array?  
[Y] YES [N] No  
3.  
Press <Y> to delete array or press <N> to cancel.  
Take caution in using this option. All data on the RAID drives will be lost!  
4.  
If you selected Yes, the Define a New Array menu appears.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
5-47  
Clearing a disk data  
To clear disk data:  
1.  
From the Array List menu, use the up or down arrow keys to select a RAID  
array then press <Enter>. The RAID Array details appear.  
Array 1 : NVIDIA MIRROR XXX.XXG  
- Array Detail -  
RAID Mode: Mirroring  
Striping Width: 1  
Striping Block: 64K  
Adapt Channel M/S  
Index Disk Model Name  
Capacity  
2
1
1
0
Master  
Master  
0
1
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX  
XXX.XXGB  
XXX.XXGB  
[R] Rebuild [D] Delete [C] Clear Disk [ENTER] Return  
A new set of navigation keys is displayed on the bottom of the screen.  
2.  
Press <C> to clear disk. The following confirmation message appears.  
Clear disk data?  
[Y] YES  
[N]  
3.  
Press <Y> to clear the disk data or press <N> to cancel.  
Take caution in using this option. All data on the RAID drives will be lost!  
5-48  
Chapter 5: Software support  
5.5  
Creating a RAID driver disk  
A floppy disk with the RAID driver is required when installing Windows® XP  
operating system on a hard disk drive that is included in a RAID set. For Windows®  
Vista™ operating system, use either the motherboard support DVD or a USB  
device with the RAID driver.  
5.5.1  
Creating a RAID driver disk without entering the OS  
To create a RAID/SATA driver disk without entering the OS:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
5.  
6.  
Boot your computer.  
Press <Del> during POST to enter the BIOS setup utility.  
Set the optical drive as the primary boot device.  
Insert the support DVD into the optical drive.  
Save changes and exit BIOS.  
Press any key when the system prompts “Press any key to boot from the  
optical drive.”  
7.  
�.  
9.  
When the menu appears, press <1> to create a RAID driver disk.  
Insert a formatted floppy disk into the floppy drive then press <�nter>.  
Follow succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.  
5.5.2  
Creating a RAID/SATA driver disk in Windows®  
To create a RAID driver disk in Windows®:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
Start Windows®.  
Place the motherboard support DVD into the optical drive.  
Go to the Make Disk menu, then click NVIDIA 32/64 bit XP Driver to create a  
NVIDIA® 32/64 bit XP SATA RAID driver disk.  
4.  
Insert a floppy disk/USB device into the floppy disk drive/USB port.  
5.  
Follow succeeding screen instructions to complete the process.  
Write�protect the floppy disk to avoid computer virus infection.  
To install the RAID driver in Windows® XP:  
1.  
2.  
3.  
During the OS installation, the system prompts you to press the F6 key to  
install third-party SCSI or RAID driver.  
Press <F6> then insert the floppy disk with RAID driver into the floppy disk  
drive.  
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
5-49  
To install the RAID driver in Windows® Vista™:  
1.  
Insert the motherboard support DVD or a USB device with RAID driver into  
the optical drive/USB port.  
Find RAID driver in the support DVD through the path below:  
Drivers\Chipset\Disk\RAID  
Find AHCI driver in the support DVD through the path below:  
Drivers\Chipset\Disk\AHCI  
2.  
Follow the succeeding screen instructions to complete the installation.  
Due to chipset limitation, the Serial ATA ports supported by the NVIDIA chipset  
doesn’t support Serial Optical Disk Drives (Serial ODD) under DOS.  
5-50  
Chapter 5: Software support  
This chapter tells how to install SLI-ready  
PCI Express graphics cards.  
Chapter 6: NVIDIA® SLI™  
technology sup6port  
Chapter summary  
6.1  
6.2  
Overview ....................................................................................... 6-1  
Graphics card setup .................................................................... 6-2  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
6.1  
Overview  
The motherboard supports the NVIDIA® SLI™ (Scalable Link Interface) technology  
that allows you to install up to three identical PCI Express™ x16 graphics cards.  
Follow the installation procedures in this section.  
Requirements  
•
•
•
•
In Dual SLI mode, you should have two identical SLI-ready graphics cards  
that are NVIDIA® certified.  
In 3-way SLI mode, you should have three identical SLI-ready graphics cards  
that are NVIDIA® certified.  
Make sure that your graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA SLI technology.  
Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.nvidia.com).  
Make sure that your power supply unit (PSU) can provide at least the  
minimum power required by your system. See page 2-31 for details.  
•
The NVIDIA 3-way SLI technology supports Windows® Vista operating  
system only.  
•
Visit the NVIDIA zone website (http://www.nzone.com) for the latest certified  
graphics card and supported 3D application list.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
6-1  
6.2  
Graphics card setup  
6.2.1  
Installing three SLI-ready graphics cards  
Install only identical SLI-ready graphics cards that are NVIDIA®�certified.  
Different types of graphics cards will not work together properly.  
To install the graphics cards:  
1.  
Prepare three graphics cards. �ach graphics card should have goldfingers for  
the 3-way SLI bridge connector.  
Goldfingers  
6-2  
Chapter 6: NVIDIA® SLI™ technology support  
2.  
Insert the first graphics card into the PCI�X16_1 slot (blue), the second into  
the PCIEX16_2 slot (black), and the third into the PCIEX16_3 slot (blue).  
Make sure that the cards are properly seated on the slots.  
3.  
Align and firmly insert the 3�way SLI bridge connector to the goldfingers on  
each graphics card. Make sure that the connector is firmly in place.  
3-way SLI bridge connector  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
6-3  
4.  
Connect auxiliary power source from the power supply to the three graphics  
cards separately.  
5.  
Connect a VGA or a DVI-I cable to the graphics card/s.  
We recommend that you install an additional chassis fan for better thermal  
environment.  
6-4  
Chapter 6: NVIDIA® SLI™ technology support  
6.2.2  
Installing two SLI-ready graphics cards  
1.  
Insert one graphics card into the PCIEX16_1 slot (blue) and the other into the  
PCIEX16_3 slot (blue). Make sure that the cards are properly seated on the  
slots.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
Align and insert the SLI connector to the goldfingers on each graphics card.  
Make sure that the connector is firmly in place.  
Connect auxiliary power source from the power supply to he two graphics  
cards separately.  
Connect a VGA or a DVI-I cable to the graphics card/s.  
We recommend that you install an additional chassis fan for better thermal  
environment.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
6-5  
6.2.3  
Installing the device drivers  
Refer to the documentation that came with your graphics card package to install  
the device drivers.  
•
Make sure that your PCI Express graphics card driver supports the NVIDIA®  
SLI™ technology. Download the latest driver from the NVIDIA website (www.  
nvidia.com).  
•
If you are using s 3-way SLI system, make sure to install the 3-way SLI  
driver under Windows® Vista OS. The NVIDIA 3-way SLI technology  
supports Windows® Vista OS only.  
6.2.4  
Enabling the NVIDIA® SLI™ technology in Windows®  
After installing your graphics cards and the device drivers, enable the SLI feature  
in NVIDIA® Control Panel under the Windows® Vista operating system.  
Launching the NVIDIA Control Panel  
You can launch the NVIDIA Control Panel by two methods.  
(a) Right click on the empty space of Windows®  
desktop and select NVIDIA Control Panel.  
(b) If you cannot see the NVIDIA Control Panel item  
in step (a), select Personalize.  
6-6  
Chapter 6: NVIDIA® SLI™ technology support  
From the Personalization window,  
select Display Settings.  
From the Display Settings dialog box,  
click Advanced Settings.  
Select the NVIDIA GeForce tab, then  
click Start the NVIDIA Control Panel.  
ASUS M3N-HT Deluxe Series  
6-7  
5.  
The NVIDIA Control Panel window  
appears.  
Enabling SLI configuration  
When installing two graphics gards:  
From the NVIDIA Control Panel window,  
select Set SLI Configuration, then click  
Enable SLI and set the display for viewing  
SLI rendered content. When done, click  
Apply.  
When installing three graphics gards:  
1.  
From the NVIDIA Control Panel  
window, select Set SLI Configuration,  
then click Enable 3-way NVIDIA SLI.  
When done, click Apply.  
2.  
Select the 3D Settings tab and enable  
the Show SLI Visual Indicators item.  
When this item is enabled, a green bar  
appears on the left side of the screen  
while 3D demonstrations are rendered,  
indicating the 3-way SLI status.  
6-8  
Chapter 6: NVIDIA® SLI™ technology support  

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